If you are buying or selling property in Australia, you will need a conveyancer or solicitor to handle the legal transfer of title. This page explains what conveyancing is, what a conveyancer does, and how their role differs from a property advisor.
What Is Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of real property from one party to another. In Australia, every property purchase and sale must go through conveyancing — it is not optional. The process involves preparing, reviewing, and lodging legal documents, conducting title searches, managing the settlement process, and ensuring the transfer of funds happens correctly.
What Does a Conveyancer Do?
A licensed conveyancer (or property lawyer) handles the legal side of your transaction. Their job includes:
- Reviewing the contract of sale and Section 32 (Vendor Statement) in Victoria
- Conducting property searches (title, planning, council, water, land tax)
- Advising on any special conditions in the contract
- Liaising with the other party’s conveyancer
- Preparing transfer documents
- Managing settlement — the exchange of funds and title transfer
- Registering the title in your name with Land Use Victoria
How Much Does Conveyancing Cost?
Conveyancing fees in Victoria and NSW typically range from $800 to $2,500 for a standard residential transaction, plus search fees. Complex transactions (off-the-plan, subdivisions, commercial) cost more.
Is a Conveyancer the Same as a Property Advisor?
No. They serve completely different functions.
| Role | Conveyancer | Property Advisor |
|---|---|---|
| Reviews contract legality | Yes | No |
| Conducts title searches | Yes | No |
| Manages settlement | Yes | No |
| Assesses market value | No | Yes |
| Negotiates purchase price | No | Yes |
| Auction strategy | No | Yes |
| Investment analysis | No | Yes |
| Ongoing engagement | Per transaction | Per transaction |
| Fee | $800 to $2,500 | $4,500 + GST (fixed fee) |
You need both. The conveyancer handles the legal transfer. The property advisor handles the strategic and negotiation side. They work in parallel.
When Do You Engage a Conveyancer?
Engage a conveyancer before you sign anything. The Section 32 (Victoria) or Contract of Sale should be reviewed before you exchange contracts or bid at auction. Once you have signed, the contract is binding — getting legal advice after is too late.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a solicitor do conveyancing?
Yes. A property solicitor can handle conveyancing and also advise on more complex legal matters. A licensed conveyancer handles conveyancing specifically. For standard residential transactions, either is appropriate.
Do I need a conveyancer in every state?
Yes. All Australian states and territories require conveyancing for property transfers. Requirements and costs vary by state.
What is a Section 32 in Victoria?
A Section 32 (also called a Vendor Statement) is a legal document the seller must provide before a buyer signs a contract in Victoria. It contains title information, planning overlays, outgoings, and any encumbrances on the property. Your conveyancer should review this before you proceed.
Buying or selling property? Get Collings Property Advisory alongside your conveyancer. Fixed fee $4,500 + GST. We handle strategy and negotiation. Your conveyancer handles the legal transfer.
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