Frequently Asked Questions
A conveyancer manages the legal side of buying, selling, or transferring property. This includes preparing and reviewing contracts, conducting property searches, calculating adjustments such as rates and stamp duty, and managing settlement on your behalf.
Both can handle property transactions, but a licensed conveyancer specialises specifically in property law and conveyancing, while a solicitor can also advise on broader legal matters. For most residential transactions, a licensed conveyancer is a cost-effective and fully qualified choice.
In NSW, residential buyers generally have a five-business-day cooling-off period after contracts are exchanged, unless the property was purchased at auction, where no cooling-off period applies. This time is typically used to finalise finance and complete inspections.
If you’re buying into a strata scheme, such as an apartment or townhouse, a strata report gives you details on the building’s financial health, upcoming works, and any disputes or by-laws that may affect you. We recommend obtaining one before committing to a purchase.
Our fees are fixed and transparent from the outset. We provide a free quote upfront that outlines our professional fees along with the disbursements, such as search and certificate costs, so there are no surprises later.
While it’s legally possible to handle your own conveyancing in NSW, the process involves strict timeframes, legal disclosures, and financial calculations where even small errors can be costly. Most buyers and sellers choose to engage a professional for peace of mind.
settlement?
Exchange is when both parties sign the contract and it becomes legally binding. Settlement is the final step, usually some weeks later, when ownership formally transfers and the buyer pays the remaining balance.
This depends on the stage of the transaction and the terms of the contract. If it happens during the cooling-off period, there are usually financial penalties. If it happens after exchange, the consequences can be more significant. We’ll talk you through your options if this happens to you.
A typical residential conveyancing matter takes around six weeks from exchange to settlement, though this can vary depending on finance approval, the parties involved, and the specific terms agreed.
We’re upfront about this during our initial quote, so you’ll know exactly where you stand if your matter doesn’t proceed to settlement.