Buying or selling property is a major financial milestone—and working with the right professional can make all the difference.
Yet, many Australians unknowingly risk delays, legal issues, and extra costs by choosing the wrong conveyancer. So, how do you avoid the most common mistakes when hiring a conveyancer? That’s exactly what we’ll cover in this guide.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned investor, understanding what not to do is just as important as knowing what to look for. Let’s help you avoid the stress and uncertainty with smart decisions upfront.
Quick Overview: The 5 Costliest Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Choosing the wrong conveyancer can lead to:
- Delayed settlements and legal disputes
- Poor communication at critical stages
- Unexpected hidden fees
- Inadequate local knowledge
- Missed contract details that cost you later
Avoiding these five key mistakes can protect your finances and your peace of mind.
Want to dive deeper into each mistake and how to steer clear of them? Keep reading!
Mistake #1: Choosing Solely Based on Price
It’s tempting to go with the cheapest option—especially with property expenses already stacking up—but bargain conveyancers often cut corners.
Why it’s a mistake:
Cheap conveyancers may offer limited support, skip essential due diligence, or assign your file to overworked juniors. This could lead to contract oversights or missing critical deadlines.
Pro Tip: Always request a detailed quote that outlines what’s included—and what’s not. A low quote that excludes disbursements or out-of-scope fees could end up costing more in the long run.
Mistake #2: Overlooking Local Experience
Every Australian state and territory has its own property laws and compliance standards. Hiring someone unfamiliar with local requirements can cause serious issues.
Why it matters:
A conveyancer who knows the local council regulations, zoning quirks, and planning permits can flag issues early and keep things moving smoothly.
Did You Know?
In some areas, flood risk disclosures, building approvals, and bushfire overlays are mandatory. A local conveyancer will know what to check.
Tip: Always ask, “How well do you know property laws in [your suburb or council area]?”
Mistake #3: Not Checking Credentials and Reviews
Conveyancers in Australia must be licensed and insured. However, not all are created equal—and some may not meet your expectations for professionalism or communication.
Key things to verify:
- Current licence with the relevant state authority
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Positive online reviews and testimonials
- Clear communication practices and availability
Avoid this mistake by:
Taking five minutes to look up their ABN and license on your state’s registry. Then, read reviews on Google or third-party directories.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Communication Red Flags
The conveyancing process involves a lot of moving parts—from contract reviews to liaising with banks and agents. If your conveyancer is slow to respond or hard to reach, it can derail your settlement timeline.
Signs to watch out for:
- Delayed replies to your initial enquiry
- Unclear or rushed answers to your questions
- Lack of transparency in process or fees
Quote to remember:
“If they’re not responsive before you hire them, they won’t magically improve after you do.”
Solution: Choose a conveyancer who offers updates at key milestones and responds promptly to calls and emails.
Mistake #5: Failing to Understand What’s Included
Not all conveyancers offer the same services. Some only handle basic title transfers, while others include in-depth contract reviews, legal advice, or liaising with your lender.
What to ask:
- Does your fee include contract review before I sign?
- Are there extra charges for complex transactions (e.g., off-the-plan, subdivisions)?
- Will you handle settlement with my lender?
Why it matters:
You don’t want last-minute surprises or extra fees once the process is underway. Clarify exactly what you’re paying for.
Quick Guide: Choosing the Right Conveyancer (Without the Stress)
The Situation:
You’re buying a property and don’t know where to start. You’ve received a few quotes, but the services and costs seem confusing.
Common Challenges:
- What’s actually included in a conveyancer’s fee?
- How can I tell if they’re experienced or just offering a slick sales pitch?
- What happens if they miss something critical in the contract?
How to Solve It:
- Prioritise Transparency: Request a written quote that lists all services, disbursements, and settlement fees.
- Ask the Right Questions: Before hiring, ask about their local experience, contract review process, and response time.
- Verify Licensing: Check they are registered with the relevant state authority and carry valid insurance.
- Choose Service Over Price: Instead of chasing the cheapest fee, focus on quality of service, availability, and communication.
- Read Recent Reviews: Look for patterns—especially feedback about delays or lack of support.
Why It Works:
By investing a bit more time upfront, you avoid stress, legal complications, and unexpected costs later.
Need help choosing the right conveyancer? Start by asking these five questions—your property (and your sanity) will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is a solicitor better than a conveyancer for property transactions?
Not necessarily. Conveyancers are licensed professionals who focus exclusively on property law, while solicitors cover broader legal areas. For standard transactions, a licensed conveyancer is often more cost-effective. However, for complex issues (e.g., disputes, trusts), a solicitor may be more appropriate.
Q2: Can I change my conveyancer once the process starts?
Yes, but it can delay your transaction and may involve extra fees. If communication or service quality is poor early on, it’s better to switch sooner than later. Be sure to notify your agent and lender if you do.
Q3: How long does conveyancing take?
Typically, conveyancing takes 4–6 weeks from the date of contract exchange to settlement. However, this can vary based on the property type, financing arrangements, and the responsiveness of involved parties.
Q4: What’s the difference between disbursements and professional fees?
Professional fees are what the conveyancer charges for their service. Disbursements are third-party costs (like title searches or certificates) that your conveyancer pays on your behalf. Always ask for a breakdown of both.
Q5: Can a conveyancer help with off-the-plan or subdivided properties?
Yes, but not all have experience in these complex transactions. Make sure you choose a conveyancer with proven experience in off-the-plan contracts, strata developments, or subdivisions.
Conclusion
Choosing a conveyancer shouldn’t feel like a gamble—yet too many property buyers and sellers fall into the same traps.
From prioritising price over service to overlooking local knowledge or unclear quotes, the mistakes are easy to make but costly to fix.
By understanding these five common pitfalls and asking the right questions from the start, you set yourself up for a smoother, safer property journey.
Buying or selling property is a big deal—make sure your conveyancer is up to the task.