Residential Conveyancing

+ What’s the difference between a lawyer (solicitor) and a conveyancer?

Lawyers have expertise in all areas of property law, whilst conveyancers are licensed to carry out property transfers. One of the main benefits of using a legal firm for your property transaction is that we can advise you on legal matters that a conveyancer alone cannot.

This can be especially important if your sale or purchase:

• Is high value or carries considerable risk
• Is complex
• Is likely to be problematic - such as settlement delays or issues with another party
• There are legal implications.

When you hire Betar Lawyers for your home purchase or sale, you get property transaction and property law expertise. We are highly-skilled at negotiation, for a smooth and stress-free conveyancing process with minimal delays.

+ Isn’t it expensive to use a lawyer instead of a conveyancer?

No. At Betar Lawyers we provide fixed fee quotes for residential conveyancing services. And fixed fee quotes for commercial and retail leases, and fixed fee quotes for independent legal advice on your property transaction.

+ What is the conveyancing process in New South Wales?

The conveyancing process is complex. It’s not just about the legal paperwork but all the liabilities and risks that go with it. That’s why it’s so important to engage a legal professional to advise you. We’ll keep you informed and updated every step of the way.

The conveyancing process typically includes:

• Preparing your draft contract of sale if you are selling your property: We’ll check title deeds, rates and any applicable restrictions on your property
• Reviewing the contract of sale if you’re buying: We’ll check there’s nothing in the contract that puts you at risk and arrange changes to any terms if needed
• Examining a strata inspection report, if applicable
• Arranging building, pest and pool safety certificate inspections and notifying you of any issues
• Background checks and advice on aspects such as zoning, planned development, local searches
• Arranging payments of deposit, mortgage and stamp duty
• Exchanging contracts
• Arranging the change of title with NSW Land Registry
• Arranging final settlement and key delivery

Extra added-value advice with Betar Lawyers

Drawing our decades of property experience, we can also provide you with practical advice on:

• Negotiations tactics
• What to expect when dealing with the selling agent
• Auction strategies – bid to win at the price you want to pay
• Making offers to purchase
• Practical know-how on buying a home

We’ll provide you with virtual in-person support when you need it, via Zoom / Microsoft Team / Facetime.

+ How long does conveyancing take?

It typically takes around six weeks to complete the conveyancing process, if there are no issues along the way or with the property pre-settlement. Your contract will outline the timescales for completion, which we can request is changed at the outset if necessary.

+ Should I get a conveyancer before making an offer?

Yes. It’s vital that we review any contracts of sale for properties you’re interested in, before you bid or make an offer, to minimise your financial risk and help you avoid making a costly mistake.

Contact us as soon as you have arranged your finances and sorted mortgage pre-approval. We’ll be able to advise you if there are any issues with the property you need to know about.

We can do quick contract reviews if the auction is imminent. Just contact our team on (02) 9279 1100 to arrange.

+ What happens if there are problems?

Sometimes issues can arise pre-settlement, with either the property itself or because of something that’s found in the building or pest report, or local Government searches.

We will always advise you of your legal rights at the outset in case of problems and what the cooling off period means. If a problem is found, we will find you the best way forward, that protects your interests and finances.

+ How much does conveyancing cost in NSW?

Costs vary considerably, depending on whether you choose a conveyancing ‘shop’ or a legal professional. For a conveyancing quote, just fill in the form below and we’ll be in touch, or email us: hello@betarlawyers.com.au

When adding up your costs you also need to factor in costs for disbursements, which are costs that we incur on your behalf. Such as fees for searches, certificates, settlement and administration. You’ll be given a full breakdown of all our fees and disbursements in advance, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

You also need to include Transfer Duty (formally Stamp Duty), which is a major cost that you pay to the State Government. This is assessed on what is known as ‘ad velorum’ duty. You can calculate your Transfer Duty here.

+ Are ‘cheap’ conveyancing services worth it?

A cheap price for conveyancing does not mean it is the right choice. Although conveyancing with a lawyer/solicitor may cost a bit more than a price quoted by a one-size-fits-all conveyancing ‘shop’, remember you are not just paying for the handling of all the legal paperwork.

You are paying for legal expertise and support, for a smooth and stress-free transaction.

A lawyer is worth their weight in gold if something goes wrong or there’s an unforeseen issue. Buying or selling property is the most valuable transaction you’ll ever make so it’s worth investing in the right professional to help you avoid any pitfalls and legal liabilities.

+ Useful links: Residential conveyancing

For more information on residential conveyancing, visit:

• NSW Fair Trading
• Australian Institute of Licensed Conveyancers NSW