What Does a Conveyancer Do? A Complete Guide for Buyers and Sellers
Buying or selling a property is one of the biggest financial decisions most Australians will make. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, selling an investment property, transferring ownership to a family member, or dealing with a deceased estate, there’s much more involved than simply signing a contract.
Behind every successful property transaction is a conveyancer who ensures the legal transfer of ownership is completed correctly and on time.
At Keysafe Conveyancing, we understand that the legal process can seem overwhelming. Our role is to simplify every step, protect your interests, and guide you through settlement with confidence.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what a conveyancer does, why they’re important, and how they help buyers and sellers achieve a smooth property transaction.
What is Conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of real estate from one person to another.
Every property transaction involves legal documentation, government requirements, financial settlements, and strict deadlines. A conveyancer manages these responsibilities to ensure the transfer complies with all relevant legislation.
Whether you’re buying or selling residential property, subdividing land, transferring ownership between family members, or managing a deceased estate, professional conveyancing helps reduce the risk of costly mistakes and delays.
What Does a Conveyancer Actually Do?
A conveyancer manages the legal and administrative aspects of your property transaction from beginning to end.
Their responsibilities vary depending on whether you’re buying or selling property.
For Property Buyers
When purchasing property, your conveyancer helps ensure you’re fully informed before committing to the purchase.
Their responsibilities include:
Reviewing the Contract
Before you sign anything, your conveyancer carefully reviews the Contract of Sale and any disclosure documents.
They identify:
- Special conditions
- Easements
- Encumbrances
- Zoning restrictions
- Settlement dates
- Potential legal risks
This allows you to understand exactly what you’re buying.
Conducting Property Searches
Various searches are conducted to uncover information that may affect the property.
These may include:
- Title searches
- Council information
- Water authority searches
- Land tax enquiries
- Planning information
- Heritage listings
- Sewer and drainage information
These searches help ensure there are no unexpected issues after settlement.
Liaising With Your Bank
If you’re obtaining finance, your conveyancer works closely with your lender.
This includes:
- Preparing settlement documents
- Coordinating loan documentation
- Confirming settlement figures
- Organising electronic settlement
Keeping everyone informed helps avoid unnecessary delays.
Managing Settlement
Settlement is the final stage where ownership officially changes hands.
Your conveyancer:
- Calculates adjustments
- Organises settlement figures
- Confirms financial balances
- Coordinates with all parties
- Ensures legal ownership is transferred correctly
Once settlement is complete, you receive the keys to your new property.
For Property Sellers
Selling a property also involves a significant amount of legal work.
Your conveyancer prepares the necessary documentation before the property can be sold.
Preparing Legal Documents
In South Australia this includes preparing:
- Form 1 Vendor Disclosure Statement
- Contract documentation
- Supporting certificates
In Victoria, sellers require a compliant:
- Section 32 Vendor Statement
Preparing these documents accurately is essential, as errors can delay settlement or create legal complications.
Coordinating With the Real Estate Agent
Your conveyancer works alongside your selling agent to ensure documentation is available before contracts are signed.
This creates a smoother selling experience for both parties.
Organising Settlement
Before settlement, your conveyancer:
- Calculates council and water adjustments
- Confirms outstanding rates
- Liaises with your mortgage provider
- Coordinates discharge of any existing loans
- Finalises settlement documentation
This ensures the sale proceeds smoothly.
What Types of Property Transactions Require Conveyancing?
Conveyancing isn’t limited to buying and selling homes.
At Keysafe Conveyancing, we also assist with:
Residential Property Sales
Helping homeowners complete the legal sale of their property.
Residential Property Purchases
Protecting buyers from contract to settlement.
Family Property Transfers
Transferring ownership between:
- Parents and children
- Spouses
- De facto partners
- Other family members
Matrimonial Property Transfers
Assisting with transfers following separation or divorce.
Deceased Estates
Managing property transfers following the passing of a loved one with care and professionalism.
Land Divisions
Helping property owners subdivide land while complying with all legal requirements.
Contract Reviews
Providing advice before contracts are signed.
Form 1 Preparation (South Australia)
Preparing legally compliant disclosure documentation for sellers.
Section 32 Vendor Statements (Victoria)
Preparing accurate Vendor Statements for Victorian property sales.
When Should You Contact a Conveyancer?
Many people wait until after signing a contract.
However, it’s often beneficial to contact a conveyancer before committing to a property transaction.
Early advice can help identify:
- Unfavourable contract conditions
- Hidden property issues
- Easements
- Encumbrances
- Potential legal risks
This allows informed decisions before you’re legally bound.
How Long Does Conveyancing Take?
Every property transaction is different.
Generally, conveyancing begins once a contract has been signed and continues until settlement.
Settlement periods commonly range from:
- 30 days
- 45 days
- 60 days
- 90 days
depending on the agreement between buyer and seller.
Your conveyancer manages the legal process throughout this period while keeping you informed of important milestones.
Why Choose Keysafe Conveyancing?
At Keysafe Conveyancing, we believe buying or selling property shouldn’t be stressful.
Our experienced team provides personalised support throughout every stage of your transaction.
We offer:
- Professional advice
- Clear communication
- Fixed-fee services
- Electronic settlements
- South Australian conveyancing expertise
- Victorian Section 32 preparation
- Timely updates
- Friendly, personalised service
Whether you’re purchasing your first home, selling an investment property, or transferring ownership between family members, we’re committed to making the process straightforward and stress-free.
