What does a conveyancer do?
A conveyancer handles the property-transfer work within their professional scope. For a buyer, that may include reviewing documents, checking title information, explaining contract issues and organising settlement. For a seller, it includes preparing the required sale documentation and coordinating the transfer.
A solicitor can also carry out conveyancing and provide broader legal services. Ask whether your matter needs a solicitor if it involves a dispute or issues beyond routine conveyancing. Your broker does not replace either professional’s legal advice.
How much does conveyancing cost?
There is no single price for every transaction. Request an itemised written quote for your property and circumstances rather than relying on a national average or a headline “from” price. Ask which parts are fixed and what could change.
- Professional fee: the charge for the conveyancing work. Check whether GST and contract reviews are included.
- Disbursements: third-party expenses such as searches and certificates. Ask whether these are included, estimated or billed separately.
- Settlement and registration charges: clarify electronic settlement and government registration costs and who collects them.
- Additional work: ask about extra contract reviews, changed instructions, extensions, unusual title matters or a transaction that does not proceed.
In Victoria, conveyancers must provide written costs disclosure. This should explain the cost or its calculation basis and how and when you will be billed. Read Consumer Affairs Victoria’s costs-disclosure guidance.
Stamp duty, lender charges, inspections and settlement adjustments are separate budgeting items; do not assume they are covered by a conveyancing fee. Our Victorian buying-costs guide helps you plan the wider purchase budget.
Average conveyancing fees in Melbourne: what should you budget?
A reliable comparison needs quotes for the same transaction and scope. We have not published a Melbourne average here because an unverified figure could exclude GST, searches or extra work. Ask Angela at New Vogue for a current written quote, then compare the total expected cost and exclusions with any other quote you obtain.
How long does conveyancing take?
The settlement date is set in the contract. Consumer Affairs Victoria describes a usual settlement period of 30–90 days, but the agreed terms and transaction circumstances control your timing. Contract review happens before that commitment; off-the-plan or more complex matters can take longer.
Tell your conveyancer and broker about finance deadlines promptly. Pre-approval is conditional, so do not treat it as confirmation that the lender will fund a particular property. Ask your legal representative to explain any finance condition before signing.
What happens near settlement?
Your representative explains the final funds required, including applicable adjustments to rates and other outgoings. The lender needs its own documentation and funding conditions satisfied. Arrange the pre-settlement inspection and raise any concerns before settlement.
Confirm completion before arranging key collection. For the Victorian process, see Consumer Affairs Victoria’s settlement guide.