What does a Conveyancer do?

A Simple Guide for NSW Buyers and Sellers

If you’re buying or selling property in NSW, you’ve probably heard you need a conveyancer. But what does a conveyancer do, and how do they help make the process easier?

Whether you’re a first-home buyer or preparing to sell your current home, the process can feel like a maze. The good news is that a conveyancer is here to simplify the process for you.

In this guide, we explain what conveyancing in NSW involves, what a conveyancer actually does, and how they help buyers and sellers navigate property transactions with confidence.

What is conveyancing?

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another. It includes reviewing contracts, conducting searches, liaising with financial institutions, and making sure settlement goes through smoothly. In NSW, conveyancers are licensed professionals who specialise in this process. Their role is to manage the legal side of your property transaction from start to finish, so you don’t have to worry about the fine print.

What does a conveyancer do for buyers?

Buying a home, especially for the first time, can feel overwhelming. There are contracts to read, deadlines to meet, and legal risks you may not even be aware of. That’s where a licensed conveyancer steps in.

Here’s how they help:

• Review the contract of sale

Before you sign anything, your conveyancer will check the contract for unusual conditions, missing details, or anything that could affect your rights.

• Conduct title and property searches 

These searches confirm who legally owns the property and flag any issues like easements, caveats, or unpaid council rates.

• Liaise with your bank or broker.

Your conveyancer works with your lender to coordinate the documents and confirm that the funds will be ready for settlement.

• Arrange stamp duty (transfer duty).

They calculate what you owe and ensure it’s paid to Revenue NSW on time.

• Prepare for settlement

From liaising with the seller’s conveyancer to confirming funds, they make sure everything’s ready to go.

• Finalise the legal transfer

After settlement, they register the property in your name with NSW Land Registry Services.

What does a conveyancer do for sellers?

Selling a property also involves a significant amount of paperwork and legal requirements. But that’s where your conveyancer steps in – to make it a whole lot easier. A conveyancer supports you through:

• Preparing the contract of sale

This includes all required documents like the zoning certificate, title search, and sewer diagram.

• Discharging your mortgage

If you have a mortgage, your conveyancer coordinates with your lender to make sure it’s discharged correctly at settlement.

• Negotiating with the buyer’s team

They handle any back-and-forth if the buyer wants changes to the contract or raises issues after inspections.

• Managing settlement day: 

On settlement day, your conveyancer makes sure all documents and funds are exchanged and confirms that the sale is complete.

Whether you’re moving up, downsizing, or relocating, your conveyancer ensures you’re protected every step of the way.

TIP: If you’re selling your current home while buying another, the process can get tricky. Coordinating both settlements, contracts, and timelines isn’t simple, but it’s common.

This process is where a conveyancer can really make a difference. They’ll manage the paperwork and timing for both transactions to help everything run smoothly. Want to know how it works? Check out our guide on Buying and Selling at the Same Time  for practical tips.

Red flags to watch for when hiring a conveyancer

A great conveyancer keeps you in the loop, explains things clearly, and helps reduce your stress. That’s the kind of care you deserve – and choosing the right team makes all the difference. When choosing your conveyancer, be cautious if you notice:

• You’re constantly following up for updates.
• You’re getting vague answers that leave you more confused.
• You’re charged unexpected fees without explanation.
• The person you first spoke to disappears, and someone new takes over your file (without telling you).
• You’re asked to re-sign forms due to errors.
• Settlement dates are missed or rushed at the last minute.
• You don’t feel like a priority.

At Oliver & Co., we believe conveyancing should feel clear and reassuring – not stressful or uncertain. We keep you updated, explain everything in plain language, and treat every file like it matters, because it does.

FAQs buyers and sellers often ask

Do I really need a conveyancer in NSW?

While it is not legally required to hire a conveyancer, attempting to handle the process yourself can be risky unless you’re confident in your understanding of contracts, deadlines, and property law. Most people choose a conveyancer to avoid costly mistakes and reduce stress.

What’s the difference between a conveyancer and solicitor?

Conveyancers focus solely on property transactions. Solicitors can help with more complex legal matters like deceased estates, tax, or disputes. Here’s our full breakdown of the difference between a conveyancer and solicitor.

How much should conveyancing cost?

Conveyancing fees in NSW usually range from $1,000 to $2,500. Always ask for a full breakdown of search fees, disbursements, and GST. At Oliver & Co., we offer fixed-fee pricing with no surprises.

Why is my conveyancer taking so long to reply?

Occasionally it’s due to banks or councils. But a good conveyancer will keep you in the loop. Silence is a warning sign; you should receive clear and timely updates.

Why are there extra fees on my invoice?

Some firms charge extra for admin, rush fees, or additional searches. At Oliver & Co., we explain all costs upfront. No hidden fees – ever.

Let’s make your property journey simple

Whether you’re buying your first home or preparing to sell, conveyancing in NSW doesn’t have to be stressful. At Oliver & Co., we make the legal side of property simple, clear, and efficient.

• Friendly, expert advice
• Fixed-fee pricing
•  Local knowledge you can trust

Ready to get started? Call us today on (02) 4965 4594 or book your free 15-minute consultation. Want peace of mind before you sign anything? Ask about our free pre-purchase contract review.