How to choose the right conveyancer

Conveyancing is an unavoidable step in the buying and selling of property. But choosing a conveyancer you can trust is also a must. There are certain things you should look for when deciding upon a conveyancer to sort out the paperwork on your property.

Although a lot of people simplistically look at the process of conveyancing as just 'transferring the title' there are many other steps that conveyancers can take to ensure you are getting a good deal on your property, and to ensure there are not any hidden issues with the land that it will be too late to change after you have gone through settlement on the property.

What to look for in a conveyancer

When in the market for a conveyancer there are a few considerations you should make.

Qualifications - is the conveyancer a qualified solicitor or someone who has undertaken a conveyancing certificate? Depending on the type of purchase you are making, it might be within your best interests to hire a conveyancer who is also a fully qualified and practising solicitor.

Insurance - what sort of protection is afforded to you if the conveyancer makes a mistake when undertaking the conveyancing of your property? You expect your conveyancer to notify you if the house you are hoping to buy is in a planned transport corridor - if your conveyancer does not make you aware of this before you complete the sale, is there any protection for you to remedy this situation after the conveyancing process?

How much will it cost? - Some conveyancing firms offer a fixed-price service, but you need to make sure that there are no hidden costs involved in this. If there is no fixed cost service you should ask for an upfront quote

Buying assistance - if you are bidding at an auction and have never done so before it might be helpful to hire a conveyancer that assists you before the contract of sale is in place. Some conveyancing firms offer more than just the general tick and flick of documents after a contract of sale is in place. If you need advise prior to the contract being signed, especially if you are hoping to buy via auction, use a conveyancer that offers this service.

There are also DIY conveyancing kits available in each state or territory of Australia, but this approach can be risky and should be used with care. If you are considering DIY coveyancing make sure you do your homework and speak to others who have been through the process.