Q&A · Last reviewed 2026-05-01
Do I need a solicitor or conveyancer to buy property in Australia?
Yes. Every state requires a licensed conveyancer or solicitor to handle the legal transfer of title, you cannot legally settle a property purchase without one. Both can do residential conveyancing; solicitors charge more but handle complex transactions (estates, divorces, off-the-plan, business-use property). Costs typically $1,000-2,500.
What they do: review the contract pre-signing, raise enquiries with the vendor's representative, coordinate with your lender, conduct title searches + statutory enquiries (council, water, planning), arrange the e-settlement on PEXA, handle stamp duty payment + registration. Without one, you can't lawfully settle.
Conveyancer vs solicitor: conveyancers are licensed under state-specific legislation (Conveyancers Licensing Act 2003 NSW, Conveyancers Act 2006 VIC, etc.), narrower scope, lower fees ($1,000-1,800 typical for residential). Solicitors are admitted to practise law generally, broader scope, higher fees ($1,500-2,500). Both carry PI insurance + are regulated by their state Law Society or Conveyancers Board.
When to use which: simple house purchase by an owner-occupier with standard contract → conveyancer. Property under estate / divorce / SMSF / family-trust / off-the-plan / commercial use → solicitor. If complications arise (vendor breach, sunset-clause dispute, contract dispute), some conveyancers will refer you to a solicitor mid-process.
How to choose: get 2-3 quotes upfront. Confirm fee is fixed (not 'estimated'). Confirm they handle PEXA e-settlements (every state except WA mandates PEXA for residential). Check Law Society or Conveyancers Board public register for current licence + any disciplinary history. NSW Law Society + Vic Law Institute publish public lookups.
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Informational. Not financial advice. Verify with a licensed adviser appropriate to your circumstances.
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