When you're buying or selling property in Australia, one of the first questions that comes up is: "Who do I need— a conveyancer or a property lawyer?" On the surface, they seem to do the same thing. But legally, there are some important differences.
And understanding those differences can save you from delays, legal problems, and unnecessary costs.
If you're comparing your options, you've probably already Googled conveyancer vs property lawyer Australia. You're not alone—every month, thousands of Aussies ask the same thing.
In this guide, Legal Finda breaks it all down in simple terms. You’ll learn the roles each plays in a property transaction, when to hire each one, and how to make the smartest choice for your situation.
A conveyancer is a licensed professional who specialises in the legal process of transferring property. They handle the documentation and administrative side of the transaction. Their duties include:
They’re ideal for standard residential sales and purchases. A conveyancer can explain the process and guide you through it, but their advice is limited to the transaction itself.
A property lawyer (or solicitor) is a fully qualified legal professional. They can do everything a conveyancer does—and more.
They are licensed to:
If your deal is not straightforward—or you're concerned about legal risk—a property lawyer offers stronger protection.
When comparing a conveyancer vs property lawyer in Australia, there are several essential distinctions to understand.
In terms of qualifications, a conveyancer typically holds a specialised diploma or certificate in conveyancing and is licensed to handle standard property transactions. In contrast, a property lawyer holds a law degree, a practising certificate, and can assist you with more complex legal matters, including disputes and court representation.
When it comes to the scope of work, conveyancers are authorised to manage routine property transactions, such as preparing contracts, conducting title searches, and lodging documentation with the appropriate authorities. However, they cannot provide in-depth legal advice or represent you in legal disputes. A property lawyer, on the other hand, can provide comprehensive legal counsel, help negotiate complex contractual terms, manage inheritance or family trust matters, and appear in court if needed.
Cost is another important factor. Conveyancers are generally more affordable, typically charging between AUD $800 to $1,500 depending on the complexity of the transaction. Property lawyers are more expensive, with fees starting from AUD $1,500 and increasing for additional legal services beyond the property transfer itself.
In summary, if your property deal is straightforward and low-risk, hiring a conveyancer is likely sufficient. However, if your transaction involves legal uncertainty, unusual contract terms, ownership disputes, or other complexities, choosing a property lawyer is the safer option to protect your interests.
The answer depends on your individual circumstances.
Most importantly, if you need to go beyond routine paperwork, a property lawyer is the better choice.
This is one of the most common real estate questions:
“Should I use a conveyancer or lawyer for buying a house?”
Here’s how to decide:
So, while both can technically help with your purchase, one may be much better suited depending on what’s involved.
Unlike conveyancers, property lawyers can:
In many ways, a property lawyer gives you complete legal coverage, while a conveyancer is focused on facilitating a standard transaction.
Here are some quick rules of thumb to guide your decision:
Here are a few mistakes buyers and sellers often make when choosing between a conveyancer and lawyer:
If you’re unsure, it’s safer to start with a property lawyer—especially if large amounts of money or risk are involved.
So, what’s the final word on conveyancer vs property lawyer Australia?
It’s not about who’s better—it’s about who’s better for your situation.
Still unsure? Let Legal Finda guide you to the right expert for your needs.
Make the smart choice for your next property transaction—start with Legal Finda.