Until 1994 Conveyancers used to be called "Landbrokers", which was somewhat misleading.
A Conveyancer transacts property settlements - we do not broker land. We act on behalf of the vendor when a property is sold and we act on behalf of the purchaser when a property is bought. We can represent both parties, as long as there is no conflict of interest, but generally when buying or selling property it is advisable to have your own Conveyancer to make sure that you have independent representation.

A Conveyancer is a registered professional, who is educated and qualified to provide expert advice regarding conveyancing law. Conveyancers don't handle the wide range of legal matters that Solicitors deal with, such as criminal matters, divorces, wills etc, and they are therefore able to focus specifically on issues to do with property. Conveyancing is the most important thing we do - because it is the only thing we do!

We have devoted a separate page to this question, with links to a special Calculator that helps you work out the stamp duties due on the property and the mortgage, as well as the Titles Office registration fee. Just click on the Costs or the Calculate your Charges links in the top or bottom menu bars.

During the settlement process your Conveyancer is required to carry out and pay on your behalf for certain searches with government utilities and councils. These fees are recoverable from you.

Searches (or searching) is a term used in the Conveyancing profession for the gathering of information about the property that you are selling or buying. The S.A. Government and local Council records are "searched" by the Land Agent and/or Conveyancer to satisfy you and ourselves that the information included in the Contract for Sale and Purchase is correct at the time of the Contract preparation. These search fees are normally recovered by the Land Agent/Conveyancer from the buyer and/or seller.

Your Contract provides for an adjustment of any rate, tax or levy issued against the property to be adjusted as at the settlement date. In most cases the Seller has prepaid these rates to a date beyond settlement date and is entitled to an adjustment. This is done through your Settlement Statement provided to you prior to settlement.

Settlements usually occur between 11am and 12 noon. However, some days are busier than others, so occasionally settlement is delayed. We will contact you by telephone following settlement, and confirm via mail.