Q: What is Conveyancing? A: Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring the title of a property from one person to another.
Q: When Should I talk to a Conveyancer? A: The earlier the better! You don't need to wait until you are ready to sign a contract - it makes sense to select your conveyancer as soon as you decide to buy or sell. And never sign anything before you've asked for your conveyancer's advice!
Q: What should I ask my conveyancer? A: It is important that you understand what your conveyancer can, and can't do for you. It is imperative that you explain your position and your requirements. You also need to tell your conveyancer of anything that may impact on the transaction. If you have severe financial restrictions, tight time limits, or any other specific concerns or special requirements, be sure you explain this at the very beginning. Nobody wants surprises or misunderstandings to ruin your transaction.
Here are a few questions you may like to ask a conveyancer:
Are you member of the Australian Institute of Conveyancers?
What are your estimated fees and what services are included in those fees?
What will any additional services cost?
What government fees and charges will I need to pay?
How long will settlement take?
How will you keep me up to date with what's happening?
On a sale, how long will documentation be considered current for once sale documentation has been provided?
Q: What is stamp duty? A: Stamp duty is a charge by the government on the purchase of property. In some cases exemptions may apply and you should visit the State Revenue Office Website to ascertain if you are entitled to any exemptions and subsequently instruct your conveyancer. It is your responsibility to notify your conveyancer if you consider that you are entitled to apply for any exemptions however your conveyancer will be more than happy to discuss your thoughts and follow through with ascertaining that you are, in fact entitled to an exemption subject to approval by State Revenue Office. Your conveyancer will then ensure that the appropriate State Revenue Office online form is completed to that effect on your behalf prior to your signing it off as approved prior to settlement.