Velocity Conveyancing directors Andrew Satsias and Peter Romano, one of Canberra’s most recommended conveyancing firms. Photo: Thomas Lucraft
Buying or selling a property can be complex and stressful. There’s a lot involved, including listing, open homes, auctioning, and settling. You’ll want it right given that property is such a huge investment.
It pays to be across the detail at all stages—buying, selling and transferring. That’s were a quality conveyancing lawyer can help. Conveyancing lawyers specialise in real estate law. They’ll guide you through the process and look after your best interests.
It’s important to remember that not all conveyancers are lawyers. Only conveyancing lawyers can provide the full scope of services.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a conveyancing lawyer, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great conveyancing lawyer?
A great conveyancing lawyer takes the stress out of every stage of your property sale. The provide reassurance that all the boxes will be ticked off.
- Effective communication. You’ll want a conveyancing lawyer who is a clear communicator. That’s someone who keeps you in the loop and explains complex requirements in easy-to-understand terms. Great conveyancing lawyers will answer all your questions. They’ll also return emails and phone messages promptly.
- Experience and qualifications. Choose a conveyancing lawyer with heaps of experience. Also ask about experience in the type of property you’re dealing with. After all, a first-home purchase is different than a bulk land purchase. Check their qualifications too.
- Organisation skills. Quality conveyancing lawyers are detailed and highly organised, which is important because conveyancing requirements are complex. They also meet deadlines and deal with changes and shifts that can occur with property deals.
- Fee structure. You’ll find variances in what conveyancing lawyers charge and won’t want to overpay. You should remember, however, that sometimes you get what you pay for, so the cheapest conveyancer isn’t necessarily the best. Ask about fees and get details in writing.
- Reviews and recommendations. Check online for reviews and recommendations. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations from previous clients.
The best conveyancing lawyers in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Snedden Hall & Gallop
As one of Canberra’s most prestigious law firms, Snedden Hall & Gallop have built an enviable reputation that spans over six decades. Their experienced, personal, and dependable property team are exemplary legal practitioners who have it covered.
Specialising in both residential and commercial property their team can help navigate all key steps, from dealing with banks, through to contract advice, negotiations, concessions and exemptions, exchange, and settlement.
For those in the residential market, Snedden Hall & Gallop's property team can assist anyone looking to enter the market; existing homeowners looking to buy or sell; along with all manner of investors. They are also well versed in complex financial arrangements, for any properties held within estates or trusts.
For those in the commercial market, the team's sound knowledge of the local market and unique leasehold and planning system is an absolute advantage. Their strong relationships with property developers, investors, and landlords throughout region make them a force to be reckoned with.
For clear, well considered, and smooth conveyancing services look to Snedden Hall & Gallop's property law team.
Michel Tremblant wrote on Google, “I have nothing but good things to say about this highly professional law firm ... My lawyer was passionate about her work, provided sound advice and she took a genuine personal interest in my case ... I would highly recommend Sneddon Hall & Gallop to anyone."
Velocity Conveyancing
Velocity Conveyancing are Canberra’s largest provider of residential conveyancing services and are one of its most respected legal practices. Established in 1968, they know the local property market and are well placed to advise and protect clients.
Velocity Conveyancing offer reliable, fixed-price conveyancing services across seven offices in Canberra and the surrounding region. They offer $0 upfront making it easier for clients to list their properties for sale and can review up to three auction contracts for the one contract review fee.
Their team of lawyers and conveyancers have developed an easy-to-follow flow chart to explain the process simply, and they offer a no obligation quote with a guaranteed fair price.
As Riotact commenter Cara Matthews says, "Velocity Conveyancing – highly recommend Sandra Forrest – she has helped us buy 2 properties & has a wealth of knowledge & many years of experience. She is attentive, communicates well & explains everything in detail. I wouldn’t use anyone else!"
MV Law
When it comes to navigating the daunting process of buying and selling property, MV Law's conveyancing specialists have the experience to make the process as seamless as possible. With a range of specialists on staff, MV Law is equipped to assist property purchases at any level, whether you’re a seasoned investor or you're looking to buy your first home.
The team’s stellar qualifications speak for themselves – four of MV Law’s expert lawyers have recently been recognised amongst the best in the country, named in The Best Lawyers in Australia 2021 List. Rest assured that not only are you in extremely capable and professional hands at MV Law, but that you are also receiving the best service in the country.
Julian Bahamon wrote on Google, “Great company. Would recommend to anyone looking for a solicitor in Canberra.”
BDN Lawyers
BDN Lawyers has specialised in conveyancing law for more than 150 years, providing expert advice with a personal touch. Minimising risk in real estate transactions isn’t just a job for its team members - it's their mission, in both the ACT and NSW.
Conveyancing is a complex task including various legal, financial and administrative steps, which the experienced team at BDN Lawyers helps with.
The firm’s conveyancing lawyers support clients with contract preparation, exchange of contracts and settlement of transactions. They work for those selling a property and those buying a property. They also support clients who are subdividing land and updating a title.
Baker Deane & Nutt partners Lorraine White, Richard Baker and Tanya Nadin. Photo: Baker Deane & Nutt.
BDN Lawyers protects client interests and are precise and accurate with contracts and calculating money involved. Special areas of interest include home purchases and sales in the ACT and NSW, subdivisions, property developments, advice on mortgage and loan documents and property transfers.
Conveyancing lawyers pride themselves on being accessible, responsive and innovative. The firm has invested in technology, systems and staff training so clients receive fast and effective legal services.
Baker Deane & Nutt has offices in Canberra and Queanbeyan.
On Google Tim Gronow wrote, “In the past year, Tanya and Corrina of BDN Lawyers have assisted my wife and I, in selling our home and buying our new home. I can only speak positively about the experience … Communication throughout was first class and we never had to chase for information. Highly recommend!”
If you’re looking for more information on other legal services in Canberra, you might like our articles on the best law firms, best bankruptcy lawyers and advisers, best business lawyers, best commercial lawyers and best wills and estates lawyers Canberra has to offer.
Your experience with conveyancing lawyers in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the conveyancing lawyers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process, of transferring property from one owner to another.
What is a conveyancer?
A conveyancer is a licensed professional who specialises in the legal aspects of buying and selling real property. They advise and inform clients throughout the whole process, helping with the settlement and title transfer by ensuring all legal obligations are met and that their client's rights are protected during this transaction.
What happens during the conveyancing process?
There are three key stages to conveyancing - pre-contract, exchange, and settlement.
Pre-contract involves receiving sales instructions from the selling agent, conducting the necessary inspections of the property and preparing the contract for sale.
Exchange involves the approval of the contract for sale from both parties.
Settlement is the point where the buyer moves in.
In each of these stages the professional and qualified advice of a conveyancing lawyer will prove extremely useful as you navigate the intricacies of conveyancing and contracts.
How long does the conveyancing process take?
In most cases, the conveyancing for the purchase of a home will take between 10 and 12 weeks. This may vary depending on circumstances such as mortgage offers, surveys, and issues with titles. Having a qualified conveyancing lawyer on your side will help you navigate these issues and reach the desired outcome efficiently.
What are conveyancing searches?
Conveyancing searches provide you with up-to-date information on the property that may not be included in the contract, and some information that is obligatory for the sale to be completed. Some information to be gained from the searches includes building and development codes, neighbourly disputes, and information about the land such as the likelihood of flood or fire.
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