Conveyancing: What is it and why does it matter?

Conveyancing is likely one of those terms you've heard, but still don't really know what it means. It's a shame, because if you're planning on buying real estate in Australind, Eaton and other neighbourhoods in the Bunbury area, it's an essential part of the process.

What is conveyancing?

The term 'conveyancing' simply refers to the legal process of transferring ownership of a property from one person (the seller) to another (the buyer). It generally lasts from the time just before you draw up a contract to when the property transfer is officially registered. 

A conveyancer can be a number of things. They might be professional conveyancers who have received training and a license to carry out the task, or they could be a solicitor who does conveyancing on the side. You can even do your own conveyancing, although that's not necessarily advisable. 

What does a conveyancer do?

A conveyancer has many tasks. Perhaps most importantly – and certainly most commonly – they are in charge of preparing and lodging the necessary legal documents involved in buying or selling real estate in Bunbury and other areas. 

However, there are a number of other tasks they might perform. A conveyancer will conduct research on the property, making sure the buyer is aware of all the relevant information and that nothing has been missed out or excluded. They will also do searches for the Certificate of Title and calculate the adjustment of taxes and rates. Finally, in addition to this and other responsibilities, they will act in an advisory role, explaining legal terms and concepts and the ramifications of what you choose to do. 

Having a conveyancer on your side is crucial whether you're a buyer or vendor. Just make sure to ask them about fees, and to check that they are licensed – it's illegal not to be.