What Do Solicitors Do When Buying a House?
Buying a house is a huge decision, and a lot happens behind the scenes to make it safe. So what does a conveyancer do when buying a house, and how does a solicitor differ? Here is a plain-English walk-through.
Solicitor or conveyancer?
Both a solicitor and a licensed conveyancer can handle the legal transfer of property, known as conveyancing. A conveyancer focuses specifically on property transfers; a solicitor is a qualified lawyer who can also advise on wider issues — tax, trusts, family law, estate planning and disputes. For rural properties or anything with complications, a solicitor's broader expertise is valuable.
Before you sign, and through to settlement
The key stages include reviewing the contract before you commit (terms, title, easements, disclosure and cooling-off rights); arranging and reviewing searches; managing exchange and the deposit; liaising with your lender; calculating adjustments; and completing settlement, when the balance is paid, you get the keys, and ownership is transferred and registered.
Frequently asked questions
What does a conveyancer do when buying a house?
They handle the legal transfer — reviewing the contract, arranging searches, managing exchange and the deposit, calculating adjustments, and completing settlement so ownership passes to you correctly.
Do I need a solicitor or a conveyancer to buy a house?
Either can do standard conveyancing. A solicitor is a lawyer who can also advise on wider issues, which helps for anything beyond a simple purchase.
When should I involve a solicitor when buying a house?
As early as possible — ideally before you sign. Advice on the contract before exchange is where the most protection lies.
Buy with confidence — talk to Leyden Legal
Leyden Legal has guided buyers across Tamworth, Manilla and the North West through property purchases for three generations, with clear, cost-effective advice at every step.
Contact Leyden Legal today before you sign a contract to buy a house.
This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. Please seek tailored legal advice about your purchase before acting.