Buying a home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with legal and financial complexities. That is where your conveyancer comes in – handling the legal side of the property transaction to help ensure everything runs smoothly.
In order to protect your interests as a buyer, here are five key questions you should ask your conveyancer before signing on to use their conveyancing services.
1. What is Included in Your Conveyancing Services?
Not all conveyancers offer the same level of service. Before you engage someone, make sure you understand exactly what they will do. A comprehensive service should include:
- Reviewing the contract of sale
- Explaining your legal obligations and key terms
- Conducting relevant searches
- Coordinating with your lender and real estate agent
- Managing settlement on your behalf
Clarity upfront helps prevent any confusion or hidden costs later.
2. Can You Review the Contract Before I Sign?
This is one of the most important steps in the buying process. A conveyancer can identify:
- Unfavourable clauses
- Missing or unclear terms
- The need for special conditions (e.g. subject to finance or building and pest inspections)
Having your contract reviewed before signing can prevent costly mistakes and give you peace of mind.
3. What Property Searches Will You Conduct?
Your conveyancer should carry out property searches to uncover any issues that could affect your use or ownership of the home. Common searches include:
- Title searches
- Easement and zoning checks
- Council rates and land tax status
- Flood or bushfire risk reports
These checks are crucial for avoiding nasty surprises after settlement.
4. What Are the Key Deadlines and What Happens If I Miss One?
Your conveyancer should explain important dates such as:
- The cooling-off period
- Finance and building inspection due dates
- Deposit deadlines
- Settlement day
Missing a deadline could mean losing your deposit or breaching the contract, so it is essential to stay informed and organised.
5. What Will the Total Costs Be?
Ask for a clear estimate of all fees and disbursements, including:
- Legal fees
- Search costs
- Government charges (like transfer duty)
A comprehensive understanding of all the costs helps you budget effectively and prevents any bill shock down the track.
Final Thoughts
A good conveyancer will do much more than just handle the legal paperwork – they will also give you the confidence to make one of the biggest purchases of your life. Asking the right questions early can save time, stress, and money.
If you are planning to buy a home in Queensland, our experienced property law team is here to guide you through the process. Contact us for personalised advice and expert conveyancing support.
