Conveyancer vs. Solicitor
Who should help with your property purchase?
This guide breaks down the essentials so you can feel more confident and in control of your home loan journey.
It’s a question that trips up a lot of 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝘆𝗲𝗿𝘀 — and knowing the difference can make your journey so much smoother.
Not sure who you need?
Watch this quick reel — we explain when to go with a conveyancer and when a solicitor’s your best bet.
It’s a question that trips up a lot of 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝘆𝗲𝗿𝘀 — and knowing the difference can make your journey so much smoother.
Not sure who you need?
Watch this quick reel — we explain when to go with a conveyancer and when a solicitor’s your best bet.
What’s the Difference Between a
Conveyancer and a Solicitor?
When you're buying a home, you’ll need someone to handle the legal
side of the process—like reviewing contracts, transferring property
ownership, and making sure the settlement goes smoothly.
You have two main options:
✔️ Conveyancer
✔️ Solicitor
Both can help with property transactions—but there are a few key
differences.
What Does a Conveyancer Do?
A conveyancer is a licensed professional who specialises in property
transactions only.
They can:
Prepare and review your Contract of Sale
Handle title searches and property checks
Arrange settlement and liaise with banks
Lodge necessary documents with the relevant state office
Conveyancers are typically more affordable and well-suited to
straightforward property purchases.
What Does a Solicitor Do?
A solicitor is a qualified lawyer who can assist with property law—but
also offer legal advice on broader issues, if needed.
They can:
Do everything a conveyancer can do
Help if your purchase is more complex (e.g. buying off the plan,
dealing with disputes, trusts, deceased estates, etc.)Provide advice beyond property (like estate planning or legal
disputes)
Solicitors generally charge more than conveyancers, but may be more
suitable if your purchase has legal complications or added risk.
What’s the Difference Between a
Conveyancer and a Solicitor?
When you're buying a home, you’ll need someone to handle the legal side of the process—like reviewing contracts, transferring property ownership, and making sure the settlement goes smoothly.
You have two main options:
✔️ Conveyancer
✔️ Solicitor
Both can help with property transactions—but there are a few key differences.
What Does a Conveyancer Do?
A conveyancer is a licensed professional who specialises in property
transactions only.
They can:
Prepare and review your Contract of Sale
Handle title searches and property checks
Arrange settlement and liaise with banks
Lodge necessary documents with the relevant state office
Conveyancers are typically more affordable and well-suited to straightforward property purchases.
What Does a Solicitor Do?
A solicitor is a qualified lawyer who can assist with property law—but also offer legal advice on broader issues, if needed.
They can:
Do everything a conveyancer can do
Help if your purchase is more complex (e.g. buying off the plan,
dealing with disputes, trusts, deceased estates, etc.)Provide advice beyond property (like estate planning or legal
disputes)
Solicitors generally charge more than conveyancers, but may be more suitable if your purchase has legal complications or added risk.
Key Differences at a Glance
Feature
Conveyancer
Solicitor
Property-only focus
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Can give broader legal advice
❌ No
✅ Yes
Handles standard property transactions
✅ Yes
✅ Yes
Ideal for complex legal matters
❌ Not recommended
✅ Yes
Cost
💲 Lower
💲💲 Higher
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose a conveyancer if:
✔️ Your purchase is straightforward
✔️ You want a more cost-effective option
✔️ You’re not expecting any legal issues
Choose a solicitor if:
✔️ You’re buying a property with special conditions
✔️ The sale involves legal risks (e.g. disputes, zoning issues)
✔️ You want legal advice beyond the property contract
For most first home buyers, a conveyancer is usually enough—but if
there’s anything unusual about the property or contract, it’s worth
getting a solicitor’s opinion.
Whichever you choose, make sure they’re licensed, experienced,
and responsive. A good legal representative makes the homebuying
process smoother, safer, and less stressful.
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Related Topics
A high LVR could mean extra costs, while a low LVR can save you thousands. Find out why lenders care so much about this number.
Understand how lenders determine your borrowing power and what factors impact loan approval. Learn how to improve your eligibility and maximise your home loan options.
Discover the five key factors lenders evaluate when assessing loan applications and learn how each plays a role in securing mortgage approval.
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