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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a conveyancer?
​A conveyancer is a licensed property professional who specialises in buying and selling real estate. We prepare and review contracts, give legal advice about the property, and manage the process from start to finish to make sure everything runs smoothly.
What is the difference between a conveyancer and a solicitor?
Both conveyancers and solicitors can handle property transactions, but a conveyancer specialises only in property law. This means their full focus and expertise is on buying and selling property in NSW. A solicitor is a general legal practitioner who can also handle other legal matters such as family law, criminal law, or litigation. Because conveyancing is our sole area of practice, we have in-depth knowledge of NSW property laws, processes, and requirements.
What is conveyancing and why do I need it?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of property from one person to another. Whether you are buying or selling, conveyancing ensures: - the contract is correct - the title is clear - legal requirements are met - your interests are protected at every stage Property transactions are legally complex, and mistakes can be costly. A conveyancer makes sure everything is done properly.
What is settlement?
Settlement is the final stage of the property transaction. This is when: - the buyer pays the balance of the purchase price - ownership of the property is transferred - the buyer receives the keys (for purchases) ​Before settlement, all searches, finance arrangements, adjustments, and legal requirements must be completed. In NSW, settlement usually occurs around 6 weeks after contracts are exchanged, unless another timeframe is agreed.
How long does the conveyancing process take in NSW?
In most cases, conveyancing takes 4 to 6 weeks from exchange of contracts to settlement. The standard NSW contract provides for a 42-day settlement period, but this can be negotiated and changed depending on the circumstances. The agreed settlement date is shown on the front page of the contract.
Do I need a conveyancer to buy or sell property in NSW?
While it is not legally required, it is strongly recommended. NSW property law is complex, and both buyers and sellers have strict legal obligations. A conveyancer ensures everything is handled correctly and helps protect you from costly mistakes or future disputes.
Do I need to have a contract review before I make an offer?
An offer is not legally binding until contracts are exchanged. However, having a contract reviewed before you make an offer is often a good idea. There may be terms or issues that affect: - the price you are willing to pay - your ability to proceed - the level of risk involved ​If you are buying at auction, a contract review is especially important, as contracts cannot be changed after the auction.
What is a cooling-off period?
In NSW, buyers generally have a 5 business day cooling-off period after contracts are exchanged. During this time, the buyer can: - finalise finance - arrange building and pest inspections - complete due diligence​​ If the buyer withdraws during the cooling-off period, they forfeit 0.25% of the purchase price to the seller.
Do conveyancers have professional indemnity insurance?
Yes. All licensed conveyancers are required to hold professional indemnity insurance, which protects you in the unlikely event something goes wrong.
What is PEXA?
PEXA (Property Exchange Australia) is a secure national online system used for: - electronic settlements - transferring funds - paying stamp duty - lodging documents with NSW Land Registry Services Most NSW property transactions are now completed electronically through PEXA.
Can you help if I'm not based locally?
Yes. While we are locally based, we handle conveyancing matters across all of NSW.
Why should I choose New Chapter Conveyancing?
Choosing the right conveyancer makes a real difference. At New Chapter Conveyancing, we offer: - Specialist property expertise – Conveyancing is all we do - Clear, plain-English advice – No legal jargon or confusion - Fixed-fee pricing – No surprises - Free contract reviews – So you can make informed decisions - Local knowledge with NSW-wide service - Personal, responsive service – You deal with a real person, not a call centre We understand that buying or selling property is a big moment. Our role is to guide you through it with clarity, care, and confidence.
Do I need to come into the office?
No. We offer: - electronic document signing - phone and video appointments - email updates You can complete your conveyancing from anywhere in NSW.
Have another question?
If your question isn't answered here, feel free to get in touch.
Property Terms Explained
Clear guidance. No jargon. Just the information you need to move forward with confidence.
66W Certificate
A 66W Certificate means you choose to buy without a cooling-off period. This makes the contract fully binding as soon as contracts are exchanged. We explain exactly what this means, when it’s commonly used, and help you decide if it’s the right move for you.
Caveat
A caveat is a note placed on a property title to show that someone else has a legal interest in the property. It alerts others that the property can’t be dealt with freely until that interest is resolved.
Conveyancing
Conveyancing is the process of legally transferring a property from one owner to another. We handle the paperwork, checks, deadlines and settlement, and guide you step-by-step so everything runs smoothly and with as little stress as possible.
Cooling Off Period
The cooling-off period is a short time after contracts are exchanged that lets a buyer change their mind and withdraw. It gives you time to finalise finance, review reports, and feel confident about your decision.
Deposit Bond
​​​A deposit bond lets you secure a property without paying a cash deposit upfront. It acts as a guarantee to the seller and is often used when your funds are tied up in another property or coming from equity.
Disbursements
Disbursements are out-of-pocket costs paid to other parties during your matter, such as searches, certificates and registration fees. We organise these for you and explain every cost along the way.
Exchange of Contracts
Exchange is when the buyer and seller swap signed contracts. From this point, the deal is legally binding (subject to any cooling-off period or conditions), and both sides are committed to going ahead.
Land Registry Services
Land Registry Services is the NSW government body that keeps official records of property ownership. It records who owns a property and any mortgages or other interests attached to it.
Mortgagee
The mortgagee is the lender, usually a bank, that provides the loan and registers an interest over the property as security.
Mortgagor
The mortgagor is the borrower — the person or people taking out the loan and giving the property as security to the lender.
Purchaser
The purchaser is the buyer — the person or people buying the property and becoming the new owner at settlement.
Registration
Registration is when ownership and mortgage details are officially recorded with Land Registry Services. This confirms your ownership and protects your legal rights to the property.
Settlement
Settlement is the final step. The money is paid, documents are completed, and ownership officially changes hands. It’s when you get the keys and your new chapter begins.
Torrens Title
Torrens Title is the most common type of property ownership in NSW. Ownership details are kept on a central register, making it clear, secure and reliable. Whoever is registered as owner is legally recognised as the true owner.