Solicitor vs. Conveyancer: What’s the Difference & Why Use a Conveyancer for Your Property Transaction?

When buying or selling a property, you need a legal expert to handle the paperwork, contracts, and settlement process. But should you hire a conveyancer or a solicitor? Many people assume they need a solicitor for conveyancing, but in most cases, a licensed conveyancer can handle the entire process—often at a lower cost and with a specialist focus on property law. Here’s an easy-to-understand guide on the difference between a solicitor and a conveyancer, and why a conveyancer is often the best choice for property transactions.

What’s the Difference Between a Solicitor & a Conveyancer?

✔ Conveyancer (Property Law Specialist)

A licensed conveyancer is a professional who specializes in property law and transactions. Their entire focus is on buying, selling, and transferring property.

💼 What a Conveyancer Does:✔ Reviews and prepares Contracts of Sale✔ Conducts property searches & legal checks✔ Handles stamp duty & government fees✔ Liaises with banks, real estate agents & councils✔ Ensures a smooth settlement process

🚀 Best for: People buying, selling, or transferring property who need expert, cost-effective legal assistance.

✔ Solicitor (General Legal Professional)

A solicitor is a qualified lawyer who can handle conveyancing but also works in many other areas of law (e.g., family law, criminal law, business law).

💼 What a Solicitor Does in Conveyancing:✔ Everything a conveyancer does, plus…✔ Handles complex legal disputes (e.g., property litigation, boundary disputes)✔ Provides legal advice on broader issues (e.g., divorce settlements, wills, business contracts)

🚀 Best for: Property transactions involving legal disputes, complex estate planning, or business-related contracts.

💡 Key Difference: Solicitors cover all types of legal work, while conveyancers specialize ONLY in property transactions.

Why Use a Conveyancer Instead of a Solicitor?

✔ ✅ Specialist Knowledge – Conveyancers ONLY handle property law, meaning they are experts in the process.✔ 💰 Lower Cost – Conveyancers charge lower fees because they focus only on property transactions.✔ 🏡 Better Communication – Since they deal with property transactions every day, conveyancers understand what buyers & sellers need and explain things in plain English.✔ 📑 Faster Process – Because they specialize, conveyancers are often more efficient than a general solicitor who juggles multiple types of legal cases.

💡 When to Choose a Solicitor: If your property deal involves legal disputes, complex divorce settlements, or inheritance issues, a solicitor may be necessary.

Are Conveyancers Licensed & Regulated?

Yes! In NSW, conveyancers must be licensed and regulated by NSW Fair Trading. This ensures they meet professional standards and carry insurance to protect clients.

💡 Tip: Always check that your conveyancer is licensed before hiring them.

Why Choose SL Conveyancing for Your Property Transaction?

At SL Conveyancing, we offer:✔ Fixed Fees – No hidden surprises✔ Specialist Property Knowledge – 100% focused on conveyancing✔ Smooth & Stress-Free Process – We handle everything for you✔ Personalized Service – We explain everything in plain English

🏡 Thinking of buying or selling a property? Contact SL Conveyancing for expert, hassle-free conveyancing services!

📞 Call us today!📧 Email us for more information.