5 things to consider when choosing a Victorian Conveyancer (2026 Guide)

Choosing the right conveyancer in Victoria is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when buying, selling or transferring property. Given the value of the asset involved, it’s a decision worth taking the time to get right.

Buyers and Sellers Guide to getting it right!

A professional conveyancer does far more than manage paperwork and ensure funds are transferred correctly. They act as your safeguard — protecting your legal interests, guiding you through your obligations, and helping you avoid costly mistakes. From preparing or reviewing Contracts of Sale and Section 32 Vendor Statements, to advising on State Revenue Office requirements and managing settlement (including unexpected delays), an experienced conveyancer is a critical part of your property team.

Here are 5 key factors to consider when choosing the right conveyancer for your Victorian property transaction.

1. Current Victorian Licence and Professional Indemnity Insurance

The conveyancing industry in Victoria is regulated. Ensuring your conveyancer is properly licensed and insured provides essential protection and peace of mind.

1.1 Victorian Conveyancers Licence

To carry out conveyancing work in Victoria, a conveyancer must hold a licence issued by the Business Licensing Authority.

You can check whether a conveyancer or conveyancing company holds a current licence via the public register at Consumer Affairs Victoria.

A current licence confirms the professional meets regulatory requirements and is authorised to act on your behalf.

1.2 Professional Indemnity Insurance

Under the Conveyancers Act 2006, licensed conveyancers must hold Professional Indemnity Insurance with minimum prescribed cover (currently $2 million under Ministerial Order).

This insurance provides protection should something go wrong.

If you are unsure about a conveyancer’s credentials, ask. A reputable firm will always be transparent about their licence and insurance.

2. Experience really matters

Property transactions can contain hidden risks. The right advice at the right time can prevent unnecessary stress, delays and financial loss.

There is no substitute for practical, Victorian-specific experience.

A licensed conveyancer typically has greater day-to-day exposure to property transactions because conveyancing is their sole area of practice, while lawyers and solicitors often work across a range of legal areas, meaning their experience with property conveyancing may be less frequent.

2.1 For Sellers: The importance of a valid Section 32

The Section 32 Vendor Statement is unique to Victoria. A practitioner with strong Victorian experience will ensure the Section 32 is properly prepared and fully compliant with legislative disclosure requirements.

An invalid Section 32 may allow a purchaser to withdraw from the Contract of Sale — a costly and frustrating outcome. A practitioner who regularly prepares Section 32 statements understands the critical questions to ask and disclosures required to protect a seller.

2.2 For Buyers: The importance of a Contract review before you sign.

In Victoria, it is strongly recommended that you always have your Contract of Sale and Section 32 reviewed before signing.

An experienced conveyancer will:

• Clearly explain your rights and obligations
• Identify unfavourable or risky clauses
• Advise on finance and building & pest conditions
• Highlight red flags such as easements, covenants or zoning restrictions
• Ensure your intended use of the property is not impacted

They will also guide you through your obligations with the State Revenue Office Victoria (SRO), ensuring land transfer duty is correctly assessed and that any available exemptions or concessions — such as the First Home Buyer Duty Exemption, Pensioner Concession or off-the-plan concession — are properly applied.

Experience means fewer surprises — and greater confidence.

3. Pricing Transparency

There are 2 points to consider around pricing and why it’s important to factor this in your decision making;

3.1 Understand the Full Cost (not just a base fee)

A typical conveyancing quote may include:

• Professional fees

It will be important to review whether the quote is inclusive or exclusive of the further costs, including:

• Disbursements (title searches, property certificates)
• GST

There may also be additional costs such as:

• PEXA participation fees
• Verification of Identity (VOI) fees
• Owners Corporation Certificates (if applicable)

Always request a clear, itemised quote. Compare total costs, not just the advertised base fee. If something isn’t clear — ask.

3.2 Cheapest is not always best

Fees across the Victorian market are generally competitive, significantly lower pricing can sometimes indicate limited time allocation or reduced service scope.

Your conveyancer should be able to:

• Provide clear and practical advice
• Thoroughly review documents
• Communicate proactively
• Manage complexities
• Protect your interests without cutting corners

A slightly higher fee for experience, strong reviews and responsive service is often a worthwhile investment — and may prevent costly mistakes later.

Transparent pricing and clear scope of work are hallmarks of a professional practice.

4. Communication and Proactive Service

Settlement itself may take less than 30 minutes once booked through PEXA, but the preparation leading up to settlement is where experience, proactiveness and attention to detail truly matter.

Buying or selling property can be stressful and there is a lot manage in the lead up to settlement. There are usually banks to coordinate, funds to consider, insurances and services to arrange, inspections to conduct and (often) a move to plan.

A good conveyancer will:

• Provide regular updates
• Prompt you about important deadlines
• Liaise with your lender
• Prepare and check financial adjustments
• Ensure all parties are ready for settlement

Clear, proactive communication is essential for a smooth and stress-free property settlement in Victoria. You should feel comfortable calling with questions — and confident you’ll receive a timely response.

Online reviews and referrals can provide helpful insight into a firm’s communication style and service standards.

5. Choose someone you feel comfortable with

Buying, selling or transferring property is one of the largest financial decisions most people make. Whether you’re a first home buyer, investor, upsizing or downsizing, you deserve a professional who makes you feel confident and supported.

A Victorian conveyancer can act on properties anywhere in Victoria — you are not limited to your local suburb. Many firms now operate efficiently online, making the process convenient and accessible.

After reviewing credentials, experience, pricing and reviews, if you’re still unsure — make a call. A short conversation can often tell you everything you need to know.

Trust your instincts. You should feel comfortable, informed and confident in your choice.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Victorian conveyancer in 2026 means looking beyond price alone. Focus on:

• Licensing and insurance
• Relevant Victorian experience
• Transparent pricing
• Strong communication
• A professional you trust

With the right conveyancer on your team, your property transaction can proceed smoothly, efficiently and with confidence.

If you are buying, selling or transferring property in Victoria and would like clear, experienced guidance throughout the process, we invite you to contact our team to discuss how we can assist with your next transaction.

You may also like to check out “Buying a Property” or “Selling a Property” for further information on our services.