Frequently Asked Questions

Buying, selling or transferring property comes with plenty of questions. Here are plain-English answers to the ones we hear most. If yours isn't here, just get in touch.

What does a conveyancer do?

A conveyancer looks after the legal side of buying, selling or transferring property. We prepare or review the contract and Vendor Statement (Section 32), carry out the necessary searches, work with your lender, calculate adjustments for rates and other outgoings, and complete settlement so ownership passes to the right person.

When should I engage a conveyancer?

As early as possible. If you're buying, ideally before you sign anything, so we can review the contract and flag anything unusual. If you're selling, before you list, because your Vendor Statement needs to be ready before a buyer can sign a Contract.

Can you review a contract before I sign it?

Yes. We'll explain the contract in plain English, point out any special conditions you should know about, suggest possible changes and look for red flags regarding the property itself, such as issues with the title, easements, planning restrictions or outstanding notices. Where needed, we'll also help negotiate terms so they're fair and right for you. Once a contract is signed it's legally binding, so it's worth getting it checked first.

What is a Section 32 (Vendor Statement)?

A Vendor Statement is the disclosure document required under Section 32 of the Sale of Land Act 1962 (Vic). It sets out key information about the property, such as title details, easements, planning information, rates and outgoings. It must be given to the buyer before they sign the contract, and missing or incorrect information can give the buyer the right to end the contract before settlement.

Is there a cooling-off period when buying in Victoria?

For most private sales, buyers have three clear business days after signing to end the contract, usually losing $100 or 0.2% of the purchase price (whichever is more). Cooling-off doesn't apply to auctions, to purchases made within three clear business days before or after a publicly advertised auction, or where the buyer is an estate agent or a company, and there are some other exceptions. Talk to us before you rely on it.

Can you help with stamp duty concessions?

Yes. When you buy, we'll check whether you're eligible for any stamp duty exemptions, concessions or reductions, such as first home buyer benefits, and prepare the State Revenue Office forms at no extra cost.

How does settlement work?

Settlement is when the balance of the purchase price is paid and ownership passes to the buyer. In Victoria, settlements are completed electronically. We coordinate with the other party, the banks and you so everything is ready on the day, and we'll let you know as soon as it's done.

Do you only work with clients near Officer?

No. We're based in Officer, but we look after clients right across Victoria. Wherever your property is, you'll have a real person from our team guiding you from start to finish, just a phone call or email away, and you won't need to come into the office.

Do you handle property transfers between family members?

Yes. Related party transfers, like adding a partner to the title or transferring a property to a family member, work differently from a standard sale. Whether stamp duty applies depends on the relationship and your circumstances, so we'll help you work that out and manage the transfer for you.

Do you work on commercial property and subdivisions?

Yes. As well as residential purchases and sales, we act on commercial purchases and sales, off-the-plan contracts, subdivisions, easements and other property matters. For subdivisions, we work alongside your surveyor and lodge the application with the Titles Office once your Statement of Compliance is issued.

What happens if my Certificate of Title is lost?

If your Title has been lost or destroyed, we can look after the investigation and paperwork needed to replace it. Get in touch and we'll let you know what's needed for your situation.

How much does conveyancing cost?

We believe in upfront pricing. Send us a few details about your property and what you need, and we'll give you a clear quote before you commit, so there are no surprises.

How do I get started?

Give us a call on (03) 8592 0101 or email info@genuineconveyancing.com.au. Our friendly team will talk you through the next steps.