The saying “knowledge is power” might be a little bit cliché but it proves itself to be true in small ways every day.  For example, if we know that a restaurant serves fresh, local seafood, we might choose fish over steak when we decide to dine there. 

Similarly, when dealing with professionals it’s important to know all about them in order to decide if they’re right for you. In the case of conveyancing, choosing the wrong party to represent you could mean more than missing out on a fresh fish dish. Fortunately, finding out about these parties is easy, and often, all you need to do is ask them some of these questions.

 

What Qualifications Do You Have?

This might seem like an obvious question but that also makes it a great place to start. 

Conveyancers require a tertiary qualification that might differ in its name from state to state. In South Australia, the Advanced Diploma of Conveyancing is the only course available to prospective conveyancers. While there is also a Certificate IV course, this is only complimentary and does not make graduates eligible for registration. 

That’s the other key to this question. Anyone who wants to be a conveyancer must also apply for registration – so ensuring that your candidate is registered is also important. 

As experts in property law, conveyancers should also be committed to regular ongoing education to keep up with changing legislation.

 

Are You a Member of the AIC?

The Australian Institute of Conveyancers is the peak national body representing the profession. A conveyancer who is a member of the AIC is driven to uphold certain professional, educational and ethical standards. 

A conveyancer may also be a member of the local branch, which in Adelaide is the AICSA. Having these affiliations shows that your conveyancer strives to uphold a wider set of standards, giving you greater confidence in how they go about their work.

 

Are You Equipped for Online Conveyancing?

Electronic conveyancing, or e-conveyancing, is the future of the profession and the next step in faster, easier and more effective property transactions. 

If a conveyancer cannot conduct settlements electronically then he should not act for you

 

Specific Service Questions

When you are serious about employing a specific conveyancing team, you can ask them more specific questions, such as:

 

• What are the maximum expected fees and charges? Conveyancing fee can vary but they should be able to give you a range or maximum charge.
• What other charges will I face? Your conveyancer should be well-versed in government charges such as stamp duty, so that you get a full picture of how much the process will cost.
• Do you offer this additional service? Once you know the scope of how a conveyancer will help you with buying, selling or other property matters, ask if they can help you with related tasks. You will often find that they can.

• How long will settlement take? Whether you’re moving in or moving on, timelines are important. A critical part of a conveyancers job is keeping you across the entire process so that you know what will occur and when 

Conveyancing Centre is your fully licensed and qualified property law team in Adelaide. Learn more about us here or feel free to give us a call and ask us any of these questions.