Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of property from one party to another, from preparing or reviewing the contract of sale through to registering the transfer at settlement. In NSW it is governed by the Conveyancing Act 1919, and it must be handled by a qualified practitioner. We act for buyers and sellers from our offices in Newcastle, and across NSW.
How we help
We manage your conveyance end to end, so the transaction completes cleanly and on time. We:
- Prepare or review the contract of sale and negotiate the terms that matter.
- Run the full suite of searches: title, council, water, land tax, planning and strata.
- Advise on the cooling-off period, the deposit and the cost adjustments at settlement.
- Coordinate settlement through PEXA and register the transfer of title.
Why clients choose Mullane Lindsay
Our property work is led by Michael McGrath, and we give you a clear, detailed cost estimate at the outset so there are no surprises at settlement. Backed by the firm since 1976, we have handled everything from a first home to complex investment purchases, and we take the time to explain each step.
What searches do you run, and why?
A physical inspection cannot reveal what a search can. We run a title search to confirm ownership and any encumbrances, caveats or easements; council, water and land tax searches to confirm rates and any orders; a planning certificate to confirm zoning and restrictions; and, for strata, an owners corporation search for levies, works and disputes. We report what they show and advise on anything that needs fixing before settlement.
What is the cooling-off period in NSW?
For residential property in NSW, buyers generally have a cooling-off period of five business days after exchange, during which they can withdraw, usually forfeiting 0.25% of the purchase price. It can be extended by agreement, and it does not apply to property bought at auction or where it is waived.
