🔹 General Conveyancing

Q: What is conveyancing in Canberra?
A: Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership in the ACT. It ensures the buyer receives clear title and that all legal, financial, and regulatory obligations are met. Our Canberra conveyancing lawyers guide you through the entire process, from contract to settlement.

Q: How long does the conveyancing process take in Canberra?
A: Conveyancing typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from contract exchange to settlement in Canberra. Factors like finance approval, searches, or special conditions can affect this timeline. We work to keep the process smooth and on schedule.

Q: Should I use a solicitor or a conveyancer in Canberra?
A: In Canberra, only solicitors are authorised to provide conveyancing services independently. Unlike some other states, the ACT requires all licensed conveyancers to work under the direct supervision of a qualified lawyer. That means you're legally better protected by working with a solicitor.

At AS Legal, your matter is handled by a solicitor from start to finish.

🔹 Buying Property

Q: What are the steps to buying property in Canberra?
A: Key steps include contract review, making an offer, exchanging contracts, conducting searches, securing finance, and settlement. We manage every stage and explain your rights and obligations as a buyer in the ACT.

Q: Can I get a contract reviewed before making an offer?
A: Yes — and whether you should depends on the type of sale:

• Private Treaty Sales:
  In Canberra, making an offer on a property via private treaty does not create a legally binding contract. You're not locked in until contracts are formally exchanged. For this reason, a full contract review isn't required before submitting your offer.
  At AS Legal, once your offer is accepted, we schedule a detailed contract review before exchange to ensure you're completely satisfied with the terms and conditions.

• Auction or Pre-Auction Offers:
  If you’re buying at auction — or making a pre-auction offer — it’s crucial to review the contract before bidding or signing. In these cases, your commitment becomes legally binding immediately if you're the successful bidder. We strongly recommend a contract review in advance so you understand all obligations and risks before auction day.

Whether you're buying through private treaty or auction, we ensure you’re informed and protected every step of the way.

🔹 Selling Property

Q: What do I need to sell my property in Canberra?
A: You need a legally compliant contract for sale before advertising. We prepare this for you, including documents like a title search, Deposited Plan, and Lease Conveyancing Enquiry. We ensure everything is ready so you can list without delay.

Q: When should I engage a solicitor to sell property?
A: Engage a solicitor early — before you list the property. At AS Legal, we prepare your contract, negotiate terms, and handle settlement to ensure your sale runs smoothly and legally.

🔹 Fees & Costs

Q: How much does conveyancing cost in Canberra?
A: We offer transparent fixed-fee conveyancing in Canberra, so there are no hidden charges. Your quote will include all standard legal services. Contact us for a tailored estimate based on your property type.

Q: Are there any extra costs besides legal fees?
A: Yes — expect costs for property searches, stamp duty, registration fees, and adjustments for rates and utilities. We’ll provide a breakdown of all expected costs so there are no surprises.