Conveyancing Fees
Buying or selling property is one of the biggest financial steps you’ll take. But when it comes to conveyancing, many people feel uncertain about how much it really costs.
The good news? Conveyancing fees are usually clear and predictable when explained properly. Here’s a plain-English guide to what’s included, what you should expect to pay, and how to avoid hidden surprises.
Summary
Conveyancing fees in Victoria range from $1,100–$2,700, covering lawyer fees and disbursements. Costs vary by property and complexity; Flint Lawyers offers clear, fixed-fee quotes.
What are conveyancing fees?
Conveyancing fees are the costs of legally transferring property ownership. They usually include two key components:
- Professional fees – This is what you pay your lawyer or conveyancer for their time, legal knowledge, and handling of your matter. It covers:
Drafting and reviewing contracts
Checking the property’s title
Identifying easements or restrictions
Preparing settlement figures
Liaising with banks and other parties
Conducting settlement
- Disbursements – These are third-party expenses that your lawyer pays on your behalf. They’re essential to make sure the property transaction is legally sound. Common disbursements include title searches, council rate certificates, water rate certificates, land tax clearances, and electronic settlement fees.
Tip: When comparing quotes, always check whether the figure includes disbursements or if they’ll be charged separately.
How Much Do Conveyancing Fees Cost in Victoria?
The conveyancing fees depend on the property type and the complexity of the transaction.
For a standard residential property, you can expect:
- Professional fees: usually between $800 and $2,200
- Disbursements: typically $300 to $500
This means most property buyers and sellers should budget $1,100 to $2,700 for conveyancing.
Conveyancing Fixed-Fee Vs Pay-As-You-Go
Breakdown of Common Disbursements
- Fixed-fee conveyancing – You’re quoted one price covering the whole transaction. It’s predictable and easier for budgeting.
- Pay-as-you-go pricing – Professional fees may look lower, but you’ll pay separately for each extra service or communication.
Which is better?
- Fixed-fee is best for standard, straightforward matters.
- Pay-as-you-go can work if your property is unusual and you only want to pay for what you need.
Tip: If you choose fixed-fee, always check the fine print for what’s included. Some firms advertise “fixed-fee” but still add unexpected extras.
Disbursements can feel like “hidden extras” if you’re not prepared for them. Here are the most common ones you’ll see in Victoria:
- Title search – Confirms ownership and whether there are mortgages or caveats registered. (~$20–$30)
- Council rates certificate – Shows outstanding or prepaid council rates. (~$50–$100)
- Water rates certificate – Confirms water charges are up to date. (~$50–$100)
- Land tax clearance certificate – Verifies if there are unpaid land taxes. (~$30–$40)
- Owners’ corporation certificate – Required for apartments or units in strata. (~$150–$250)
- PEXA (electronic settlement platform) fee – Mandatory for online settlements. (~$130)
This is only a guide and not a full list of possible disbursements. Prices are current as at September 2025, but we recommend checking with us for an updated estimate when you make your enquiry.
What affects the final cost?
Every property transaction is unique. Your final fee may depend on:
- Whether the property is residential, commercial, or rural.
- If the sale involves a company, trust, or deceased estate.
- Additional tasks like mortgage discharges, caveats, or contract variations.
- Tight settlement deadlines that require urgent work.
Tip: If your matter is more complex, ask for a tailored quote instead of relying on “standard” figures.
Think you might be over-charged?
Most conveyancers and lawyers are transparent about fees, but it’s smart to check:
- Is GST included in the quote?
- Are there any extra charges for failed settlement?
- Will you be billed for every phone call or email?
- Are disbursements charged at cost, or with a markup?
Tip: Always ask for a written quote and clarify when payments are due.
Why fees vary so much
There are several reasons why one conveyancing matter may cost more than another:
Type of property
Residential homes are usually more straightforward than commercial or rural properties.
Contract complexity
Off-the-plan purchases, subdivisions, or properties held in trusts often require more detailed legal work.
Extra services
Discharging a mortgage, lodging a caveat, or dealing with owners corporations can add to the cost.
Urgency
If you need a rapid turnaround for settlement, expect higher fees.
Experience level
Licensed conveyancers may charge less but cannot advise on complex legal issues.
Need a conveyancing quote?
Conveyancing fees don’t need to be a mystery. With the right advice, you’ll know what to expect, what’s included, and how to avoid hidden surprises.
At Flint Lawyers, we believe in:
- Fixed-fee transparency – you’ll know the cost upfront.
- Clear communication – no jargon, no confusion.
- Legal protection – advice and support if complications arise.
Every property transaction is different. Contact our team at Flint Lawyers for a personalised, no-obligation estimate tailored to your specific situation.
We’ll make sure you know exactly what’s covered, and help you move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are conveyancing fees for?
Conveyancing fees cover the legal work required to transfer property ownership. They pay for your lawyer or conveyancer’s expertise in reviewing contracts, checking the title, liaising with banks, preparing settlement figures, and ensuring the transaction is legally compliant. Without this process, you risk missing critical issues that could affect your rights as a buyer or seller.
What costs are involved in conveyancing?
Conveyancing involves two main types of costs:
- Professional fees – the service fee for your lawyer’s time, advice, and handling of the transaction.
- Disbursements – third-party expenses such as title searches, council and water rate certificates, land tax checks, and settlement platform fees.
How much are conveyancing fees in Australia?
In Victoria, conveyancing typically costs $1,100 to $2,700 for a standard residential property. This includes professional fees (usually $800–$2,200) and disbursements (around $300–$500). The final figure may be higher if the property is complex, for example, off-the-plan purchases, properties held in trusts, or sales involving urgent deadlines.
How long does conveyancing take?
A standard property settlement in Victoria usually takes 30, 60, or 90 days, depending on what’s written in the contract of sale.
Straightforward matters often align with the agreed contract date, but complications such as finance delays, title issues, or disputes can extend the timeline. Having an experienced solicitor helps ensure deadlines are met.
Can a conveyancer negotiate price?
A licensed conveyancer or solicitor can review and explain contract terms, but they generally don’t negotiate the purchase price itself, that’s between buyer and seller (or their agents).
What they can do is highlight risks, unusual clauses, or costs in the contract that may help you negotiate better terms before signing.
What are the risks of conveyancing?
The biggest risks come from missing key legal details. These include undisclosed easements, outstanding rates or taxes, unfavourable contract terms, or settlement delays that lead to financial penalties. Using a solicitor adds protection, as they can step in with legal advice if a dispute or default arises.
Should you use the same conveyancer for buying and selling?
Yes, it’s recommended, and it’s often practical if both transactions happen around the same time. Using the same solicitor means one point of contact, a better understanding of your overall position, and smoother coordination of settlement dates.
The key is to choose someone experienced enough to manage both matters without conflict.
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