Conveyancer vs Solicitor: Why Choosing the Wrong One Could Cost You Big

When I founded Optimum Lawyers in Sydney, my goal was simple — to protect Australians making life-changing property and commercial decisions. We’re a specialist business, commercial and property law firm servicing clients Australia-wide, and I’ve seen far too many people regret saving a few hundred dollars on conveyancing.

Clients often ask me:

“Wisam, can’t I just use a conveyancer? Why pay a real estate solicitor more?”

I always explain that a conveyancer manages forms, while a solicitor manages risk. And when you’re spending hundreds of thousands — or millions — on property, risk is everything.

A conveyancer is licensed to handle title searches, contracts and settlement coordination. They ensure the paperwork moves through PEXA and the bank.

A solicitor, however, has the legal training to identify risks and defend your position if something goes wrong. We don’t just push forms — we scrutinise contracts, advise on ownership structures, and deal with disputes.

At Optimum Lawyers, our Property Lawyers Parramatta team has prevented countless issues — from hidden easements to unfair off-the-plan clauses — that standard conveyancers often miss.

“Engaging a specialist solicitor isn’t an up-charge — it’s smart risk management,” I tell every client.

1. The Hidden Easement That Cost $20 000

A young couple in Western Sydney used a cheap conveyancer. After settlement, they found a drainage easement running straight through their back yard. They couldn’t build their planned pool and spent over $20 000 in delays and legal fees.

If they’d come to me first, we’d have spotted it during the contract review and advised them to renegotiate or walk away.

“That five-minute title review is your safety net, not a formality.”

2. The “Standard Contract” That Wasn’t Standard

An investor buying off-the-plan was told by a conveyancer, “It’s a standard contract.” Hidden inside were clauses letting the developer delay completion indefinitely.

When they came to me, I re-negotiated key terms and protected their timeline. Other buyers without a solicitor were stuck waiting over a year.

“There’s no such thing as a standard contract — only standard mistakes.”

Learn more about how our Conveyancing and Property Law Services help buyers avoid hidden risks.

3. When the Bank Wouldn’t Settle

A buyer’s lender failed to release funds on time. Their conveyancer didn’t know how to escalate it legally. They were hit with penalty interest and breach notices.

We stepped in immediately, contacted the bank’s legal team and issued formal notices to protect the client.

“Conveyancing is more than paperwork — it’s protecting your position when things go sideways.”

Use a conveyancer only for simple, low-risk transactions.
Use a solicitor for everything else — especially interstate property purchases/sales, off-the-plan purchases, developments, trust ownership or interstate settlements.

If you’re buying across state lines, our Interstate Conveyancing team handles state-specific laws for NSW property settlements, QLD property settlements, VIC property settlements and WA property settlements, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks.

“You wouldn’t choose a discount surgeon for open-heart surgery — so don’t choose a discount conveyancer for your million-dollar property.”

• Risk Assessment – easements, zoning issues, developer disclosures.

• Contract Advice – protective clauses, exit rights and clear language.

• Settlement Coordination – liaising with banks and vendors to avoid penalties.

• Dispute Handling – formal notices, negotiations and representation if needed.

We also work closely with our Business Lawyers Parramatta team when purchases involve trusts, companies or commercial leases.

“You’re not paying for my time — you’re paying to avoid future losses.”

The average difference between a conveyancer and a solicitor is a few hundred dollars or so. But if a contract goes wrong, you could lose tens of thousands.

I’ve seen clients avoid massive losses simply because they called us before signing. We don’t just settle transactions — we protect outcomes.

If you’d like to see how other buyers benefited, read our Case Studies Success Stories to learn how we helped clients secure better results.

• Specialist experience in property and commercial law.

• Clear, plain-English communication.

• Direct review by a principal lawyer (not just assistants).

• Transparent fixed fees.

• A track record of client success and positive Testimonials.

You can also visit our About Us page to learn more about our team and approach.

Your property purchase is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make. A conveyancer might get the deal done — but a solicitor ensures it’s done right.

“The legal fee is a fraction of the cost of getting it wrong.”

At Optimum Lawyers, we assist clients Australia-wide from our Parramatta office, handling everything from family homes to multi-lot developments. If you’re ready to buy or sell, book a chat through our Contact Us page for a free consultation.

What’s the difference between a conveyancer and a solicitor?
A conveyancer handles administration; a solicitor provides legal advice, negotiation and representation.

Does a solicitor cost more than a conveyancer?
Slightly — but a solicitor often saves you thousands by preventing errors or delays.

Can a conveyancer handle interstate transactions?
Some can, but laws differ by state. Our Interstate Conveyancing team handles cross-state compliance for clients Australia-wide.

When is it okay to use a conveyancer instead of a solicitor?
Only for very basic residential sales with no complex finance or development issues.

What should I look for when choosing a solicitor?
Experience, clear communication, fixed fees and strong client feedback. Check our Testimonials to see what clients say about us.

My Final Thoughts

A conveyancer might process your contract, but a solicitor protects your future.

“My goal is that every client walks away thinking: ‘I’m glad I spent a little more, because I didn’t lose a lot more.’”

If you’re buying or selling property anywhere in Australia, contact us today at Optimum Lawyers Parramatta for trusted legal advice that protects your investment from start to finish.