The journey of property transactions, though exciting, often comes with its fair share of waiting about. The conveyancing process, which involves the legal transfer of property ownership, can be lengthy. But what if we told you that there are ways to expedite this process? In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of conveyancing, understanding its stages, pinpointing common delays, and most importantly, unveiling actionable strategies to make the wheels of the conveyancing process turn smoothly. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or both, read on to discover how you can speed up the conveyancing process and seal the deal faster.

Understanding Conveyancing: A Brief Overview

Conveyancing involves a series of distinct stages, each playing a pivotal role in transferring property ownership which includes:

  • Before contract signing: This phase involves gathering vital information about the property, ensuring finance approval is underway (if required), conducting thorough checks and identifying any potential issues with the properties you are considering.
  • Contract signing and service of a Form1: Once crucial legal documents like the Form 1 and Contract are prepared, reviewed, and signed by both vendor and purchasing parties, the purchaser enters into two full business days for cooling off. Due diligence such as building inspection, pest inspection, document review, and taking out property insurance is recommended during this period. Obligations become legally binding once cooling off is complete on a private treaty sale or once signing of documents occurs at an auction.
  • Settlement: Here, the focus shifts to finalising any outstanding matters, such as transferring funds, settling outstanding debts, and preparing for completion. It culminates in settlement, where ownership is transferred, and keys are handed over from the vendor’s real estate agent to the purchaser.

Common Delays in the Conveyancing Process

While the conveyancing process is designed to be straightforward, like any legal process, delays can occur, lengthening the timeline between contract signing and settlement. Some common culprits include:

  • Inaccurate Information: Any inconsistencies in property details or legal documents can lead to delays with the need to amend and/or reserve them.
  • Chain reactions: If any party in the chain – buyers, sellers, or intermediaries such as banks or mortgage brokers – face delays, it ripples through the entire process.
  • Complex legalities: Complicated legal issues or discrepancies in property history can also slow things down.
  • Third-party dependencies: Reliance on other third parties or local authorities like Councils, Revenue SA etc. can potentially bring about delays that are beyond your control.

Strategies to Speed Up the Conveyancing Process

Now, let’s explore practical steps to expedite the conveyancing process and minimize those frustrating waiting periods:

  • Prompt communication: Maintain open and prompt communication with your conveyancer. Respond swiftly to queries and requests for information and provide necessary documentation to keep the process flowing.
  • Thorough documentation: Ensure all required documents are complete and accurate. This reduces the chances of back-and-forth due to missing information.
  • Make sure you and/or your conveyancer have conducted the right searches and surveys early in the process to identify potential issues before they become major roadblocks.
  • Experienced Conveyancer: Entrust your conveyancing to a seasoned professional who understands the process intricacies and can navigate potential challenges efficiently. An experienced conveyancer has an innate ability to anticipate potential roadblocks and prevent them from causing delays.

Selecting the Right Conveyancer

Choosing a skilled and experienced conveyancer is crucial. Their expertise can significantly impact the speed and success of the process. Look for conveyancers who:

  • Have experience: A conveyancer familiar with local regulations and intricacies can navigate the process more efficiently.
  • Communicate clearly: Effective communication is key. A conveyancer who explains complexities in easily understandable terms can save time and reduce confusion.
  • Offer current technology: Opt for conveyancers who embrace technology for smoother interactions and effective document management.

At Eckermanns, we have the knowledge and systems, and we provide the care you’ll need as you prepare to officially transfer your new home into your name. We’re available how and when it suits you and our promise is a seamless and personal service. It’s never too early to engage a conveyancer.

The conveyancing process doesn’t have to be a lengthy ordeal. By understanding its stages, addressing common delays, and implementing effective strategies, you can significantly expedite the process. Remember, choosing the right conveyancer is paramount to a swift and successful transaction. So, whether you’re buying or selling, take charge of your conveyancing journey and make it a seamless experience. Get started today and witness the transformation in the pace and efficiency of your property transaction with Eckermanns.