Buying a home — whether it’s your first apartment, an investment property, or your family’s forever home — is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. The process can be exciting, but it’s also filled with legal detail and potential risk. Having the right property lawyer by your side ensures everything runs smoothly and that you understand exactly what you’re signing.
At Thornton + King, our Sydney property lawyers are specialists in residential property conveyancing. We act for buyers across New South Wales, guiding you from contract review through to settlement — protecting your interests every step of the way.
Do You Need a Lawyer to Buy a House?
While some people consider using a conveyancer, a property lawyer can provide both conveyancing and comprehensive legal advice. Buying a property often involves more than just the transfer of title — issues can arise around contract interpretation, tax implications, trust or company ownership structures, family law considerations, or potential disputes. These are areas a conveyancer often is not permitted to advise on.
Engaging a property lawyer ensures that if any legal complexity arises — whether before, during, or after settlement — you’re properly advised and represented from start to finish.
When to Get a Solicitor When Buying a House
Ideally, you should engage a solicitor before you sign the contract. Once you sign, you’re legally bound to its terms — and at that point, it may be too late to negotiate key protections.
We recommend contacting us as soon as you find a property you’re serious about. We can:
Review and explain the contract for sale
Identify potential legal risks or hidden costs
Suggest amendments to protect your interests
Liaise with your lender, broker, and the selling agent
Ensure your property settlement process is managed correctly and on time
The Buying Process in NSW
Here’s a simplified overview of the buying a house process in Sydney and across NSW:
Contract Review – Your lawyer reviews the contract for sale, checks the title, zoning, and inclusions, and advises on risks.
Negotiation and Exchange – We negotiate any amendments and assist you through exchange. At this point, the contract becomes legally binding.
Cooling-Off Period – In most cases, you’ll have a five-business-day cooling-off period (unless you buy at auction).
Pre-Settlement Checks – Your lawyer coordinates with your lender, ensures all searches are complete, and checks for any last-minute issues.
Settlement – On the day of settlement, funds and legal documents are exchanged, and you become the registered owner.
Buying property can take several weeks, with numerous stakeholders involved — real estate agents, banks, councils, and government authorities. Having an experienced real estate conveyancing solicitor ensures that nothing is overlooked.
Our Role as Your Property Lawyers
At Thornton + King, we handle every stage of residential property conveyancing with precision and care. Our services include:
Detailed property contract review and advice before exchange
Negotiation of special conditions to protect you
Title and planning searches to uncover potential risks
Liaising with lenders, brokers, and agents
Preparing and verifying settlement figures
Managing the property settlement process in NSW via PEXA (the online settlement system)
Post-settlement registration and documentation
Our approach is practical and transparent — we keep you informed and make the law simple.
Why Choose Thornton + King
Specialist property lawyers – Your matter is handled by a team experienced in NSW property law, not general practitioners.
Fixed fees – Clear pricing so you know exactly what your costs will be.
Fast turnaround – We prioritise contract reviews and communication to keep your purchase moving.
Personal service – You’ll have a dedicated lawyer who knows your file and keeps you updated throughout.
Whether you’re buying your first home or adding to your investment portfolio, we’ll make the process seamless and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a solicitor to buy a house in NSW?
Yes, it is strongly recommended that you get advice from an experienced property lawyer when buying a house, as it is a significant financial transaction and there can be serious consequences if not done correctly.
Can I use a conveyancer instead of a lawyer?
While you can, conveyancers cannot provide legal advice or act for you in disputes. A lawyer can handle all aspects — legal and conveyancing — for complete peace of mind.
When should I contact a lawyer?
Before signing the contract. Your lawyer should review and explain it so you understand all your obligations and rights.
What happens on settlement day?
Your lawyer coordinates the transfer of funds, legal documents, and title registration — making sure you become the legal owner without delay.
How long does settlement take?
In most NSW property purchases, settlement occurs 6 weeks after contracts are exchanged, but this can vary depending on finance approval and other conditions.
Talk to a Property Lawyer Today
If you’re buying a home or investment property in Sydney or anywhere in NSW, get in touch with our residential property conveyancing team.
We’ll help you understand the process, avoid pitfalls, and ensure your purchase is legally secure from start to finish.
Our team includes multiple Law Society Accredited Specialists in Property Law.
