James Papas Solicitors acknowledges the Darug people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work, and pays respect to Elders past, present, and emerging.

Property Law

Conveyancing &
Property Law

Over 50 years of property law experience in Parramatta and Western Sydney. From first home buyers to large-scale apartment developments — we handle it all.

Get a Free Quote(02) 9633 3122
Our Experience

Property expertise you
can rely on.

We have been conducting property transactions and practising property law since 1977. Our experience spans simple residential conveyancing through to complex large-scale developments — including a 200-unit apartment project managed from plan approval through to the settlement of every individual lot.

What sets us apart is not just the volume of transactions we have handled, but the depth of knowledge our team brings to every matter. When issues arise — and they sometimes do — you are backed by experienced solicitors, not just a conveyancing clerk.

We are PEXA certified for electronic settlements, and our fees are transparent and competitive — starting from approximately $1,500 for a standard residential purchase or sale.

Request a Quote
50+
Years Experience
200+
Unit Dev. Experience
PEXA
Certified Member
$1,500
From (Residential)
Full Service

Our Property Expertise

Residential property purchases & sales
Commercial property transactions
Off-the-plan purchases & sales
Strata, company & community title
Large-scale apartment development conveyancing
Contract preparation, review & negotiation
Title & planning searches
PEXA electronic settlements
Easements & covenants
Mortgagee sales
Family transfers & gifting
Subdivision & development applications
Joint venture & co-ownership agreements
Stamp duty & GST advice
Retirement village transactions
First home buyer advice
Investment property purchases
Options & put-and-call agreements
What to Expect

The Conveyancing Process

1

Engage us early

Contact us before signing anything. We review the contract for sale, identify risks, explain your obligations, and advise on special conditions — before you are legally bound.

2

Pre-exchange checks

We conduct title searches, planning certificate checks, and strata searches (where applicable). We negotiate any contract amendments on your behalf.

3

Exchange of contracts

Once both parties are satisfied, contracts are exchanged and the deposit is paid. You are now legally committed to the transaction.

4

Pre-settlement preparation

We arrange stamp duty, liaise with your lender, prepare transfer documents, and coordinate with the other side to ensure settlement runs smoothly.

5

Settlement via PEXA

We complete settlement electronically through PEXA — fast, secure, and paperless. Funds are transferred and title changes hands.

6

Post-settlement

We notify the relevant authorities, arrange registration of your title, and ensure all loose ends are tied up. The property is yours.

Ready to get started?
We'll protect your investment.

Free Consultation(02) 9633 3122
Common Questions

Conveyancing FAQs

QWhen should I engage a conveyancer or property lawyer?
As early as possible — ideally before signing any contract. Early engagement allows us to identify risks, negotiate contract conditions, and protect your interests before you are legally committed. Many buyers and sellers contact us as soon as they find a property or receive an offer.
QWhat is the difference between a conveyancer and a property lawyer?
A licensed conveyancer handles routine property transfers, while a property lawyer (solicitor) can also advise on complex legal issues such as title defects, disputes, development matters, and commercial transactions. At James Papas Solicitors, our conveyancing team is backed by experienced solicitors, so you get both transactional efficiency and full legal protection.
QHow much does conveyancing cost?
Our standard residential conveyancing fee starts from approximately $1,500 plus disbursements (search fees, registration fees, etc.). We provide a clear, upfront cost estimate before we begin — no surprises. Call us on (02) 9633 3122 for a quote tailored to your transaction.
QHow long does the conveyancing process take?
From exchange to settlement typically takes 4–6 weeks for a standard residential transaction, though this depends on the agreed settlement period. Off-the-plan purchases may take considerably longer, depending on construction timeframes. We keep you informed throughout.
QWhat does "exchange of contracts" mean?
Exchange is the point at which both parties sign identical copies of the contract and swap them. Once exchanged, both buyer and seller are legally bound to complete the transaction. The deposit (usually 10%) is paid at exchange. Prior to exchange, either party can walk away.
QDo I need a lawyer for a private sale between family members?
Yes. Family transfers can have significant stamp duty, capital gains tax, and legal implications. We ensure the transfer is correctly structured, all obligations are met, and unintended consequences — including tax liabilities — are avoided.
QWhat is PEXA and do you use it?
PEXA (Property Exchange Australia) is the national electronic conveyancing platform that replaces the traditional paper-based settlement process. We are PEXA certified and use it for all eligible transactions — meaning faster, more secure settlements with no need for anyone to be physically present.
QCan you help with off-the-plan purchases?
Absolutely. Off-the-plan contracts are complex and carry unique risks including delayed settlement, sunset clauses, and changes to the final property. Our team has extensive experience in this area, including managing the conveyancing for a 200-unit residential development from plan approval through to individual lot settlement.
QWhat searches do you conduct?
We conduct title searches, planning certificate searches, drainage diagrams, land tax clearance, strata searches (for apartments), and council rate certificates among others. These searches reveal any encumbrances, restrictions, or issues affecting the property before you are committed.
QWhat if something goes wrong during the transaction?
Issues can arise at any stage — finance delays, title defects, or the other party failing to complete. Because we are a full-service legal practice, we can immediately escalate from conveyancing to litigation or dispute resolution if needed, without you having to find a new lawyer.
Further Reading
The Conveyancing Process in NSW: A Step-by-Step Guide →Buying Off the Plan in NSW: Risks You Need to Know About →