You should engage a conveyancer as early as possible when buying a house. It is recommended to hire a conveyancer before making an offer or signing a contract, so they can review the terms and conditions of the sale, conduct property searches, and provide advice on any legal issues that may arise during the buying process. The earlier you engage a conveyancer, the more time they will have to ensure a smooth and efficient conveyancing process.

Conveyancing costs in Australia vary depending on several factors such as the complexity of the transaction, the location, and the service provider you choose. 

On average, conveyancing fees for a standard property sale or purchase can range from $800 to $2000 for individuals and $1500 to $4000 for commercial transactions. 

Additionally, disbursements, such as government fees and searches, can add $300 to $500 to the overall cost. It is important to shop around for a competitive quote and to fully understand the services included in the fee before engaging a conveyancer.

The specific documents required for conveyancing can vary depending on the property and the type of transaction, but some common documents that may be required include:

• Sales contract or purchase agreement
• Title deeds and property register information
• Property information form completed by the seller
• Land registry search results
• Mortgage offer and loan documentation (if applicable)
• Identification and proof of address for all parties involved
• Building and planning regulations documents
• Leasehold information, including ground rent and service charge information
• Energy performance certificate