Who pays conveyancing fees — buyer or seller?

Both parties typically engage and pay their own conveyancer or property lawyer. The costs are separate and we will provide you with a fixed-price quote upfront.

Does a buyer need a conveyancer?

Yes. A buyer requires a conveyancer or property lawyer to complete the commercial property purchase — to review contracts, conduct searches, liaise with lenders and coordinate settlement.

How long does commercial conveyancing take?

The conveyancing process runs for the duration of the settlement period, which is typically 30–90 days from the date of the contract. We begin work immediately upon instruction and keep you updated throughout.

Can a buyer and seller use the same conveyancer?

It is technically possible but carries a conflict of interest. Both parties would need to sign a conflict-of-interest disclosure. In most cases, we recommend independent representation for both buyer and seller.

What is PEXA and how does it work?

PEXA (Property Exchange Australia) is the national electronic settlement platform. All Victorian property transactions now settle electronically through PEXA. We manage the entire PEXA settlement process on your behalf — accurately and on time.

Is there GST on a commercial property purchase?

GST may apply depending on whether the vendor is registered for GST and whether the property is sold as a going concern or a taxable supply. The margin scheme may also apply. We advise specifically on the GST implications of each transaction.

Is there a cooling-off period for commercial property?

No. Unlike residential property, commercial property transactions in Victoria do not carry an automatic statutory cooling-off period. This makes contract review before signing even more critical.

Can I purchase commercial property through a trust or SMSF?

Yes. We regularly act for buyers purchasing through discretionary trusts, unit trusts and self-managed superannuation funds. The structure has implications for stamp duty, GST and ongoing compliance.

What due diligence should I do on a commercial property?

Commercial due diligence typically covers title, planning and zoning, outgoings, existing tenancies, GST, stamp duty, environmental matters and any encumbrances or easements. The scope varies depending on the property type and transaction.

Property & Conveyancing

Commercial conveyancing & expert property transactions.

Commercial property transactions are more complex than residential — higher stakes, tighter deadlines and more moving parts. Orange Legal Group guides buyers, sellers, investors and developers through every stage of their commercial property transaction.

500+

Commercial transactions

PEXA

Electronic settlement

VIC

Statewide service

Book a Consultation Call 03 8330 5983

Discuss Your Matter

Confidential consultation

About This Practice Area

More Than a Standard Transaction

Commercial property transactions demand a different level of diligence to residential conveyancing. The contract is more complex, the due diligence checklist is longer and the legal risks are considerably higher. A missed clause on GST, an oversight on zoning or an undisclosed encumbrance can have lasting consequences.

Orange Legal Group has extensive experience acting for buyers, sellers, investors and developers across Victoria. We review every aspect of a commercial transaction — title, planning, leasing, GST, duty and finance — so you can proceed with confidence.

We also act for clients purchasing through companies, trusts and self-managed superannuation funds, providing structuring advice alongside the conveyancing.

What We Help With

Purchase and sale of commercial, industrial and retail properties

Contract of sale review and preparation for commercial transactions

Due diligence: title, planning, zoning, outgoings and leasing issues

GST advice on commercial property transactions

Stamp duty and land tax implications on commercial transfers

Transfers involving companies, trusts or SMSFs

Off-the-plan commercial and industrial purchases

Electronic settlement via PEXA

Unlike residential conveyancing, commercial transactions carry no automatic cooling-off period. Expert advice before you sign is essential.

What We Handle

The Disputes We Handle

Commercial Purchase

Acting for buyers of commercial, industrial and retail properties — from contract review to PEXA settlement.

Due diligenceContract reviewSettlement

Commercial Sale

Acting for vendors selling commercial property — preparing contracts, managing disclosure obligations and coordinating settlement.

Vendor disclosureAdjustmentsPEXA

GST & Duty Advice

Advising specifically on the GST and stamp duty implications of each commercial property transaction — including going concern treatment.

GSTStamp dutyGoing concern

Trust & SMSF Purchases

Acting for buyers purchasing through discretionary trusts, unit trusts or self-managed superannuation funds.

Trust structureSMSFStructuring

Off-the-Plan Commercial

Advising on the additional risks of off-the-plan commercial and industrial purchases, including sunset clauses and developer protections.

Off-the-planIndustrialDeveloper contracts

Leasing Coordination

Reviewing existing tenancies that attach to a commercial purchase and advising on lease terms, assignment and landlord obligations.

Tenant reviewLease assignmentOutgoings

Our Process

How We Handle Your Matter

Contract Review

We review the contract of sale and advise on terms, conditions and risks before you commit.

Due Diligence

Title, planning, GST, duty and leasing checks — a full commercial due diligence process.

Pre-Settlement

Finance coordination, adjustments, duty lodgement and lender liaison ahead of settlement.

Settlement

Electronic settlement via PEXA — accurate, efficient and fully managed.

Post-Settlement

Title registration, duty finalisation and any post-settlement obligations resolved.

Service Area

Areas We Serve

We act for buyers, sellers and investors across metropolitan Melbourne on commercial property transactions. Select your area for local conveyancing information.

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Why Choose Us

The Orange Legal Difference

Property Lawyers, Not Clerks

Our commercial conveyancing is handled by qualified property lawyers — not clerks or junior staff — with real expertise in complex transactions.

Full GST & Duty Advice

We advise specifically on the tax and duty implications of each transaction, not just the conveyancing steps.

Electronic Settlement via PEXA

All commercial settlements are managed through PEXA for accuracy, security and efficiency.

Melbourne Expertise

Deep knowledge of Melbourne's commercial property market, VCAT and the State Revenue Office processes.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

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Buying or selling commercial property?

Contact Orange Legal Group for expert advice before you sign. We provide clear, practical guidance on every aspect of your commercial property transaction.

Book a Consultation

Or call us: 03 8330 5983