In NSW real estate, a “recommendation” from a sales agent can feel valuable—but there is a hidden side that many buyers and sellers do not see. At Flash Conveyancing, Julian and Renee operate on a simple principle:
- No spotter’s fees
- No kickbacks
- No payments to agents for referrals
Every client comes to us because agents and past clients recognise our work as meticulous, results-driven, and trustworthy—not because of financial incentives. When a conveyancer pays a referral fee, a client’s legal protection may be compromised:
- Agent’s priority: To secure a sale and earn a commission
- Conveyancer’s priority: To protect the client’s interests, even where this may delay or prevent a transaction
- Hidden pressure: Referral arrangements can create an unspoken incentive not to challenge the deal
In jurisdictions such as Western Australia, South Australia, and Tasmania, these types of referral arrangements are restricted or prohibited due to the risks they pose to consumers.
The Legal Framework for Conveyancers and Solicitors
The regulatory position in NSW is clear:
- Conveyancers: Rule 16 of the Conveyancers Licensing Regulation 2021 (NSW) prohibits offering or providing any inducement to obtain business
- Solicitors: Rule 12 of the Legal Profession Uniform Law Australian Solicitors’ Conduct Rules 2015 prohibits conflicts between personal financial interests and client duties
- Real estate agents: May receive referral fees if properly disclosed under section 47B of the Fair-Trading Act 1987 (NSW), although such disclosures may not always be clearly understood by clients
Penalties can be significant. Corporations may face fines of up to $110,000 for failing to properly disclose referral arrangements. In some circumstances, undisclosed “secret commissions” may also give rise to offences under the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW).
At Flash Conveyancing, Julian and Renee maintain a strictly independent approach:
- Work is earned, not purchased
- Client interests remain the primary focus
- No hidden conflicts or undisclosed payments
Whether you are buying in high-demand suburbs such as Marsden Park, Rouse Hill, Glenwood, Kellyville Ridge, Oakhurst, or Bella Vista, or selling across areas including Blacktown, Hawkesbury, The Hills, Hornsby, or Parramatta, your transaction is managed with care and integrity. Flash Conveyancing, led by Julian and Renee, specialises in property transactions across New South Wales. With extensive experience working with local councils and property markets, they provide a tailored and professional service for each settlement—remaining independent and client-focused at all times.