Quick Answer: Standard conveyancing fees in NZ for a residential purchase typically run $1,200-$2,500, with a basic purchase often landing around $1,400-$2,000 - plus disbursements for title searches, LINZ registration, and other third-party costs on top.
What's Actually Included in a Standard Quote
A standard purchase fee generally covers reviewing the sale and purchase agreement, conducting title and LIM searches, liaising with your bank, registering the mortgage, and managing the final settlement. It's the full legal service around getting you to settlement day, not just paperwork review.
Where quotes differ most is in what's excluded. Some lawyers quote “before GST and disbursements”, which can meaningfully change your final bill - always ask for an all-inclusive estimate before comparing two firms.
What Pushes the Price Higher
Complexity is the main driver of cost beyond the standard fee. A KiwiSaver first-home withdrawal, a Kainga Ora First Home Loan, or a unit title property with body corporate documents to review can all add extra hours - and extra cost - to a straightforward purchase.
- KiwiSaver withdrawals require additional documentation and verification
- Unit titles need body corporate records reviewed
- Trust or company purchases add legal structuring work
- Off-the-plan new builds often require staged legal review
$1,400-$2,000
$1,200-$2,500
From $1,499
Common Questions, Answered
Quick Summary
- Budget $1,200-$2,500 for a standard residential conveyance in 2026.
- Always ask what's excluded - GST and disbursements can shift the real cost.
- Complexity adds cost - KiwiSaver withdrawals, unit titles, and trusts all take extra work.