Date: 16th Jun 2026
Buying or selling a property comes with a set of legal costs that aren’t always obvious at the outset. These costs operate behind the scenes of every transaction and can directly affect how smoothly the process runs.
For buyers and sellers, understanding how these fees are structured makes it easier to budget, compare options, and move through the process with confidence.
Conveyancing fees are made up of two components: legal fees and disbursements.
The legal fees when buying a house or selling a house cover the professional advice and work carried out by your lawyer or conveyancer throughout the transaction. Disbursements are third-party costs paid on your behalf, such as title searches, Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) registration fees, and bank transfer charges.
How these fees apply will depend on whether you are buying, selling, or refinancing a property.
For a standard residential purchase, the conveyancing fees for buying a house are often between $1,400 and $2,500. The conveyancing fees for selling a house are slightly lower, ranging from around $1,300 to $2,200. Refinancing is generally less complex, with costs commonly ranging from $700 to $1,100.
GST and disbursements may be additional, depending on how fees are structured.
Costs can increase due to the complexity of your situation or where additional legal work is required. This may include:
Buying tends to involve more coordination than selling a house, which is why fees are often higher.
Legal fees when buying a house reflect the level of involvement required to assess the property, meet contractual conditions, and prepare for settlement.
This typically includes:
Because buyers must satisfy finance conditions and complete due diligence before settlement, this stage usually involves more legal input.
You can sign a Sale and Purchase Agreement without a lawyer, but you cannot complete settlement or transfer ownership without one. A lawyer or conveyancer is required to manage settlement, handle funds, liaise with your lender, and register the property in your name through LINZ.
Solicitor fees when selling a house relate to preparing the agreement, meeting contractual obligations, and finalising settlement.
This typically includes:
While you can list your property and sign a Sale and Purchase Agreement without a lawyer, you cannot complete the sale or transfer ownership without one. A lawyer or conveyancer is required to handle settlement, discharge your mortgage, and register the transfer.
Both conveyancers and lawyers can handle property transactions, but there are differences to consider.
A conveyancer specialises in property transfers and may offer lower-cost services for straightforward transactions.
A property lawyer provides a broader range of legal expertise. This can be valuable if your situation is more complex or if you need advice beyond the transaction itself.
Choosing between the two often comes down to the level of complexity involved and the type of support you want throughout the process.
Ideally, you should consider doing so before making an offer. This allows them to review the Sale and Purchase Agreement and identify any risks or conditions that should be included.
For auction purchases, this is essential. As auctions are unconditional, your lawyer must review all documents before auction day.
In most cases, conveyancing fees are paid at settlement.
Your lawyer or conveyancer may require an upfront payment or deposit, particularly for initial work such as reviewing a Sale and Purchase Agreement. The full cost is usually included in your final settlement statement.
Payment structures can vary, so it is worth confirming this early with your lawyer or conveyancer.
For owner-occupiers, conveyancing fees are generally not tax-deductible.
For property investors, some legal costs may be deductible depending on the nature of the expense and how the property is used.
Tax rules can vary, so it is best to speak with an accountant or tax professional to understand what applies to your situation.
When comparing property lawyer fees or conveyancing quotes, look for:
Tremains works closely with buyers and sellers throughout the property journey, coordinating the process with trusted legal professionals. With the right team around you, each step becomes easier to manage.
Understanding what is included in conveyancing and what influences pricing helps you avoid surprises.
Whether you’re buying your first home, using KiwiSaver, or preparing to sell, having experienced professionals guiding you can help avoid delays and keep things on track. If you’re ready to take the next step, get in touch with the team at Tremains.
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