What a Standard Purchase Costs
Property lawyers in NZ typically charge $1,000–$2,000 + GST for a standard house purchase, though quotes as low as $1,799 GST-inclusive (including disbursements) are also common. Registered conveyancers, who can only handle straightforward transactions, usually charge somewhat less — around $900–$1,400 + GST.
You'll typically be quoted either a fixed fee (one set price covering the whole transaction) or an hourly rate. Fixed fee is far more common for standard residential purchases, since it gives you cost certainty regardless of how many hours the lawyer spends.
Trust Purchases
KiwiSaver or HomeStart Withdrawal
Re-negotiated Terms
Always confirm whether a quote is before or after GST and disbursements — comparing quotes on a like-for-like basis avoids surprises at settlement.
Questions to Ask About the Quote
Get full clarity before you engage a lawyer.
Is this fixed fee or hourly?
Confirm the pricing structure so you know what you're committing to.
What's included?
Ask whether disbursements, GST, and standard attendances are covered in the quoted price.
What could add extra cost?
Ask what circumstances (trusts, KiwiSaver, re-negotiations) would trigger additional fees.
Quick Summary
- Typical cost: $1,000–$2,000 + GST for a lawyer, $900–$1,400 + GST for a conveyancer.
- Fixed fee is the most common pricing structure for standard purchases.
- Extra costs can come from trusts, KiwiSaver withdrawal, or re-negotiated terms.