Two Ways to Get Your Conveyancing Done
Online conveyancing services have become a genuine alternative to traditional law firms in NZ. They typically run the whole transaction virtually — no in-person meetings — and often quote lower, all-inclusive fixed fees, sometimes from around $1,499–$1,799 for buying and selling. The conveyancing fee is usually deducted from the settlement funds, so there's nothing to pay upfront.
Traditional law firms cost more on average but offer face-to-face meetings and a broader range of legal services — useful if your situation involves a trust, relationship property, or anything beyond a straightforward purchase or sale.
Online Conveyancing
Traditional Law Firm
Electronic signatures are legally valid for most NZ property documents, which is what makes fully virtual conveyancing possible.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing Online
A lower fee isn't the only thing that matters — check these too.
Who handles my file?
Confirm whether one dedicated person manages your transaction or it's shared across a team.
Are they properly registered?
Check they hold a current NZ Law Society practising certificate or Society of Conveyancers registration.
Is the fee genuinely all-inclusive?
Confirm GST, disbursements and registration costs are already in the quoted price.
Can they handle e-dealing smoothly?
Ask about their experience with electronic settlements, since that's the whole basis of an online service.
Quick Summary
- Online conveyancing: cheaper, virtual, ideal for straightforward transactions.
- Traditional law firms: costlier but suited to complex or sensitive matters.
- Either way: confirm registration, dedicated contact and a genuinely all-inclusive fee.