The Timeline in Broad Strokes
From the day both parties sign a sale and purchase agreement to the day settlement completes, most NZ property purchases take 5 to 10 weeks. That period covers due diligence, going unconditional, and the run-up to settlement — and each stage has its own typical timeframe.
Stage-by-Stage Timeline
Day 0 — Agreement signed
Both parties sign; the due diligence clock starts on any conditions.
Days 1–15 — Due diligence
Building inspection, LIM report, finance and any other conditions are worked through.
Going unconditional
Once every condition is satisfied and confirmed in writing, the agreement becomes binding.
Weeks 4–6 post-unconditional — Pre-settlement
Lawyers prepare transfer documents, banks finalise mortgage paperwork, and insurance is arranged.
Settlement day
Funds and title transfer, and the buyer receives the keys.
The settlement date itself is fixed in the agreement when it's signed — it doesn't move just because due diligence takes longer or shorter than expected, unless both parties agree to vary it in writing.
A sale-of-buyer's-property condition
Complex titles
Quick Summary
- 5–10 weeks is typical from signing to settlement.
- Due diligence usually runs 5–15 working days.
- The settlement date is fixed in the agreement and generally doesn't shift.