When you buy a home you’ll need a lawyer to do the ‘conveyancing’ – the various legal processes that must be completed, including:

• Checking the title
• Transferring the ownership of the property into your name
• Arranging for the necessary documents to be prepared and signed.

Lawyers can also offer you valuable advice throughout the home buying process.  Before signing anything or making an offer, you should always consult your lawyer.  For more detail on the legal processes, see What happens when? in our 'Sealing the deal' section.

Finding a lawyer
If you don't already have a lawyer:

• Ask friends and family if they can recommend someone they have used for property purchases
• Obtain a list of lawyers from your local Yellow Pages
• Alternatively, you can go to the website of the New Zealand Law Society Property Law Section and search for property lawyers in your area.

When choosing a lawyer, ask them about their experience in property law and conveyancing.  Make sure they have experience in the type of transaction you are entering into.

Fees

• Conveyancing fees for buying a home range usually from $500 - $1,500. 
• Some additional costs (disbursements) are also involved (for example, land transfer fees) which are usually around $200 - $300.

It may pay to shop around.  Ask what the total cost will be including disbursements and GST, and confirm that this is a fixed fee rather than an estimate based on an hourly rate.

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The content on our site is for information only. You should obtain professional advice relevant to your circumstances. Our lending criteria, terms, conditions and fees apply to all loans. Contact us for more details.