Skip to content

Conveyancing services in NZ

conveyancing in New ZealandWhen buying and selling real estate, the professional support you have behind you is crucial. Before you decide which conveyancing experts to hire, it is vital to understand the different solutions available. 

In this article, we outline the considerations you should make when choosing a conveyancer and how to select the most suitable solution for your needs. For a comprehensive and helpful breakdown of your options, read all about it below. 

What is conveyancing? 

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of a property from one person to another. This involves a range of tasks that must be completed with extra care. 

A conveyancer's job is to take care of the complex legal and contractual matters associated with your property transaction. In hiring a qualified expert, you can relax knowing everything is done correctly and legally. 

Common services include, but are not limited to:

  • Property title checks
  • Apply for grants if eligible
  • Prepare or review the sale and purchase agreement
  • Anti-money laundering checks
  • LIM report reviews
  • Settlement fund transfers
  • Working with banks and brokers for lending
  • Working with local and regional councils for rates

In short, they will manage everything for you to make the process of buying or selling a property as smooth as possible.

Different conveyancing services

In New Zealand, there are three main places to look for a conveyancing professional:

  • A lawyer or solicitor at a private law firm
  • A private conveyancer, also known as a conveyancing practitioner
  • An online conveyancing service

Lawyers or solicitors at private law firms

Working with a local law firm brings the peace of mind that often comes with engaging a qualified professional. A lawyer has the necessary expertise and experience to ensure that the transfer process runs smoothly and that all legal requirements are met. A lawyer may also be able to help you with other matters associated with your sale or purchase. These sorts of things might include matters around relationship property rights and ownership structures with trusts and companies.

Working directly with traditional law firms can be more expensive and may take longer, as lawyers usually need to schedule appointments with other clients. 

Pros of working with a law firm:

  • Expertise and experience
  • Legal representation
  • Access to resources
  • Attention to detail

Cons of working with a law firm:

  • Higher cost
  • A long process with more delays
  • Inconvenience
  • Hidden costs

Private conveyancers or conveyancing practitioners

For those who want to save money, hiring a private conveyancer may be a suitable option. Conveyancing Practitioners are often less expensive than lawyers as they do not have the high overhead costs associated with running a law firm. 

However, conveyancing practitioners usually do not have the same level of expertise and experience as lawyers. Additionally, they may not have the same resources and skills to handle complex transactions. If you require a high level of support and guidance or there are complex and other legal matters associated with your sale or purchase, a private conveyancer may not be right for you.

Pros of working with a licensed conveyancer:

  • Cost-effective
  • Convenient

Cons of working with a licensed conveyancer:

  • Less legal representation
  • Limited resources
  • Limited focus to only property transfer concerns

Online conveyancing 

The third option is to get support from property lawyers online, otherwise known as online conveyancing services. Combining the expertise and support of a law firm with the convenience and cost savings of a private conveyancer/conveyancing practitioner, online providers are increasingly popular in New Zealand. 

You can complete the entire process from the comfort of your own home, without having to leave your home to attend meetings or appointments. 

Online conveyancing services are typically more accessible and user-friendly, with clear and transparent pricing structures. With lower overhead costs and efficient processing times, they also offer competitive prices. 

Pros of working with a licensed conveyancer

  • Expertise and experience
  • Legal representation
  • Cost-effective
  • Convenient

Cons of working with a licensed conveyancer

  • Limited in-person interactions

How to choose a conveyancer

For a seamless, stress-free property transaction, begin by hiring the right conveyancing experts. Before deciding between a local law firm, a private conveyancer, or an online service, consider the following:

  • Online vs office-based
  • Experience in relevant services
  • Communication and responsiveness
  • Value for money
  • Legal qualifications
  • Recommendations from family, friends, or real estate agents

Online conveyancing lawyers NZ

The team at Halliwells via LegalPath know that this process can be overwhelming. That's why we offer a hassle-free solution for those who need reliable support for the following: 

A seamless experience 

Our services are based entirely online, meaning you can stay in the loop without having to book an appointment or call. Our experts can work more efficiently and without the usual delays associated with busy law firms meaning your services are completed sooner. 

Reliable expertise 

Our team of lawyers, legal executives and property professionals possess the knowledge and expertise to handle every aspect of your conveyancing from start to finish. This takes the burden off your shoulders and allows you to relax knowing your investment is in capable hands. 

Transparent progress updates

We will keep you informed every step of the way and be available to answer any questions you may have. Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or an experienced property investor, our team will work closely with you to ensure a successful outcome.

Free no-obligation quotes

With such a major transaction, we understand that you want to make an informed decision. That's why we offer a no-obligation quote, allowing you to compare our services and fees with alternative providers. Our goal is to provide you with a high-quality service that exceeds your expectations and meets your specific needs. 

If you have questions about the process or simply want to get started, we are here to help. To get started, request a no-obligation quote from our team so you can make an informed decision about your next steps.


Request a free, no-obligation quote