Selling your home in NZ

When you decide to sell your home, it’s important to have a clear picture of the costs involved so you can budget effectively and understand your final net proceeds from the sale. While many people think of the agent’s commission, there are a few other key expenses to plan for.

On average, selling a $1 million house in New Zealand can cost between $33,500 and $60,950+, depending on the services you choose. This guide breaks down the main costs to give you a clear and realistic overview.

The main costs of selling your property

There are three primary costs you will encounter when selling your home through an agent. It’s important to remember that some of these, like commission and marketing, are negotiable before you sign an agency agreement.

1. Real estate commission

This is the fee paid to the real estate agency for their professional services in marketing your property, finding a buyer, and negotiating a successful sale. It is the largest cost and is only paid once your property sells successfully.

• How it’s calculated: Commission is typically calculated as a percentage of the final sale price. Most agencies in New Zealand use a tiered structure. For example, a rate of 2.95% to 3.95% might be charged on the first $400,000–$500,000 of the sale price, with a lower rate of around 2% to 2.5% applied to the remaining balance.
• Don’t forget GST: When an agent quotes you a commission rate, it is usually exclusive of GST. Be sure to factor in the additional 15% GST when calculating the final fee.

2. Marketing and advertising costs

To attract the highest number of qualified buyers, you need a strategic marketing campaign. This is an upfront investment designed to give your property maximum exposure in the market.

• What it covers: A typical marketing package includes professional photography and videography, a signboard, online listings on major portals like Trade Me Property, and printed materials like brochures.
• When you pay: Unlike commission, the marketing fee is usually paid at the start of the campaign, regardless of whether the house sells.
• Typical cost: Depending on the extent of the campaign, marketing packages generally range from $1,700 to $3,500+.

3. Legal fees (conveyancing)

You will need a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal side of the sale. They will prepare the necessary legal documents, including the Sale and Purchase Agreement, and manage the legal transfer of ownership to the buyer on settlement day.

• Typical cost: Legal fees for a straightforward property sale usually range from $1,500 to $2,500.

Potential additional investments

While not mandatory, these additional services are investments that can help you maximise your sale price and make your property more appealing to buyers.

• Home staging: Staging involves temporarily furnishing your home with modern furniture and décor to help buyers visualise themselves living in the space. It can make a significant difference to how a property presents online and in person.Typical cost: $2,000 to $4,000 for a standard 4-week campaign. If your home doesn’t sell within that time, you may need to pay extra to extend the hire.
• Pre-sale maintenance: Completing minor repairs, fixing a leaky tap, or applying a fresh coat of neutral paint can be a cost-effective way to resolve issues that might deter buyers and add significant appeal to your home.

Want a clearer picture of the costs for your property?

Every home is different, and the best sales strategy is one that’s tailored to you. If you’d like a transparent, no-obligation breakdown of the potential costs and returns for your specific property, we’re here to help.

Call us today on (09) 626 6119 for a friendly, confidential chat.