Is real estate commission negotiable in New Zealand?

Yes. Commission varies between agencies and is open to negotiation. The agency has to explain in writing how it is calculated and give you a dollar estimate before you sign.

Do I pay GST on the agent's commission?

Yes. The agency agreement should say whether each figure includes GST or not.

When do I pay the agent's commission?

As the agency agreement states. It is usually once the sale becomes unconditional, and it is commonly taken from the buyer's deposit, with any shortfall paid by the seller.

Who pays the lawyer when I sell?

You do. Lawyer or conveyancer fees can be deducted from the settlement money before it is paid to you.

Seller guide

What it costs to sell a house in New Zealand

This page explains what you pay for when you sell, and how and when each part is paid. It does not quote rates or amounts, because they are agreed between you and the agency in writing, and they differ from one sale to the next.

Sources read 8 October 2026.

The agent's commission

Commission is the agency's fee for selling your home. It is usually worked out as a percentage of the sale price, sometimes in bands, and it is open to negotiation. Before you sign, the agency has to give you a clear written explanation of how it is calculated and an estimate, in dollars, of what you would pay if the home sold at the price they have appraised it at.

It also has to say whether the figures include GST, and disclose any rebates, discounts or commission the agency will receive from anyone else.

GST on commission

You pay GST on the agent's commission. The agency agreement should show whether each figure is inclusive or exclusive of GST, so read that line carefully when comparing quotes.

When commission is paid

The agency agreement states when you pay. Usually it is once the sale becomes unconditional, and the commission is commonly taken from the deposit the buyer pays. If the deposit does not cover it, you pay the difference. Check the agreement for any period after it ends in which commission could still be owed on a buyer the agency introduced.

Marketing and advertising

The agent must explain in writing how your home will be marketed and what that costs, and make clear what is included in their service and what you pay for separately. An agent cannot claim expenses from you that are not set out in the agency agreement.

Legal fees

You will need a lawyer or conveyancer to handle the sale. Their fees can be deducted from the settlement money before it reaches you. Ask for their fee estimate up front.

Other costs to plan for

Depending on the home and the sale method, you may also pay for photography, a LIM report or repairs before listing, staging and cleaning, an auctioneer if you sell by auction, body corporate levies, and rates and insurance until settlement. Moving costs are yours too.

A note on advice

This page is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Talk to your lawyer or conveyancer, and an accountant for tax, before you decide.

Common questions

Is real estate commission negotiable in New Zealand?: Yes. Commission varies between agencies and is open to negotiation. The agency has to explain in writing how it is calculated and give you a dollar estimate before you sign.
Do I pay GST on the agent's commission?: Yes. The agency agreement should say whether each figure includes GST or not.
When do I pay the agent's commission?: As the agency agreement states. It is usually once the sale becomes unconditional, and it is commonly taken from the buyer's deposit, with any shortfall paid by the seller.
Who pays the lawyer when I sell?: You do. Lawyer or conveyancer fees can be deducted from the settlement money before it is paid to you.

Sources

Related guides

Thinking of selling? Book a free appraisal. It is an appraisal, not a registered valuation, and there is no pressure to list.