Buying guide

Understanding a Sale & Purchase Agreement in NZ

You can’t buy or sell a house in NZ without both parties signing a sale and purchase agreement.

Hannah Hilliam
Last updated: 28 May 2026 | 2 min read
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A Sale & Purchase Agreement is the legally binding contract for any NZ property transaction. It is crucial for both buyers and sellers to seek professional legal advice before signing.

The agreement outlines the price, deposit, chattels, and key timelines, including the unconditional date and settlement date. An agreement can be conditional, allowing time for finance or building reports. Once conditions are met, it becomes unconditional, legally committing both parties. Failing to meet obligations can have serious financial consequences.

What is a sale and purchase agreement?

Before you sign a sale and purchase agreement, make sure you have all these things checked.

What does a sale and purchase agreement include?

Both buyers and sellers can add conditions to a sale and purchase agreement.

Conditional vs. unconditional agreements

Checking your pre-settlement obligations

What if you can’t meet the conditions?

Author

Hannah Hilliam Hannah Hilliam
Content Writer