The 2025 bright-line rule has been shortened to two years, but the real opportunity lies in the expanded roll-over relief provisions. These allow property owners to transfer homes into trusts, companies or family structures without triggering tax, if the rules are followed carefully. Goodwill Law explains how to use these provisions safely and avoid costly bright-line pitfalls.
Read MoreA pre-settlement inspection is your final chance to check the property before settlement — but it’s not a licence to renegotiate the deal. Under the ADLS Agreement, the home must be in the same condition as when you signed, and any claims for damage or missing chattels must be raised before settlement day. Here’s what buyers in New Zealand need to know about their rights, common pitfalls, and how to protect themselves.
Read MoreRefinancing your home loan can save you money or unlock equity — but it's more than just switching banks. This guide explains the legal steps involved, the benefits of using a mortgage broker, and how Goodwill Law makes the process easy with our online fee calculator.
Read MoreThinking about buying your first home? One of the most important steps is understanding the Sale and Purchase Agreement – the legal contract between you and the seller. In this blog, Goodwill Law breaks down what’s in the agreement, what conditions you can include, what happens after signing, and why legal advice is essential throughout the process. We also explain what's included in the sale (like chattels and fixtures), how deposits work, and how to protect your rights. Plus, use our online fee calculator to estimate your conveyancing costs instantly.
Read MoreThinking of selling your home?
This practical guide from Goodwill Law walks you through every step of the sale process — from choosing an agent to settlement day. We also offer an instant online fee calculator so you can get a clear idea of your legal costs before you begin.
Buying your first home is exciting — but it can be overwhelming too. This guide explains KiwiSaver, legal checks, using mortgage brokers, and how Goodwill Law supports you with expert advice and transparent fees.
Read MoreThinking of changing lawyers? At Goodwill Law, we make it simple. No red tape, no awkward calls — just clear advice, fixed fees on property work, and a team backed by over 170 five-star reviews. Book a free chat today and find out why so many people are making the switch.
Read MoreWith mortgage rates dropping and global inflation risks heating up, many Kiwis are wondering whether now’s the right time to lock in a fixed rate. We break down what’s happening — and how you can make the best decision for your situation.
Need help with refinancing or restructuring? Goodwill Law can work with you and your bank to make the process easy. Get in touch today!
Read MoreThe New Zealand government is rolling out a fresh initiative allowing trusted builders, plumbers, and drainlayers to self-certify their own low-risk work—marking a shift toward faster, more efficient construction. With this change, qualified tradespeople can bypass some council inspections, reducing costs and delays for homeowners. This “opt-in” scheme aims to…
Read MoreCo-Ownership in New Zealand: A Path to Affordable Homeownership
With rising property prices, co-ownership is becoming a popular way for individuals to share the costs and responsibilities of owning a home. Friends, family, or partners can make homeownership more achievable through this flexible arrangement.
At Goodwill Law, we provide expert guidance to ensure your co-ownership is legally sound, protecting your interests and helping you avoid disputes. Let us make the legal process simple and stress-free for you.
Read MoreWhen a retaining wall on the boundary between two properties starts to deteriorate, figuring out who pays for the repairs can be tricky. Legally, each landowner must ensure their actions don’t harm their neighbor’s land. While you don’t have to actively provide support to a neighboring property, you can’t remove existing support without replacing it and undermining the neighbor’s “right of support for land in its natural state.”
Liability can be complicated, read on for our recommendations.
Read MoreA Separation agreement is a legally binding document negotiated between two parties who have decided to end their marriage or relationship. Under section 21A of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976, spouses or partners can settle their differences concerning property owned during the relationship in this way.
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