Real Estate Agent

Tax guide for New Zealand self-employed real estate agents and salespeople

Allowable Expenses

• Advertising & listing costs — Trade Me, realestate.co.nz listings, photography
• Vehicle expenses — Property viewings — km rate or logbook
• Professional fees — Real Estate Authority (REA) licence fees, annual renewal
• Marketing materials — Brochures, signage, business cards
• Professional development — REA-approved CPD courses, industry conferences

Tax Tips

• REA licence renewal fees are a deductible business expense
• Vehicle costs for showing properties to clients are deductible
• Photography costs for property listings you manage are deductible

Frequently Asked Questions

How is real estate commission taxed in NZ?

Commission income received by self-employed real estate agents is taxable income included on the IR3. Your expenses — vehicle costs, advertising, REA fees — reduce your taxable profit.