LocalAgentFinder's comparison tool let's you compare real estate agents side-by-side, including their
commission
rates.
Find the right local agent for you
Compare agent fees, selling strategies, reviews and more...
Calculator assumptions
Disclaimer
The information provided in this publication is drawn from research in from various states and
consulting practitioners. The information provided is not intended to reflect or represent any future
state of affairs in respect of fees or the market in Australia; and is not intended to reflect or
represent information as to all fees in Australia. The information provided is indicative only.
LAF does not warrant or guarantee any of the information. To the extent permitted by law, LAF excludes
any and all liability, including for negligence, for any loss or damage (including indirect or
consequential damages) arising from or in relation to the use of the whole or any part of this
publication.
Material in this publication should not be construed as advice or a recommendation by LAF to enter into
any particular agreement or arrangement. This publication is made upon the condition that persons will
make their own searches and determination of all relevant information before entry into any agreement.
Commission
If your real estate agent uses a commission-based model, they will charge you a percentage of your final
sale price. This rate can be negotiated. This calculator lets you adjust the commission rate or
commission amount if you’re planning on selling through an agent who charges commission.
Fixed fee
Some real estate agents charge a fixed fee, rather than commission. This is a set amount that a real
estate agent charges for their services. This means that no matter how much you sell your property for,
your real estate agent charges the same, fixed amount.
The commission amount includes the Goods and Services Tax (GST) which is generally inclusive of your
real estate agent fee.
Marketing costs
Marketing (advertising) costs can vary significantly and can be negotiated. Depending on which marketing
channels you choose, your marketing costs will vary. Typical marketing costs include online listings on
real estate websites, newspaper listings, professional photography, a sign board and flyers.
Conveyancing Fees
Conveyancing fees are not set and therefore will vary. What conveyancing fees include will vary too.
Conveyancing fees will always include the labour fee for the conveyancer. These often increase with the
price of the property. They may increase if the settlement is more complicated, so an initial quote will
often change by the end of the process. Fees may vary as to the council in which the property is
located, rates, taxes, utilities and the time of year the property is sold.
Auction costs
Some real estate agents will charge a seperate fee for their auctioneer services. This generally sits
around the $600 dollar mark but can vary depending on your selected agency. Other agencies will include
this fee within their commission.
Other Fees to Consider
Mortgage Discharge Fee: This varies by state.
Early Exit Fee: Dependent on your loan type, bank, and current swap rates. We recommend
reviewing
your loan agreement to determine whether an early exit fee applies and how much it will cost.
Home Staging: The cost of hiring professionals to style and furnish your home for sale.
Removalist Costs: Vary based on factors such as hours worked, distance between
properties,
and the
volume of furniture being moved.
Storage Costs: Charges for storing belongings if necessary during the moving process.
Frequently asked questions
How much does marketing cost when selling?
Marketing costs in Australia can vary widely based on business size, target audience, and marketing channels. Small businesses may spend a few hundred to a few thousand dollars per month on digital marketing (social media ads, Google ads), while larger businesses using traditional media (TV, radio, print) could spend tens of thousands to millions annually. Digital campaigns typically range from $1,000 to $10,000+ per month, with traditional ads costing significantly more.
What factors influence the cost of selling my home?
The cost of selling a home is influenced by several factors, including the property's location, size, and condition. High-demand areas typically have higher selling costs due to agent fees, marketing expenses, and legal requirements.
The real estate agent's commission, typically 2-3% of the sale price, is a significant cost, along with advertising, staging, and professional photography if you choose to invest in marketing. If the home requires repairs or renovations to attract buyers, those expenses will also add to the overall cost. Other factors include closing costs, taxes, and any existing mortgage payoff.
Are there any hidden fees when selling?
In addition to the commission, there are other costs such as:
Marketing Fees:
Costs for advertising your property (online listings, brochures, professional photography, signage) can add up, with some campaigns costing thousands of dollars.
Legal/Conveyancing Fees: You’ll need to hire a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal paperwork, and their fees can vary but generally range from $500 to $2,000.
Capital Gains Tax: If the property is an investment or not your primary residence, you may be subject to capital gains tax (CGT) on any profit made from the sale. However, if it’s your primary home, you may be exempt from CGT under the main residence exemption.
Repairs and Staging: You may need to invest in repairs or property styling to make your home more appealing to potential buyers
Disbursements: These include costs for title searches, discharge of mortgage fees, and other administrative expenses.
Settlement Fees: Costs involved in the final settlement process, such as the settlement agent’s fees and any outstanding bills or taxes that need to be paid at closing.
How do I prepare my home for sale to maximise profits?
Begin with necessary repairs, such as fixing leaks, repainting scuffed walls, and replacing outdated fixtures. Deep cleaning the entire home, including carpets, windows, and appliances, can make a big difference.
Consider staging the property to help potential buyers envision themselves living there; this might include decluttering, rearranging furniture, and adding fresh touches like plants or artwork. Boost curb appeal by maintaining the lawn, painting the front door, and tidying the exterior.
A professional photographer can capture the home at its best for online listings. Finally, pricing the home competitively based on a market analysis from a local agent can help attract more buyers, ultimately driving up demand and your sale price.
Do I need a real estate agent to sell my home?
Selling with a real estate agent in Australia offers several key benefits. Agents have local market expertise, allowing them to price your home competitively and attract the right buyers. They manage all aspects of the sale, including marketing, negotiations, and handling paperwork, saving you time and stress.
With access to professional networks and resources, agents can promote your property more effectively through listings, open homes, and their own buyer databases. Additionally, their negotiation skills can help secure the best possible price, often covering their commission costs and more. Overall, a skilled agent maximises your property's potential and ensures a smoother, more efficient sales process.