Owners often ask Simon Abbott, “How much does marketing really cost if I want to sell a whole block of units in Victoria?” The truth: costs can swing from next to nothing through an off-market sale, to $10,000–$30,000 for a full campaign with mainstream agencies. Here’s what drives the decision—and what actually delivers results.
Marketing a Block of Units: Options & Typical Costs
- Off-Market, Database-Driven (Simon’s primary method): $0–$3,000 Typically covers only professional photography, IM prep, and legal pack. No portal listings, no print. Buyer finding happens via direct, targeted network outreach.
- Traditional Open-Market (REA, Domain, Print): $12,000–$30,000+ Agency fees for “premiere” listings, print, video, extensive marketing collateral. Suits hyper-competitive owner-occupier stock, NOT usually blocks of units.
- Hybrid—Database + Selected Listing: $2,000–$10,000 Limited listing with direct buyer work. Sometimes used for highly unique blocks to attract a tailored audience.
What Do You Actually Need?
If your block is a classic investment, with tenants, a single title, or an appeal to investor/developer buyers, Simon recommends skipping public campaigns. 95% of these buyers come via agents’ networks, not portals. Case: Simon sold a 15-unit block entirely through personal introductions and email/phone, not a cent spent on REA or print—result surpassed quoting range.
When High Marketing Spend Makes Sense
- When you want dozens of “mum and dad” buyers.
- Brand new stock or prime owner-occupier units.
- Ultra-high-end where international buyers compete.
Most others: focused, specialist marketing = lower cost, faster result.
What About Vendor Paid Advertising (VPA)?
Simon is openly sceptical of VPA for blocks. In many cases, it exists to serve agent branding more than vendor outcome. If an agent can’t connect you with buyers without asking for VPA, seek a second opinion.
Want the honest assessment of what you should spend marketing your block?
Contact Simon Abbott, Victoria’s block of units expert: collings.com.au/portal
Find your next property with Collings
Track suburbs, get matched to on-market and off-market listings, and manage your whole property search in one place. Access the Collings property portal.
