Most Australians assume they have two options when selling property: pay a real estate agent or do it themselves. The reality is more nuanced — and there is a smarter, cheaper third option that most sellers never consider.
Real Estate Agent Costs — The Full Breakdown
| Cost Component | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Agent commission | 1.5% to 3% of sale price |
| Advertising (REA + Domain) | $3,000 to $10,000 |
| Signboard | $200 to $800 |
| Photography and video | $500 to $2,000 |
| Auctioneer fee | $400 to $1,000 |
| Total on $900k property | $21,000 to $40,000+ |
DIY Selling Costs
| Cost Component | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Private sale platform listing | $500 to $1,500 |
| Conveyancer or solicitor | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Photography and styling | $500 to $2,000 |
| Underpricing risk | $15,000 to $50,000+ on typical properties |
| Total (excluding underpricing risk) | $2,500 to $6,500 |
The Third Option — Fixed-Fee Property Advisory
Collings Property Advisory at $4,500 + GST gives you independent pricing strategy, negotiation support and campaign advice. You keep control of your sale. You keep more of your money.
Full Comparison on a $900,000 Property Sale
| Real Estate Agent | DIY (Private Sale) | Collings Property Advisory | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct cost | $20,000 to $37,000 | $2,500 to $6,500 | $4,500 |
| Risk of underpricing | Low | High | Low — with expert guidance |
| Negotiation support | Yes (agent’s interest) | No | Yes (your interest, fixed fee) |
| Independent advice | No | No | Yes |
| You control the sale | No | Yes | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do real estate agents charge in Australia?
Real estate agent commissions in Australia typically range from 1.5% to 3% of the sale price, plus advertising and marketing costs. On a $900,000 property, total costs can reach $30,000 to $40,000.
Is it worth paying a real estate agent to sell?
For sellers who want maximum buyer exposure and full-service representation, a real estate agent can be worth it. But for sellers who want to stay in control while still getting expert guidance, a fixed-fee property advisor at $4,500 is a more cost-effective choice.
Can I save money by selling my house myself?
You can save on direct costs, but the risk of underpricing is real. Most private sellers achieve 3% to 7% less than agent-listed properties. A property advisor gives you the pricing and negotiation expertise to close that gap without paying full commission.
Why Collings Property Advisory?
We provide independent, data-driven pricing analysis powered by GeeVee — giving you the confidence to sell at the right price without the full agent commission.
Get Expert Selling Advice for $4,500 + GST — Enquire Today
Visit collings.com.au to book your seller advisory session.
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