What Does It Cost to Sell a House? A Full Breakdown for Homeowners

No matter how you choose to sell your property—through an agent or on your own—there are always costs involved. The upside? Selling privately can help you cut some of the biggest expenses. But to maximise your profit, it’s essential to understand every cost that could impact your bottom line. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you’ll need to budget for.

1. Conveyancing & Legal Fees Unless you’re well-versed in property law, you’ll need a conveyancer or solicitor to handle the legal side of your sale. This includes preparing contracts and managing the title transfer. Expect to pay up to $1,500, though online fixed-fee services are becoming increasingly popular. Confident sellers may explore DIY conveyancing kits—but tread carefully and ensure compliance with local laws.

2. Real Estate Agent Commissions If you go the traditional route, agent commissions are typically 2–3% of the final sale price (plus GST). On a $700,000 home, that’s $14,000–$21,000. While agents aim to secure a higher price, their commission is often split with their agency. Some agents also receive bonuses for listing properties, which may not always align with your best interests.

3. Selling Privately via Online Platforms DIY selling platforms offer a cost-effective alternative. For a flat fee—often under $1,000—you can access marketing tools, listing support, and exposure on major sites like realestate.com.au. Compared to paying tens of thousands in commission, this approach can dramatically increase your retained profit.

4. Marketing Expenses To attract serious buyers, you’ll need to invest in marketing. Common costs include:

• For Sale Signage: Around $65 for a standard sign.

• Valuation Reports: $300–$600 for a professional appraisal.

• Online Listings: Basic listings may be free, but upgrades and subscriptions can add up.

• Inspection Booking Tools: Software for managing viewings starts at $10/month.

5. Premium Listing Upgrades Boost your visibility with enhanced listings like “Premiere” or “Highlight” placements on major portals. These upgrades can increase enquiries by up to 3x and help your property stand out in competitive markets. Costs vary by suburb and property type but are often worth the investment.

6. Home Prep Costs (Styling, Repairs, Cleaning) Presentation matters. While some tasks—like decluttering and cleaning—can be DIY, others may require professional help. Budget for:

• Minor repairs and touch-ups

• Optional renovations or cosmetic upgrades

• Professional staging (if desired)

These improvements can lead to faster sales and stronger offers.

7. Auctioneer Fees If you choose to sell via auction, you’ll need to hire a licensed auctioneer. Fees typically range from $400 to $1,000 depending on location and experience. Some agents bundle this into their service, while others charge separately.

8. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) CGT applies if you’re selling an investment property or a home not considered your primary residence. It’s calculated based on the profit made from the sale, factoring in ownership duration and improvements. Consult an accountant to determine your liability and explore potential exemptions or discounts.

9. Mortgage Exit Fees If you still have a mortgage, your lender may charge a discharge or exit fee—usually under $400. For older loans (pre-July 2011), additional exit fees may apply. Always check your loan terms before listing.