When it comes to selling your home in Australia, one of the biggest questions is: Should I hire an agent and pay commission, or can I sell it myself and save?

No commission real estate has become a popular alternative to traditional agent commissions, giving Australian sellers more control and flexibility. With DIY options like for sale by owner, you can manage the sale yourself and avoid paying high fees. Understanding how no commission real estate works—and what’s involved—can help you choose the right path based on your goals, budget, and comfort level.

How Real Estate Commissions Work in Australia

In Australia, commission is typically a percentage of your property’s final sale price, paid to your real estate agent once the property is sold. This fee is usually covered by the seller and is negotiated before the home is listed.

• Typical range: 1.5% to 3%, depending on the agent, location, and services provided.

• Additional costs: Some agencies charge for advertising and marketing separately, which can add another $1,000 to $5,000 or more.

For example, if you sell your home for $900,000 and your agent charges a 2.2% commission, you would pay $19,800 in commission—plus any advertising costs.

Factors That Affect Commission Rates:

• Location: Regional areas often have higher commission rates than major cities, due to lower sales volume.

• Agent reputation: Experienced or high-performing agents may charge more.

• Service level: Full-service packages typically cost more than basic or low-touch services.

What You’re Paying For: What Commission Covers

Agents provide a range of services to help facilitate a successful sale. These typically include:

• Appraising and pricing your home competitively

• Organizing professional photography and floorplans

• Listing your property on platforms like realestate.com.au and domain.com.au

• Running digital and print marketing campaigns

• Hosting open inspections and private viewings

• Managing buyer inquiries and screening offers

• Negotiating the final sale price

• Handling contracts and working with conveyancers through to settlement

For sellers who are time-poor or unfamiliar with the process, these services can be helpful. However, they come at a cost—and they’re not always necessary for every property or market.

No-Commission Selling: A Growing Alternative in Australia

Many homeowners today are questioning whether they need to pay commission at all. The good news? You don’t have to. No-commission selling models have become more accessible and are increasingly popular with sellers who want more control and to maximize profit.

How No-Commission Selling Works

With no commission services, you typically pay a fixed upfront fee rather than a percentage of the sale price. These platforms offer tools and support that allow you to manage your own sale with professional backing when you need it.

Services may include:

• Listing your property on major real estate websites

• Professional photography and signboards

• Access to legal documents and contract templates

• Customer support and optional advice from licensed agents

• Optional extras like copywriting, videography, or negotiation help

Because you’re not paying a portion of the sale, the savings can be significant—often tens of thousands of dollars, especially in higher-value markets.

Selling Privately (For Sale By Owner / FSBO)

Selling privately—also known as For Sale By Owner (FSBO)—means you manage the entire sale yourself without involving a traditional real estate agent. This approach puts full control in your hands, from pricing and marketing to buyer negotiations and contracts.

Why Some Sellers Choose FSBO:

• Save on commission and advertising costs

• More control over the sale process and communication with buyers

• Ideal for confident sellers or those in hot markets where homes sell quickly

• Flexible approach: tailor the process to suit your comfort level

Things to Consider:

While selling privately can save you money, it also requires more time, research, and effort. You'll need to:

• Price your property accurately (get a valuation or use online tools)

• Write your listing description and take photos (or hire professionals)

• Manage your listing on real estate websites

• Coordinate inspections and respond to inquiries

• Negotiate directly with buyers

• Ensure contracts and legal paperwork are done correctly

Thankfully, many FSBO platforms now provide access to conveyancing, templates, and guidance to simplify the legal and administrative side of things.

Are Commissions Negotiable in Australia?

Yes. If you decide to work with a real estate agent, keep in mind that commission rates are not fixed or regulated in Australia. You are entirely within your rights to:

• Negotiate a lower rate

• Request a tiered commission (e.g., a lower rate up to a certain price, and a bonus for exceeding a target)

• Compare agents before committing—ask about their sales history, strategy, and fees

Also, clarify what’s included in the commission. Some agents bundle marketing and advertising in, while others charge it separately.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Option for You

Real estate commissions in Australia are just one piece of the puzzle. Whether you’re selling a city apartment or a rural home, it’s important to weigh your options based on:

• Your budget

• Your experience and confidence

• The time you can commit

• How hot or cold your local market is

For some, paying a commission is worth the convenience and expertise of a full-service agent. For others, selling privately or using a no-commission platform can mean more control and more money in your pocket.

Whatever path you choose, understanding how commissions work—and what alternatives are available—can help you make a smarter, more empowered decision when it’s time to sell.