How Real Estate Agent Commission Works in Australia

Real estate agents in Australia usually charge commission as a percentage of the final sale price, plus GST. This commission is agreed to before listing the property and is payable once the property sells.

Most commission agreements include:

• A percentage fee (commonly 2.5%–3.5%)

• GST added to the commission

• Separate marketing and advertising costs

Because commission is percentage-based, the higher your sale price, the more you pay in fees.

Average Real Estate Agent Commission Rates

Commission rates vary by location, property type, and market conditions, but typical ranges in Australia include:

• 2.5%–3.0% + GST in metro areas

• 3.0%–3.5% + GST in regional areas

• Additional marketing costs often apply

On a $900,000 property, this can result in $30,000–$40,000+ in total selling costs once GST and advertising are included.

This calculator uses common commission ranges to provide a realistic estimate.

What This Commission Calculator Includes

This calculator estimates:

• Real estate agent commission

• GST payable on commission

• marketing, realestate.com.au listing, domain listing and signage costs

• Total estimated agent selling cost

• A comparison against selling without an agent

It is designed to show the true cost of selling through an agent, not just the headline commission percentage.

Actual fees may vary depending on your agent agreement.

Why Many Sellers Are Choosing Flat-Fee Alternatives

Many Australian homeowners are choosing to sell without an agent to avoid percentage-based commissions.

Selling without an agent allows sellers to:

• Pay a flat fee instead of commission

• Keep control of pricing and negotiations

• Use licensed conveyancers or solicitors for legal work

• Reduce total selling costs significantly

The legal process remains the same — only the commission structure changes.

Is Selling Without an Agent Legal in Australia?

Yes. Selling property without a real estate agent is legal in every Australian state and territory.

Private sellers must still:

• Use a compliant contract of sale

• Provide required disclosure documents

• Ensure deposits are held in a trust account

• Complete settlement through a solicitor or conveyancer

The same legal protections apply as with an agent-assisted sale.

What to Do After Calculating Your Commission

Once you understand your estimated selling costs, the next step is deciding whether paying commission makes sense for your situation.

Many sellers then:

• Review flat-fee alternatives

• Learn how private sales work in their state

• Compare total selling costs

• Decide how they want to list their property

Understanding your numbers helps you make a confident, informed decision.

Want to Learn More About Selling Without an Agent?

• How to Sell Without an Agent in Australia

• Real Estate Agent Commission Calculator

• How Selling Without an Agent Works (Step by Step)

• How to Upload Your Property Listing