Selling a home isn’t just about collecting a sale price—you also need to factor in various costs and fees that come with the process. From agent commissions to legal and settlement costs, understanding these expenses will help you budget accurately and avoid surprises. If you’re selling in Arundel, QLD 4214, this guide will provide a complete breakdown of selling costs, so you know exactly what to expect.
1. The Major Costs of Selling a Home in QLD
Here’s an overview of the main expenses involved when selling property in Queensland:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Real Estate Agent Commission | 2% – 3% of the sale price |
| Conveyancing or Solicitor Fees | $800 – $2,500 |
| Marketing & Advertising | $500 – $5,000 |
| Home Staging & Presentation | $1,000 – $5,000 (optional) |
| Building & Pest Inspections (Pre-Sale, Optional) | $400 – $700 |
| Auctioneer Fees (if selling at auction) | $400 – $1,000 |
| Mortgage Discharge Fees | $150 – $1,000 |
| Capital Gains Tax (if applicable) | Varies (depends on capital gain and tax rate) |
| Council & Utility Adjustments | Varies (based on settlement calculations) |
💡 The total cost of selling varies, depending on your property’s value, marketing strategy, and legal requirements.
2. Real Estate Agent Commission: How Much Will You Pay?
If you use a real estate agent, their commission is usually the biggest cost in the selling process.
How Commission Works:
✔ Typically 2% – 3% of the final sale price.
✔ Some agents offer fixed fees, while others charge a percentage-based commission.
✔ Commission rates vary depending on location, agent experience, and services included.
Example of Agent Commission Costs:
| Sale Price | 2.5% Commission |
|---|---|
| $600,000 | $15,000 |
| $750,000 | $18,750 |
| $900,000 | $22,500 |
💡 Pro Tip: Negotiate commission rates and ensure you understand what services are included (marketing, negotiations, inspections).
3. Conveyancing or Solicitor Fees
A conveyancer or solicitor is essential for handling legal documents and settlement paperwork.
Estimated Costs:
✔ Conveyancers: $800 – $1,500
✔ Solicitors: $1,500 – $2,500 (more if complex legal work is needed)
What They Do for Sellers:
✔ Prepare the Contract of Sale.
✔ Ensure all legal disclosures are met.
✔ Handle settlement and transfer of funds.
💡 Pro Tip: A conveyancer is generally cheaper, but a solicitor is better for complex sales (e.g., disputes, deceased estates).
4. Marketing & Advertising Costs
To attract buyers, you’ll need to market your property effectively—this often comes at an additional cost.
Typical Marketing Expenses:
✔ Photography & Video Tours – $200 – $1,000
✔ Online Listings (Realestate.com.au, Domain, etc.) – $600 – $2,000
✔ Social Media Ads & Print Advertising – $300 – $2,000
✔ Signboards & Brochures – $200 – $800
💡 Pro Tip: Some agents include marketing in their commission, while others charge separately—check before signing an agreement.
5. Home Staging & Presentation Costs
Presentation can significantly impact your sale price.
Staging Costs (Optional but Recommended):
✔ Full Home Staging (Furniture & Decor) – $2,000 – $5,000
✔ Partial Staging (Key Rooms Only) – $1,000 – $3,000
✔ Decluttering & Deep Cleaning – $300 – $1,500
💡 Pro Tip: Homes that are professionally staged often sell faster and for higher prices.
6. Pre-Sale Building & Pest Inspections (Optional)
Although buyers usually arrange inspections, sellers can get a pre-sale building and pest report to identify issues early.
Inspection Costs:
✔ Building Inspection – $300 – $600
✔ Pest Inspection – $150 – $300
💡 Pro Tip: If issues are found, fixing them before listing can prevent buyers from negotiating for lower prices.
7. Auctioneer Fees (If Selling at Auction)
If you sell via auction, you’ll need to hire a licensed auctioneer.
Auctioneer Costs:
✔ $400 – $1,000 per auction
💡 Pro Tip: Many agents include auctioneer costs in their marketing packages—ask before hiring separately.
8. Mortgage Discharge Fees (If You Have a Loan)
If you have a mortgage, your lender may charge a discharge fee when selling.
Common Costs:
✔ Basic discharge fee: $150 – $500
✔ Fixed-term loan exit fees: $500 – $1,000
💡 Pro Tip: Check with your lender about early exit penalties before finalising the sale.
9. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – Only for Investment Properties
If you’re selling an investment property, Capital Gains Tax (CGT) may apply.
How CGT Works:
✔ No CGT if selling your primary residence.
✔ CGT applies to investment properties based on profit made from the sale.
✔ Discounts apply if you’ve owned the property for more than 12 months.
💡 Pro Tip: Consult a tax accountant to calculate CGT liabilities before selling.
10. Settlement Costs & Adjustments
Common Settlement Adjustments:
✔ Council Rates & Water Bills – You’ll pay for your portion up to the settlement date.
✔ Body Corporate Fees (for units & townhouses) – Adjusted based on settlement timing.
💡 Pro Tip: Your conveyancer or solicitor will calculate adjustments and ensure everything is settled correctly.
11. Other Potential Selling Costs
🔹 Moving Costs – If relocating, factor in removalists or transport expenses ($500 – $3,000).
🔹 Bridging Loan Costs – If buying a new home before selling, you may need short-term financing.
🔹 Landlord Exit Fees – If selling a rental property, consider lease break fees.
💡 Pro Tip: Plan for additional expenses so you’re not caught off guard at settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the biggest cost when selling a home?
Real estate agent commission is usually the highest, followed by marketing and legal fees.
2. Do I have to pay tax when selling my home?
If it’s your primary residence, no Capital Gains Tax (CGT) applies. If it’s an investment property, CGT may apply.
3. Are marketing costs included in agent commission?
Some agents include marketing, while others charge separately—always confirm before signing.
4. Can I sell my home without an agent?
Yes, but you’ll handle all marketing, negotiations, and legal processes yourself. Most sellers prefer using an agent for a smoother process.
5. How much does it cost to stage a home for sale?
Home staging costs $1,000 – $5,000, but can increase the sale price significantly.
Conclusion
Selling a home involves several costs, but understanding these expenses upfront helps you plan better and maximise your profit.
✔ Factor in agent commission, legal fees, and marketing costs.
✔ Consider optional costs like staging and inspections for a faster sale.
✔ Budget for mortgage discharge fees and potential tax obligations.
For expert guidance on selling your home in Arundel, visit our Selling Property in Arundel, QLD 4214 page.