The Real Cost of Selling a Home in WA (Fees, Marketing & Hidden Costs)
Selling a home isn’t just about the final sale price.
It’s about understanding what it actually costs to get there and where money is well spent versus quietly wasted.
Let’s break it down properly, without sugar-coating.
1. Agent Fees (Commission)
In WA, agent fees are not fixed. They’re negotiated and usually structured as:
A percentage of the final sale price, or
A fixed fee agreed upfront (paid at settlement)
What matters isn’t the number alone — it’s the net result.
A cheaper fee that achieves a lower price can cost you far more than a higher fee with a stronger outcome.
2. Marketing Costs (The Investment)
Marketing isn’t an expense, it’s an investment in exposure and competition.
Typical marketing costs may include:
Professional photography
Drone imagery
Signboard
Online advertising (REA, Domain, social media)
Floorplans and copywriting
Some agencies offer bundled packages. Others customise based on your home and market conditions.
Key point:
Marketing doesn’t sell homes, competition does. Marketing creates competition.
3. Conveyancing & Settlement Fees
These are usually paid by the seller and include:
Settlement agent / conveyancer fees
Title searches and document preparation
Costs vary, but sellers should budget a few thousand dollars depending on complexity.
4. Preparation Costs (Optional but Strategic)
This is where many sellers overspend or underspend badly.
Common prep costs:
Minor repairs
Gardening and presentation
Cleaning
Styling (partial or full)
Smart preparation focuses on first impressions, not perfection.
5. Holding Costs While Selling
Often overlooked, but important:
Council rates
Water rates
Strata fees (if applicable)
Mortgage interest
Longer time on market = higher holding costs.
6. Hidden Costs That Catch Sellers Out
Things people don’t expect:
Price reductions due to poor initial strategy
Missed buyer momentum
Deals falling over from weak conditions
Overcapitalising before listing
The biggest cost of selling poorly is rarely on an invoice, it’s in the final result.
What Does It Usually Add Up To?
Every sale is different, but sellers should plan for:
Agent fee
Marketing investment
Settlement costs
Minor preparation
The goal isn’t to minimise cost, it’s to maximise outcome.
Final Thought
A good selling strategy focuses on:
Net result
Certainty
Timing
Transparency upfront avoids surprises later.
If you’re thinking of selling and want a clear breakdown tailored to your home — without pressure — I’m always happy to help.
Knowing the real costs puts you in control.
