Selling a home involves more costs than most owners initially expect, starting with real estate agent commission, which is typically a percentage of the final sale price and should be clearly outlined and agreed in your agency agreement before marketing begins. Understanding exactly what this fee covers helps avoid confusion later in the process.
Marketing costs, including professional photography, online listing fees, and any signboard or print advertising, are usually paid separately from commission and can vary significantly depending on the campaign you choose. Discuss these costs upfront with your agent so there are no surprises once invoices arrive.
Conveyancing and legal fees apply on the selling side as well as the buying side, covering the preparation of the contract of sale and the settlement process. Engaging a solicitor or licensed conveyancer early in the process ensures the contract is ready before the first open home rather than being rushed once an offer is received.
If you still owe money on the property, your loan discharge fees and any break costs for a fixed rate loan should be factored into your overall figures, since these can meaningfully affect the amount you walk away with after settlement. Your bank can provide an estimated discharge figure before you commit to a settlement date.
Finally, consider the cost of presentation, including any repairs, styling or cleaning undertaken before listing, along with moving costs for your own relocation. Adding all of these figures together before you begin gives you a realistic picture of your net proceeds, rather than relying on the headline sale price alone.
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