When you're planning to sell a property in Queensland, one of the biggest financial considerations is the real estate agent’s commission. Many homeowners are surprised by how much commission can add up to—and some even look for ways to avoid commission in QLD altogether.

In this article, we’ll break down how commission structures work, what you can expect to pay, and how platforms like For Sale By Home Owner are helping Australians keep more money in their pockets.

What Is Real Estate Commission?

Real estate commission is a fee that agents charge for handling the sale of your property. It typically covers services like marketing, open inspections, negotiations, and guiding the sale process from listing to settlement.

In Queensland (QLD), commission is negotiable but often ranges from 2% to 3.5% of the final sale price. This may not seem like much at first glance—but on a $700,000 property, that’s anywhere from $14,000 to $24,500.

How Is Commission Calculated?

Commission is usually calculated as a percentage of the property’s sale price. For example:

• If your agent charges 2.5% and you sell your home for $800,000, the commission would be $20,000.
• Some agents offer a tiered commission, where they charge a base rate and an additional bonus for achieving a higher sale price.

It’s important to clarify whether GST is included in the quote. Many sellers get caught out when they learn GST is added on top of the agreed percentage.

What Does Commission Cover?

Real estate commission in QLD generally covers:

• Property appraisal
• Professional photography (sometimes)
• Advertising and online listings (often charged separately)
• Open homes and private inspections
• Buyer negotiations
• Contract handling and basic admin

However, many agents charge additional marketing fees on top of their commission. It’s not uncommon to see upfront marketing packages ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 or more.

Can You Negotiate Real Estate Commission in QLD?

Yes. In fact, you should.

Commission rates in QLD are not regulated, so agents are free to set their own fees. If you’re interviewing multiple agents, compare their services and negotiate for a better rate. You may be able to bring the commission down by 0.5% or more, especially if your home is in a sought-after area or expected to sell quickly.

That said, negotiation takes time and confidence—and you may still end up paying thousands in fees.

Is There a Way to Avoid Commission in QLD?

Absolutely. One of the most effective ways to avoid commission in QLD is by selling your home yourself—also known as a private sale.

Thanks to online real estate platforms, private sales are easier than ever. That’s where For Sale By Home Owner comes in.

How For Sale By Home Owner Helps You Avoid Commission

For Sale By Home Owner is an Australian platform designed to help homeowners sell their property without using a traditional real estate agent. Here’s how it works:

• You list your property on major sites like realestate.com.au and Domain via their platform.
• You handle the enquiries and inspections—but keep full control over the process.
• You save thousands by not paying agent commissions.

Instead of paying a percentage of the sale price, you pay a low flat fee to list your home. Packages start from just a few hundred dollars, making it a fraction of what you’d pay in commission.

With easy-to-use tools, legal forms, signage, and customer support, For Sale By Home Owner empowers sellers to take control of their property sale without needing a license or experience.

Why More Sellers Are Going Commission-Free

Here are some reasons why more Queensland homeowners are choosing to avoid commission in QLD and go the private sale route:

• More Profit: You keep 100% of the sale price—minus a small flat listing fee.
• Full Control: You set the price, handle negotiations, and decide how your home is marketed.
• Transparency: No hidden costs, upsells, or sales tactics.
• Faster Decisions: With fewer parties involved, decisions happen quickly and directly.

When Is a Private Sale a Good Idea?

Selling your home privately is ideal if:

• You have the time and confidence to communicate with buyers.
• Your property is in a high-demand area or in good condition.
• You want to maximise your profit without paying high commissions.
• You’re comfortable managing appointments, paperwork, and price discussions.

For many, it’s not just about saving money—it’s about avoiding the stress and uncertainty that sometimes comes with working through an agent.

Final Thoughts

Real estate commissions in QLD can take a significant chunk out of your sale proceeds, often without adding proportionate value. While some sellers prefer to work with agents for convenience, more homeowners are realising that it’s entirely possible—and often more profitable—to sell their property themselves.

If you’re looking to avoid commission in QLD, consider using For Sale By Home Owner. With the right support, tools, and platform, you can take full control of your property sale and keep more of what’s rightfully yours.