Selling Your Home in Australia — Complete Seller’s Guide
Selling a property involves more than accepting an offer. From appointing a real estate agent to settlement day, there are legal obligations, financial decisions, and timing considerations that affect the outcome. This hub covers the full selling process.
The Selling Process — Overview
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| 1. Preparation | Appoint conveyancer; prepare contract of sale; building/pest inspection (if requested); styling |
| 2. Appoint agent | Sign agency agreement; agree on method of sale and marketing budget |
| 3. Marketing | Photography, listing on realestate.com.au and Domain, open homes |
| 4. Sale method | Auction or private sale |
| 5. Exchange | Contract signed; deposit paid; cooling-off period (private sale) |
| 6. Settlement | Typically 30–90 days after exchange; buyer pays balance; you discharge mortgage; keys handed over |
| 7. Post-settlement | CGT obligations (if applicable); council rate adjustments; vendor conveyancing finalised |
Articles in This Guide
- How to Sell a House in Australia — Step-by-Step Guide
- Real Estate Agent Fees and Commissions Australia
- Selling Without a Real Estate Agent
- When Is the Best Time to Sell a House in Australia?
- Selling and Buying Simultaneously — Managing the Overlap
- Private Sale vs Selling at Auction — Which Gets a Better Price?
- Main Residence CGT Exemption — Selling Your Home Tax-Free
- Vendor Conveyancing — What the Seller Pays For
- How to Discharge Your Mortgage When Selling
- What to Expect on Settlement Day as a Seller
- Selling Your Home and Renting in Retirement
Typical Selling Costs
| Cost | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Real estate agent commission | 1.5–2.5% of sale price (varies by state and agency) |
| Marketing and advertising | $3,000–$15,000+ (photos, listings, signage, print) |
| Conveyancing (vendor) | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Styling / home staging | $2,000–$10,000 (optional) |
| Auction fees | $500–$1,500 (if auctioning) |
| Discharge fee (mortgage) | $150–$400 |
| Capital gains tax | Varies; main residence exempt in most cases |
Related Mortgage Guides
- Mortgages Hub
- How to Discharge Your Mortgage — Full Guide
- Selling and Buying Simultaneously — Bridging Finance
This hub provides general information about selling property in Australia. For tax advice on CGT implications, speak with a registered tax agent. For legal advice on the selling process, engage a licensed conveyancer or solicitor. Find one through MoneySmart.