Research report
6 April 2018
Real estate fees
Planning on selling your home? We mystery-shopped real estate agents to uncover their standard commission fees and reveal how you can hammer out a better deal.
As house prices skyrocket, so has the amount you’ll typically pay a real estate agent. We found agencies charging $10,000 more than others – even for a median-priced house.
But negotiating commission rates can save you money and boost the ultimate sale price. We've calculated standard commission fees charged by major agencies and reveal how you can hammer out a better deal.
Choosing a real estate agent requires a balance between four factors: anticipated or “appraised” sale price; fees; marketing costs; and professionalism. One agent may charge half what another does – but then the second may achieve a higher sale price (they’ll always be quick to assure you they will).
To uncover commission rates and marketing costs, our mystery shopper arranged for property appraisals of a Wellington home from Bayleys, Century 21, Harcourts, Mike Pero, Professionals, Ray White, Tall Poppy, Tommy’s and 200 Square.
We also looked at the commission rates of three major agencies based outside Wellington.
Appraised sale price
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Agent fees
Standard commission fees
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- Thousands of expert product/service reviews
- Personal support through our Consumer Rights Advice Line
- Premium articles and in-depth buying advice
- Add a Consumer magazine for even more exclusive content
Marketing costs
Want to read the full article?
- Thousands of expert product/service reviews
- Personal support through our Consumer Rights Advice Line
- Premium articles and in-depth buying advice
- Add a Consumer magazine for even more exclusive content
Finding the right agent
Fees overseas
Buying a house
Buying a house can be a daunting process. Whether it’s your first home or your fifth, we’ve got what you need to know about making one of the biggest purchases in your life.
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