When selling a home without an agent, reaching the widest possible audience is crucial. realestate.com.au (REA) is Australia’s leading real estate platform, with millions of property searches conducted each month. Listing here offers tremendous exposure and credibility, giving private sellers the chance to compete with agency-listed properties. But what about the cost to list on REA as a private seller? Is it worth it?
For homeowners taking the For Sale By Owner approach, REA provides a professional-grade platform that can boost visibility, attract serious buyers, and lead to faster, smoother sales. Its vast database and high search engine ranking make it a vital marketing channel for DIY property sellers.
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How Much Does It Cost to List on REA as a Private Seller?
The cost to list on REA as a private seller varies depending on the provider you choose to list through. Since REA does not allow individuals to directly post properties on its platform, private sellers must use licensed real estate advertising services like For Sale By Home Owner, which act as intermediaries.
Generally, the base cost can range between $399 to $999, depending on the advertising package. These packages often include a variety of features such as:
- Standard REA listing (with 1 or more photos)
- Listing upgrades (e.g., Highlight, Premier, or Feature ads)
- Professional signage
- Access to potential buyers via email and phone
- Online dashboard access to manage and update the listing
When compared to real estate agent commissions, which often fall between 1.5% to 3% of the total sale price, the fixed listing fee offers a significantly more affordable solution. For example, on a $600,000 home, a 2% commission equals $12,000—far more than even the premium REA listing cost.
What Services Are Included in Private Listing Packages?
When using a platform like For Sale By Home Owner, sellers receive far more than just a REA listing. Most packages offer essential tools and resources, including:
- Listing on multiple real estate websites (Domain, Homely, and others)
- Legal documents and sales contracts
- 24/7 support via phone and email
- Online advertising performance reports
- Printable brochures and signboards
This comprehensive support helps private sellers not only advertise their property effectively but also navigate the selling process with confidence. It’s designed to mimic the services of a real estate agent—without the high price tag.
Are There Any Hidden Fees When Listing on REA?
A common concern among private sellers is the possibility of hidden fees. Fortunately, when you work with reputable platforms like For Sale By Home Owner, the pricing structure is transparent. Most services display a detailed breakdown of what’s included, and optional add-ons are clearly marked.
For example, if you wish to upgrade your listing to a Feature Property or Premier Property, you’ll be informed of the additional cost upfront—usually between $150 and $350, depending on the region and listing duration. These upgrades can dramatically increase listing visibility, especially in competitive markets.
How Does the Cost Compare to Using a Real Estate Agent?
Let’s break down the comparison to see the clear financial benefits:
|
Method |
Approximate Cost |
|
Listing via REA (FSBO) |
$399 – $999 (fixed) |
|
Agent Commission (2%) |
$12,000 on a $600,000 home |
|
Agent Marketing Fee |
$500 – $2,000 (in addition) |
Even when opting for premium listing upgrades, private sellers save thousands by avoiding commission fees. This makes the cost to list on REA as a private seller a smart investment for homeowners confident in managing their sale.
Does Listing on REA Help Sell Homes Faster?
Yes, absolutely. Homes listed on REA typically receive more views and enquiries compared to other platforms. Because the website dominates real estate traffic in Australia, even private listings enjoy high visibility.
Using REA can significantly shorten your time on the market, particularly if you pair it with professional photos, compelling descriptions, and a competitive price. The more people that see your listing, the higher your chances of securing an offer quickly.
What Are the Best Practices to Maximise Your REA Listing?
To get the most value out of your REA listing, follow these tips:
- Invest in Professional Photos: Listings with high-quality images consistently outperform those with amateur or minimal visuals.
- Write a Strong Description: Highlight the property’s best features and include nearby amenities.
- Price Competitively: Use market research to set an appealing price.
- Upgrade Strategically: If you’re in a competitive suburb, consider a Feature or Premier upgrade to improve visibility.
- Respond Promptly to Enquiries: Don’t delay when buyers show interest; timely communication builds trust.
By following these best practices, private sellers can make their REA listings stand out—even against agency-managed properties.
Is It Worth Investing in an Upgraded REA Listing?
This depends on your location and market conditions. If you’re selling in a sought-after area with limited competition, a standard listing might be enough. But in high-density suburbs or during slower market periods, paying a bit extra for an upgraded listing can make a significant difference in visibility and buyer interest.
Platforms like For Sale By Home Owner offer flexible upgrade options so that you can test the waters and upgrade later if needed. This “pay-as-you-go” structure is a major plus for budget-conscious sellers.
What Other Expenses Should Private Sellers Consider?
While the cost to list on REA as a private seller is your main advertising expense, there are other optional services you might want to include in your budget:
- Conveyancing or solicitor fees – approx. $800 – $1,500
- Professional photography – approx. $150 – $300
- Building & pest inspection (optional) – approx. $400
- Signboard for front yard – approx. $100 – $200
Even with these added costs, the total remains well below what you’d pay with a full-service agent.
Why Choose “For Sale By Home Owner” to List on REA?
For Sale By Home Owner is one of Australia’s leading platforms for private sellers, giving access to major portals like REA and Domain without agent involvement. Their packages are:
- Affordable and transparent
- Easy to manage with online dashboard tools
- Supported by real people, with guidance available when needed
By listing through For Sale By Home Owner, sellers can enjoy full control of their property sale while still reaping the benefits of professional-level exposure.
Final Thoughts: Is Listing on REA Affordable for Private Sellers?
In conclusion, yes—listing on REA is absolutely affordable for private sellers, especially when compared to the high commissions and marketing fees charged by real estate agents. The cost to list on REA as a private seller ranges from just a few hundred dollars, making it a powerful and economical option for those taking the For Sale By Owner route.
With smart strategies, minimal upfront investment, and the backing of a trusted platform like For Sale By Home Owner, private sellers can attract serious buyers, negotiate directly, and walk away with more money in their pocket.
Whether you’re selling a family home, investment property, or vacant land, REA remains one of the best platforms to reach buyers and close the deal on your terms—without overspending.
