The Hidden Costs of Selling (and How to Avoid Them)

Selling your home is an exciting milestone, but many homeowners are surprised by the number of small (and sometimes not-so-small) costs that can appear along the way. Understanding these expenses upfront can help you plan confidently, avoid stress, and protect your bottom line when it matters most.

Here’s a guide to the hidden costs of selling — and how to minimise them.

1. Pre-Sale Repairs and Presentation

Most homes need a little attention before going to market — whether it’s paint touch-ups, garden clean-ups, or fixing overdue maintenance.

Typical costs may include: •Painting• Pressure cleaning• Minor plumbing/electrical repairs• Garden refresh• Rubbish removal

How to avoid overspending: Focus on high-impact areas. At Haven Real Estate, we walk sellers through which updates matter — and which won’t change the sale price — so your money goes where it counts.

2. Styling and Staging

While optional, styling has become a powerful tool for maximising your sale price. It helps buyers connect emotionally, improves photography, and leads to stronger enquiry.

How to minimise costs: Consider partial styling, using a mix of your own furniture and curated additions. We work with stylists who offer tailored packages to suit different budgets and property types.

3. Solicitor & Disclosure Costs

With Queensland’s updated disclosure requirements, sellers now need to prepare Form 2 (Seller’s Disclosure), title searches, and supporting documents.

How to avoid delays and extra fees: Start early. Providers like SearchX or your conveyancer can prepare your Form 2 ahead of the launch. Early preparation avoids rush fees and prevents stalled negotiations once offers arrive.

4. Marketing Fees

Premium photography, videography, floorplans, and online advertising are essential — but these vary widely across agencies.

How to avoid unnecessary spend: Don’t pay for “everything.” Instead, invest in the elements that give your home visibility where it matters most. Haven’s marketing plans are customised to each property, ensuring maximum exposure without wasted cost.

5. Agent Commission

Agent fees can differ depending on experience, market conditions, and service quality.

How to ensure it’s worth it: Look at what the agent actually delivers: presentation advice, negotiation skill, pre-launch strategy, database strength, digital marketing, and sale results in your suburb. A higher-performing agent usually adds far more value than they cost.

6. Auction or Private Treaty Expenses

If selling via auction, budget for auctioneer fees. If selling via private treaty, consider the cost of longer campaigns if the property isn’t priced or presented correctly.

How to reduce risk: Use a clear, data-backed strategy from day one. Haven advises sellers on timing, pricing, and positioning to avoid drawn-out campaigns.

7. Moving Costs

Often overlooked, moving can be expensive — from removalists to storage and cleaning.

How to avoid blowouts: Book early. Compare quotes. Declutter before the campaign so you’re not paying to move things you don’t want to keep.

The Bottom Line

Selling doesn’t need to be stressful — and it shouldn’t come with surprise expenses. With the right preparation and guidance, you can minimise costs while maximising your final sale price.

At Haven Real Estate, we help sellers navigate every step of the process with clarity and confidence. From disclosure preparation and styling advice to customised marketing and strategic pre-launch planning, we ensure your home goes to market looking its best — without overspending.

If you're considering selling, we’d be happy to walk you through a tailored cost breakdown for your home.