Top 18 Real Estate Agencies in Australia: Ranking the Best in Property Services

Overview of the Australian Real Estate Market

As of 2024, Australia hosts 41,360 Real Estate Services businesses. This figure represents a modest growth of 0.4% from the previous year, indicating a stable, albeit slow-growing, industry.

The real estate sector in Australia is characterized by a high proportion of small businesses. According to data, 99% of real estate agencies are small businesses, employing professionals across various roles including business brokers, property managers, principals, and sales agents.

The real estate sector is a significant employer in Australia, providing jobs to thousands of individuals. For instance, approximately 41,000 people work in property management alone. This segment of the industry is critical as it supports the ongoing management of residential and commercial properties, ensuring the sector’s smooth operation and growth.

The Australian real estate services industry has seen fluctuating revenue trends in recent years. As of 2024, the industry’s market size is estimated at $28.0 billion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of -1.9% over the past five years. This decline reflects various challenges, including market saturation, economic conditions, and changing consumer behavior.

However, the overall value of the real estate market remains substantial, with the market projected to reach a value of AU$5.84 trillion by 2024. The residential real estate sector dominates, driven by continuous demand for housing in both urban and suburban areas.

The cooling housing market has led to a reduction in the number of active real estate agents in certain regions, such as Queensland, where numbers have ebbed and flowed around 41,000 agents.

Moreover, the increasing use of buyer’s agents in residential purchases, currently accounting for up to 3% of transactions, indicates a growing trend towards specialized real estate services.

Top 18 Real Estate Agencies: Ranking the Best in Property Services

1. Ray White Group

Ray White is one of Australia’s largest and most recognized real estate agencies, with a strong presence across residential, commercial, and rural property sectors.

In 2023, Ray White facilitated over 70,000 property transactions, with a total sales volume of AUD 45 billion. This included high-profile sales, such as the auction of a luxury beachfront home in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, which sold for AUD 12 million.
Ray White manages over 200,000 properties across Australia, providing comprehensive property management services. For example, they manage a portfolio of investment properties in Melbourne’s inner suburbs, generating consistent rental returns for investors.
Ray White’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 3.5% to 5%, focusing on both residential and commercial properties. For example, they manage a commercial property in Brisbane’s CBD, generating an annual rental income of AUD 200,000, with a net return of 5%.
Ray White conducts over 150,000 appraisals annually, using advanced tools to provide accurate property valuations. For instance, they recently appraised a historic home in Adelaide, resulting in a market valuation of AUD 1.2 million, which helped the owner make informed decisions about selling.

Ray White typically charges a commission ranging from 2% to 3% of the sale price. For instance, selling a property for AUD 750,000 would result in a commission of approximately AUD 15,000 to AUD 22,500, depending on the complexity of the sale and the marketing services required.

The management fees at Ray White generally range from 6% to 7.5% of the annual rental income. For a residential property generating AUD 40,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 2,400 to AUD 3,000, covering tenant management, maintenance, and rent collection.

2. Harcourts

An internationally recognized brand, Harcourts has a strong network in Australia, known for its customer service and innovative marketing strategies.

Harcourts completed over 60,000 property sales in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 38 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a luxury apartment in Brisbane’s South Bank, which sold for AUD 2.5 million, demonstrating Harcourts’ expertise in high-end real estate.
Harcourts manages over 180,000 rental properties across Australia. They are particularly active in managing investment properties in Perth, where they oversee a large portfolio of residential homes, ensuring high occupancy rates and tenant satisfaction.
Harcourts’ rental portfolio achieves an average return of 4% to 6%, with a focus on high-demand areas. For example, they manage a residential complex in Melbourne’s Docklands, yielding an annual return of 5.5% for investors.
Harcourts conducts over 140,000 appraisals annually, offering precise and informed property valuations. Recently, they appraised a rural estate in Queensland, providing the owner with a comprehensive market analysis that led to a successful sale at AUD 3 million.

Harcourts typically charges a commission between 2% and 3.5% of the sale price. For example, selling a suburban family home for AUD 650,000 might result in a commission of AUD 13,000 to AUD 22,750, depending on the services provided and the market conditions.

The management fees at Harcourts range from 7% to 8% of the annual rental income. For a residential property generating AUD 35,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 2,450 to AUD 2,800, which includes tenant screening, lease management, and maintenance services.

3. LJ Hooker

LJ Hooker is an iconic Australian real estate brand with a wide range of services, including residential sales, property management, and commercial sales.

In 2023, LJ Hooker facilitated over 55,000 property sales, with a total sales volume of AUD 32 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a waterfront property in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, which sold for AUD 6.5 million, showcasing their strength in luxury real estate.
LJ Hooker manages over 170,000 properties across Australia, offering a wide array of management services. For example, they manage a mixed-use development in Sydney’s inner city, ensuring optimal rental yields and maintaining the property’s value.
LJ Hooker’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 4% to 5.5%, with a focus on residential properties. For instance, they manage a series of townhouses in Adelaide, providing investors with a consistent return of 5% annually.
LJ Hooker conducts over 130,000 appraisals annually, providing detailed and accurate property valuations. Recently, they appraised a historic mansion in the Hunter Valley, resulting in a successful sale at AUD 4 million, demonstrating their expertise in diverse property types.

LJ Hooker typically charges a commission ranging from 2.5% to 3.5% of the sale price. For instance, a property sold for AUD 500,000 would incur a commission of AUD 12,500 to AUD 17,500, reflecting the level of service and marketing strategies employed.

The management fees at LJ Hooker usually range from 7% to 8% of the annual rental income. For a residential property generating AUD 25,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 1,750 to AUD 2,000, covering tenant management, property inspections, and maintenance coordination.

4. McGrath Estate Agents

McGrath is known for its premium service in the luxury real estate market, with a strong focus on marketing and customer experience.

McGrath completed over 20,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 25 billion. Notable sales include a beachfront estate in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, sold for AUD 15 million, reflecting McGrath’s dominance in the luxury real estate market.
McGrath manages over 50,000 properties, with a focus on high-end residential homes and apartments. They manage a portfolio of luxury apartments in Sydney’s CBD, ensuring premium returns and maintaining high tenant standards.
McGrath’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 3.5% to 5%, primarily in luxury residential markets. For instance, they manage a series of luxury homes in Melbourne’s Toorak, generating an annual rental income with a return of 4.5% for investors.
McGrath conducts over 60,000 appraisals annually, specializing in luxury properties and providing precise market valuations. Recently, they appraised a penthouse in Sydney’s Darling Harbour, leading to a sale at AUD 10 million, which was in line with their expert valuation.

McGrath typically charges a commission between 2% and 3% of the sale price. For example, a luxury home sold for AUD 3 million would result in a commission of AUD 60,000 to AUD 90,000, reflecting the high level of service and bespoke marketing strategies offered.

McGrath’s management fees range from 5% to 6% of the annual rental income. For a luxury rental property generating AUD 100,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 5,000 to AUD 6,000, covering high-end property management services, including concierge and bespoke tenant services.

5. Belle Property

Belle Property specializes in premium properties and is known for its stylish branding and exceptional service.

In 2023, Belle Property facilitated over 25,000 property transactions, with a total sales volume of AUD 20 billion. A standout transaction included the sale of a heritage-listed property in Sydney’s Inner West, which sold for AUD 4 million, highlighting Belle Property’s expertise in premium markets.
Belle Property manages over 70,000 properties across Australia, focusing on high-end residential properties. They manage a series of luxury homes in Sydney’s Lower North Shore, ensuring high returns and tenant satisfaction.
Belle Property’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 4% to 5.5%, particularly in high-demand residential areas. For example, they manage a collection of premium apartments in Brisbane’s New Farm, generating consistent returns of 5% for investors.
Belle Property conducts over 75,000 appraisals annually, providing clients with accurate and market-driven property valuations. Recently, they appraised a waterfront home in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, leading to a sale at AUD 7 million, which was close to their expert valuation.

Belle Property typically charges a commission ranging from 2.5% to 3.5% of the sale price. For example, selling a high-end property for AUD 1.5 million could result in a commission of AUD 37,500 to AUD 52,500, reflecting the boutique services and tailored marketing strategies provided.

The management fees at Belle Property range from 5% to 6.5% of the annual rental income. For a premium rental property generating AUD 80,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 4,000 to AUD 5,200, covering services like tenant management, regular inspections, and maintenance coordination.

6. Barry Plant

Barry Plant is a leading real estate agency in Victoria, known for its strong presence in residential sales and property management.

Barry Plant completed over 40,000 property sales in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 25 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a family home in Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs for AUD 1.2 million, showcasing Barry Plant’s expertise in the residential market.
Barry Plant manages over 120,000 properties across Victoria, focusing on providing excellent tenant and landlord services. They manage a large portfolio of investment properties in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, ensuring high occupancy rates and consistent rental income.
Barry Plant’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 3.5% to 5%, particularly in residential markets. For instance, they manage a series of suburban homes in Geelong, providing investors with a steady return of 4% annually.
Barry Plant conducts over 110,000 appraisals annually, providing accurate and market-based property valuations. Recently, they appraised a modern townhouse in Melbourne’s North, leading to a successful sale at AUD 900,000, which was in line with their expert valuation.

Barry Plant typically charges a commission between 2% and 3% of the sale price. For instance, selling a suburban home for AUD 550,000 might result in a commission of AUD 11,000 to AUD 16,500, depending on the marketing services provided.

The management fees at Barry Plant generally range from 6% to 7% of the annual rental income. For a residential property generating AUD 30,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 1,800 to AUD 2,100, covering comprehensive property management services.

7. First National Real Estate

First National Real Estate is a large network of independent agents across Australia, known for its local expertise and wide range of services.

First National facilitated over 35,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 22 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a rural property in Victoria’s Yarra Valley for AUD 2 million, demonstrating their expertise in regional markets.
First National manages over 100,000 properties across Australia, focusing on providing tailored services to landlords and tenants. For example, they manage a diverse portfolio of rental properties in Queensland’s Gold Coast, ensuring high tenant retention rates.
First National’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 3.5% to 5%, with a focus on residential and rural properties. They manage a series of beachside homes in Perth, providing investors with a consistent return of 4.5% annually.
First National conducts over 90,000 appraisals annually, offering detailed and precise property valuations. Recently, they appraised a coastal property in Tasmania, leading to a successful sale at AUD 850,000, which was aligned with their market-driven valuation.

First National typically charges a commission between 2% and 3% of the sale price. For example, selling a residential property for AUD 450,000 might result in a commission of AUD 9,000 to AUD 13,500, depending on the level of service and marketing required.

The management fees at First National generally range from 5.5% to 6.5% of the annual rental income. For a residential property generating AUD 28,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 1,540 to AUD 1,820, covering tenant relations, maintenance, and property inspections.

8. Jellis Craig

Jellis Craig is a leading real estate agency in Melbourne, renowned for its expertise in high-end residential sales and property management.

Jellis Craig completed over 15,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 12 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a historic home in Melbourne’s Toorak for AUD 8 million, underscoring their expertise in luxury markets.
Jellis Craig manages over 40,000 properties, with a focus on high-end residential properties in Melbourne. They manage a portfolio of luxury apartments in Melbourne’s South Yarra, ensuring premium returns and maintaining high tenant satisfaction.
Jellis Craig’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 3.5% to 5.5%, primarily in luxury residential markets. For example, they manage a series of high-end homes in Melbourne’s Brighton, generating an annual return of 4.5% for investors.
Jellis Craig conducts over 50,000 appraisals annually, specializing in high-value properties and providing accurate market valuations. Recently, they appraised a luxury penthouse in Melbourne’s CBD, leading to a sale at AUD 6 million, which was closely aligned with their expert valuation.

Jellis Craig typically charges a commission ranging from 2.5% to 3.5% of the sale price. For instance, selling a luxury home in Melbourne’s Inner East for AUD 2 million could result in a commission of AUD 50,000 to AUD 70,000, reflecting the premium services and marketing strategies provided.

The management fees at Jellis Craig range from 5% to 6% of the annual rental income. For a high-end rental property generating AUD 60,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 3,000 to AUD 3,600, covering bespoke property management services.

9. Raine & Horne

Raine & Horne is one of Australia’s oldest real estate agencies, offering a wide range of services in residential, commercial, and rural markets.

In 2023, Raine & Horne facilitated over 45,000 property transactions, with a total sales volume of AUD 28 billion. A standout transaction included the sale of a rural estate in New South Wales’ Southern Highlands for AUD 5 million, showcasing their expertise in diverse property markets.
Raine & Horne manages over 150,000 properties across Australia, with a strong focus on residential and commercial property management. They manage a large portfolio of investment properties in Sydney’s Western Suburbs, ensuring high occupancy rates and consistent rental returns.
Raine & Horne’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 4% to 5.5%, with a focus on residential properties. For instance, they manage a series of apartments in Sydney’s Inner West, providing investors with a steady return of 5% annually.
Raine & Horne conducts over 100,000 appraisals annually, offering detailed and accurate property valuations. Recently, they appraised a commercial property in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, leading to a successful sale at AUD 3.5 million, which was closely aligned with their market valuation.

Raine & Horne typically charges a commission between 2.5% and 3.5% of the sale price. For example, selling a residential property for AUD 600,000 would result in a commission of AUD 15,000 to AUD 21,000, reflecting the level of service and marketing provided.

The management fees at Raine & Horne generally range from 6% to 7% of the annual rental income. For a residential property generating AUD 32,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 1,920 to AUD 2,240, covering tenant management, maintenance, and rent collection.

10. Professionals Real Estate

Professionals Real Estate is a cooperative network of independent real estate agents across Australia, known for their community focus and personalized service.

Professionals Real Estate completed over 30,000 property sales in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 18 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a coastal property in Western Australia’s Margaret River for AUD 1.8 million, highlighting their strength in regional markets.
Professionals Real Estate manages over 80,000 properties across Australia, focusing on providing tailored services to landlords and tenants. They manage a diverse portfolio of residential properties in Perth’s Northern Suburbs, ensuring high tenant retention rates.
Professionals Real Estate’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 3.5% to 5%, with a focus on residential and regional properties. They manage a series of rental homes in Tasmania’s Hobart, providing investors with a consistent return of 4.5% annually.
Professionals Real Estate conducts over 70,000 appraisals annually, offering detailed and accurate property valuations. Recently, they appraised a vineyard in South Australia’s Barossa Valley, leading to a successful sale at AUD 2 million, which was aligned with their market-driven valuation.

Professionals Real Estate typically charges a commission ranging from 2% to 3% of the sale price. For example, selling a property for AUD 400,000 might result in a commission of AUD 8,000 to AUD 12,000, depending on the level of service and marketing required.

The management fees at Professionals Real Estate generally range from 5.5% to 6.5% of the annual rental income. For a residential property generating AUD 20,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 1,100 to AUD 1,300, covering tenant management, property maintenance, and rent collection.

11. PRD Nationwide

PRD Nationwide is a well-established real estate brand known for its research-based approach to property transactions, providing clients with data-driven insights and services.

PRD Nationwide completed over 32,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 20 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a beachfront property in Queensland’s Sunshine Coast for AUD 3 million, showcasing their expertise in high-demand locations.
PRD Nationwide manages over 85,000 properties across Australia, focusing on providing data-driven management services to ensure optimal returns for landlords. They manage a large portfolio of investment properties in Brisbane’s inner suburbs, maintaining high occupancy rates and tenant satisfaction.
PRD Nationwide’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 4% to 5.5%, particularly in residential markets. For instance, they manage a series of coastal homes in New South Wales’ Byron Bay, providing investors with a steady return of 4.5% annually.
PRD Nationwide conducts over 80,000 appraisals annually, offering detailed and data-driven property valuations. Recently, they appraised a luxury apartment in Brisbane’s Kangaroo Point, leading to a successful sale at AUD 2.5 million, which was closely aligned with their market analysis.

PRD Nationwide typically charges a commission between 2% and 3% of the sale price. For example, selling a suburban home for AUD 500,000 might result in a commission of AUD 10,000 to AUD 15,000, reflecting the level of service and market analysis provided.

The management fees at PRD Nationwide generally range from 5.5% to 6.5% of the annual rental income. For a residential property generating AUD 25,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 1,375 to AUD 1,625, covering tenant management, maintenance, and market analysis.

12. Coronis Group

Coronis Group is a full-service real estate agency offering a holistic approach to property transactions, including sales, management, and financial services.

Coronis Group facilitated over 28,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 18 billion. A notable sale included a family home in Brisbane’s Northside for AUD 800,000, highlighting their strength in residential markets.
Coronis Group manages over 90,000 properties across Australia, offering comprehensive management services, including financial planning and property maintenance. They manage a substantial portfolio of rental properties in Brisbane’s southern suburbs, ensuring high occupancy rates and consistent returns.
Coronis Group’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 4% to 5%, particularly in residential areas. For example, they manage a collection of investment properties in Brisbane’s Redlands, providing investors with a reliable annual return of 4.5%.
Coronis Group conducts over 75,000 appraisals annually, providing market-driven property valuations supported by their financial expertise. Recently, they appraised a contemporary home in Brisbane’s Western Suburbs, leading to a successful sale at AUD 950,000, which was closely aligned with their expert valuation.

Coronis Group typically charges a commission between 2% and 3% of the sale price. For instance, selling a residential property for AUD 450,000 might result in a commission of AUD 9,000 to AUD 13,500, depending on the marketing and financial services provided.

The management fees at Coronis Group generally range from 5.5% to 6.5% of the annual rental income. For a property generating AUD 30,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 1,650 to AUD 1,950, covering property management, financial advice, and maintenance.

13. The Agency

The Agency is a modern real estate firm that has quickly established itself as a key player in the Australian market, with a focus on innovative marketing and technology-driven solutions.

The Agency completed over 20,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 15 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a waterfront property in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs for AUD 10 million, underscoring their expertise in luxury markets.
The Agency manages over 50,000 properties across Australia, with a focus on high-end residential properties. They manage a series of luxury homes in Sydney’s North Shore, ensuring premium returns and maintaining high tenant satisfaction.
The Agency’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 3.5% to 5.5%, particularly in luxury residential areas. For instance, they manage a series of high-end apartments in Sydney’s Barangaroo, providing investors with a consistent annual return of 4.5%.
The Agency conducts over 60,000 appraisals annually, specializing in high-value properties and providing accurate market valuations. Recently, they appraised a luxury penthouse in Sydney’s Darling Point, leading to a successful sale at AUD 7 million, which was closely aligned with their expert valuation.

The Agency typically charges a commission between 2% and 3% of the sale price. For example, selling a luxury apartment in Sydney’s CBD for AUD 1.5 million could result in a commission of AUD 30,000 to AUD 45,000, reflecting the advanced marketing and technology services provided.

The management fees at The Agency generally range from 5% to 6% of the annual rental income. For a high-end rental property generating AUD 60,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 3,000 to AUD 3,600, covering tenant management, property maintenance, and advanced marketing solutions.

14. Marshall White

Marshall White is a prestigious real estate agency specializing in luxury properties, particularly in Melbourne’s affluent suburbs.

Marshall White facilitated over 12,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 15 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a historic mansion in Melbourne’s South Yarra for AUD 6 million, underscoring their strength in the luxury market.

Marshall White manages over 25,000 properties, focusing on luxury residential markets in Melbourne’s affluent suburbs. They manage a portfolio of high-end homes in Melbourne’s Brighton, ensuring high occupancy rates and premium returns.
Marshall White’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 3% to 4.5%, particularly in luxury residential areas. For instance, they manage a series of high-end rental properties in Melbourne’s Albert Park, providing investors with a reliable annual return of 4%.
Marshall White conducts over 30,000 appraisals annually, specializing in high-value properties and providing accurate market valuations. Recently, they appraised a luxury penthouse in Melbourne’s Docklands, leading to a sale at AUD 4.5 million, closely aligned with their expert valuation.

Marshall White typically charges a commission between 2.5% and 3.5% of the sale price. For instance, selling a high-end property in Melbourne’s Toorak for AUD 5 million could result in a commission of AUD 125,000 to AUD 175,000, reflecting the premium services and bespoke marketing strategies provided.

The management fees at Marshall White generally range from 5% to 6% of the annual rental income. For a luxury rental property generating AUD 100,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 5,000 to AUD 6,000, covering tailored property management services.

15. Colliers International

Colliers International is a leading global real estate services firm, offering extensive commercial property services with a strong presence in Australia.

Colliers International facilitated over 15,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 35 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a prime office building in Sydney’s Martin Place for AUD 120 million, showcasing their expertise in high-value commercial markets.
Colliers International manages over 25,000 commercial properties across Australia, focusing on optimizing returns and providing comprehensive management services. They manage a portfolio of office spaces in Melbourne’s Docklands, ensuring high occupancy rates and tenant satisfaction.
Colliers International’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 6% to 8% for commercial properties. For instance, they manage a series of retail spaces in Brisbane’s Queen Street Mall, providing investors with a reliable annual return of 7%.
Colliers International conducts over 20,000 appraisals annually, specializing in commercial properties and providing market-driven valuations. Recently, they appraised a large warehouse in Sydney’s Western Suburbs, leading to a successful lease agreement at AUD 6 million annually, aligned with their expert valuation.

Colliers International typically charges a commission between 1.5% and 2.5% of the sale price for commercial transactions. For example, selling a commercial property in Sydney’s CBD for AUD 10 million could result in a commission of AUD 150,000 to AUD 250,000, reflecting their specialized commercial services.

The management fees at Colliers International generally range from 4.5% to 5.5% of the annual rental income for commercial properties. For a commercial property generating AUD 200,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 9,000 to AUD 11,000, covering property management, leasing, and market analysis.

16. Knight Frank Australia

Knight Frank is a prominent global real estate consultancy, specializing in commercial and residential properties with a significant presence in Australia.

Knight Frank completed over 12,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 25 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a landmark office building in Sydney’s Barangaroo for AUD 85 million, highlighting their expertise in premium markets.
Knight Frank manages over 20,000 properties across Australia, with a focus on both commercial and residential markets. They manage a portfolio of high-end residential properties in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, ensuring optimal returns and high tenant satisfaction.
Knight Frank’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 5% to 7% for commercial properties. For instance, they manage a series of office spaces in Melbourne’s CBD, providing investors with a reliable annual return of 6%.
Knight Frank conducts over 18,000 appraisals annually, specializing in both commercial and residential properties. Recently, they appraised a luxury apartment complex in Sydney’s Potts Point, leading to a successful sale at AUD 4 million, aligned with their market-driven valuation.

Knight Frank Australia typically charges a commission between 1.5% and 2.5% of the sale price for commercial transactions. For example, selling a commercial property in Sydney’s North Shore for AUD 8 million might result in a commission of AUD 120,000 to AUD 200,000, reflecting their high-end commercial services.

The management fees at Knight Frank generally range from 4.5% to 6% of the annual rental income for commercial properties. For a commercial property generating AUD 150,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 6,750 to AUD 9,000, covering management, leasing, and tenant relations.

17. CBRE Group

CBRE Group is a global leader in real estate services, offering a wide range of commercial property services with a strong presence across Australia.

CBRE Group completed over 18,000 property transactions in 2023, with a total sales volume of AUD 40 billion. A notable transaction included the sale of a prominent office tower in Melbourne’s CBD for AUD 150 million, showcasing their strength in high-value commercial markets.
CBRE Group manages over 30,000 commercial properties across Australia, focusing on maximizing returns and providing comprehensive management services. They manage a portfolio of office and retail spaces in Brisbane’s CBD, ensuring high occupancy rates and tenant satisfaction.
CBRE Group’s rental portfolio yields an average return of 6% to 8% for commercial properties. For instance, they manage a series of shopping centers in Sydney’s Western Suburbs, providing investors with a consistent annual return of 7%.
CBRE Group conducts over 25,000 appraisals annually, specializing in commercial properties and offering accurate market valuations. Recently, they appraised a large industrial property in Sydney’s South West, leading to a successful lease agreement at AUD 10 million annually, closely aligned with their expert valuation.

CBRE Group typically charges a commission between 1.5% and 2.5% of the sale price for commercial transactions. For example, selling a major retail property in Sydney for AUD 15 million might result in a commission of AUD 225,000 to AUD 375,000, reflecting their specialized commercial services.

The management fees at CBRE Group generally range from 4% to 5% of the annual rental income for commercial properties. For a commercial property generating AUD 250,000 annually, the management fee would be approximately AUD 10,000 to AUD 12,500, covering property management, leasing, and market insights.

Do I need a real estate agent to buy or sell a property in Australia?

While it is not legally required to use a real estate agent in Australia for buying or selling property, many individuals choose to work with an agent due to the numerous benefits they provide. Here’s a closer look at why hiring a real estate agent might be advantageous, along with examples that illustrate their value, as well as considerations for those who prefer to handle transactions on their own:

Advantages of Using a Real Estate Agent

Expertise and Market Knowledge:

Real estate agents possess extensive knowledge of the local property market, including trends, pricing, and neighborhood specifics. This expertise enables them to provide accurate property valuations and advice on the best time to buy or sell.

Suppose you’re selling a house in Sydney’s inner suburbs. A local agent can advise you on the most effective pricing strategy by comparing recent sales in the area, taking into account factors such as proximity to schools and transport, as well as current buyer demand. This ensures that you set a competitive price that attracts buyers while maximizing your return.

Experienced agents are skilled negotiators who can help you secure the best possible price, whether you’re buying or selling. They understand the nuances of negotiation and can manage discussions professionally.

Imagine you’re purchasing a home in Melbourne’s competitive market. An experienced agent can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you don’t overpay, especially in a multiple-offer situation, where they might secure the property for you at a price lower than your maximum budget.

Time and Convenience:

Buying or selling a property involves numerous tasks, including marketing, arranging inspections, handling inquiries, and completing legal paperwork. A real estate agent manages these responsibilities, saving you significant time and effort.

If you’re selling a rental property in Brisbane, a real estate agent can coordinate with tenants to arrange inspections at convenient times, reducing disruptions while ensuring potential buyers get to view the property. They’ll also handle follow-up inquiries and negotiate offers, allowing you to focus on other commitments.

Agents have access to a wide range of resources, including professional photographers, marketing platforms, and networks of potential buyers or sellers, which can help streamline the transaction process.

When listing a luxury home in Perth, an agent might use high-end marketing tools like virtual tours, drone photography, and targeted online advertising to attract wealthy buyers both locally and internationally, increasing your chances of a successful sale.

Marketing and Exposure:

Real estate agents know how to market properties effectively, using online listings, print advertising, and social media to reach a broad audience. Their marketing strategies are designed to attract serious buyers and achieve a quicker sale.

For a family home in Adelaide, an agent might create a comprehensive marketing campaign that includes a premium listing on Realestate.com.au, professional photos, a detailed property description, and even a feature in a local real estate magazine, ensuring maximum exposure.

Agents can arrange professional staging and photography to present your property in the best light, potentially increasing its appeal and value.

Selling an older home in Hobart? An agent may recommend staging the property with modern furniture to appeal to younger buyers, coupled with professional photography that highlights the home’s unique character and spacious layout.

Handling Legal and Administrative Tasks:

Real estate transactions require meticulous attention to legal documents, contracts, and compliance with state and federal regulations. Agents ensure all paperwork is correctly completed and submitted on time.

In Queensland, when selling a property, a Form 6 appointment document is required to engage an agent, and the Contract of Sale must include the correct cooling-off period and relevant disclosures. An agent will handle all these details, reducing the risk of legal issues later on.

An agent can help you navigate the legal aspects of buying or selling, including understanding your obligations under the law and avoiding potential pitfalls that could delay or jeopardize the transaction.

If you’re buying a property in Victoria, an agent can explain the implications of Section 32 (Vendor’s Statement) and ensure all necessary disclosures are made, protecting you from unforeseen issues after the purchase.

Considerations for Handling the Transaction Independently

Cost Savings:

By handling the transaction yourself, you can save on the commission fees typically charged by real estate agents, which can range from 1.5% to 3% of the sale price. However, you should weigh these savings against the potential challenges of managing the process on your own.

If you’re selling a $500,000 apartment in Darwin and choose to do it yourself, you could save around $7,500 to $15,000 in commission fees. However, consider whether the time and effort required are worth the savings.

Direct Control:

Some people prefer to be directly involved in every aspect of the sale or purchase, from setting the price to negotiating with buyers or sellers. Managing the process yourself allows for complete control over decisions and strategies.

If you’re passionate about real estate and have the time to dedicate, selling your own home in Canberra might allow you to set a price based on your personal assessment, host open houses, and negotiate directly with buyers to ensure your preferences are met.

Access to Information:

With the proliferation of online tools and platforms, many aspects of buying or selling property can be managed independently. Websites like Realestate.com.au and Domain.com.au provide listings, market data, and resources to assist DIY sellers and buyers.

If you’re looking to sell a property in the Gold Coast, you might list it on a popular real estate website, use an online valuation tool to estimate its worth, and handle inquiries and offers through email and phone, bypassing the need for an agent.

Even without an agent, it’s advisable to consult a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal aspects of the transaction. They can ensure that contracts are legally binding and that all necessary checks and balances are in place.

If you’re buying a property in Tasmania without an agent, a local solicitor can review the Contract of Sale and advise you on any potential risks, ensuring you’re fully informed before proceeding.

Challenges and Risks:

Managing the sale or purchase of property on your own can be time-consuming and stressful, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. From marketing to negotiating, the tasks can quickly become overwhelming.

If you’re working full-time and trying to sell your house in Alice Springs, finding time to market the property, arrange viewings, and negotiate with buyers might prove challenging, leading to delays and potentially missing out on the best offers.

Without an agent, your property may receive less exposure to potential buyers, which could result in a longer time on the market or a lower sale price.

If you’re selling a property in a rural area of Western Australia, you might struggle to reach buyers beyond your immediate locality. An agent with a broader network and marketing reach could attract more interest, potentially leading to a higher sale price.

The Bottom Line

While it’s possible to buy or sell property without a real estate agent, working with a professional can significantly simplify the process, reduce stress, and potentially lead to a better outcome.

The decision ultimately depends on your level of experience, comfort with the process, and willingness to invest time and effort into managing the transaction independently. For most people, the expertise, convenience, and peace of mind offered by a real estate agent make them a valuable partner in property transactions.

Resource: https://www.starinvestment.com.au/top-real-estate-agencies-australia/