How Mark and Sarah saved $19,200 in selling costs when downsizing

A smaller home and a new chapter

Mark and Sarah wanted to downsize. Choosing an agent was the step they kept putting off.

After 11 years in their four-bedroom Brisbane family home, their children had moved out and maintaining the garden was becoming a chore. They wanted a smaller home and to release equity for their next chapter.

For nearly five months, they hesitated. They were concerned about comparing confident sales pitches, judging appraisal figures and being followed up before they felt ready to commit. A colleague suggested speaking with BrokerMyAgent. They contacted us before approaching a real estate agency.

Their concerns about choosing an agent

Mark and Sarah wanted a clearer understanding of their property's likely market position and the costs of selling. They also wanted support comparing agents, rather than having to assess every recommendation on their own.

The question was not simply who offered the highest appraisal or the lowest commission. It was which agent had relevant experience, a sound plan for their property and a proposal they understood.

Comparing evidence, agent proposals and selling costs

We reviewed local settlement data to assess the property's market position, then researched local agents and their transaction histories. We shortlisted two agents with relevant experience and buyer databases for four-bedroom homes.

Both were invited to submit proposals for comparison. This gave Mark and Sarah a structured way to assess the agents' recommendations, proposed marketing and fees before making their choice.

As part of our service, we review agents' selling proposals, commission and marketing costs, and challenge anything that doesn't stack up. For Mark and Sarah, the agreed reductions were $15,000 in commission and $4,200 in marketing, a combined saving of $19,200.

Our support continued during the campaign. We reviewed buyer feedback with the agent and helped Mark and Sarah understand the information and decisions in front of them.

The appointed sales agent conducted the campaign, dealt with buyers and negotiated the property sale. BrokerMyAgent's role was agent selection, appraisal and proposal review, review of selling costs, and seller support.

The result of their Brisbane sale

Their property sold with competing offers for $1,435,000, which was $55,000 above their reserve target. They saved $15,000 on agent commission and $4,200 on marketing. No seller advocacy fee was charged to them.

These figures relate to this client's sale. Savings and sale outcomes vary with the property, agent proposals and market conditions; they are not a promise of another seller's result.

What other downsizing sellers can take from their experience

Getting advice before appointing an agent gives you an opportunity to compare the evidence, question the proposed costs and understand the plan before signing.

You do not need to wait until your home is ready for photography to have that conversation. Mark and Sarah contacted us while they were still considering their next move.

Our seller advocacy service is free for sellers. Agents pay us a standard introduction fee out of their own budget, never your pocket. You remain free to choose your preferred agent. We help property owners Australia-wide.