How Real Estate Commission Works in Perth
In Western Australia, real estate agent commission is not regulated — agents set their own rates. The average sits around 2.5%, but rates can range from 1.5% to over 3% depending on the suburb, property type, and the agent's business model.
Commission is calculated on the final sale price and paid at settlement. On top of commission, most agents also charge marketing fees (photography, portal listings, signboards) upfront — typically $2,000 to $4,000.
That means selling a $842,000 home through a traditional agent could cost you $24,050+ in total agent fees (commission plus marketing).
Commission is negotiable in WA. But even a small percentage adds up fast — 2.5% of a million-dollar home is $25,000.
Commission vs Flat Fee at Every Price Point
The higher your property value, the more you save with a flat fee. Here's what 2.5% commission looks like compared to KeyHive's $8,000 fixed fee.
| Sale Price | 2.5% Commission | KeyHive Fee | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| $500,000 | $12,500 | $8,000 | $4,500 |
| $750,000 | $18,750 | $8,000 | $10,750 |
| $1,000,000 | $25,000 | $8,000 | $17,000 |
| $1,500,000 | $37,500 | $8,000 | $29,500 |
| $2,000,000 | $50,000 | $8,000 | $42,000 |
Based on 2.5% commission rate (Perth average). KeyHive fee of $8,000 inc GST paid at settlement. Marketing costs additional — same for both models.
What You Get for $8,000
KeyHive isn't a discount service cutting corners. For $8,000, you get a licensed real estate agent handling everything from appraisal to settlement — the same professional service a traditional agent provides, without the percentage-based fee.
Want to understand the difference between fixed fee and commission in more detail? Read our full comparison.
Common Questions About Commission in Perth
What is the average real estate commission in Perth?
The average commission rate in the Perth metropolitan area is around 2.5%. Rates vary by suburb and agent — some charge as low as 1.5%, others over 3%. Commission is always negotiable in Western Australia.
Is commission the only cost when selling?
No. Most agents charge marketing fees on top of commission — typically $2,000 to $4,000 for photography, signboards, and portal listings. With KeyHive, marketing costs are charged at cost and paid upfront to a trust account. The service fee is paid at settlement.
How does a flat fee agent make money?
KeyHive charges a fixed $8,000 service fee at settlement. Our business model is built on volume and referrals rather than taking a percentage of your sale price. The result: you keep more of your equity.
Do I get the same level of service with a flat fee?
With KeyHive, yes. Lauren is a licensed real estate agent who handles pricing strategy, negotiations, contract preparation, and settlement coordination — the same professional service as a traditional agent. Different fee model, same expertise.
More questions? Visit our FAQ page or see our full pricing breakdown.
Ready to save on agent fees?
Find out what your home is worth and see exactly how much you could save with KeyHive's flat fee service.