Negotiating contributions to the costs of selling a property is common in Victoria, though there aren’t fixed rules. As of December 2025, the majority of costs are traditionally borne by the seller, but certain expenses can be discussed with potential buyers.
Currently in Melbourne, the seller typically covers agent commission (usually 1.5-2.5% of the sale price), marketing expenses ($3,000 – $8,000 for a comprehensive campaign), legal fees, and conveyancing costs. However, a buyer might contribute towards building or pest inspection reports – these generally cost between $500 and $1,000 combined. In a slower market, like some pockets experienced in late 2025, buyers may request a contribution towards repairs identified in a building report, particularly in the Eastern Suburbs where established family homes are common. It’s less common to negotiate on preparation costs like styling ($2,000 – $8,000) or photography ($500 – $1,500), as these are seen as investments the seller makes to maximise the property’s appeal. Fletchers’ experience shows that transparency and clear communication during negotiations are key to a smooth process. In 2026, with moderate growth forecast, sellers in desirable locations may have less incentive to offer concessions.
Ultimately, cost allocation is a matter of negotiation, influenced by market conditions and the specific circumstances of the sale.