Maximising Value When Selling Your Property on the Gold Coast

Maximising Value When Selling Your Property on the Gold Coast in 2025

Are you thinking about how to maximise the value of your Gold Coast property? Selling is much more than just placing your home on the market. It’s about understanding timing, perfecting presentation and navigating the nuances of the local property landscape.

Buyers want to know:

• What makes your property unique?
• How does your property compare with others?
• What price truly reflects your property’s value?

These important questions need to be answered to ensure your best selling outcome.

In this article, I’ll take you step-by-step through the process to ensure you’re equipped with everything you need to know about successfully selling your Gold Coast property.

Master Your Gold Coast Property Selling Budget

I have created a FREE Gold Coast Home Selling Costs Calculator that will help you estimate various costs involved in selling your property. My calculator accounts for common expenses; agency commission, legal fees, and marketing—as well as potential hidden costs, such as repairs, landscaping, professional cleaning, moving expenses, etc.

By providing a detailed estimate, my property selling costs calculator allows you to plan your budget, make informed decisions, and avoid most unexpected financial surprises.

Understanding Real Estate Commission Rates on the Gold Coast

It’s usually the very first question asked, “How much do you charge to sell a property, what’s your commission rate?” Gold Coast real estate commission rates typically range from 2% to 4.5%, with the average across Queensland being 2.7%. However, it’s essential to look beyond rates alone—a good agent can greatly influence the outcome of your sale.

I have created a commission rates comparison calculator to help you understand the true value of a good agent. I have combined my calculator with a detailed article on Gold Coast Real Estate Commission Rates. This resource clears away marketing noise created by internet companies and shows why a good agent is essential for a successful property sale.

When is the Best Time to Sell Your Property on the Gold Coast?

While southeast Queensland enjoys year-round demand, certain seasons can be more favourable for sellers. Traditionally, the spring and summer months are prime times for selling, as the warmer weather brings more buyers out.

However, market conditions and personal circumstances should also factor into your timing. It’s essential to consult with a local real estate agent to understand the best window of opportunity for your specific property.

Preparing Your Property for Sale

First impressions count, and preparing your property for sale can make all the difference. Start by decluttering and deep-cleaning every room; clean one room at a time, and you will get through this mammoth task.

Repairs and maintenance should be handled upfront—whether it’s a leaky tap, carpets that need professional cleaning, or chipped paint that should be addressed, small issues can turn off potential buyers, or trigger them into looking for what else could be wrong with your property.

Consider upgrading key areas like the kitchen or bathroom if your budget permits, as these are often the selling points that can increase your property’s value.

Staging Your Home for Maximum Appeal

Staging is truly an art, it can transform your property and help buyers visualise themselves living there. From rearranging furniture to adding decorative touches, staging creates a welcoming environment that highlights the best features of your home.

Get someone else to look at your interior with fresh eyes, ask for a really honest opinion and ask them to seriously hold nothing back. Your job is not to take offence, but to note the points and see if you can address each one.

If you’re selling a property anywhere on the Gold Coast, staging it to reflect the coastal lifestyle can make it even more appealing to potential buyers.

The Role of Photography in Your Property Listings

Great photography is essential in today’s digital-first real estate market; this is the place where your home will first be seen. Professional photos can showcase your property in the best light, literally and figuratively. Bright, high-resolution images that capture your property’s key features—whether it’s ocean views, modern interiors, spacious outdoor areas, or close to sort-after amenities — can significantly increase buyer interest.

Certainly don’t skimp on this step; quality photos are often the first thing that attracts potential buyers to your listing.

Creating a Winning Marketing Strategy

Selling a property on the Gold Coast requires more than just listing it on a few websites. A well-rounded marketing strategy will target the right audience and maximise your exposure.

This can include online listings, social media promotion, print advertising, open homes or private viewings.

Tailor your marketing budget to your property type and location, ensuring that you reach potential buyers, whether they’re locals or interstate investors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Property

Selling a property can be a complex process, and there are common mistakes that can cost you time and money. One of the biggest mistakes is overpricing your property, which can deter buyers and lead to a longer time on the market.

Failing to properly prepare your home for sale, neglecting to stage it, or skimping on marketing are other missteps that can affect your sale. By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, more successful and less stressful selling experience.

How to Set the Right Price for Your Property

Pricing your property correctly is one of the most important aspects of selling. I will start with a Comparative Market Analysis report to determine what similar properties in your area have sold for and are currently listed for sale.

I will work closely with you as your real estate agent to find the right price for your property—too high, and you will scare off potential buyers; too low, and you risk leaving money on the table.

Setting your best price will attract the right buyers and lead to a quicker sale.

What Happens When You Overprice Your Property?

Overpricing is becoming a huge factor as the market shows signs of cooling; I have a dedicated page on this subject and a very detailed mini eBrochure about an Ashmore homeowner who tried to sell their over-priced property for 4 years, churning through 21 real estate agents in the process.

Overpricing your property can lead to significant delays in selling. Properties listed above market value tend to sit on the market longer, and the longer a property sits unsold, the more it can be perceived as undesirable, or there simply must be something wrong with it.

You may eventually have to reduce the price, but by then, the momentum of the listing has been lost. For more insights, check out my comprehensive article on What Happens When You Try to Sell a Property Above Market Value.

Negotiating Offers Like a Pro

Once offers begin, it’s time to negotiate. This is where your real estate agent’s expertise comes into play. A skilled negotiator can help you get the best possible deal by balancing price, terms, and conditions.

Don’t be afraid to counter-offer, but also be realistic about what the market will bear. It’s all about finding that win-win scenario where both parties are satisfied.

Legal Considerations When Selling Your Property

Selling property comes with legal obligations that vary depending on the type of property and its location.

Navigating the legal aspects of selling your property is crucial to ensure a smooth transaction. On the Gold Coast, you’ll need to authorise a Form 6 agreement that includes a property disclosure statement. This includes essential details about the property such as any encumbrances, easements, zoning regulations, and building approvals.

Engaging a solicitor or conveyancer early in the process can help you manage contracts, meet all legal requirements, and protect your interests during the sale.

Remember, it’s vital to understand your legal responsibilities as a seller to avoid any post-sale complications. From settling outstanding rates to ensuring proper contract execution, a well-prepared legal plan will save you time and stress.

How Long Does it Take to Sell Your Property?

The time it takes to sell a property on the Gold Coast can vary depending on a range of factors, including location, price, and market conditions.

On average, properties can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to sell. Homes in high-demand areas or priced competitively are more likely to sell quickly, while properties that are overpriced or require significant renovations may take a lot longer to attract buyers.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and be prepared for the possibility that your property might not sell immediately. Patience, combined with a solid marketing and pricing strategy will increase your chances of a timely sale.

How Property Auctions Work on the Gold Coast

Auctions are a popular method of selling property on the Gold Coast, particularly for homes in high-demand areas. The auction process is usually fast-paced and transparent, with buyers bidding in real time to secure the property.

One of the benefits of auctions is that they can create a sense of urgency and competition among buyers, which can lead to higher sale prices.

If you decide to sell your property by auction, as your real estate agent I will help you set a reserve price — the minimum amount you’re willing to accept. Once the bidding reaches this amount, the property is sold to the highest bidder.

Keep in mind that auctions require preparation and a lot of marketing to attract potential buyers, so we will need to work closely to ensure a successful outcome.

Closing the Sale: What to Expect

After accepting an offer or selling your property at auction, the focus shifts to closing the sale.

This crucial phase involves finalising the contract, meeting all conditions, and officially transferring ownership to the buyer.

One of the key steps during closing is the settlement, where the buyer pays the remaining balance of the purchase price.

Your solicitor or conveyancer will guide you through this process, ensuring that all legal documents are properly prepared and executed.

They will coordinate with the buyer’s representatives, manage financial transfers, and oversee the final settlement process.

This phase can take several weeks, so staying organised and maintaining clear communication with your legal team and the buyer is essential.

Doing so will help avoid any last-minute hiccups and ensure a smoother transition from contract to closure.

After the Sale: What’s Next for You?

Congratulations—you’ve sold your property! But the process doesn’t end there. After the sale is finalised, there are a few things you’ll need to take care of.

First, make sure you’ve settled any outstanding bills or taxes associated with the property. You’ll also need to finalise utilities and services, and if you’ve been living in the property, it’s time to start planning your move.

You may want to consider leaving behind a welcome package for the new owners with essential information about the property, such as manuals for appliances, details about local services, and any other useful tips. This gesture not only shows goodwill but can also help ensure a smooth transition for the new occupants.

Achieving a Successful Sale

Selling your property on the Gold Coast can be a rewarding experience, especially with the right preparation, strategy, and support from professionals. From understanding the local market and pricing your property correctly to staging, marketing, and navigating legalities, each step plays a crucial role in achieving a successful sale.

By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can confidently move forward in your property-selling journey, whether you’re selling a beachfront apartment, a family home, or a commercial space. The Gold Coast is an incredible place to call home, and selling your property here opens doors to new opportunities.

TOP 10 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SELLING YOUR PROPERTY ON THE GOLD COAST

Q1. HOW MUCH ARE GOLD COAST REAL ESTATE COMMISSION RATES AND SHOULD I GO WITH THE CHEAPEST?

Gold Coast real estate commission rates can range from 2% to 4.5% or greater, choosing the right agent is about more than just cost. Lower fees may seem attractive at first, but they can sometimes lead to a lower sale price… Check out my full article for more details. 

Q2. HOW CAN I SELL MY HOUSE FAST ON THE GOLD COAST?

The answer is to choose experienced local Gold Coast real estate agents, set a realistic selling price, timing is key, consider auctions, craft an effective marketing strategy, enhance curb appeal, stage your home, prepare the interior… Check out my full article for more details.

Q3. SHOULD I STAGE MY HOME WHEN I SELL IT ON THE GOLD COAST?

The short answer is yes, the benefits of home staging are; that you could sell your home faster, get a higher asking price, make a good first impression, attract more buyers, highlight your home’s best features… Check out my full article for more details.

Q4. WHAT ARE THE STEPS INVOLVED IN SELLING A HOUSE ON THE GOLD COAST?

Start by preparing your Gold Coast property for sale, request a Comparative Market Analysis report, set a marketing budget, approve a Form 6 agreement… Check out my full article for more details.

Q5. WHAT ARE THE COMMON PITFALLS TO AVOID WHEN SELLING A PROPERTY ON THE GOLD COAST?

The answer is, overpricing, poor presentation, poor marketing, neglecting repairs, misleading information, ignoring curb appeal, unrealistic expectations… Check out my full article for more details.

Q6. WHAT IS MY HOUSE WORTH ON THE GOLD COAST?

Firstly, you should obtain a Comparative Market Analysis report, next, research comparable sales, use online property pricing guide tools, look at local market trends, consult several experts, consider recent upgrades… Check out my full article for more details.

Q7. DO I NEED TO MAKE ANY REPAIRS OR RENOVATIONS BEFORE LISTING MY PROPERTY FOR SALE ON THE GOLD COAST?

The short answer is, yes, first impressions do matter. Improving the exterior of your property can attract potential buyers and increase its overall appeal… Check out my full article for more details.

Q8. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU TRY TO SELL A PROPERTY ABOVE MARKET VALUE ON THE GOLD COAST?

Trying to sell above market value, means that you are limiting your potential buyers to those that are fully cashed up… Check out my full article for more details.

Q9. WHAT TO WATCH FOR WHEN SELLING A HOUSE ON THE GOLD COAST

Getting emotional, not hiring local Gold Coast real estate agents, setting an unrealistic price, expecting the asking price, selling during winter, not using quality listing photos, trying to ignore legal requirements, hiding major problems… Check out my full article for more details.

Q10. WHAT MARKETING STRATEGIES DO YOU RECOMMEND TO ATTRACT POTENTIAL BUYERS?

When selling property on the Gold Coast, effective marketing strategies are crucial to attracting potential buyers and maximising exposure for your property. Check out my full article for more details.

20 STEPS to SELLING your Gold Coast HOME

As your local independent Gold Coast real estate agents, we know that selling your home can be a stressful process, however, with the right steps it can be a smooth, stress-free journey.

My simplified guide will take you through a 20-step process for selling your property anywhere on the Gold Coast; I proudly sell homes across the entire Gold Coast.

So, what are the steps to selling a house on the Gold Coast?

Navigating the intricacies of selling your property on the Gold Coast can be complex, however, it doesn’t have to be. My 20-step guide provides a simplified general overview; your steps may vary.

Common Problems and Struggles when Choosing a Gold Coast Real Estate Agent to Sell Your Property:

• Unrealistic Price Promises – Some agents inflate expected sale prices to secure your listing, only to later push for price reductions.
  
  
• Lack of Transparency – Some agents fail to provide clear updates on buyer interest, feedback, and the overall sales process.
  
  
• Weak Negotiation Skills – Some agents focus on quick sales rather than securing the best possible price, leaving sellers with less-than-ideal outcomes.
  
  
• Poor Communication – Slow responses to calls and emails leave you feeling ignored and out of the loop.
  
  
• Inadequate Marketing Strategies – Ineffective online strategies that limit buyer interest.

Common Mistakes and Lessons Learned: Shared by Home owners who have previously sold a property on the Gold Coast:

• Choosing the Wrong Agent: I picked an agent purely based on the lowest commission rate, thinking I was saving money.  In hindsight, the old saying ‘you get what you pay for’ couldn’t be more true.
  
  
• Going with Large, Well-known Agencies: I assumed they’d provide better service.
  
  
• Highest Price: I mistakenly chose an agent based solely on the highest estimated selling price; it wasn’t achievable, as we eventually found out.
  
  
• Underestimating the Costs of Selling: I forget about conveyancing costs, staging costs, the need for a maintenance man and gardener to make our property look good.
  
  
• Setting the Wrong Price: I priced my property too high, and it scared off buyers.  The agent even warned me that this was likely to happen.
  
  
• Poor Marketing Strategy: I relied solely on a listing on realestate.com.au, which wasn’t enough. I should have invested in high quality photos, a video tour of the property and social media marketing.
  
  
• Not Staging or Preparing the Property Properly: I chose to overlook minor repairs, and our poor presentation, along with too much personalisation, turned off buyers.
  
  
• Selling at the Wrong Time: I didn’t realise that seasons do impact property prices.
  
  
• Holding Out for an Unrealistic Price: I rejected reasonable offers, only to sell for less months later.
  
  
• Failing to Disclose Issues: I hid problems (structural defects) that caused buyers to back out of the contract. As I found out, most building and pest control companies are good at what they do.
  
  
• Not Having a Backup Plan: I assumed I could easily buy my next home, but struggled in a competitive market.  I should have chosen to rent for a while; it would have been less stressful, and given us some breathing room to find our perfect new home.
  
  
• Overlooking the Power of First Impressions: As I discovered, buyers judge a house within seconds of seeing it. I should have focused more on the entrance, the gardens and given the house a fresh coat of paint where it was needed.
  
  
• Not Negotiating Settlement Terms: I regretted not pushing for a longer settlement to give ourselves more time to move.

Your Property Success Story; It Starts HERE

• I am your agent, I work for you. I am here to give you honest, realistic price expectations from the outset.
  
  
• I will create a tailored marketing strategy for you, showcasing your property’s unique features.
  
  
• I will provide you with regular updates on buyer interest and feedback.
  
  
• As your agent, I will negotiate skilfully to achieve the best possible price for you.
  
  
• I will provide you with transparency throughout the sales process, from listing to settlement.

Remember, selling your home doesn’t have to be daunting.
Being a team member of strong, local, independent Gold Coast real estate agents,
I’ll have you well on your way to a successful property sale.

Are you ready for a casual chat?
Let’s get you Selling
LET’S GET YOU SOLD

Phone Me Now, Craig Douglas 0418 189 963

Professional | Knowledgeable | Experienced

You can find me at a Boutique Real Estate Agency

THE AGENT YOU KNOW

Author – Craig Douglas

Please Note: The information contained in this document is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The laws and regulations governing the sale of property in Queensland are complex and constantly changing. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified property lawyer or conveyancer before making any decisions about the sale of your property. This document does not take into account your individual circumstances and may not apply to your situation. By reading this document you agree that you have not relied on the information contained herein and that you will seek independent legal advice before taking any action.

This page was proudly created by Craig Douglas, your local independent Gold Coast real estate agent, working for a Boutique Real Estate Agency. Selling residential and commercial properties, from those that are awe-inspiring, through to a diamond-in-the-rough, otherwise known as a “renovator’s delight”.

I negotiate and sell on behalf of property owners who want to get the best possible price, with the least amount of hassle. Let’s chat about the process of selling your property, let’s get you started – 0418 189 963