Small property auction agency

Property sellers, including homeowners, investors, estates and developers, who pay commission and marketing costs.

A commission on each property sold, plus marketing fees from sellers. Income arrives when sales settle, so cash flow can be uneven.

• Sales and negotiation
• Property marketing
• Auction calling
• Managing contracts and trust accounts
• Building relationships with sellers and buyers

• Agency licensing and trust account rules differ by state and territory, so check what applies to you
• Professional indemnity and public liability insurance, plus workers compensation if you hire staff
• Leasing office premises means rent and fit-out costs, so check lease terms and any council requirements for signage or use
• Commission only income means slow months are possible, so plan a cash buffer
• Strict consumer law and auction conduct rules, so get proper training and legal advice

Startup costs are typically around $15,000 to $60,000, depending on your office, fit-out, insurance and marketing. These are estimates, so check lease terms and any council requirements for signage or use before committing.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many properties you sell and your commission. Income is commission-only, so slow months are possible and a cash buffer is wise.

Check agency licensing and trust account rules, which differ by state and territory. Also check professional indemnity and public liability insurance, workers compensation if you hire staff, and consumer law and auction conduct rules.