How high can the commission be?
The Austrian Real Estate Agents Regulation sets maximum rates. For a property with a purchase price above €48,448.51, the agent may charge the seller and the buyer each at most 3% of the purchase price, plus 20% VAT. Lower purchase prices have tiered rates.
When do I have to pay?
The agent's commission is a success fee: it's only due once a purchase contract comes about through the agent's work. If there's no sale, you usually pay nothing.
Does the orderer principle apply to sales too?
No. The orderer principle (“whoever hires the agent pays”) has applied only to letting rental apartments since July 1, 2023. When selling, both the seller and the buyer can pay a commission, just as before – each up to the maximum rate.
What should you look out for?
What matters isn't just the commission, but what you get for it: How will your property be presented? How many suitable buyers will the agent reach? How well will they negotiate for you? A higher sale price quickly makes up for the commission.
What does this mean for you as a seller?
Ask for a clear explanation of what the commission includes – valuation, photos, video, marketing, viewings and handling everything up to the key handover. We discuss our terms openly in the first meeting.
