How Much Do Real Estate Agents Earn in NSW?

Real estate income in NSW varies widely because most agents are paid through commission rather than a fixed salary. This means their income is directly tied to the number of properties they sell each year and the value of those properties.

How commission-based income works

Agents are paid a fee when a property successfully sells. The commission structure is agreed upon between the agent and the owner before launching the campaign and can vary based on:

· The suburb

· The property type

· The level of service provided

· The experience and track record of the agent

· The strategy chosen for the sale

Because commission is performance-based, an agent’s income reflects their results rather than a standard hourly wage.

Why incomes vary so much across NSW

Some agents earn modest incomes while building experience, while others achieve higher income levels once they develop:

· Strong negotiation skills

· A reputation for premium results

· Consistent listing volume

· Deep knowledge of their core suburbs

· Long-term relationships and referral networks

Like many performance-driven industries, real estate rewards consistency, resilience and client trust.

What this means for someone considering a real estate career:

Real estate can offer strong earning potential, but it’s not guaranteed and not immediate. The first 1–2 years often involve learning the fundamentals and building confidence before meaningful income growth occurs. Over time, agents who master communication, negotiation and market knowledge tend to see the most success.