Questions Vendors Regularly Ask About VPA.
Vendors often have questions about advertising costs, payment timing and what happens if the property does not sell. Here are clear answers.
Vendors often have questions about advertising costs, payment timing and what happens if the property does not sell.
Agents should be ready to answer these questions clearly and without pressure.
Why do I have to pay for the advertising?.
In Australia, property advertising is generally paid for by the vendor.
The agent manages the campaign, but the vendor funds the marketing used to promote the property. This may include photography, online listings, signboards, print material, video and social media advertising.
Why isn’t the advertising included in the commission?.
Commission pays the agent for managing and negotiating the sale.
Marketing costs are separate expenses paid to photographers, property portals, printers, signboard companies and other suppliers.
Keeping these costs separate also allows the campaign to be designed around the property.
Do I have to pay upfront?.
Not always.
Depending on the agency and VPA provider, vendors may be able to:
- Pay the marketing costs upfront
- Pay using a credit card or direct deposit
- Apply to pay the costs at settlement or at an agreed later date
Approval criteria, fees and repayment terms will apply to pay-later arrangements.
What does the marketing budget include?.
The exact inclusions will depend on the campaign.
Common items include:
- Professional photography
- Floorplans
- Online property listings
- Signboards
- Brochures
- Video or drone photography
- Social media advertising
- Auction promotion
- Styling or staging
The agent should provide an itemised proposal before the vendor approves the campaign.
Can I choose a smaller campaign?.
Yes, but the agent should explain what may be lost by reducing the campaign.
Removing an item may lower the cost, but it may also reduce the property’s reach, presentation or ability to compete with similar listings.
The decision should be based on the property, target buyers and local market.
Does a larger campaign guarantee a higher price?.
No marketing campaign can guarantee a particular sale price.
A strong campaign is designed to:
- Reach more suitable buyers
- Present the property professionally
- Create greater awareness
- Support competition between interested buyers
The final result will also depend on the property, price, market and buyer demand.
What happens if the property does not sell?.
The marketing costs will usually still need to be paid because the advertising services have already been supplied.
If a pay-later option has been used, the repayment timing will depend on the provider’s terms and the reason the campaign ended.
This should be explained before the vendor agrees to the arrangement.
Are there additional fees for paying later?.
Usually, yes.
Pay-later VPA is a financial product or payment arrangement. Establishment fees, funding costs or other charges may apply.
The vendor should receive and review the provider’s full terms before applying.
Who approves the marketing expenses?.
The vendor should approve the campaign and costs before advertising begins.
Any later changes or additional expenses should also be discussed and approved. Clear written approval protects both the vendor and the agency.
Answering these questions early helps vendors make informed decisions and reduces confusion once the campaign begins.