Business broker fees and agency agreements in Queensland: what to check
How broker fees are usually structured, what to look for before you sign an agency agreement, and questions worth asking any broker.
By This article covers legal matters. It's general information to help you ask better questions, not advice for your situation. Velaro isn't a law firm, registered tax agent or licensed financial adviser. Please check anything important with a qualified adviser before you act.
In short
- Get the full fee structure in writing before signing anything.
- Check the exclusive period and any introduced-buyer clause carefully.
- Fixed-fee or hourly advice is an option if a buyer has already approached you.
If you're thinking about using a business broker, the agency agreement you sign sets out what you'll pay, for how long they have the right to sell your business and what happens if the business sells some other way. It's worth reading carefully, because it can affect your options for months.
How broker fees are usually structured
Most brokers charge a success fee when the business sells, usually calculated as a percentage of the sale price. Many also set a minimum fee, and some charge upfront fees for marketing, advertising or preparing an information memorandum.
Fees vary between brokers and are often negotiable. Ask for the full fee structure in writing, including GST, before you sign anything.
Exclusive periods
Most agreements give the broker an exclusive period to sell your business. During that time, you may owe the fee even if you find the buyer yourself.
Check how long the exclusive period lasts, how it can be ended and whether it rolls over automatically.
Introduced buyer clauses
Many agreements say you still owe commission if you sell, within a set period after the agreement ends, to a buyer the broker introduced. This protects the broker's work, but it can surprise owners who sell later.
Ask exactly how an introduction is defined and how long the clause lasts.
Questions worth asking any broker
How many businesses like mine have you sold in the last two years? How do you screen buyers before they see my information?
How will you keep the sale confidential from my staff and competitors? What do you think my business is worth, and why?
A good broker will answer clearly and won't mind you comparing them with others.
The alternative: fixed-fee or hourly advice
If a buyer has approached you directly, you may not need a full brokerage service. Some brokers, accountants and advisers will review an offer or help negotiate on a fixed or hourly fee.
That can give you professional support without committing to an exclusive listing.
Your checklist
What to do next
- Get the full fee structure in writing, including GST
- Check the exclusive period and how to end it
- Read the introduced buyer clause closely
- Ask how buyers are screened and confidentiality kept
- Compare at least two brokers
- Consider fixed-fee advice if you already have a buyer
Example
A fire services owner was about to sign a twelve-month exclusive agreement. His solicitor pointed out it rolled over automatically unless cancelled in writing. He negotiated a six-month term with no automatic renewal before signing.
An illustrative example, not a real client or transaction.
Questions owners ask
Are broker fees negotiable?+
Often, yes. It doesn't hurt to ask, especially for larger businesses or shorter exclusive periods.
Can I sell privately while my business is listed?+
Check your agreement. During an exclusive period, you may still owe the fee.
Do I need a broker to sell to Velaro?+
No. I'm a buyer and don't charge owners anything. You're welcome to have a broker or adviser review any offer on a fixed-fee basis.
Sources and further reading
Information checked against these sources as at October 2026. Rules and thresholds can change, so check the current position with your adviser.
Important
This article is general information only. It doesn't take your personal circumstances into account and isn't financial, legal, tax, employment or valuation advice. Velaro Group is a buyer of businesses. It isn't a business broker, licensed financial adviser, registered tax agent or law firm, and it doesn't act for sellers. Please get advice from your own accountant, solicitor or financial adviser before making any decision. Read the full disclaimer.
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