Real estate agents often have some of the highest work-related expenses of any profession vehicles, marketing, licensing, and constant travel between properties yet many still underclaim simply because they’re not sure what qualifies. However, understanding the full range of deductions available makes a meaningful difference given how much agents typically spend to do their job.
Vehicle running costs. With regular travel between listings, inspections, and client meetings, a properly maintained logbook can support a substantial vehicle deduction one of the largest claims available to most agents.
Parking and tolls. Costs incurred while travelling for work, including parking at inspections or client meetings, are generally deductible.
Advertising and marketing expenses. Costs not reimbursed by your agency including personal branding, signage, or promotional materials are typically deductible.
Client gifts. Within reasonable limits, gifts given to clients in connection with generating business may be deductible, though the rules here are specific and worth confirming.
Photography and styling costs. Where agents personally cover costs for listing photography or property styling not reimbursed by the vendor or agency, these are often claimable.
Real estate licence renewal. Fees paid to maintain your licence or registration are generally deductible.
Professional development and CPD. Courses and training required to maintain your licence or improve your skills are typically claimable.
Industry association memberships. Membership fees for real estate industry bodies are generally deductible.
Mobile phone costs. The work-related portion of your phone bill, given how central it is to client communication, is often a significant claim.
CRM and software subscriptions. Tools used to manage listings, client relationships, or marketing campaigns are typically deductible if not reimbursed by your agency.
Home office costs. For agents doing admin work, follow-ups, and marketing from home, a portion of running costs may be claimable.
Business attire is generally not deductible, even though presentation matters significantly in real estate this is one of the most commonly misunderstood rules, since standard clothing (even if required to “look professional”) doesn’t meet the ATO’s definition of a deductible uniform.
Not keeping a logbook. Given how much vehicle-related deductions matter for agents, an inaccurate or missing logbook is one of the costliest oversights.
Assuming all marketing spend is automatically deductible. Costs reimbursed by the vendor or agency shouldn’t be claimed again personally.
Overlooking smaller recurring costs. Individually small expenses like CRM subscriptions or association fees add up significantly across a full year.
EBATS works with real estate agents to properly claim vehicle, marketing, and licensing deductions while avoiding the common mistakes that lead to a smaller refund than you’re entitled to.
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