Should i invest in house or retail (shop front)

Statutory Fees will be the same regardless of the type of property investment that you choose ie it is based on the value of the transaction. If it is a commercial/retail property you may have to pay gst on top of the sale price – seek advice in this regard.

As to whether retail or residential is better – only your research will show which provides a better return or lesser opportunity cost. Banks are generally more weary in lending for commercial purposes and may impose stricter conditions like lower LVR, mortgagee consent for leasing/parting with the property and the like.

Residential property returns may be considered more stable than other property investments however you can achieve some great long term tenures in commercial ventures (ie you must offer a minimum term of 5 years to a retail tenant under some RTA state laws) however tenants can request less.