The Complete Guide to Selling Your Home Privately in Perth

Selling your home is one of the most significant financial and emotional decisions you will ever make. In Perth’s thriving property market, many homeowners still believe that engaging a real estate agent is the only way to achieve a great result. Yet more sellers are realising that they have another option — one that gives them control, saves thousands in fees, and can deliver outcomes just as strong as those achieved through agents.

Private selling, also known as for sale by owner (FSBO), puts you in the driver’s seat. It allows you to set the pace, manage the process on your own terms, and connect directly with buyers who are genuinely interested in your property. For many homeowners, this approach is not only more cost-effective but also far more satisfying.

This guide will show you why private selling is becoming increasingly popular across Perth, how to prepare your home for maximum appeal, and the steps you need to market, negotiate, and finalise your sale with confidence.

Why More Perth Homeowners Are Choosing to Sell Privately

Private sales are becoming increasingly popular across the city. From family homes in Baldivis and Joondalup, to stylish apartments in East Perth and Subiaco, to coastal properties in Scarborough and Cottesloe, sellers are discovering they can achieve excellent results without a traditional real estate agent.

Save Thousands on Commission

Real estate agents in Perth usually charge between 1.6 and 3 percent of the final sale price, plus marketing fees. On a $900,000 home, that means $20,000 to $27,000 in costs. By selling privately, you can keep that money in your own pocket.

Stay in Control

You make the decisions about pricing, inspections, and marketing. There is no waiting for an agent to return your call and no need to rely on someone else for updates. You remain fully involved at every stage.

Build a Stronger Connection with Buyers

Nobody knows your property better than you. When you speak directly with potential buyers, you can highlight the lifestyle benefits that matter most. That might be living close to Perth’s beaches, easy access to schools in Joondalup, or a quick commute to the CBD.

Access Professional Tools Without Agents

Modern online platforms now give private sellers the same resources that agents use. You can list your home on major real estate websites, hire professional photographers, and advertise on social media, often for a fraction of the cost.

Step 1: Prepare Your Home for Sale

Presentation makes a lasting impression on buyers. The better your property looks, the greater your chance of securing strong offers.

• Declutter and clean thoroughly. Remove personal belongings and make kitchens, bathrooms, and windows sparkle.

• Consider small upgrades such as a fresh coat of paint, new fittings, or neat landscaping to improve appeal.

• Stage your home to highlight its strengths. Arrange furniture to create space and natural light. In coastal areas, showcase outdoor living. In family suburbs, emphasise child-friendly features.

Step 2: Set the Right Price

Choosing the right price is critical for attracting serious buyers.

• Research recent sales in your suburb to understand the current market.

• Obtain a professional valuation from a licensed valuer for an accurate price guide.

• Stay aware of seasonal and local trends. For example, coastal properties often attract more attention in summer.

Step 3: Market Your Property Effectively

Marketing is where private sellers can stand out. With the right strategy, you can reach thousands of buyers without paying inflated agency costs.

• List on major real estate websites using a private sale platform.

• Use professional photography to make your listing stand out. High-quality images lead to more enquiries.

• Run targeted social media ads on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram to attract your ideal buyer.

• Place a for sale sign outside your home to capture local interest.

Step 4: Handle Enquiries and Inspections

Timely communication and well-planned inspections are key to building buyer trust.

• Be available to answer calls, emails, and messages quickly.

• Schedule open homes at times convenient for buyers, such as weekends or evenings.

• Emphasise lifestyle benefits, whether that means nearby parks, shopping centres, schools, or transport links.

Step 5: Negotiate with Confidence

Negotiating may feel daunting, but with preparation you can handle it effectively.

• Decide on your lowest acceptable price before entering discussions.

• Be open to negotiation on settlement dates or inclusions, as these can be just as valuable as price.

• Stay calm and professional, focusing on outcomes that satisfy both you and the buyer.

Step 6: Understand Your Legal Obligations in WA

Selling privately requires compliance with Western Australian property laws.

• Ensure you have a valid contract for sale prepared by a solicitor or conveyancer.

• Provide accurate vendor disclosures such as zoning, strata fees, or easements.

• Engage a licensed settlement agent to manage contracts, payments, and title transfers.

Is Selling Privately Right for You

Private selling may not suit everyone. If you want a completely hands-off process, then hiring an agent might be more convenient. However, for homeowners who are motivated to take control, the benefits are clear.

You can save thousands in fees, stay in full control, market your home affordably and professionally, and deal directly with genuine buyers. Many Perth homeowners who choose this path find they achieve results equal to or even better than those using an agent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to sell my home privately in Perth?
Yes. Private selling is entirely legal in Western Australia, as long as you meet disclosure requirements, use a valid sale contract, and complete settlement correctly.

How much money can I save by selling privately?
Savings vary depending on your property’s value, but many sellers save between $10,000 and $30,000 by avoiding commissions and inflated marketing charges.

How do buyers find private listings?
Through the same channels agents use. Your property can appear on major real estate websites, social media, and local signage.

Do I need a settlement agent if I sell privately?
Yes. A settlement agent or solicitor is essential to ensure the transfer of contracts, payments, and titles is completed properly.

Can selling privately help me achieve a higher price?
It can. Buyers often prefer negotiating directly with owners, and with good presentation and smart marketing, private sellers can achieve highly competitive results.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home in Perth does not have to mean paying tens of thousands of dollars in commissions. With careful preparation, effective marketing, and confidence in negotiation, you can sell privately, stay in control, and maximise your profit.

Discover the benefits of using Realty Network. Our easy-to-use platform allows you to list your property, manage your own sale or rental, and sell without agents while saving money and reaching a wide audience.