Sell Your Home Privately in Perth: Keep More, Stay in Control

Selling your home is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions you’ll ever make. In Perth’s fast-paced property market, many homeowners believe that hiring a real estate agent is the only way to secure a great result. But that’s not the only option. Increasingly, sellers are choosing to sell privately as a smarter and more cost-effective alternative.

Also known as “for sale by owner” (FSBO), private house sales allow you to bypass agents, take charge of the process, and save thousands in commission fees. For those who prefer a hands-on approach, it can be one of the most rewarding ways to sell.

This guide explores the benefits of private house sales in Perth, how to prepare your home, and the steps needed to achieve the best outcome without relying on a traditional agent.

Why More Perth Homeowners Are Selling Privately

The Perth property market is diverse, ranging from inner-city apartments in East Perth to family homes in the northern suburbs and luxury coastal properties in Cottesloe. Demand is strong in many areas, but the cost of selling through an agent continues to rise. That’s why private selling has become increasingly popular.

Here are some of the main reasons homeowners are making the switch:

1. Save Thousands on Fees

Real estate agents in Perth usually charge between 1.6% and 3% of the final sale price, plus additional marketing costs. On a $1.2 million home, that could amount to $36,000 or more in commission. By selling privately, you retain that money—maximising your profit.

2. Stay in Control

When you sell privately, you control every decision. You set the asking price, decide when inspections take place, and negotiate directly with buyers. This control ensures your home is marketed and presented the way you believe it should be.

3. Speak Directly with Buyers

No one knows your property better than you. By dealing directly with buyers, you can highlight unique features and lifestyle benefits that an agent might overlook. Whether it’s a sun-filled living room, a quiet cul-de-sac, or easy access to Perth’s beaches, your personal insights help buyers connect emotionally with your home.

4. Modern Marketing at Your Fingertips

Digital platforms now make it simple for private sellers to achieve the same exposure as agents. You can list your property on leading real estate websites, create targeted social media ads, and use professional photography—all at a fraction of the cost of traditional campaigns.

Preparing Your Perth Home for Sale

First impressions matter. A well-prepared home stands out from the competition and attracts serious buyers.

• Declutter and Deep Clean – Remove personal items and unnecessary clutter so buyers can easily imagine themselves in the space. Clean thoroughly, including windows, carpets, and outdoor areas.

• Make Small Improvements – Fresh paint, updated lighting, or new plants in the garden can add significant value. These small upgrades often deliver a high return on investment.

• Stage for Success – Staging your home, either professionally or by yourself, helps buyers see its full potential. Use neutral colours, maximise natural light, and create warm, inviting spaces.

For example, in Perth’s family-friendly suburbs like Joondalup or Baldivis, staging a spare room as a children’s play area or home office can resonate strongly with local buyers.

Setting the Right Price

Pricing is one of the most important elements of any sale. Set it too high, and your home may sit on the market for months. Set it too low, and you risk leaving money on the table.

• Do Your Research – Use online property portals to check recent sales in your suburb. Look at homes similar in size, style, and condition.

• Seek a Professional Valuation – Even if you’re selling privately, you can hire an independent property valuer. This gives you an objective assessment and confidence when negotiating with buyers.

• Understand Perth Trends – Perth’s property market has its own rhythm. For example, coastal suburbs often attract premium prices in summer, while demand in the outer suburbs may rise with new infrastructure projects.

Marketing Your Property Without Agents

Marketing is where private sellers can really shine. Thanks to today’s tools, you can reach thousands of buyers without paying hefty agent advertising fees.

• Online Listings – Many private sale platforms allow you to advertise on major real estate websites like realestate.com.au and Domain.

• Social Media Advertising – Platforms such as Facebook and Instagram let you target buyers based on age, lifestyle, and location. A well-crafted ad can generate strong leads for a small cost.

• Professional Photography – Quality images are essential. Highlight natural light, open spaces, and lifestyle features such as outdoor entertaining areas or poolside settings.

• For Sale Boards – Don’t underestimate local interest. Neighbours often know someone looking to buy in the area.

Handling Enquiries and Open Homes

When you sell privately, you’re the first point of contact for buyers. While this may feel daunting at first, it can actually work in your favour.

• Be Responsive – Answer calls, emails, and messages promptly. Buyers appreciate timely communication.

• Plan Inspections Carefully – Schedule open homes during weekends or evenings when most buyers are available. Make sure your home is clean, bright, and inviting.

• Showcase Lifestyle Perks – Point out nearby parks, schools, shopping centres, or transport links. In Perth, proximity to the beach or the Swan River can also be a strong selling point.

Negotiating Offers

Negotiation is often the part sellers fear most, but with preparation, you can handle it effectively.

• Know Your Bottom Line – Decide on the lowest price you’re willing to accept before offers come in.

• Stay Calm and Professional – Keep emotions out of the process. Treat negotiations like a business transaction.

• Consider Terms as Well as Price – A lower offer with flexible settlement terms might suit you better than a higher offer with strict conditions.

Meeting Legal Obligations in WA

Even when selling privately, you must comply with Western Australian property laws.

• Contract for Sale – This legally binding document must be prepared by a solicitor or conveyancer.

• Vendor Disclosure – Sellers must provide buyers with accurate details about the property, including zoning, easements, and rates.

• Settlement Process – Engaging a professional settlement agent or solicitor ensures paperwork is completed correctly and deadlines are met.

Is Private Selling Right for You?

A private sale may not suit everyone. If you want a completely hands-off experience, an agent might still be your best choice. But for motivated homeowners, private sales offer significant benefits:

• Substantial savings on commission

• Greater control over the sales process

• Direct communication with buyers

• Flexible, low-cost marketing options

Many Perth homeowners are discovering that with the right preparation, they can achieve results equal to—or even better than—those delivered by agents.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home in Perth doesn’t have to mean handing over tens of thousands of dollars in commission. A private house sale empowers you to save money, stay in control, and connect directly with buyers. By preparing your home properly, setting the right price, marketing strategically, and meeting all legal requirements, you can achieve a smooth and successful sale.

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