Selling a house is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. While many homeowners rely on real estate agents to manage the sale, an increasing number of Australians are opting to sell without agents. Thanks to online property platforms and accessible marketing tools, selling privately has never been easier.
Choosing to sell without agents allows you to avoid hefty commission fees while maintaining full control over the process. But how do you ensure a smooth and successful sale? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to selling your home privately and achieving the best possible outcome.
1. Understand the Market
Before listing your home, it’s crucial to research the current property market. Look at recent sales in your area, study pricing trends, and assess demand. Factors like interest rates, local economic conditions, and housing supply can all impact your sale.
How to Research Effectively:
- Check real estate websites for recent sale prices of comparable properties.
- Visit open homes in your neighborhood to see how your property stacks up.
- Read market reports from property research firms or banks.
- Consider using online valuation tools to estimate your home’s worth.
Understanding the market will help you set a competitive price and attract serious buyers.
2. Set the Right Price
Pricing is one of the most critical aspects of selling a home privately. If you price too high, you may scare off buyers. If you price too low, you might miss out on maximizing your profit.
How to Set an Accurate Price:
- Use recent comparable sales as a benchmark.
- Get a professional property valuation (optional but useful).
- Take into account your home’s condition, location, and unique features.
- Be open to adjusting the price based on buyer interest and feedback.
A well-priced home attracts more inquiries and leads to a faster sale.
3. Prepare Your Home for Sale
First impressions matter! Before listing your home, take the time to make it as attractive as possible. Buyers want to envision themselves living in the space, so creating a clean, bright, and welcoming environment is essential.
Home Preparation Checklist:
✔ Declutter and depersonalize—remove excess furniture and personal items.
✔ Clean thoroughly—pay special attention to kitchens, bathrooms, and windows.
✔ Make minor repairs—fix leaky taps, squeaky doors, and chipped paint.
✔ Improve curb appeal—mow the lawn, trim hedges, and add fresh plants.
✔ Stage your home—consider arranging furniture to highlight space and functionality.
A well-presented home can increase your selling price and attract more potential buyers.
4. Market Your Property
Without an agent, marketing your home effectively is key to reaching buyers. The good news? There are plenty of affordable (and even free) ways to get your listing noticed.
How to Market Your Home Effectively:
- List on real estate websites – Platforms like Property24 allow you to showcase your home to thousands of buyers.
- Use high-quality photos – Professional photos can make a huge difference in generating interest.
- Write a compelling listing description – Highlight your home’s best features, location benefits, and lifestyle appeal.
- Leverage social media – Share your listing on Facebook, Instagram, and community groups.
- Use signage – A "For Sale" sign outside your home can attract local buyers.
The more exposure your property gets, the more inquiries and offers you’ll receive.
5. Handle Buyer Inquiries & Inspections
Once your listing is live, expect potential buyers to start reaching out. Respond promptly to inquiries and schedule inspections at convenient times.
Tips for Conducting Inspections:
- Be friendly and professional—greet buyers warmly and provide honest answers.
- Highlight key selling points—mention recent renovations, energy efficiency, or local amenities.
- Let buyers explore—give them space to walk through the property at their own pace.
- Collect feedback—ask for their thoughts to gauge interest and make improvements if needed.
Being proactive and accommodating can help turn interested buyers into serious offers.
6. Negotiate the Best Deal
When an interested buyer makes an offer, it’s time to negotiate. Without an agent, you’ll be handling negotiations directly—but don’t worry! With a little preparation, you can secure a great deal.
Negotiation Tips:
- Stay calm and professional—avoid emotional decisions.
- Know your bottom line—decide on the lowest price you’re willing to accept.
- Consider counteroffers—if an offer is too low, negotiate terms instead of rejecting outright.
- Be clear on conditions—agree on settlement terms, deposit amounts, and any included items (e.g., appliances).
Once you reach an agreement, it’s time to move on to the legal side of the sale.
7. Finalize the Legal Process
Selling a home privately doesn’t mean skipping legal requirements. You’ll need a conveyancer or solicitor to handle contracts and ensure a smooth settlement.
Legal Steps to Finalize the Sale:
- Draft the contract of sale – Your solicitor will prepare this document, outlining the agreed terms.
- Exchange contracts – Both you and the buyer sign the contract, and the buyer pays a deposit.
- Cooling-off period (if applicable) – Buyers may have a few days to withdraw from the contract.
- Settlement – The balance of the payment is made, and ownership transfers to the buyer.
Once a settlement is complete, congratulations—you’ve successfully sold your home without an agent!
Why More Australians Are Selling Without an Agent
Selling privately is becoming increasingly popular as homeowners look for ways to save on commission fees, have greater control over the process, and take advantage of digital marketing tools.
By using online platforms like Property24, you can list your home, connect directly with buyers, and achieve a successful sale—all without paying thousands in agent fees.
Sell Your Home Privately with Property24
Thinking of selling your home without an agent? Join the growing number of Australians using Property24 to connect with buyers and tenants. Listing is easy and affordable and gives you full control over the sale process.
Start your listing today on Property24 and sell your home on your terms!
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