Sell Your Own Home in Victoria – 10 Steps to a Successful Private Sale

Selling your home privately in Victoria is not only legal—it’s a smart way to save thousands in commission fees while maintaining full control over your sale. With the right preparation and support, you can confidently manage the process from start to finish.

Here’s your step-by-step guide to a successful For Sale By Owner (FSBO) experience in Victoria.

1. Prepare a Legally Compliant Contract of Sale

• Engage a solicitor or conveyancer to draft the Contract of Sale, including title documents, certificates, and a Vendor’s Statement (Section 32)

• Ensure the contract is available for prospective buyers before accepting offers

💡 A complete and compliant contract builds buyer trust and protects your legal interests.

2. Research the Market

• Analyse recent sales in your suburb to understand pricing trends

• Study how similar properties are marketed to identify effective strategies

💡 Market research helps you position your property competitively.

3. Set a Realistic Asking Price

• Use your research to determine a fair market value

• Consider a professional appraisal for added confidence

💡 Accurate pricing attracts more enquiries and reduces time on market.

4. Advertise Your Property Effectively

• Be seen on major platforms like realestate.com.au & domain via agent assisted private seller agencies like salebyhomeowner.com.au

• Use high-quality photography and write a compelling, detailed description

• Promote your listing on social media and local community groups

💡 Strong marketing increases visibility and buyer engagement.

5. Host Open Homes and Private Inspections

• Schedule open homes to attract casual interest

• Offer private viewings for serious buyers

• Create a welcoming, professional environment during inspections

💡 In-person viewings help buyers connect emotionally with your home.

6. Review Offers Carefully

• Only consider written offers—verbal agreements are not legally binding

• Evaluate each offer based on price, conditions, and settlement terms

• Negotiate confidently to reach a mutually beneficial agreement

💡 Written offers provide clarity and legal protection.

7. Accept and Finalise the Offer

• Once you’ve chosen the best offer, have both parties sign the Contract of Sale

💡 This step legally confirms the buyer’s commitment to purchase.

8. Exchange Contracts

• Ensure both buyer and seller receive signed copies of the contract

• This formal exchange makes the agreement legally binding

💡 Contract exchange marks the official start of the settlement process.

9. Understand the Cooling-Off Period

• Buyers in Victoria have a three-business-day cooling-off period

• If they withdraw, they forfeit 0.2% of the purchase price

💡 This period applies only to buyers—not sellers.

10. Settle the Sale and Celebrate

• Settlement typically occurs 30–90 days after contract exchange

• The buyer pays the remaining balance, and ownership is transferred

💡 Once settlement is complete, your sale is officially done—congratulations!

FAQs

Can I sell my home without an agent in Victoria? Yes. Private sales are legal and increasingly popular in Victoria. With the right legal support, you can manage the process independently and save thousands.

Can I sell via auction privately? Yes. Hire a licensed auctioneer, set a reserve price, and promote the auction date. If the reserve is met, the sale is binding—typically with no cooling-off period.

How do I list my property effectively? Use reputable platforms, professional photos, and a strong description. Promote your listing across multiple channels to reach more buyers.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home privately in Victoria is a cost-effective, empowering alternative to using an agent.

• Save thousands in commission fees

• Stay in control of pricing, marketing, and negotiations

• Reach serious buyers through national platforms

💡 Ready to sell? salebyhomeowner.com.au offers expert tools, legal support, and national exposure—helping you sell confidently while keeping 100% of your sale price.