Selling your home on your own can feel like a big step, but in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), it’s not only legal—it’s also an increasingly popular way to save thousands on agent commissions. The ACT FSBO process (For Sale By Owner) empowers homeowners to take control of their property sale without hiring a real estate agent. With the right preparation and access to trusted platforms like For Sale By Home Owner, you can handle the entire process confidently and successfully.

In this article, we break down the key steps of the ACT FSBO process, from preparing your home to closing the sale.

Understand the Legal Requirements

In the ACT, you must meet several legal obligations before advertising your property for sale. Unlike other states, the ACT requires sellers to have a Contract for Sale prepared in advance. This is non-negotiable—you cannot legally list your property without it.

The contract must include:

• Title search
• Crown lease
• Zoning certificate
• Building and Compliance Inspection Report
• Energy Efficiency Rating Statement
• Pest inspection report (if available)

Many homeowners choose to engage a solicitor or conveyancer to prepare this documentation. For Sale By Home Owner can help connect you with licensed professionals to make sure your paperwork is complete and compliant before you list.

Prepare Your Property for Listing

First impressions matter, especially when you’re selling your property privately. Before putting your home on the market, ensure it’s clean, decluttered, and visually appealing. Consider minor repairs, fresh paint, tidy landscaping, and professional cleaning.

You should also:

• Take high-quality photos (ideally in natural light)
• Create a compelling, honest description of your property
• Highlight key features like renovations, proximity to schools, or outdoor spaces

If needed, For Sale By Home Owner offers professional photography packages and listing templates to help your property stand out.

Determine a Competitive Asking Price

Accurate pricing is crucial in the ACT FSBO process. Setting your price too high can scare off potential buyers, while setting it too low could leave money on the table. Research similar properties in your area and consider current market trends.

Use tools such as:

• Online property valuation services
• Local sales data
• Advice from licensed valuers (if needed)

For Sale By Home Owner provides insights and optional valuation tools to help you choose the right price with confidence.

List Your Property Online

Once your contract is ready and your home is prepared, it’s time to go live. As a private seller, you still need strong exposure—and that’s where For Sale By Home Owner makes a big difference. They give you access to Australia’s top real estate websites, including:

• realestate.com.au
• Domain.com.au
• Homely
• and others

You’ll be able to manage your listing, respond to inquiries, and schedule inspections directly—keeping you fully in control.

Conduct Private Inspections

When you start receiving interest, be prepared to show the property to potential buyers. Hosting your own inspections gives you the advantage of connecting directly with interested parties and answering their questions honestly.

To make the most of each inspection:

• Be punctual and well-prepared
• Point out key features and recent upgrades
• Offer printed brochures or contract summaries
• Encourage buyers to contact their solicitor for a full contract review

Many buyers appreciate the transparency and comfort of dealing directly with a homeowner.

Negotiate and Accept an Offer

When buyers make an offer, you’ll need to negotiate directly or through your solicitor. Stay firm on your bottom line while remaining open to fair offers. Remember, the ACT FSBO process puts the power in your hands—you’re free to accept the terms that work best for you.

Common negotiating points include:

• Purchase price
• Inclusions (e.g., appliances, furniture)
• Settlement timeframe
• Conditions (such as finance or building inspections)

Exchange Contracts and Proceed to Settlement

Once you’ve agreed on terms, your solicitor or conveyancer will:

• Finalise the Contract for Sale
• Arrange for exchange of signed contracts
• Collect the deposit from the buyer
• Coordinate with the buyer’s legal representative to prepare for settlement

The settlement process in the ACT usually takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the agreement between parties.

Final Thoughts

The ACT FSBO process is straightforward if you’re organised, well-informed, and supported by the right resources. From preparing your contract and setting a price to marketing your property and negotiating offers, each step puts you in the driver’s seat.

With For Sale By Home Owner, you don’t need to go it alone. Their professional listing services, legal resources, and customer support make it easier for ACT homeowners to sell privately—successfully and stress-free.

If you're thinking about selling your home without an agent, start your FSBO journey today with For Sale By Home Owner—and keep more of your profit where it belongs: in your pocket.