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Selling your property privately can be a rewarding decision. You save on agent commissions and retain full control over the transaction. However, one of the most commonly asked questions from private sellers is: how long does the private sale settlement process typically take? The answer depends on several factors, including the buyer’s financing, the accuracy of your documents, and how efficiently both parties handle legal and financial obligations.
At For Sale By Home Owner, we help property owners across Australia manage every stage of their private sale—without involving a real estate agent. When you understand the private sale settlement process, you can navigate it smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays or complications.
The private sale settlement process usually takes between 30 to 90 days after both parties sign the contract of sale. The agreed-upon settlement period should be clearly stated in the contract and negotiated at the time of signing. In most cases, 60 days is a common default in residential property sales across Australia.
During this time, the buyer and seller fulfill their contractual obligations. For the seller, this includes:
Meanwhile, the buyer typically arranges finance approval, completes their own inspections, and prepares the final payment.
While the timeline may seem straightforward, delays can occur for various reasons. Some of the most common causes include:
To minimise these risks, it’s essential to stay organised and communicate clearly throughout the process.
The private sale settlement process involves more than just exchanging money. It’s a legal transaction that includes:
As a private seller, you don’t need a real estate agent to handle this. However, hiring a qualified conveyancer or solicitor is highly recommended. They’ll ensure that all legal documents are correct and submitted on time, and they’ll liaise with the buyer’s representative to finalise the transfer.
While selling privately gives you more control and saves money, there are some legal risks selling privately that you should consider—especially during settlement.
These include:
You can reduce these risks by working with a legal professional and following guidance from platforms like For Sale By Home Owner, which provides templates and expert advice tailored to your state.
In most cases, the private sale settlement process takes about 60 days, but being proactive and organised can speed things up. As a private seller, your ability to meet deadlines, prepare documentation, and work closely with your legal advisor makes all the difference.
At For Sale By Home Owner, we give you the tools and support to manage the sale confidently—without paying thousands in commission. From advertising your property to navigating the legal handover, we make the private sale journey smoother, safer, and more rewarding.
