How to sell your property

Selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and it can feel overwhelming if you’re unsure where to start. Whether you’re looking to sell your house fast, maximise your sale price, understand the costs involved, or weigh up a renovation, this resource will walk you through every step of the selling process.

At OpenAgent, we’ve helped millions of Australians sell real estate. We understand that every sale is unique, but being well-prepared, having the right strategy, and working with a great real estate agent are all key factors to achieving a standout sale. 

This hub is designed to be your go-to resource for selling your home, answering all your questions — from what costs to expect, to finding the right agent and understanding your legal obligations. We’ll also keep you updated with the latest market trends, so you can make informed decisions in any market conditions.

Selling a property involves a series of important steps, and understanding the process upfront can help you avoid common pitfalls. Whether you’re selling for the first time or you're a seasoned vendor, having a clear roadmap will make the experience smoother, less stressful, and more likely to result in a great outcome. Here's a simple step-by-step rundown to help you navigate the journey.

An easy step-by-step guide to understand how to sell your property

1. Decide if it’s the right time to sell – Research market conditions and assess your personal circumstances to ensure you're making the right decision. 
2. Understand the costs of selling a house – Factor in agent commissions, marketing fees, legal costs, and any other selling expenses so you can budget effectively. 
3. Choose the right real estate agent – Compare local agents, check reviews, and interview multiple candidates to find the best fit for you and your property.
4. Prepare your home for sale – Make necessary repairs, improve presentation, consider home staging to attract buyers, and get A-grade photography done.
5. Set the right price – Work with your agent to determine a competitive asking price based on market data and your personal goals. 
6. Bring your property to market – List your property online with effective marketing and prepare for open homes and private inspections. 
7. Negotiate with buyers – Review offers, negotiate terms, and work with your agent to get the best possible result.
8. Accept an offer and sign the contract – Ensure all legal requirements are met and contracts are reviewed by a conveyancer.
9. Settlement and handover – Complete the legal and financial processes, then hand over the keys to the new owner.

The difference between auction and private treaty

When selling your property, you’ll typically choose between two main methods: auction or private treaty.

Auction – On a set date, buyers bid on your property and the highest offer above the reserve price secures the deal. Auctions can generate strong results in competitive markets. Once the hammer falls, there's no cooling off period where either party can change their mind.

Private treaty sale – Involves listing your property with an asking price and negotiating offers directly with buyers. There's more flexibility in pricing and conditions, making it a popular choice in balanced or slower-moving markets. This method can take longer but offers sellers more control and time to consider offers.

Can I sell my house myself in Australia?

Selling a house without an agent — also known as selling privately or For Sale By Owner (FSBO) — can seem like a way to save on commission, but it comes with significant challenges. If you’re considering selling your home privately, weigh up the risks and ensure you have the right expertise before making a decision.

Without an agent’s expertise, you’ll need to handle everything from pricing your home accurately to marketing, negotiating with buyers, and managing legal paperwork. While some sellers with experience in real estate may succeed on their own, most find the process time-consuming and complex.

Statistics show that properties sold by agents typically achieve higher sale prices due to their market knowledge, professional negotiation skills, and access to a wider pool of buyers. On top of maximising your final sale price, choosing the right real estate agent can help with navigating legal requirements and reducing stress. 

What professionals do I need to sell my property?

Selling a property involves more than just finding a buyer—there are key professionals who can help you navigate the process and achieve the best outcome. Here are the experts you may need to engage:

• Real estate agent – A great agent will guide you through pricing, marketing, negotiations, and the legal aspects of selling your property, ultimately helping you achieve the best price in the shortest time frame.
• Mortgage broker / bank – If you have a mortgage, you’ll need to liaise with your lender to understand any exit fees or requirements. If you’re buying and selling at the same time, a mortgage broker can help you structure your finances.
• Lawyer / conveyancer – Whether selling privately or through an agent, a legal professional is essential for preparing contracts, managing settlement, and ensuring the transaction is legally compliant.
• Home stager – Professional staging can enhance your home’s appeal, helping to attract more buyers and potentially increasing the final sale price. Even small improvements like furniture rearrangement and décor updates can make a big impact.
• Building and pest inspector – A pre-sale inspection can identify any issues before buyers do, allowing you to address them or be upfront about potential concerns, avoiding surprises later in the process.
• Photographer / videographer – High-quality visuals are essential for attracting buyers online. Professional real estate photography, video walkthroughs, and even drone shots can set your listing apart and generate more interest.
• Auctioneer – If you’re selling via auction, an experienced auctioneer will create urgency and competition among buyers, often leading to a stronger sale result. Some agents also act as auctioneers, while others hire specialists.
• Tradespeople (painters, handymen, landscapers, cleaners, etc.) – Presenting your home in top condition is key to maximising value. A fresh coat of paint, minor repairs, a well-maintained garden, and a thorough clean can all make a big difference to your sale price.

By assembling the right team of professionals, you can streamline the selling process, avoid costly mistakes, and give yourself the best chance of achieving a great result.

Want more information on these or other real estate terms? See our home seller glossary.

How can I sell my house fast?

If you need to sell your house quickly, there are a few important factors to consider.

• Price competitively – Setting the right price from the outset will attract serious buyers and create immediate interest.
• Present it immaculately – Professional staging and high-quality photography can help your listing stand out.
• Choose the best method of sale – Auctions create a set deadline and potentially high competition. However, private treaty combined with a strong pricing strategy can also lead to quick sale. You could also look at selling off-market or directly to a property investor, but be prepared that these options can result in a lower price.
• Work with a top real estate agent – Someone who knows your local market inside out is essential as they can leverage their network to connect you with motivated buyers.
• Get organised – Make sure all inspections, legal documents, and paperwork are prepared in advance to prevent delays and ensure a smooth settlement.

Find out more about how to sell your house fast.

After a "short and shallow" downturn lasting barely three months, Australian property values shot back up to record highs in March. 

According to CoreLogic's latest report, the widespread uplift came February's interest rate cut reinvigorated consumer sentiment around the country. Most notably, the downturn in Melbourne and Sydney reversed, bringing price growth back to both markets. 

Lower interest rates are helping to lift confidence, though borrowing power is still a bit restricted and affordability remains poor, which means the recovery could take time. Now all eyes will be on the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to see how far rates can fall in 2025 — the lower they go, the higher property values may rise. 

Read our most recent property market update for more. 

Experts weigh in on the current market

Selling your home has the potential to be an overwhelmingly emotional and stressful experience, as OpenAgent's latest round of research has confirmed. 

We surveyed 344 Australian sellers who transacted over the past 24 months to find out just how significant the emotional toll of selling was for them. The results highlighted the fact that selling a property is far from easy. 

Our survey found that:

• 1 in 3 Aussies cried at some point during their property sale.
• 3 in 5 said selling property was as hard as having a baby.
• Nearly half said it matched the emotional intensity of a breakup or divorce.
• Sellers' number one regret was choosing the wrong agent.

Bridget Dijkmans-Hadley, a recent seller who used OpenAgent to compare agents and learn about the selling process, said the tears came fast when the first offer came in.

"I burst out crying because this is the home our little ones have grown up in, but also so relieved that we’d had that help and that it was over," she said. 

Read the full survey recap here. 

Selling a property comes with plenty of moving parts. Check out our tools and expert guides to help you make informed decisions on costs, sale method, preparing your home, maximising sale price, navigating tax on investment property and selling during major life changes.

House selling tools and calculators 

The right tools can simplify the selling process and give you a clearer picture of what to expect. From estimating costs and agent commissions to calculating capital gains tax, our expert-designed calculators provide personalised insights to help you plan and make informed decisions. Take the guesswork out of selling and make your next move with confidence.

Although every sale is unique, there are a number of selling fundamentals that every vendor will need to navigate. From understanding the cost of selling a house and preparing a property for sale to finding the best real estate agent, deciding between selling by auction or private treaty, and timing your sale perfectly, here are some of the vital resources that every seller needs to ensure a top result. 
 

First impressions matter when selling your home, and home staging can be a powerful tool to attract more buyers and maximise your sale price. Thoughtful property styling helps create an inviting, neutral space where buyers can picture themselves living, while strategic updates like decluttering, fresh paint, and modern décor can make a home feel brighter and more spacious. Investing in home presentation — whether through DIY improvements or professional styling — can deliver strong returns by increasing buyer interest, shortening time on market, and boosting final sale prices.

Selling an investment property comes with unique considerations, from capital gains tax (CGT) implications to tenant agreements and market timing. Whether you’re looking to cash in on capital growth, offload an underperforming asset, or adjust your portfolio, understanding the financial and legal aspects is crucial. With the right strategy—such as navigating tenanted property sales, leveraging tax exemptions, and working with an experienced real estate agent—you can maximise your investment property's sale price while ensuring a smooth transaction.

Selling a house during a divorce can be an emotionally and financially challenging process, requiring careful planning and negotiation. From deciding whether to sell the family home or buy out your partner to understanding legal obligations and property settlement agreements, there are some delicate steps to navigate. A well-managed sale — supported by a trusted real estate agent and sound legal advice — can help both parties achieve the best possible outcome while minimising stress during this difficult transition.

Selling a loved one’s home can be an emotional and taxing process, whether it’s selling due to a deceased estate, a transition into aged care, or other major life changes. Along with the personal toll, there are often legal and financial considerations to work through, such as probate, capital gains tax, and preparing the property for sale. Seeking professional guidance from a real estate agent, conveyancer, and financial advisor can help ease the burden and ensure the sale is handled smoothly and with care.

A great real estate agent is your biggest asset when selling a property, guiding you through pricing, marketing, negotiation, and the legal aspects of the sale. Choosing the right agent means looking beyond commission rates — experience, local market knowledge, and a strong sales track record all play a crucial role in achieving the best possible outcome. Once you’ve found the right agent, clear communication and collaboration will ensure you stay informed throughout the process and can make confident decisions.

Looking for location-specific advice? Check out our guides tailored to each state and territory:

• Selling property in NSW
• Selling property in Victoria
• Selling property in Queensland
• Selling property in WA
• Selling property in SA
• Selling property in TAS
• Selling property in the ACT
• Selling property in the NT