How to find houses for sale in Perth

Our Tips for Homebuyers

Introduction

Are you on the hunt for houses for sale in Perth? You’re not alone…

The Perth property market is hotter than ever, with homes flying off the market in less than a week. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, an investor, or looking to upgrade, finding the perfect property in this competitive landscape can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

In this actionable guide, we’ll dig into the complexities of Perth’s real estate market. From time-tested approaches to insider strategies, we’ll cover everything you need to know to secure your dream home in Western Australia’s capital.

Perth’s property market has been experiencing a surge in demand, driven by factors such as low interest rates, government incentives, and increased interstate migration. With houses for sale in Perth being snapped up at record speeds, buyers need to be more prepared and proactive than ever.

This guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to:

• Understand the current Perth real estate landscape
• Discover various methods for finding houses for sale in Perth
• Understand the challenges of a competitive market
• Explore different suburbs and property types
• Learn how to make your offer stand out
• Shortcut: consider alternative options like Perth buyers agents

Whether you’re looking for a cozy apartment in the Perth CBD, a spacious family home in the suburbs, or an investment property with potential, this guide has the information you may need. Let’s dive into the world of Perth real estate and find your perfect home!

Understanding Perth’s Property Market

The Perth property market has seen remarkable growth and shifts in recent years. To successfully find and secure houses for sale in Perth, it’s essential to grasp the current landscape and trends. Understanding these factors will give you a significant advantage in your property search and help you make informed decisions.

Market Overview

Perth’s real estate market has seen a remarkable resurgence, with property values rising and homes selling faster than ever.

Several factors contribute to this boom:

• Low interest rates: Historically low interest rates have made borrowing more affordable, encouraging more buyers to enter the market.
• Government incentives: Various state and federal government initiatives, such as the First Home Owner Grant, have stimulated demand.
• Interstate migration: Perth has become increasingly attractive to residents from other states, particularly due to its lifestyle and relative affordability compared to cities like Sydney and Melbourne.
• Limited supply: The number of houses for sale in Perth has not kept pace with the growing demand, creating a competitive environment for buyers.

Current Trends:

• Rapid sales: Many properties are selling within days of listing, often with multiple offers.
• Price growth: House prices in Perth have been steadily increasing, with some suburbs experiencing double-digit growth.
• Diverse buyer pool: First-time buyers, investors, and upgraders are all active in the market.
• Suburb-specific performance: While the overall market is strong, some areas are outperforming others.

Challenges for Buyers:

The hot market presents several challenges for those looking for houses for sale in Perth:

• Limited time to decide: With properties selling quickly, buyers often need to make decisions rapidly.
• Increased competition: Multiple offers on properties are common, driving up prices and creating bidding wars.
• Less negotiation power: Sellers are often in a position of strength, leaving less room for price negotiations.
• FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): The fast-paced market can lead to rushed decisions or overpaying.

Opportunities:

Despite the challenges, there are still opportunities for savvy buyers:

• Diverse property types: From apartments in Perth CBD to houses in the suburbs, there’s a wide range of options to suit different needs and budgets.
• Potential for growth: Many experts believe Perth’s market still has room for further price growth, making it an attractive option for investors.
• Lifestyle benefits: Perth offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an appealing place to live.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the current market conditions is crucial for setting realistic expectations and developing a successful buying strategy.
• Being prepared, acting quickly, and having your finances in order are essential in this competitive environment.
• While the market is challenging, there are still opportunities for those who approach their property search strategically.

In the following sections, we’ll explore various methods and strategies to help you take advantage of this dynamic market and find your ideal property among the houses for sale in Perth.

Traditional Methods for Finding Houses for Sale

While the digital age has transformed how we search for properties, traditional methods still play a crucial role in finding houses for sale in Perth. These time-tested approaches can often uncover hidden gems and off-market opportunities that you might miss online.

Use real Estate Agencies to find houses for sale in Perth

Local real estate agencies remain a valuable resource for property seekers. Many houses for sale in Perth are listed exclusively with these agencies before appearing on public platforms.

Benefits:

• Access to off-market listings
• Local market knowledge
• Professional guidance throughout the buying process

Steps to follow when using a real estate agency:

• Research reputable agencies in your desired Perth suburbs
• Register your interest and property requirements with multiple agencies
• Attend open homes and private inspections arranged by agents
• Build relationships with agents for early access to new listings

Newspaper Classifieds

While less common than in the past, some sellers still advertise houses for sale in Perth through newspaper classifieds, especially in local community papers.

Benefits:

• Potential for finding unique properties
• Less competition from other buyers
• Opportunity to connect directly with sellers

How to use this method:

• Check both major Perth newspapers and local community publications
• Look for special real estate sections, often published on weekends
• Act quickly when you find an interesting listing, as print ads may indicate motivated sellers

For Sale Signs

Driving or walking through your preferred neighborhoods can reveal ‘For Sale’ signs that might not be widely advertised online.

Benefits:

• Immediate sense of the property and its surroundings
• Potential to discover listings before they hit major platforms
• Opportunity to speak directly with sellers or agents on-site

How to use this ‘for sale signs’ method:

• Regularly drive or walk through areas where you’re interested in buying
• Note down addresses and agent details for follow-up
• Be prepared to act quickly if you spot a promising property

Word of Mouth and Networking

Never underestimate the power of personal connections when looking for houses for sale in Perth.

Benefits:

• Access to off-market properties
• Insider information about upcoming listings
• Potential for smoother transactions through personal connections

How to use this method:

• Inform friends, family, and colleagues about your property search
• Attend local community events and engage with neighbors in your desired areas
• Join local social media groups or forums focused on Perth real estate

Property Auctions

Auctions are a common method for selling properties in Perth, especially in a hot market.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to secure a property quickly
• Transparent bidding process
• Potential for finding motivated sellers

How to use this method:

• Research upcoming auctions in your target areas
• Attend auctions to understand the process and gauge market prices
• Ensure your finances are in order, as auction purchases usually require immediate deposit
• Display Homes and New Developments
• For those interested in new constructions, visit display homes and development sites

This can be an effective way to find houses for sale in Perth.

Benefits:

• Preview exact layouts and finishes
• Potential for customization options
• Often includes house and land packages

How to use this method:

• Research new developments in your desired areas
• Visit display villages to explore different builders and designs
• Inquire about current and upcoming projects with developers

Direct Mail Campaigns

Some buyers take a proactive approach by sending letters to homeowners in their desired areas, expressing interest in purchasing their property.

Benefits:

• Potential to uncover off-market opportunities
• Direct communication with potential sellers
• Less competition from other buyers

How to use this method:

• Draft a polite, personalised letter expressing your interest
• Target specific streets or neighborhoods you’re interested in
• Be prepared for a low response rate, but potentially high-quality leads

Tips for Maximising Traditional Methods:

• Be persistent: Traditional methods often require more time and effort but can yield unique opportunities.
• Combine approaches: Use a mix of these methods alongside online searches for the best results.
• Act quickly: In a competitive market, being among the first to view a property can make a difference.
• Build relationships: Cultivate connections with local agents, developers, and community members.
• Stay organized: Keep detailed records of properties you’ve inquired about or visited.
• Be prepared: Have your finances in order and be ready to make an offer when you find the right property.

While these traditional methods can be effective, they also require significant time and effort. Further in this guide, we’ll explore online resources that can complement these approaches and streamline your search for houses for sale in Perth.

Online Resources and Real Estate Portals

In today’s digital age, online platforms have become indispensable tools for finding houses for sale in Perth. These resources offer convenience, extensive listings, and powerful search features to help you narrow down your options efficiently.

Major Real Estate Portals

Australia’s leading real estate websites are often the first stop for many buyers searching for houses for sale in Perth.

Main Platforms:

• realestate.com.au
• domain.com.au
• reiwa.com.au
• view.com.au/for-sale/wa/

Benefits:

• Comprehensive listings from multiple agencies
• Advanced search filters (price, location, property features)
• Property insights and market data
• Virtual tours and extensive photo galleries

How to use digital effectively:

• Set up saved searches with your criteria
• Enable email alerts for new listings
• Use map views to explore specific areas
• Compare similar properties in your desired suburbs

Individual Real Estate Agency Websites

Many local Perth agencies have their own websites featuring exclusive listings.

Benefits:

• Access to properties not listed on major portals
• Detailed information about local market trends
• Direct contact with local agents which can help create relationships

How to use effectively:

• Identify reputable agencies in your target areas
• Register your interest on their websites
• Follow their social media accounts for updates

Property Developer Websites

For those interested in new constructions or off-the-plan purchases, developer websites are valuable resources.

Benefits:

• Information on upcoming projects
• Detailed floor plans and renders
• Potential for early-bird pricing

How to use effectively:

• Research developers active in your preferred areas
• Sign up for newsletters to stay informed about new releases
• Attend virtual or in-person information sessions

Government Property Databases

The Western Australian government provides resources for property research and sales.

Key Resources:

• Landgate (WA’s land information authority)
• Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage

Benefits:

• Access to property history and ownership information
• Details on zoning and land use
• Information on government land sales

How to use effectively:

• Conduct property searches to verify information
• Check for any restrictions or heritage listings
• Research upcoming government land releases

Social Media Platforms

Social media can be a surprisingly effective tool for finding houses for sale in Perth.

Key Platforms:

• Facebook (Marketplace and local community groups)
• Instagram (Real estate agents and agencies)
• LinkedIn (For networking with property professionals)

Benefits:

• Real-time updates on new listings
• Direct communication with sellers or agents
• Access to local community insights

How to use effectively:

• Join local Perth real estate groups on Facebook
• Follow popular Perth real estate hashtags on Instagram
• Connect with real estate professionals on LinkedIn

Property Investment Forums

Online forums can provide valuable insights and leads for houses for sale in Perth.

Key Forums:

• com.au
• net.au (Property Investment subforum)

Benefits:

• Advice from experienced investors and locals
• Discussions on emerging suburbs and market trends
• Potential for off-market opportunities

How to use effectively:

• Actively participate in discussions
• Ask specific questions about Perth suburbs or property types
• Be cautious of biased or outdated information

Online Auction Platforms

Some properties in Perth are sold through online auctions, especially in the current climate.

Benefits:

• Ability to participate in auctions remotely
• Access to a wider range of properties
• Transparent bidding process

How to use effectively:

• Register on platforms like Gavl or AuctionNow
• Familiarize yourself with the online bidding process
• Ensure your finances are in order before participating

Property Valuation Websites

While not directly for finding houses for sale, these sites can provide valuable market insights.

Key Websites:

• CoreLogic RP Data
• Residex

Benefits:

• Estimated property values
• Historical sales data
• Suburb profile reports

How to use effectively:

• Research recent sales in your target areas
• Understand price trends to inform your offers
• Generate reports on specific properties of interest

Tips for Maximising Online Resources:

• Cross-reference information: Use multiple platforms to verify property details and prices.
• Set up alerts: Most platforms allow you to create email alerts for new listings matching your criteria.
• Use advanced filters: Narrow down your search with specific features, price ranges, and locations.
• Virtual tours: Take advantage of 3D tours and video walkthroughs to pre-screen properties.
• Check frequently: In a fast-moving market, new listings can appear daily.
• Be wary of outdated listings: Some properties may remain listed online after being sold.
• Protect your privacy: Be cautious about sharing personal information online.
• Combine with traditional methods: Use online resources in conjunction with offline approaches for a comprehensive search.

While online platforms offer a wealth of information and convenience, they’re just one part of the house-hunting process. Next, we’ll explore how to effectively research and evaluate different Perth suburbs to find the perfect location for your new home.

Exploring Perth Suburbs and Property Types

When searching for houses for sale in Perth, understanding the diverse suburbs and property types available is crucial. Perth offers a wide range of living options, from bustling urban areas to quiet coastal communities. This chapter will help you navigate the various neighborhoods and property styles to find your ideal match.

Suburban Landscape

Perth’s suburbs can be broadly categorized into several regions:

Inner City

Suburbs: Perth CBD, East Perth, West Perth, Northbridge

Characteristics: High-density living, apartments, heritage homes, proximity to business district

Western Suburbs

Suburbs: Cottesloe, Claremont, Nedlands, Subiaco

Characteristics: Affluent areas, larger homes, good schools, beach access

Northern Suburbs

Suburbs: Joondalup, Hillarys, Scarborough, Duncraig

Characteristics: Family-friendly, coastal living, newer developments

Southern Suburbs

Suburbs: Fremantle, Cockburn, Rockingham, Mandurah

Characteristics: Historic areas, affordable options, coastal lifestyle

Eastern Suburbs

Suburbs: Midland, Guildford, Kalamunda, Mundaring

Characteristics: Hills living, larger blocks, semi-rural options

South Eastern Suburbs

Suburbs: Victoria Park, Belmont, Canning Vale, Gosnells

Characteristics: Diverse housing options, multicultural communities

Researching Suburbs:

When evaluating suburbs for houses for sale in Perth, consider:

Lifestyle factors:

• Proximity to beaches, parks, or natural reserves
• Local amenities (shops, restaurants, entertainment)
• Community vibe and demographic mix

Transportation:

• Public transport options (train lines, bus routes)
• Distance to CBD or major employment hubs
• Traffic patterns and commute times

Education:

• Quality of local schools (both public and private)
• Proximity to universities or TAFE institutions

Future development:

• Planned infrastructure projects
• Zoning changes or urban renewal initiatives

Property market performance:

• Historical price growth
• Rental yields (for investors)
• Days on market for local listings

Property Types:

Perth offers a diverse range of property types to suit various needs and budgets:

Houses:

• Single-family homes on individual blocks
• Popular in suburban areas
• Variety of styles (contemporary, federation, mid-century)

Apartments:

• High-rise apartments in the CBD and inner suburbs
• Low-rise complexes in outer areas
• Options from studios to large penthouses

Townhouses:

• Multi-level attached homes
• Often in small complexes with shared facilities
• Popular in inner and middle-ring suburbs

Villas:

• Single-level attached or semi-detached homes
• Common in retirement communities or as downsizer options
• Often in strata-titled complexes

Rural Properties:

• Larger blocks in semi-rural areas
• Options for hobby farms or lifestyle properties
• Popular in Perth Hills and outer suburbs

Off-the-Plan Properties:

• Newly built or under construction
• Found in developing areas or as infill projects in established suburbs

Off-the-Plan Properties:

• Newly built or under construction
• Found in developing areas or as infill projects in established suburbs
• Potential for customization and first-home buyer incentives

Duplex/Triplex:

• Two or three homes on a single block
• Often suited for multi-generational living or as investment properties
• Found in both established and developing areas

Matching Suburbs and Property Types to Your Needs:

When exploring houses for sale in Perth, consider:

• Budget constraints: Different suburbs and property types offer varying price points.
• Space requirements: Consider your current and future needs for bedrooms, outdoor areas, etc.
• Investment potential: Research areas with strong growth prospects if you’re buying as an investment.
• Lifestyle preferences: Match the suburb’s character with your desired way of living.
• Work and commute: Consider proximity to your workplace or major transport hubs.

Tips for Suburb Research:

• Use online tools: Websites like realestate.com.au offer suburb profiles with demographic data and price trends.
• Visit at different times: Explore potential suburbs during weekdays, evenings, and weekends to get a full picture.
• Talk to locals: Engage with residents or local businesses to get insider perspectives.
• Check council websites: Local government sites often provide information on development plans and community services.
• Consult professionals: Real estate agents and buyer’s advocates can offer valuable insights into different areas.

By thoroughly researching Perth’s suburbs and understanding the various property types available, you’ll be better equipped to find the perfect match among the houses for sale in Perth. The next section will be about strategies for uncovering off-market opportunities.

Off-Market Opportunities

In a competitive market like Perth, where houses for sale are snapped up quickly, off-market properties can be a goldmine for savvy buyers. These are properties that aren’t publicly listed but are available for purchase. Let’s explore how to tap into this hidden market.

What Are Off-Market Properties?

Off-market properties, also known as “silent listings” or “pocket listings,” are homes that are for sale but not advertised on public platforms. Reasons for off-market sales include:

• Privacy concerns of the seller
• Testing the market before a public listing
• Avoiding the costs and hassle of a full marketing campaign
• Speedy sales process

Benefits of Off-Market Properties:

• Less competition from other buyers
• Potential for better deals due to lack of a bidding war
• More relaxed negotiation process
• Access to properties before they hit the public market

Strategies for Finding Off-Market Houses for Sale in Perth

Build Relationships with Real Estate Agents:

• Establish connections with agents in your target areas
• Clearly communicate your property requirements
• Stay in regular contact to be top-of-mind for new opportunities

Leverage Your Network:

• Inform friends, family, and colleagues about your property search
• Join local community groups or forums
• Attend neighborhood events to connect with potential sellers

Direct Mail Campaigns:

• Send letters to homeowners in your desired areas expressing interest in buying. But for this, you will need to have access to homeowners emails
• Focus on specific streets or property types you’re interested in
• Be prepared for a low response rate, but potentially high-quality leads

Engage a Buyer’s Agent:

• Professional buyer’s agents often have access to off-market listings
• They can proactively approach potential sellers on your behalf
• Their industry connections can uncover hidden opportunities

Utilise Social Media:

• Follow local real estate agents and agencies on platforms like Facebook and Instagram
• Join local community Facebook groups where residents might share selling intentions
• Use LinkedIn to connect with property professionals who might have insider knowledge

Explore Property Investment Groups:

• Join local property investment groups or forums
• Attend real estate networking events
• These communities often share off-market opportunities among members

Monitor Expired Listings:

• Look for properties that were recently on the market but didn’t sell
• The owners might still be interested in selling off-market
• Approach these owners or their agents directly

Engage with Property Developers:

• Connect with developers working on projects in your target areas
• They might offer pre-release opportunities before public launches
• This can be particularly useful for new constructions or off-the-plan purchases

Tips for Pursuing Off-Market Opportunities:

• Be prepared: Have your finances in order and be ready to act quickly when an opportunity arises.
• Be flexible: Off-market properties might require some compromise on your ideal criteria.
• Respect privacy: Remember that sellers choosing the off-market route often value discretion.
• Do your due diligence: Without public listing information, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the property and its value.
• Be patient: Building the network and relationships necessary for off-market success takes time.

While off-market properties can offer unique opportunities, they require effort and often professional assistance to uncover.

Find houses for sale in Perth in a Competitive Market

With houses for sale in Perth moving quickly, buyers need to be prepared and strategic. This chapter will provide tips and tactics for successfully navigating Perth’s competitive real estate market.

Understanding the Competition:

Types of Buyers:

• First-time homebuyers
• Upsizers or downsizers
• Investors (local and interstate)
• International buyers

Market Dynamics:

• Low inventory levels
• Multiple offer situations
• Rapid price growth in desirable areas

Strategies for Success:

Get Your Finances in Order:

• Obtain pre-approval for your home loan
• Understand your borrowing capacity
• Have a deposit ready and accessible

Be Prepared to Act Quickly:

• Set up instant alerts for new listings
• Be ready to view properties at short notice
• Have all necessary documents prepared in advance

Conduct Thorough Research:

• Understand recent sales in your target areas
• Know the true value of properties you’re interested in
• Be aware of any planned developments or changes in the area

Build Relationships with Perth local Agents:

• Introduce yourself to agents at open homes
• Clearly communicate your requirements and budget
• Follow up after inspections to show genuine interest

Be Flexible with Your Criteria:

• Consider properties that may need some work
• Look at neighboring suburbs that offer better value
• Be open to different property types

Make Strong, Clean Offers:

• Submit offers promptly
• Minimize conditions where possible
• Consider a larger deposit to stand out

Use Time to Your Advantage:

• Be prepared to make decisions quickly
• Consider shorter settlement periods if possible
• Be available for negotiations outside of business hours

Understand Different Sale Methods:

• Be prepared for auctions, private treaties, and expressions of interest
• Each method requires a different strategy and preparation

Don’t Get Emotionally Attached:

• Maintain a clear perspective on each property’s value
• Be prepared to walk away if the price exceeds your budget or the property’s worth

Dealing with Multiple Offer Situations:

Put Your Best Offer Forward:

• In a hot market, you may not get a second chance to negotiate
• Ensure your first offer is strong and reflects the property’s true value

Consider Non-Price Factors:

• Flexible settlement terms
• Larger deposit
• Minimal conditions

Personal Touch:

• Write a letter to the sellers explaining why you love their home
• This can be effective, especially with owner-occupier sellers

Be Prepared for ‘Highest and Best Offers’:

• This process asks all interested buyers to submit their best offer by a certain date
• Treat this as your only opportunity to secure the property

Have a Maximum Price in Mind:

• Decide on your absolute maximum before entering negotiations
• Stick to this limit to avoid overpaying in the heat of the moment

Handling Auction Pressure:

Attend Auctions as an Observer:

• Familiarise yourself with the process before participating
• Understand the strategies used by successful bidders

Set a Clear Budget:

• Decide on your maximum bid before the auction
• Factor in your ability to make any necessary repairs or renovations

Project Confidence:

• Use strong body language and clear bidding signals
• Don’t reveal your maximum budget to other bidders or the auctioneer

The Smart Shortcut: Leveraging a Buyer’s Agent

Your Secret Weapon in Perth’s Property Market

While the strategies and insights shared in this guide will undoubtedly help you in your search for houses for sale in Perth, there’s one powerful shortcut that can save you time, stress, and potentially money: engaging a professional Perth buyer’s agent.

Why Consider a Buyer’s Agent?

• Time-Saving: A buyer’s agent does the legwork for you, filtering through listings, attending inspections, and handling negotiations.
• Access to Off-Market Properties: Many buyer’s agents have extensive networks, giving you access to properties not publicly listed.
• Expert Negotiation: With years of experience, buyer’s agents can often secure better prices and terms.
• Local Market Knowledge: They possess in-depth understanding of Perth’s suburbs, price trends, and growth potential.
• Emotional Buffer: A buyer’s agent provides objective advice, preventing emotional decisions that could lead to overpaying.
• Streamlined Process: From property search to settlement, a buyer’s agent can manage the entire process, reducing your stress.

Why use You&Me Personalised Property Services?

On top of bringing over 90 years of combined experience in the local Perth real estate industry, we offer the You&Me Guarantee!

If You&Me Personalised Property Services has not presented you with a property that matches your description within 3 months, they will reduce their fee by 20%. If they haven’t found you a property after 6 months, they will provide their service for free.

Get in touch with us to learn more about our no-brainer guarantee.

Engaging a buyer’s agent involves a professional fee

While using a buyer’s agent involves a fee, the potential savings in time, effort, and purchase price often outweigh this cost. For those serious about finding their ideal property in Perth’s competitive market, partnering with a reputable buyer’s agent could be the smartest move you make.

Remember, in a fast-moving market where houses for sale in Perth are snapped up quickly, having a professional on your side can make all the difference, and could help you save thousands on your next property purchase.

What to do next?

By employing these strategies, you’ll be better positioned to succeed in Perth’s competitive property market and boost your chances of securing your desired home among the houses for sale in Perth. In the next chapter, we’ll discuss how to make your offer stand out to sellers and their agents.

Get in touch with the team

Contact our team today for a free discovery meeting.