Contracts Are Not Mysterious
WA property contracts follow a standardised REIWA format. The template is publicly available. The clauses are predictable. You should still get a solicitor to review yours, but there's nothing in there that a seller can't understand with a bit of context.
The Big One to Know
WA has no cooling-off period. Once both parties sign, the contract is binding. That's why conditional clauses (finance, building inspections) matter so much here. If you're new to selling, read our complete sellers guide first.
Essential Contract Elements
Every REIWA offer and acceptance contract covers the same core components. Here's what each one actually means.
Full legal names and addresses of all buyers and sellers involved in the transaction.
- Legal names exactly as on title
- Current residential addresses
- Contact details for correspondence
Complete legal description matching the Certificate of Title.
- Street address and lot number
- Certificate of Title reference
- Land area and plan details
Agreed price, deposit amount, and payment terms clearly stated.
- Total purchase price (inc/exc GST)
- Deposit amount (typically 5–10%)
- Trust account details for deposit
Settlement date and conditions for completion of the sale. See our settlement guide for the full timeline.
- Settlement date (30–60 days typical)
- Possession handover arrangements
- Extension conditions if applicable
What stays with the property and what the seller takes.
- Fixed items (blinds, lights, etc.)
- Appliances and chattels included
- Any items specifically excluded
Additional terms negotiated between parties.
- Finance approval conditions
- Building/pest inspection clauses
- Subject to sale conditions
WA-Specific Contract Requirements
WA property law works differently from the eastern states. Two things catch sellers off guard.
WA follows the "buyer beware" principle. Unlike some eastern states, there's no mandatory seller disclosure form. Your agent must disclose known material facts under the REBA Code of Conduct, but the onus is on the buyer to do their own due diligence.
Unlike other Australian states, WA has no statutory cooling-off period. Contracts become binding immediately upon signing.
Common Contract Conditions to Understand
Most offers come with conditions attached. As the seller, you negotiate which ones you accept and for how long.
Allows buyer to exit if they can't secure finance approval.
Buyer's right to inspect and negotiate based on findings.
Buyer must sell their existing property first.
Final date by which all conditions must be satisfied.
Contract Signing Process
From offer to signed contract. This is the standard flow in WA.
Receive and Review Offer
Buyer submits offer with their proposed terms. Review price, conditions, and settlement date carefully.
Negotiate Terms
Counter-offer if terms aren't acceptable. Negotiation continues until both parties agree.
Legal Review (Recommended)
Have your solicitor review the final contract before signing. They'll identify any issues or risks.
Sign and Exchange
Both parties sign the contract. Deposit is paid into trust account. Contract is now legally binding (no cooling-off period in WA).
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