Managing an NSW rental without agent is entirely possible—and increasingly popular—among property owners who want full control over their investment. By choosing to rent your property privately, you can save on ongoing management fees, make faster decisions, and build direct relationships with your tenants. However, going solo also means taking on responsibilities typically handled by a real estate agent.

With the right tools, legal knowledge, and resources from platforms like For Sale By Home Owner, managing your rental in New South Wales can be a rewarding and cost-effective experience.

Step 1: Understand Your Legal Responsibilities

The first step in managing an NSW rental without an agent is to understand your legal obligations as a landlord under the NSW Residential Tenancies Act. As the property owner, you’re responsible for:

• Preparing a written tenancy agreement
• Lodging the bond with the Rental Bond Board
• Providing the tenant with a copy of the ‘New tenant checklist’ from NSW Fair Trading
• Ensuring the property meets safety and maintenance standards
• Collecting rent and issuing receipts
• Managing repairs and inspections within legal timeframes
• Serving proper notice for rent increases, inspections, or termination

These are essential responsibilities that protect both you and your tenant, so it’s important to stay informed and up-to-date.

Step 2: Advertise Your Rental in NSW

To attract reliable tenants, you need to advertise your rental in NSW effectively. Start by creating a clear, compelling property listing that highlights features such as location, amenities, nearby transport, and rent price.

You can list your property on major real estate websites through For Sale By Home Owner, which gives private landlords access to portals like realestate.com.au and domain.com.au—just like agents. This service ensures your property reaches a wide audience and increases your chances of finding qualified tenants quickly.

Make sure your ad includes:

• High-quality photos of each room
• Accurate and detailed descriptions
• Rental price and bond amount
• Lease terms (e.g. fixed-term or periodic)
• Contact information and inspection availability

Step 3: Screen Tenants Carefully

Tenant screening is one of the most important steps in managing a NSW rental without an agent. You’ll need to verify applicants’ rental history, income, references, and suitability. Ask prospective tenants to fill out an application form with the following:

• Employment and income details
• Previous rental history and landlord references
• Identification documents
• Consent for a background or credit check (if applicable)

Speaking directly with past landlords and employers will give you confidence in your selection. A reliable tenant reduces the risk of rent arrears, property damage, or breaches of lease terms.

Step 4: Use a Legally Binding Rental Agreement

Once you’ve selected your tenant, issue a NSW standard residential tenancy agreement. This written contract outlines the rights and obligations of both parties. You can download an approved template from NSW Fair Trading or use resources provided by For Sale By Home Owner.

Be sure to:

• Collect and lodge the bond through NSW Rental Bonds Online
• Provide a copy of the signed agreement to the tenant
• Give the tenant a condition report of the property
• Issue receipts for any rent or bond payments

This documentation is essential for legal compliance and protection in case disputes arise.

Step 5: Manage Ongoing Communication and Maintenance

To successfully self-manage your property, you’ll need to be responsive to tenant queries, carry out timely repairs, and keep clear records of rent payments and maintenance. Routine inspections (limited to four per year in NSW) help ensure the property stays in good condition.

By establishing open, respectful communication with your tenants, you’ll encourage long-term, trouble-free tenancy arrangements.

Conclusion

Choosing to manage an NSW rental without an agent gives you greater control and cost savings. With support from For Sale By Home Owner, you can advertise your rental in NSW to a wide market, screen tenants thoroughly, and handle lease agreements with confidence. By staying informed and organised, you'll build a successful self-managed rental that works for both you and your tenants.