Yes, you absolutely can. In Victoria, Australia, landlords have the legal right to create private lease VIC without involving a real estate agent. Many property owners are now choosing this route because it gives them greater control, reduces costs, and simplifies the rental process.
At For Sale By Home Owner, we support independent landlords who want to rent out their property without relying on traditional agents. With the right resources and understanding of Victorian tenancy laws, creating a private lease is not only possible—it’s also straightforward and empowering.
What Does It Mean to Create a Private Lease VIC?
To create a private lease VIC means that a landlord and tenant enter into a residential rental agreement directly, without the assistance of a property manager or agency. This approach is fully legal in Victoria as long as the lease complies with the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 and uses the required documents provided by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
Landlords who choose this path handle everything from advertising the property and screening tenants to drafting the lease agreement and collecting the bond. Thanks to platforms like For Sale By Home Owner, property owners now have access to tools that make managing their own rental properties easier than ever.
Legal Requirements for Creating a Private Lease in Victoria
Although real estate agents commonly manage rental agreements, they are not a legal necessity. What is required, however, is that all rental agreements follow the current legal framework in Victoria. Here’s what you need to know when you create a private lease VIC:
1. Use the Prescribed Lease Agreement Form
Since March 29, 2021, all landlords in Victoria must use the standard prescribed tenancy agreement form issued by Consumer Affairs Victoria. This form includes mandatory terms and clauses that protect both the tenant and landlord.
You can download the latest version of the form directly from the Consumer Affairs Victoria website. This document forms the basis of any lease and includes details such as:
- Names and contact details of the tenant and landlord
- Property address
- Rent amount and payment terms
- Bond amount and lodgement details
- Lease duration (fixed or periodic)
- Rights and responsibilities of both parties
- Any additional terms (e.g., pet policy, garden maintenance)
At For Sale By Home Owner, we recommend all landlords stick strictly to this form when creating a private lease. It ensures compliance and minimizes legal risk.
2. Complete a Condition Report
Before the tenant moves in, you must prepare a condition report that outlines the state of the property. This report protects both you and the tenant in the event of disputes related to damage or cleanliness at the end of the lease.
Two signed copies of the condition report should be provided—one for you and one for the tenant. Tenants are allowed to review, make comments, and return a signed copy within 5 days of moving in.
3. Lodge the Bond with the RTBA
As a private landlord, you are required to lodge the rental bond with the Residential Tenancies Bond Authority (RTBA). You must do this within 10 business days of receiving the bond payment from the tenant.
The bond must be held by the RTBA for the duration of the lease and can only be released when both parties agree or after a VCAT (Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal) decision.
At For Sale By Home Owner, we offer guides and links to help landlords lodge bonds correctly when managing their own rental properties.
4. Provide the "Renting a Home" Guide
The law requires landlords to give tenants a copy of the "Renting a Home: A Guide for Tenants" booklet published by Consumer Affairs Victoria. This guide outlines the tenant’s rights and responsibilities under Victorian law. It’s available as a free download and must be provided before or on the day the lease begins.
Benefits of Creating a Private Lease in VIC
Save on Agent Fees
One of the most attractive reasons to create private lease VIC is cost savings. You don’t have to pay ongoing management fees or commission to an agent, which can add up to thousands of dollars per year.
More Control
Managing your own lease means you can select tenants yourself, respond to maintenance requests directly, and set the tone for a positive rental relationship.
Fast, Flexible Process
Private leasing allows for quicker decisions, fewer delays, and more flexibility with inspections, communication, and lease terms. You work directly with the tenant without going through a third party.
How For Sale By Home Owner Helps
At For Sale By Home Owner, we make it easy for landlords to advertise and lease their properties independently. We offer access to major real estate platforms, templates for lease documents, and step-by-step instructions for every part of the rental process.
With our tools and resources, you can confidently create private lease VIC and manage your property like a pro—without the cost or complexity of an agent.
Final Thoughts
Creating a private lease in Victoria is 100% legal, and with the right knowledge, it's easier than you might think. When you create private lease VIC, you take full control of the leasing process while ensuring that your agreement remains legally compliant and professional.
At For Sale By Home Owner, we empower property owners across Australia to rent and sell without agents. If you're ready to lease your Victorian property on your own terms, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
