Buying off the plan can be one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to secure a new home or investment. It’s the chance to lock in a property before it’s even built, often at today’s prices, and to enjoy all the perks of a brand-new residence tailored to your lifestyle. From tax benefits and stamp duty savings to the joy of moving into something fresh, here’s everything you need to know about buying a home off the plan.

What Does ‘Off The Plan’ Actually Mean?

Buying off the plan simply means purchasing a property that hasn’t yet been completed, and in many cases, hasn’t yet started construction. You’ll buy based on detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and renders that bring the design to life.

In Western Australia, off-the-plan contracts are governed by strict consumer protection laws, ensuring deposits are held in trust and outlining clear sunset clauses and timeframes for completion. You typically pay a 10% deposit upfront, with the remaining balance due on settlement once construction is finished and titles are issued.

What Are The Benefits Of Buying Off The Plan?

Lock in today’s price

Buying off the plan allows you to secure a home at today’s price, with the potential for it to appreciate by the time construction finishes, a key advantage in a rising market.

Stamp duty savings

One of the biggest incentives for WA buyers is the Off-the-Plan Duty Rebate Scheme. Eligible purchasers of new apartments and residential units can receive up to 75% off stamp duty, capped at $50,000 for owner-occupiers and $25,000 for investors. The rebate applies whether construction has started or not, making it a valuable saving during the buying process.

First Home Owner Grants and concessions

If you’re a first home buyer purchasing a brand-new property valued under $750,000, you may also qualify for the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant, plus reduced or zero stamp duty depending on the purchase price.

Brand new everything

From the flooring beneath your feet to the appliances in the kitchen, everything is untouched and under warranty. It means less maintenance, lower running costs, and a modern home designed to meet today’s energy efficiency standards.

Tax and depreciation benefits (for investors)

If you’re purchasing as an investment, new properties allow you to claim depreciation on fixtures, fittings and construction costs, significantly improving your cash flow compared to older homes.

Lifestyle and amenity

Many off-the-plan developments in Perth’s western suburbs now include shared amenities like residents’ lounges, pools, landscaped gardens, fitness studios, and secure parking. These spaces are designed around connection, community and low-maintenance living.

Personalisation options

You’ll often be able to choose between interior schemes: light or dark finishes, timber tones, stone colours, tapware and more. It’s a way to make your home feel uniquely yours before you even move in.

What To Consider Before Buying

Understand the plans

Study the floorplans and dimensions carefully and don’t hesitate to ask questions about storage, ceiling heights or how furniture might fit. A quality agent or developer will help you visualise how the space functions.

Check inclusions and specifications

Marketing renders often show premium finishes, so make sure these are listed in your contract. Details like benchtop materials, appliances, air-conditioning, flooring and window treatments should all be clearly specified.

Research the developer and builder

Look into the developer’s track record. Reputable WA developers will have a portfolio of completed projects you can visit or view online. Seeing the level of quality firsthand can give you confidence in their delivery.

Know your timeline

Off-the-plan projects typically take 18–30 months to complete, depending on scale and approvals. Build in some flexibility if you’re planning to sell your current home or arrange finance.

Understand finance and valuations

Most buyers arrange pre-approval before signing, but the loan only settles when construction is complete. Because settlement could be two years away, talk to your broker or bank about rate changes and how long your pre-approval lasts.

Buying off the plan can be an excellent opportunity, from financial savings to a home tailored to your lifestyle, but it’s important to do your homework.

Review every detail, understand your contract, and make sure you’re making an informed decision that aligns with your goals. If buying a home off the plan is something you are thinking about, reach out below and we can help guide you through the process.