Buying Off-the-Plan in Perth WA: What You Need to Know

Purchasing Perth off the plan apartments is increasingly popular among buyers in Western Australia, especially as new apartment developments gain traction in well-connected suburbs close to the city. This approach offers unique advantages, but it also carries important considerations. 

Understanding off-the-plan buying in WA

Buying off-the-plan means you enter into a contract to purchase a property before construction is completed, and often before it begins. This type of purchase allows you to secure a future home or investment at today’s prices while benefiting from modern design, energy efficiency, and government incentives that make ownership more attainable. It also gives you the advantage of building equity as the project progresses, with your future home potentially increasing in value during the construction phase. 

The WA Government currently provides a significant off-the-plan duty concession, which reduces the amount of stamp duty payable when buying certain types of new homes or Perth off-the-plan apartments. This initiative aims to encourage investment in higher-density, infill housing and to help more Western Australians access well-located homes. 

What are the current concessions? 

Under the WA Government’s Off-the-Plan Duty Rebate Scheme, buyers who sign eligible contracts within specific timeframes can access a rebate on transfer duty (stamp duty). The amount of the rebate depends on when the contract is signed and the type of dwelling being purchased. 

• For multi-tiered strata schemes: contracts signed between 23 October 2019 and 30 June 2026. 
• For single-tier or community-title schemes: contracts signed between 21 March 2025 and 30 June 2026.
  

• For properties valued at $750,000 or less, eligible buyers will receive a 100% stamp duty concession, capped at a maximum saving of $50,000. This means no transfer duty is payable on eligible purchases within this price bracket.
• For properties valued between $750,000 and $850,000, the concession gradually reduces from 100% down to 50% depending on the purchase price. The reduction occurs at a rate of 0.05% for every $100 above the $750,000 threshold. Savings remain capped at $50,000.
• For properties valued at $850,000 or more, eligible buyers will receive a 50% stamp duty concession, also capped at $50,000. 

Once construction has commenced:

• For properties valued at $750,000 or less, eligible buyers will receive a 75% stamp duty concession, capped at a maximum saving of $50,000.
• For properties valued between $750,000 and $850,000, the concession gradually reduces from 75% down to 37.5%, depending on the purchase price. This reduction occurs at a rate of 0.0375% for every $100 over the $750,000 threshold. The maximum saving remains capped at $50,000.
• For properties valued at $850,000 or more, eligible buyers will receive a 37.5% stamp duty concession, capped at $50,000. 

For many buyers, this can represent a saving of tens of thousands of dollars, reducing upfront costs and making it easier to enter the market for a new home or Perth off-the-plan apartment in a well-connected area. 

Benefits of buying off-the-plan 

One of the most appealing aspects of purchasing off-the-plan apartments in Perth is the ability to secure a brand-new home in a desirable location without needing to pay the full price upfront. Buyers typically pay a deposit when contracts are signed, with the balance due at settlement upon completion. This allows time to plan finances while benefiting from potential property value growth during construction. 

In addition to the financial advantages, off-the-plan purchases offer lifestyle appeal. Buyers often enjoy greater choice over layout, colour schemes and design finishes, and proximity to amenities such as shared courtyards, rooftop gardens, or secure parking. 

For first home buyers in particular, these properties may also align with existing first home buyer grants in WA, offering even greater savings when combined with the off-the-plan duty concession. For those considering downsizing, apartments provide a convenient, low-maintenance alternative that allows continued proximity to local amenities and the Perth CBD. 

Things to consider before purchasing 

While the benefits are strong, off-the-plan purchases also require careful due diligence. Buyers should: 

• Review the developer’s track record, builder reputation, and construction timelines.
• Understand the terms of the contract, including any sunset clauses or conditions that may affect settlement timing.
• Consider future strata or body-corporate costs, which may differ depending on building facilities.
• Look at the long-term lifestyle and potential of the area, particularly where new infrastructure or transport upgrades are planned. Consider how this will make a positive impact on you and your new home.  

Seeking professional advice from your conveyancer or solicitor can give you added confidence throughout the process, helping you navigate eligibility for government concessions such as off-the-plan duty concessions, first home buyer grants in WA and other valuable incentives. 

How Cedar Woods supports off-the-plan buyers 

At Cedar Woods, we understand that buying Perth off-the-plan apartments is a big decision, and our goal is to make that journey as simple as possible. Our developments are carefully planned and delivered with trusted consultants and contractors ensuring quality and thoughtful design, at every stage. 

We work closely with buyers to guide them through contract milestones, construction updates, and settlement preparation, making the process as seamless as possible. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, considering downsizing, or looking to invest, buying Perth off-the-plan apartments can provide access to well located homes and pricing advantages. 

Explore our WA projects where off-the-plan buying opportunity is available, including Incontro Subiaco.