If you're buying or selling a home in Perth's northern suburbs, there's one cost that still catches many people off guard: stamp duty.
Whether you're upgrading, downsizing, or purchasing your first home, understanding stamp duty prices can help you plan ahead and potentially save thousands.
At Noble Avenue Real Estate, we speak to local buyers every week who ask, “What will my stamp duty be?” And with the market moving quickly, it’s more important than ever to get clear on the numbers before making your next move.
Stamp duty is a government tax applied to property transactions in Western Australia. It’s calculated based on the purchase price of the property and is paid by the buyer — not the seller.
For many buyers, especially in areas like Hillarys, Sorrento, Karrinyup and Iluka, stamp duty can easily add tens of thousands of dollars to their purchase costs.
The exact amount depends on your buyer profile (for example, first home buyer or investor) and the value of the property. As a general guide:
Properties under $430,000 (eligible first home buyers): Stamp duty may be waived
Properties between $430,000 and $530,000: Discounted stamp duty may apply
Properties above $530,000: Full stamp duty applies
Want a tailored estimate? Use a WA stamp duty calculator or speak with our team for a more personalised breakdown.
Property Value | Estimated Stamp Duty |
---|---|
$800,000 | $39,653 |
$1,000,000 | $50,953 |
$1,250,000 | $63,828 |
$1,500,000 | $76,703 |
$1,750,000 | $89,578 |
$2,000,000 | $102,453 |
These are general estimates based on WA rates as of 2025. Always confirm your final amount using a stamp duty Calculator
Even though sellers don’t pay stamp duty, it can still influence the outcome of your sale.
Here’s why:
Buyers often adjust their offers to account for stamp duty
Knowing a buyer’s stamp duty obligation can assist during negotiation
If you’re buying and selling at the same time, your next purchase may attract significant stamp duty, particularly when upsizing
Tip: Planning to upgrade or downsize in 2025? Our team can help you time your sale and purchase to reduce financial pressure and maximise your outcome.
Yes, and many homeowners aren’t aware they may apply. Common scenarios include:
Off-the-plan concessions
First home buyer exemptions
Spousal or family trust transfers
Principal place of residence vs. investment property considerations
If you’re transferring between spouses or buying through a trust, speak with your accountant or settlement agent. Stamp duty laws can be complex and are not always straightforward.
If a property is transferred from a deceased estate to a named beneficiary in Western Australia and no money changes hands, Revenue WA applies a nominal transfer duty of $20. This significantly reduces the typical stamp duty cost, but there are still other fees to consider.
The executor prepares a Transfer of Land form (T1/T2), along with probate or letters of administration.
These documents are submitted to Revenue WA for duty assessment.
If the property is distributed exactly as the will directs and no consideration is paid, nominal duty of $20 applies under section 122 of the Duties Act 2008.
Once stamped, the transfer is lodged at Landgate.
Landgate charges a registration fee based on the property’s value (e.g. $210.30 for properties up to $85,000, $600.30 for properties around $2 million).
Title is issued in the beneficiary’s name.
Additional costs include title searches ($31.60 each) and conveyancer or settlement agent fees, which are usually claimable as estate expenses.
Consideration is paid (e.g. a beneficiary pays others for their share)
The executor distributes the property differently than directed by the will or intestacy rules
Only part of the property is transferred, and its value exceeds the beneficiary’s entitlement
Always obtain a Certificate of Duty from Revenue WA before lodging with Landgate
Remember, Landgate’s registration fee is separate from the nominal duty
If you’re unsure about the process, it’s best to use a conveyancer or settlement agent
Keep all records — including the will, probate, and a statement confirming no consideration was paid — in case Revenue WA requests them
While the $20 nominal duty offers significant savings, you’ll still need to account for Landgate fees and professional services to complete the transfer correctly.
Stamp duty is one of the most commonly overlooked costs in a property transition. It can significantly influence your timing, budget, and financial flexibility.
Whether you're looking to move into a luxury coastal home or simplify your lifestyle, understanding your stamp duty obligation now can help you plan more effectively and move with confidence.
As a trusted Perth real estate agency, we’ve helped hundreds of buyers and sellers navigate the ins and outs of stamp duty — from securing exemptions to aligning timelines.
If you're looking for professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances, contact the team at Noble Avenue Real Estate for a free appraisal or personalised property strategy session.