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Underquoting & price guides in Victoria, explained

Price guides can confuse buyers — and underquoting is taken seriously in Victoria. Here is a plain-English explanation of the rules so you can search with confidence.

6 min read

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What underquoting means

Underquoting is advertising or quoting a price that is less than the seller's asking price, the agent's current estimate, or a price already rejected. It is unlawful in Victoria, and the rules exist to stop buyers wasting time and money chasing homes that were never in their range.

The Statement of Information

For residential sales in Victoria, agents must provide a Statement of Information that shows an indicative selling price (a single figure or a range of up to 10%), three recent comparable sales, and the suburb's median price. It is designed to give buyers honest, evidence-based context for the guide.

How to read a price guide

Treat the guide as the starting point, not the ceiling — in strong demand a home can sell above its guide. Use the comparable sales in the Statement of Information to form your own view, and tell the agent your genuine budget so they can keep you informed.

This guide is general information for South East Melbourne, not legal or financial advice. Costs and rules vary and can change — confirm specifics with your agent, conveyancer or the relevant Victorian authority.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Is underquoting illegal in Victoria?

Yes. Underquoting is prohibited under Victorian law, and agents must be able to substantiate their price guide with evidence such as comparable sales in the Statement of Information.

What is a Statement of Information?

A document Victorian agents must provide for residential sales, showing an indicative selling price (or range up to 10%), three comparable recent sales, and the suburb's median price.

Why do homes sell above the price guide?

A guide reflects expected value, but competition between buyers — especially at auction — can push the final price higher. That is not underquoting, as long as the guide was honest and evidence-based when set.

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