Domain.com.au is one of Australia’s leading real estate portals and a trusted platform for tenants searching for rental properties. But if you’re a private landlord hoping to list your property directly on Domain, you’ll quickly discover a roadblock: Domain does not allow private listings. Instead, it only accepts listings from registered real estate agents or authorised partners. Fortunately, Rentline provides a simple and affordable way to bypass this limitation.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll show you how to list your rental property on Domain.com.au without using a traditional agent, all through Rentline. You’ll learn how the process works, what to include in your listing, legal responsibilities, tenant screening tips, and how to maximise your rental’s visibility online.
Why Domain.com.au Matters for Landlords
Domain.com.au receives millions of visits monthly and is one of the top platforms renters turn to when looking for their next home. It offers a streamlined search experience, high-quality listings, and mobile accessibility, making it a powerful marketing tool for landlords.
When your property is listed on Domain, it benefits from:
- Exposure to a large, qualified audience of active renters
- Features such as saved searches, alerts, and location-based suggestions
- Professional presentation of your listing, increasing trust and credibility
- Mobile-friendly access via the Domain app and website
The bottom line: Domain gets your rental in front of serious tenants faster than traditional classified ads or social media posts.
Why You Can’t List on Domain Directly as a Private Landlord
Unlike some online platforms, Domain.com.au does not allow individuals to list rental properties directly. All listings must come through either a licensed real estate agency or an authorised third-party listing service. This policy ensures that listings are high-quality, consistent, and managed by verified professionals or approved partners.
For private landlords, this can be frustrating. Many owners want to manage their own rentals to save on management fees, stay in direct contact with tenants, or have more control over the rental process. Domain’s agent-only policy seems like a barrier — until you discover Rentline.
How Rentline Enables Private Listings on Domain
Rentline is an Australian platform designed specifically for private landlords who want to advertise their properties on major real estate websites without using an agent. Rentline is an approved listing partner with Domain.com.au, which means when you create a listing through Rentline, it appears on Domain just like an agent-listed property.
This gives you the best of both worlds: the visibility and credibility of Domain.com.au, without the cost or restrictions of traditional real estate agents.
Step-by-Step: Listing Your Property on Domain via Rentline
1. Sign Up for a Rentline Account
Start by creating a free Rentline account. Registration is quick and gives you access to the landlord dashboard, where you can manage listings, track inquiries, and communicate with potential tenants.
2. Select a Listing Package
Rentline offers affordable packages that include Domain.com.au and other major platforms such as realestate.com.au, Rent.com.au, and Homely. Each package includes features like listing duration, number of photos, and support tools.
3. Create Your Listing
Enter your property details, including:
- Address (can be partially hidden if needed)
- Rental price and bond amount
- Number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and parking spaces
- Property features (e.g., air conditioning, pet-friendly, balcony, garden)
- Photos and a compelling description
- Available inspection times (optional)
4. Submit for Review
Once your listing is complete, Rentline’s team will review it for accuracy and formatting before publishing it live to Domain and any other platforms you selected. This usually happens within 24 hours.
5. Receive Inquiries
Tenants browsing Domain.com.au can view your listing and contact you directly. You can manage all inquiries through your Rentline dashboard and communicate with potential renters via email or phone.
Tips for Writing a Standout Rental Listing
To maximise interest in your rental, your listing should be attractive, informative, and accurate. Here are some tips:
- Use High-Quality Photos: Take well-lit, clean images of each room and exterior spaces. A good photo can double your inquiry rate.
- Write a Compelling Description: Highlight the key benefits of the property (location, natural light, space, outdoor area, etc.) and nearby amenities (schools, transport, shops).
- Be Clear About Inclusions: List whether bills are included, if pets are allowed, or if the property is furnished.
- Use Keywords: Use search-friendly terms tenants are likely to search for, such as “pet friendly”, “close to train”, or “modern kitchen”.
Preparing for Inspections
Whether you’re hosting private viewings or open inspections, presentation is key. Here’s how to prepare:
- Clean Thoroughly: Ensure the property is clean, tidy, and smells fresh. A well-presented property rents faster.
- Fix Minor Repairs: Patch any holes, replace broken blinds, and ensure everything is in working order.
- Print Application Forms: Have printed application forms available or send tenants a link to apply online through Rentline.
- Be Ready to Answer Questions: Know the lease terms, bond amount, and any included services (e.g., internet or utilities).
Screening Tenants Without an Agent
Choosing the right tenant is one of the most important parts of renting out a property. Here’s how to screen applicants effectively:
1. Collect Applications
Use Rentline’s rental application forms or your own to collect key information such as employment, income, rental history, and references.
2. Check References
Call previous landlords or property managers and employers. Ask about payment history, behaviour, and whether they’d rent to the tenant again.
3. Conduct a Tenant Background Check
Rentline can assist with background checks, including tenancy database checks, identity verification, and credit reports. This ensures you’re making a well-informed decision.
4. Trust Your Instincts
Good references and documents are important, but how tenants communicate, show up to inspections, and ask questions also tells you a lot.
Understanding Your Legal Obligations
As a private landlord, you’re still bound by state-based tenancy laws. Rentline provides guidance and templates to help you stay compliant, but you should familiarise yourself with your legal obligations, which may include:
- Lodging the bond: This must be done with the relevant state authority (e.g., Rental Bond Board or Consumer Affairs).
- Using a written lease: Each state has a standard form agreement. Rentline offers templates that comply with your location.
- Providing a condition report: Before tenants move in, this document documents the state of the property and protects both parties.
- Notice requirements: You must provide adequate notice before inspections or ending a lease, as per your state’s legislation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I list on Domain.com.au without an agent?
Not directly. However, you can list via Rentline, which is an approved partner of Domain. This allows private landlords to reach Domain’s audience without hiring a real estate agency.
How long does it take for my listing to go live?
Most listings go live within 1 business day once submitted and reviewed by the Rentline team.
What does it cost to list with Rentline?
Rentline offers flat-fee listing packages starting from as little as $179, depending on the platforms you choose. Compared to thousands in agent fees, this is extremely cost-effective.
Do I have to manage inspections myself?
Yes, with Rentline, you’re the direct contact for tenants. This gives you flexibility in setting inspection times and choosing your ideal tenant.
Can I list multiple properties?
Yes, Rentline supports multiple listings, making it ideal for investors or landlords with several properties to advertise.
Conclusion: Advertise Smarter with Rentline and Domain.com.au
Just because Domain doesn’t allow direct private listings doesn’t mean you have to hire a traditional agent. With Rentline, you can list your rental property on Domain.com.au and gain access to Australia’s largest pool of tenants — all while staying in full control.
Rentline gives you everything you need: a professional online presence, tools to manage your property, guidance on legal requirements, and the visibility of top property websites. Whether you’re leasing out a spare room, an apartment, or an investment property, Rentline is the simplest and most affordable way to rent privately.
Join thousands of Australian landlords who are taking control and renting smarter. List your property on Domain.com.au today with Rentline.
