Private sales are almost always through the offer and negotiation process.

Private sellers may advertise in local papers, use private sale websites or a range of other ways to market their home.

From a buyer’s perspective, the process is basically the same as dealing through a real estate agent.  The main difference is that you will be dealing directly with the seller.  The seller may be more emotionally attached to the home and therefore their price expectations may be less objective than an agent’s.  If you feel uncomfortable about dealing directly with the seller, you may prefer to have a friend negotiate on your behalf.

With a private sale, you should pay the deposit to your lawyer.  They can hold it in trust until settlement day (or return it to you if the deal falls through).  Because you and the seller may not be very experienced at the process of buying and selling a home, it’s important that you consult your lawyer before signing or committing to anything.

Banks are more likely to require a valuation report with a private sale.

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