Should You Use a Buyer’s Agent? Pros & Cons for Property Investors and First-Timers

Buying property, whether it’s your first home or your next investment, can be one of the biggest financial steps you’ll ever take. Between navigating auctions, researching suburbs, negotiating prices and dealing with agents, it can feel overwhelming. That’s where a buyer’s agent can help. But is it worth the cost? And what exactly do they do?

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What Is a Buyer’s Agent?

A buyer’s agent (sometimes called a buyer’s advocate) is a licensed real estate professional who acts on behalf of the buyer, not the seller.

Their role is to:

  • Research and shortlist suitable properties
  • Assess market value and potential growth
  • Negotiate with selling agents
  • Bid at auctions or handle private treaty offers
  • Manage due diligence and inspections

Essentially, they work to secure a property that aligns with your goals and budget, while taking much of the legwork and stress out of the process.

The Benefits of Using a Buyer’s Agent

Access to Off-Market Opportunities
Buyer’s agents often have industry networks that provide access to properties not yet publicly listed. These “off-market” or “pre-market” deals can give you an early edge, particularly in competitive areas.

Negotiation Expertise
For many buyers, negotiating with agents can be stressful. A buyer’s agent negotiates daily, which can help you secure a fair price or favourable terms.

Saves Time and Stress
Researching listings, attending inspections and handling paperwork takes hours each week. A buyer’s agent can handle this process efficiently, presenting you with only the best-fit options.

Emotional Detachment
Buying property can be emotional, especially for first-timers. A buyer’s agent provides an objective view, helping you make decisions based on facts rather than impulse.

Local Market Knowledge
Experienced buyer’s agents understand market trends, council requirements and property values across different suburbs. This can be particularly useful for interstate investors or those unfamiliar with a location.

The Things to Consider

Cost
Buyer’s agents charge a fee, usually a fixed rate or a percentage of the purchase price. Depending on the property’s value, this can amount to several thousand dollars.

Not All Agents Are Equal
Quality and experience vary widely. Always check credentials, reviews, and whether the agent is fully licensed in your state or territory.

Limited Availability in Some Areas
In smaller towns or regional markets, there may be fewer buyers agents with local experience. This can make it harder to find someone who knows the area well.

No Guarantee of a Better Deal
While buyer’s agents can improve your chances of finding a good property, there’s no guarantee you’ll pay less overall. Every property purchase carries its own risks and market fluctuations.

Tips Before Engaging a Buyer’s Agent

If you’re thinking about using a buyer’s agent:

  • Do your homework — check their licensing, experience, and professional memberships.
  • Ask about fees upfront — understand what’s included and how they’re paid.
  • Clarify their scope — some agents only assist with negotiation, while others offer end-to-end services.
  • Seek independent advice before making any major financial commitments.

A good buyer’s agent should be transparent, communicative, and act strictly in your best interests.

While a buyer’s agent helps you find and negotiate the right property, a mortgage broker, such as our team here at Broker Co, helps you secure finance that suits your needs.

A buyer’s agent can be a valuable ally for both first-home buyers and property investors, saving time, reducing stress, and offering professional insight. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Weigh up the costs and benefits, do your own research, and always seek independent legal and financial advice before committing to any agreement.

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