Thinking about hiring a buyer’s agent but not sure where to start? Or maybe you’re wondering what a buyer’s agent actually does?
You’re in the right place.
What is a Buyer’s Agent?
A buyer’s agent (also known as a buyer’s advocate) is a licensed professional who represents the buyer (that’s you!) throughout the property purchasing process.
Unlike real estate agents (also known as selling agents) who are paid to get the best price for the vendor, a buyer’s agent acts exclusively on your behalf.
Here’s what they typically help with:
- Finding properties that match your needs and budget
- Accessing off-market or pre-market deals (very important in a competitive market!)
- Conducting research and due diligence
- Managing inspections, building reports and paperwork
- Negotiating the best possible terms and price for you
In short, they’re your personal strategist in the property market — making sure you don’t overpay, rush into the wrong deal, or get swayed by sales tactics.
Should I Use a Buyer’s Agent?
Not everyone needs a buyer’s agent — but here’s when they make a big difference:
- You’re time-poor and overwhelmed
- You’ve been burnt or missed out on properties before
- You want expert guidance to avoid overpaying
- You’re buying interstate or from overseas
- You value confidence, clarity, and independent advice
If you’re juggling work, kids, and life — or simply don’t want to go head-to-head with trained sales agents alone — a buyer’s agent can be well worth the fee.
On the other hand, you might not need one if:
- You love the hunt and have plenty of time to do inspections and research
- You’re a seasoned buyer with deep knowledge of the market
- You’re confident negotiating and reading the fine print yourself
How to Find the Right Buyer’s Agent
Here’s the truth: not all buyer’s agents are created equal.
The right one can save you thousands — the wrong one can cost you even more.
That’s exactly why we created this free printable checklist, which walks you through the key questions to ask before engaging a buyer’s agent, including:
✔️ How to verify experience, licensing and specialisation
✔️ What to ask about their own investment track record
✔️ Why communication and fee structure really matter
✔️ How to spot hidden agendas and avoid rookie mistakes
✔️ Bonus space for your own notes and reflections
Download Your Free Checklist
Fill out the form below and we’ll email you the checklist instantly.
No jargon. No fluff. Just practical, proven questions to help you find the right buyer’s agent with confidence.
As Heard on The Property Couch
This checklist was featured in Episode 549 | The Insider’s 6-Step Checklist for Choosing the Right Buyer’s Agent, where Bryce and Ben break down what to look for, what to avoid, and how to tell if a buyer’s agent is truly working in your best interest.
Want to know more about Buyer’s Agents?
Make sure you also check out these episodes:
- Ep 18 | What is a Buyers Agent and Do You Need One?
- Ep 167 | When you SHOULDN’T use a Buyers Agent?
- Ep 402 | Do You Need a Buyer’s Agent in Today’s Market? (Part 1)
- Ep 403 | Do You Need a Buyer’s Agent in Today’s Market? (Part 2)
- Ep 545 | Burnt-Out Vans, Mouldy Eaves & Broken Trust: A Cautionary Buyer’s Agent Tale
- Ep 548 | Would You Trust the Other Side’s Lawyer? Why a Selling Agent Isn’t on Your Side
