The Pros and Cons of Using a Buyers Agent

Buyers Agent showing a property to a young couple

The rise of buyer’s agents in Australia has reshaped the way people purchase property. Once seen as a service only for high-end investors, buyer’s agents are now a regular part of the conversation for first-home buyers, time-poor professionals and seasoned property investors alike.

But while buyer’s agents can bring serious advantages, there are also risks, especially with a growing number of inexperienced operators entering the industry. If you're considering using one, here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.

The Pros of Using a Buyers Agent

1. Access to Off-Market and Pre-Market Properties

In a competitive market, properties often sell before they ever hit realestate.com.au. A well-connected buyer’s agent can give you early access to opportunities others never see, which can be the difference between securing a great property and missing out.

2. Saves Time and Reduces Stress

Searching, inspecting, negotiating and managing the process is time-consuming — especially if you're working full time or buying interstate. A buyer’s agent handles all of it on your behalf, giving you back hours each week.

3. Negotiation Power

Experienced buyer’s agents know how to negotiate with selling agents and read market behaviour. They bring objectivity to the process and know when to walk away or when to push forward. This can save you tens of thousands of dollars.

4. Expertise in Suburb and Property Selection

Great buyer’s agents use data, local knowledge, and future infrastructure planning to guide you toward high-performing suburbs and properties with strong long-term potential whether you're buying a home or an investment.

5. Avoiding Emotional Decisions

Emotion is one of the biggest pitfalls in real estate. A buyer’s agent acts as a buffer, helping you stay focused on strategy, value and long-term goals.

The Cons of Using a Buyers Agent

1. Not All Buyer’s Agents Are Equal

With the industry booming, many buyers agents are new, unregulated or inexperienced. A large number have only ever worked in a rising market and lack the depth needed to identify true long‑term value or risk. The training required to become a buyers agent also provides very little education in research, data analysis or market fundamentals. This means many agents are skilled at transacting property, but not at assessing growth potential, identifying risk factors or guiding clients toward long-term performance.

2. Conflict of Interest Risks

Some agents claim to work for the buyer but also maintain close relationships with sales agents or developers. This can lead to biased advice and recommendations that favour commission, not your best interest.

3. High Fees (That Don’t Always Add Value)

Many buyer’s agents charge large fixed fees upfront, even if you don’t end up buying. Others may charge based on a percentage of purchase price, which can incentivise upselling. Unless you're getting access to real value and expertise, the cost may outweigh the benefit.

4. Overpromising Results

Some agents overhype off-market access or “exclusive deals” that are simply listings passed on by friendly selling agents. If the pitch sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

The Bottom Line: Choose the Right Buyer’s Agent

A great buyer’s agent can be your best asset helping you buy faster, smarter and with greater confidence. But a poor one can cost you time, money and opportunity.

Before engaging anyone, ask tough questions about their background, research process, independence and track record. Make sure they work exclusively for buyers, and that their fee structure aligns with your goals.

Want to work with an experienced buyers agent? Chat to the team today!