Purchasing a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or adding another property to your portfolio, working with a qualified buyers agent can simplify the process, reduce risk and help you secure the right property at the right price. But before signing on the dotted line, it’s crucial to know who you’re working with.
Asking the right questions up front ensures your agent has the experience, local knowledge and negotiation skills to support your goals.
Here are the top three questions to ask a buyers agent when looking to buy a property.
1. What’s Your Experience in the Local Market?
Local experience makes all the difference when it comes to property buying. An agent who knows the suburb inside and out can offer valuable insight into recent sales, future developments, council regulations and price trends that may not be obvious through public listings alone.
Ask how long they’ve been operating in the area and how many purchases they’ve facilitated in the past 12 months. An experienced agent should be able to provide a track record of successful purchases and explain how they’ve helped clients navigate challenges unique to the location. Be specific—ask for case studies or recent examples in the same suburb or price range you’re targeting.
The local knowledge also extends beyond sales data. A good agent should understand lifestyle elements such as school zones, commute times, noise levels, public transport, flood risks and demographic changes. These details are crucial when weighing up long-term value and liveability.
2. How Do You Handle Property Inspections and Due Diligence?
An experienced agent should handle more than just negotiating the price. They need to protect your interests by conducting thorough due diligence before you even consider making an offer.
Ask how they identify off-market opportunities and what their process is for inspecting properties. Do they attend inspections on your behalf? Will they provide you with detailed reports, including photos, floor plans, condition notes and risk factors? A proactive agent should alert you to any concerns—such as structural issues, strata levies or flood zones—before recommending a property for purchase.
It’s also essential to understand how your agent works with building inspectors, conveyancers and other professionals. Do they have preferred partners they trust or are you free to choose your own? Transparency and independence are key, especially if your agent receives referral commissions.
Additionally, inquire about how many properties they assess on your behalf and how they determine which ones to shortlist. This gives you a clear view of how diligent and selective they are, ensuring you’re only considering high-quality options.
3. What’s Your Fee Structure and Are There Any Hidden Costs?
Agents charge in several different ways and it’s important to understand exactly what you’ll be paying for—and when.
Some agents charge a flat fee, while others charge a percentage of the property’s purchase price. Clarify what’s included in that cost: Is it just property searching and negotiation or does it also include auction bidding, off-market access, due diligence and settlement support? Ask whether the fee is fixed upfront or adjusted if the price changes during negotiations.
You should also ask if any commissions are received from developers or selling agents. An agent must work exclusively for you and not have any financial interest in selling you a specific property. Ensure that any commissions or incentives received are disclosed in writing.
Finally, be clear on payment terms. Will there be a deposit or retainer required before work begins? Are you locked into a contract for a set period? Knowing these details upfront helps you avoid surprises and gives you peace of mind throughout the buying journey.
A qualified buyers agent brings much more to the table than just saving you time and energy. They act as a dedicated advocate throughout the entire buying process, offering strategic insights, protecting you from costly mistakes and securing better outcomes than you might achieve on your own.
By asking the right questions—from local experience to due diligence and fee transparency—you can feel confident you’re choosing an agent who aligns with your needs and acts in your best interest.
Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, downsizing or building a property portfolio, partnering with the right agent can be a game-changer.
Before making your next move in the property market, ensure you’ve chosen a professional who is informed, transparent and deeply familiar with the local landscape. The right questions today can save you thousands tomorrow.
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