How to Choose a Buyer’s Agent: 15 Questions & Red Flags in Australia

A buyer’s agent (or buyers advocate) can make or break your property purchase. With the right professional, you’ll gain access to off-market properties, receive expert negotiation, and buy with confidence. But not all agents are equal. Knowing how to choose the best buyers agent, and what red flags to avoid, is essential before signing an agreement.

Step 1: Check Licensing and Accreditation

Confirm the agent holds a valid real estate licence in their state or territory.

Look for membership with professional bodies like the Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia (REBAA), which sets standards and codes of conduct.

Red Flag: Agents who can’t provide a licence number or avoid questions about credentials.

Step 2: Review Experience and Track Record

Ask how long they’ve been operating in your target market.

Request case studies or examples of successful purchases in suburbs you’re interested in.

Red Flag: An agent who claims to work “everywhere” without clear suburb-level expertise.

Step 3: Compare Buyer’s Agent Reviews

Read independent reviews on platforms like buyersagents.app, Google Reviews, and REBAA listings.

Look for patterns: consistent praise for communication and results is more telling than one glowing testimonial.

Red Flag: No independent reviews, only hand-picked testimonials.

Step 4: Ask the Right Questions (Checklist of 15)

Here are 15 key questions to ask before choosing a buyer’s agent:

Are you fully licensed in my state?

Are you independent, or do you have ties to selling agents or developers?

How long have you been a buyer’s agent?

Do you specialise in owner-occupier or investor purchases?

Which suburbs do you focus on?

What proportion of your purchases are off-market?

How do you source properties?

What research tools and data do you use?

Can you share examples of recent client purchases?

How do you charge fees (percentage, fixed, or hybrid)?

What is included in your fee structure?

Do you charge upfront engagement or retainer fees?

Do you work alone or as part of a team?

How do you keep clients updated during the process?

Can I speak to a past client for a reference?

Step 5: Understand Fee Transparency

Clarify whether fees are fixed or percentage-based, and what’s included.

Ask for a full written breakdown before signing.

Red Flag: Vague answers about costs or unwillingness to provide written agreements.

Step 6: Evaluate Local Networks and Off-Market Access

A strong buyer’s agent should regularly secure off-market deals.

Ask what percentage of their purchases are off-market and how they maintain relationships with selling agents.

Red Flag: They only send you properties you can already find online.

Step 7: Gauge Communication and Fit

Do they explain things clearly and without jargon?

Are they proactive with updates, or do you have to chase them?

Red Flag: Poor communication early in the relationship is a sign of bigger issues later.

Red Flags That Should Stop You Immediately

No valid real estate licence.

Refusal to provide written terms or transparent fees.

Commission paid by sellers (conflict of interest).

Overpromising results, like “guaranteed below market value.”

No evidence of local area knowledge.

Why Reviews and Independent Platforms Matter

Buyer’s agent reviews give real insights into professionalism, communication, and outcomes. Platforms like buyersagents.app provide verified reviews so you can compare agents before committing, helping you avoid costly mistakes.

FAQ Section
How do I choose the best buyer’s agent?

Check licensing, local expertise, independent reviews, and fee transparency. Use a 15-question checklist before committing.

What are the red flags when selecting a buyer’s agent?

No licence, vague fees, ties to sellers or developers, and overpromising results are all warning signs.

Are buyer’s agent reviews reliable?

Yes, especially if sourced from independent, verified platforms rather than just testimonials provided by the agent.

Should I meet multiple buyer’s agents before choosing?

Yes. Compare at least two or three agents to understand differences in approach, service, and cost.