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buyers agent step-by-step guide

How to Work with a Buyer’s Agent: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for Australians

TL;DR: Buyer’s agents help property buyers by finding suitable homes, accessing off-market deals, handling negotiations, and managing the purchase process. Useful for first-home buyers, expats, and busy professionals.

Summary: Buyer’s agents work exclusively for property buyers, offering strategy development, property shortlisting, price analysis, and negotiation support. They help save time, reduce stress, and secure better deals. Key steps include assessing the need for an agent, selecting the right one, consulting, searching, negotiating, and managing post-purchase tasks.


Thinking of buying a home or investment property but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. With rising property prices, tight markets, and confusing jargon, buying real estate in Australia can feel overwhelming. That’s where a buyer’s agent can make a big difference.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, busy professional, or investor, working with a buyer’s agent can help you avoid costly mistakes and make smarter decisions. But what exactly do they do, and how do you work with one?

This practical step-by-step guide breaks it all down for you—clearly and simply—so you know what to expect at every stage of the buying journey.

Step 1: Understand What a Buyer’s Agent Actually Does

A buyer’s agent works exclusively on your behalf to find and secure the right property for your needs. They represent your interests—not the seller’s—so you get unbiased advice and guidance.

Unlike a selling agent—who represents the vendor—a buyer’s agent is there to help you every step of the way. From developing a clear property brief and conducting in-depth market research to negotiating the best price and handling the paperwork, they take care of the hard parts. They also bring access to properties you may not find on the open market.

Here’s what a buyer’s agent typically does:

  • Develops a personalised property strategy
  • Searches for on- and off-market opportunities
  • Inspects properties and filters out unsuitable ones
  • Conducts price analysis and market comparisons
  • Negotiates the offer and manages the purchase process

Understand What a Buyer’s Agent Actually Does

Step 2: Decide If You Really Need One

A buyer’s agent isn’t for everyone—but they can be a game changer in many situations. Think about your circumstances. Are you time-poor? New to property? Not sure how the local market works? Missing out on properties?

Here are a few signs that you could benefit from using a buyer’s agent:

  • You’re too busy to attend inspections or research the market thoroughly
  • You live interstate or overseas and need a local expert on the ground
  • You feel uncertain or overwhelmed about property values and negotiation tactics
  • You’ve missed out on previous properties due to slow action or bidding wars
  • You want access to off-market deals that aren’t publicly advertised

If any of these sound familiar, a buyer’s agent could save you time, money, and frustration. They’re especially helpful if you’re buying interstate or want a competitive edge in a hot market.

If you’re buying from overseas or out of state, you might also find this helpful: How a Buyer’s Agent Simplifies Property Purchases for Expats and Interstate Buyers

Step 3: Research the Right Agent for You

Choosing the right buyer’s agent is just as important as deciding to use one. You want someone who’s experienced in your target area and has a proven track record with the type of property you’re after.

Here’s what to look for:

  • Experience in your preferred location (e.g. inner Perth suburbs)
  • Licensing and membership in industry bodies like REBAA
  • Transparent fee structure
  • Strong client testimonials and case studies

Good agents welcome your questions. Ask things like:

  • “How many clients do you take on at one time?”
  • “How do you source off-market opportunities?”
  • “Can you walk me through your buying process step-by-step?”
  • “How are you paid, and is it fixed or percentage-based?”

Look for honest, direct responses. You want someone who focuses on quality over quantity and who puts your goals first.

If you’re new to the market and unsure about common negotiation traps, this guide may help: Property Negotiation Strategies Every First Time Buyer Must Know

Step 4: Book an Initial Consultation

Most buyer’s agents offer an initial consultation at no cost. This is your chance to assess whether they’re the right fit and for them to understand your property goals.

During the session, expect to cover:

  • Your price range and current financial position
  • Preferred property types and must-have features
  • Ideal suburbs and timeframe
  • Their process and next steps if you proceed

Don’t hold back—this is your investment and your future home.

Step 5: Let Them Do the Heavy Lifting

Once you decide to move forward, your buyer’s agent gets to work. They’ll search both on-market and off-market listings, attend inspections, and filter out anything that doesn’t meet your brief.

Their job is to save you time by doing the legwork—while keeping you informed and in control. Expect to receive:

  • Regular updates with shortlisted properties
  • Comparative market analysis
  • Inspection reports with photos and commentary

This phase ensures that your time is focused only on serious, high-potential options.

Step 6: Negotiation and Making an Offer

When it’s time to make an offer, your buyer’s agent becomes your strategic partner. They’ll analyse market data, compare recent sales, and help you decide on a fair and competitive offer.

They’ll then negotiate on your behalf to get the best terms possible, reducing the risk of overpaying or losing out to another buyer. They also:

  • Provide guidance on contract conditions and clauses
  • Liaise with the selling agent to manage timelines
  • Help with due diligence before you commit

If the property is going to auction, they’ll guide you on pre-auction offers or represent you on the day. Their calm approach and preparation can prevent emotional overspending—something many buyers regret.

To explore more about smart negotiation strategies, check out: Winning at Property Deals: Buyers Agent Negotiation Tactics That Actually Work

Step 7: Sealing the Deal and Post-Purchase Support

The job’s not done once the offer is accepted. Your buyer’s agent continues to manage the process until settlement. They’ll work with your solicitor or conveyancer, help schedule inspections, and make sure everything stays on track.

Some buyer’s agents—like Rise Property Buyers—also offer access to trusted professionals such as:

  • Mortgage brokers
  • Building and pest inspectors
  • Property managers
  • Trades and renovation experts

That means you’re supported even after the keys are in your hand.

How to Work with a Buyer’s Agent A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for Australians

Why Working with a Buyer’s Agent Is Worth It

Here’s what you really get:

  • Less stress: You don’t have to do it all yourself
  • Better deals: Smart negotiations save money
  • Time back: No wasted weekends at inspections
  • Expert support: You’re not navigating the market alone

Imagine this: You’ve been house-hunting for months with no luck. You engage a buyer’s agent. Within two weeks, you’re inspecting high-quality listings—including one that isn’t advertised online. Two weeks later, you’re under contract at a fair price, without the stress or second-guessing.

That’s the difference a good buyer’s agent makes.

About Rise Property Buyers

Rise Property Buyers is a Perth-based buyer’s agency led by Adam Nyeholt, who brings more than 20 years of experience in property investment and development. The agency works with homebuyers, expats, and investors across Australia.

Adam’s civil engineering background brings a practical, data-focused approach to every purchase. As a boutique agency, Rise limits client numbers to ensure every buyer gets the attention and strategy they deserve.

Ready to Buy Smarter?

If you want to avoid costly mistakes and finally feel confident about your next property move, book a free strategy call with Rise Property Buyers today. Whether you’re in Perth or buying from across the country, their expert team is here to help you get it right—the first time.

Adam Nyeholt
The Founder and Director of Rise Property Buyers, passionate property investor and lifestyle designer.

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