How a buyers’ agent gets you to the front of the buying queue

Finding a property you want to purchase is only half the battle.

Even if you've fallen in love with a home, been approved for a mortgage and made sure all your financial ducks are in a row, you still have to get to the front of the buyers' queue.

Fortunately, employing the services of a buyers' agent can make this much easier.

Putting your needs first

Real estate agents typically work on behalf of home sellers. However, as their name implies, buyers' agents have your purchasing goals in mind. They only work exclusively for the buyer and don’t have any conflicts of interest in recommending which property to purchase.

They are paid by the buyer, and therefore engage in a number of services that can help you find the properties you want more effectively and efficiently.

Insider information

A quality buyers' agent will have the inside scoop on the area you're looking to buy in.

Say you're looking to purchase real estate in Manly, Erskineville or Bondi. A buyers' agent may be aware of properties about to come onto the market that they can forewarn you about.

Additionally, in some circumstances, sellers may not want to list their home for the general public to see. In these cases, buyers' agents can work on your behalf to obtain property off the market.

Negotiating

Getting the edge when it comes to buying a home doesn't always come down to offering the largest amount of money.

Terms are important, whether they have to do with timeframes, fees or any number of special conditions a home seller might need met.

Buyers' agents are experienced in negotiating with home sellers, and they can work on your behalf to come to agreeable terms that can help you stand out from the competition.

Bidding

Many great homes are sold via auction. However, the bidding process can be overwhelming for some home buyers, especially those who have never done it before.

If you're attempting to purchase Australian property at auction, the expert services of a buyers' agent can be invaluable in giving you a leg up.