What Questions to Ask a Buyer’s Agent Before Hiring Them

Hiring a buyer’s agent can be a wise decision when you’re in the market to purchase a property. A skilled buyer’s agent can save you time, money, and stress by guiding you through the complex process of finding and acquiring your dream home or investment property. However, not all buyer’s agents or advocates are exceptional, so it’s crucial to ask the right questions before engaging their services. In this article, we’ll explore essential questions to pose to a potential buyer’s agent to ensure they can represent your best interests and meet your specific property-buying needs.

Q1. How Long Have You Been in Business?

Experience is often a key indicator of a buyer’s advocate’s proficiency in the field. Asking how long they’ve been in the business can provide insights into their knowledge and expertise. A buyer’s agent with several years of experience might have encountered various scenarios, developed valuable industry contacts, and honed their negotiation skills. However, a shorter time in the industry doesn’t necessarily disqualify an agent, as they may bring fresh perspectives and a strong commitment to serving their clients.

Q2. What Specific Areas or Types of Properties Do You Specialise in?

This is another good question to ask a buyer’s agent because it helps you determine if they’re the right fit for your needs. An agent with expertise in your desired area or property type can provide more valuable insights and potentially better outcomes. And if you’re particularly interested in checking out off-market properties, you should seek buyer’s advocates with extensive experience and network to deliver those options.

Q3. What Is Your Recent Property Purchase Activity Like?

Understanding a buyer’s agent’s recent purchase activity is essential to gauge their current level of involvement in the real estate market. Ask the following questions:

• How many properties have you bought in the last 12 months? 

This question will help you assess their real estate transaction volume and whether they are actively engaged in the market.

• How many off-market listings have you secured in the last two years?

Off-market properties can offer unique opportunities, especially in competitive markets or for luxury properties. An agent who is well-connected and experienced in securing such properties can be a valuable asset.

• What was the timeline from sign-up to purchase for your last three to five clients?

This is one of the good questions to ask a buyer’s agent because it provides a realistic expectation of the buying process timeline based on their recent experiences. It can also help you understand the agent’s efficiency and the current market conditions, including property values in the local market.

Q4. What Is Your Previous Experience Like?

While a buyer’s advocate’s primary role is to help you purchase property, it’s also valuable to inquire about their other relevant experiences in the real estate industry. Ask if they have any background in real estate sales, property management, or any related fields. Such experiences can help them gain a more comprehensive understanding of the market and its nuances.

Q5. Are You Fully Licensed?

As opposed to just a Certificate of Registration, a full license indicates a higher level of expertise and experience. It shows the agent can work independently and has met more rigorous qualification standards, which is crucial for effectively representing your interests. You can also ask if they’re a member of the Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia (REBAA) to evaluate their commitment to professional standards and ethics. A REBAA membership also suggests the agent is dedicated to ongoing education and adheres to a code of conduct. 

Q6. Can I Ask for Your Social Proof?

Social proof matters when assessing a buyer’s agent’s credibility and reliability. Here’s what you should do:

• Read Testimonials and Online Reviews: Request access to their testimonials and online reviews from past clients. This feedback can offer valuable insights into their track record, client satisfaction, and the quality of their services.
• Talk to Their Past Clients: Apart from reading the buyer’s advocate’s client reviews, ask them for possible references or the opportunity to speak with some of their previous clients. Hearing first-hand about their clients’ experiences can give you a clearer picture of what it’s like to work with the agent.

Q7. How Does a Buyer’s Agent Get Paid? 

Talking to different buyer’s agents and asking about their fee structures is vital for transparency and helps ensure alignment of interests. A fixed fee model, for instance, can indicate that the particular home buyer advocate you’re talking to is focused on getting you the best deal rather than merely maximising their commission. 

Q8. Are You an Exclusive Buyer’s Agent?

With this question, you can identify potential conflicts of interest. An exclusive buyer’s advocate only represents property buyers or property investors, which can mean their focus is solely on your needs without the potential divided loyalty that could come from also selling properties or collaborating with a real estate agent.

You can follow that up with this question: How do you handle situations where multiple clients are interested in the same property? This question addresses potential biases and helps assess how the agent prioritises clients’ needs. You can then ensure fair treatment and avoid competing against other clients of the same agent.

Q9. How Do You Stay Updated on Market Trends and Changes in the Real Estate Industry?

What else can you ask a buyer’s agent before hiring them? Consider this question, as it reveals the agent’s commitment to ongoing education and market awareness. A good buyer’s agent who stays current with property market trends and continuously refines their property search methods is better equipped to guide you. 

Q10. What Is Your Availability & How Often Will We Communicate During the Process?

Clear communication is essential in any professional relationship. Ask this question to a potential buyer’s agent to see whether they can provide exceptional customer service and if their availability aligns with your needs. You don’t want to engage with an advocate who has no time for you—no matter how good they are in their field. 

Final Thoughts

Choosing an experienced buyer’s agent who can meet your requirements is vital. Start by knowing what questions to ask a buyer’s agent to evaluate their experience, recent activity, additional expertise, and social proof. Also, remember that the relationship with your buyer’s agent should be built on trust and open communication. Take your time to research and interview multiple buyer’s agents to ensure you find one who aligns with your goals and has a proven track record of success in helping clients achieve their real estate objectives. With the right buyer’s agent, you can navigate the property market confidently and make well-informed decisions.