Your Complete Guide to Understanding Buyers Agents
What Is a Buyers Agent?
A Buyers Agent, also known as a Buyers Advocate, is a licensed property professional who works exclusively on behalf of the buyer throughout the property purchasing process.
Unlike a traditional real estate agent who represents the seller and works to achieve the highest possible sale price for the vendor, a Buyers Agent is engaged to protect the buyer’s interests and help secure the right property under the best possible terms and conditions.
Put simply — a Buyers Agent is someone on your side throughout the entire property buying journey.
Exclusive Buyers Agents vs Traditional Real Estate Agents
It is important to understand the difference between a Buyers Agent and a selling agent.
Selling Agent
Buyers Agent
An exclusive Buyers Agent does not sell properties or represent vendors, ensuring their advice remains fully aligned with the buyer.
What Is the Difference Between a Buyers Agent and a Selling Agent?
The key difference is who they represent.
Selling Agent
Buyers Agent
By law, an agent cannot represent both parties in the same transaction while accepting commissions from both sides.
Why Independent Buyers Agents Matter
It is important to work with an independent Buyers Agent rather than someone operating within a traditional sales agency environment.
Some “buyers agents” connected to selling agencies may only recommend their own listings or properties within their local office network, creating potential conflicts of interest.
An independent Buyers Agent searches broadly across suitable locations and property types while remaining focused solely on the buyer’s interests and objectives.