Hiring a buyer’s agent should feel like empowering your decision-making — not handing it over. But not all agents are created equal. Some may be genuinely independent, while others operate within tightly knit spruiker groups who funnel clients to “preferred” solicitors, brokers, and property managers — with everyone in the chain getting a cut.

If a buyer’s agent introduces you to a team of professionals, they “recommend,” ask if those connections come with a referral fee. And remember you are under no obligation to use their broker, their conveyancer, their property management group, or their valuer.

Here’s a list of questions you deserve to ask — especially if you’re a solo investor or navigating this process for the first time:

🔍 Dig Deeper: Questions That Really Matter

🧠 Conflict of Interest

• Are you affiliated with any spruiker groups, developer networks, or “one-stop-shop” property companies?
  This uncovers whether you’re getting independent advice or being sold into a referral ecosystem where everyone profits from your decision.
• Do you receive any form of commission, referral fee, or benefit from recommending specific developers, brokers, solicitors, or property managers?
  Transparency is key. Hidden incentives can influence the advice you’re given — without you even realising it.
• Will I be pressured to use your preferred providers, or can I choose my own?
  You should always have the freedom to choose who works for you.

📑 Transparency & Reporting

• Will I receive a written report for each property, including valuation, rental yield, and growth data?
  This gives you time to review the facts — not just a flashy pitch. A solid agent provides clear data to back up their recommendation.
• Once you present a property, how long do I have to conduct my own research before signing a contract?
  Some agencies will pressure you to sign within hours. You should be able to take the time you need.

📊 Property Evaluation & Claims

• What is your process for valuing a property and forecasting growth potential?
  Are they using comparable sales and data-driven analysis — or just sales rhetoric?
• What growth rates have your past clients seen with properties you’ve sourced?
  Ask for real examples. It’s easy to claim success, harder to prove it.
• You mentioned ‘property doubles every 10 years.’ Can you show me where that’s actually happened with the properties you’ve sourced?
  This cuts through common investment myths.

🔎 Independent Checks

• Do you use your own in-house valuation model, or an independent valuer?
  Internal valuations can be inflated. Independent valuations offer objective data.
• Can I order my own independent valuation from a bank-panel valuer of my choice?
  This ensures you’re not overpaying based on a biased report.
• Can I get an independent rental appraisal from a property manager I trust?
  A second opinion on rental yield helps verify if the property is truly viable as an investment.
• Can I organise my own building & pest inspection, legal review, or strata report before committing?
  This is standard practice — and essential for your protection.

⏱️ Timelines & Communication

• What’s the average time you take to find properties for clients?
  Some agencies charge full fees upfront and then take months to deliver. You deserve to know how long the process will take — and whether that timeline is realistic for your goals.
• How frequently will I receive updates from you during the process?
  You should feel informed and supported at every step.
• What is the full process from onboarding to settlement?
  Get a clear picture of the experience ahead.