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Buyers Agent Inner West

Meet Trusted Inner West
Buyers Agent Dan Sofo

Sydney’s inner west is a melting pot of culture and a mecca for foodies.

 

It’s dense and a little gritty, but the energy and the sense of community are palpable, as is the creativity, with artisan maker spaces, local markets, craft breweries, coffee roasters on every corner.

 

In fact, the inner west feels like a collection of small villages, each with their own niche tribe and appeal.

 

The inner west is changing rapidly, driven by a progressive council and the arrival of the South West Metro and the West Connects, and a state government mandate to increase density. So, it’s more important than ever to have an inner west local buyers agent to guide you through the house hunting process.

 

If you’re looking to buy in Sydney’s inner west, I’m here to help.

 

Please get in touch.

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Buy 'The One' In Sydney's Inner West

As specialists in this vibrant and diverse region, Dan Sofo and his team at Unicorn Buyers Agents understand the unique charm, investment potential, and lifestyle offerings that make the Inner West one of the most sought-after areas in Sydney.

 

 

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, seasoned investor, or looking to upgrade your current property, our team is dedicated to providing personalised guidance and expert advice to help you find your ideal home or investment property in this thriving urban landscape.

Our Services

01

Done For You

Our Done For You option is our complete property buying service.

02

Done With You

If you’ve already identified properties that you like then this service may suit you.

03

Bid at Auction

We know the rules, we know the games and we know how to win.

 

04

Vendor Advocacy

We help you find the best sales agent to sell your property.

 

Inner West Client Reviews

Master the Market:

Inner West Real Estate Education

The Process To Buy Your Dream
Inner West Property

When it comes to buying property everyone’s needs are different. My proven process will ensure I find you an Inner West property you love. You’ll be delighted with the result.

Discovery Session

We’ll meet to discuss your needs and how I will work to help you. We’ll create a detailed brief together outlining your must-have’s and nice to have and setting your budget.

The Search

You’ll get access to on, off, and pre-market property available to purchase that meets your brief. We’ll share videos and photos and walk you through any property you choose to shortlist.

The Appraisal

We apply our stringent 22 point checklists to ensure your purchase is problem-free and co-ordinate contract and strata review, building and pest, and any other reports required.

The Negotiation

We're in your corner to secure your home, on your terms for the lowest possible price I’ll then co-ordinate your solicitor and broker to ensure the transaction is trouble-free, all the way to settlement.

Inner West Property Market FAQs

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    1. What are the key considerations when buying property in the inner west?

    What defines the inner west

    When buying property in Sydney’s Inner West, several key considerations can help you make a well-informed decision:

     

    Budget

    Determine your budget and financial limits before beginning your property search. Take into account factors such as your deposit, mortgage affordability, and additional costs like stamp duty, legal fees, and ongoing maintenance expenses.

     

    Location

    The Inner West encompasses a variety of suburbs, each with its own unique character and amenities. Consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, schools, parks, shopping precincts, and employment hubs. Think about your lifestyle preferences and long-term needs when choosing a location.

     

    Property type and features

    Decide on the type of property that suits your requirements, whether it’s a house, apartment, townhouse, or terrace. Consider factors such as the size of the property, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, layout, parking availability, and any additional features or amenities you desire.

     

    Condition of the property

    Conduct a thorough inspection of the property to assess its condition and identify any potential issues or maintenance requirements. Consider hiring a professional building inspector to help uncover hidden problems and ensure you’re making an informed decision.

     

    Market trends and growth potential

    Research the historical and projected growth trends in property prices for the specific suburb you’re interested in within the Inner West. Look for indicators of strong demand, such as low vacancy rates, high auction clearance rates, and infrastructure developments that could drive future capital growth.

     

    Legal and regulatory considerations

    Understand the legal and regulatory aspects of purchasing property in Sydney, including contract terms, zoning regulations, strata by-laws (if applicable), and any restrictions or planning controls that may affect the property.

     

    Future development and infrastructure projects

    Research any planned infrastructure projects, rezoning proposals, or developments that could impact the area’s property market and livability.

     

    Consider how these projects may affect property values and your quality of life in the long term.

     

    By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can make a well-informed decision when buying property in Sydney’s Inner West that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle preferences.


    2. What defines Sydney's inner west?

    inner west buyers agent - suburbs overview

    The inner west of Sydney is a diverse region consisting of a number of suburbs, each with its own unique character and charm. Some of the most well-known suburbs in the inner west include Newtown, Birchgrove, Marrickville, Balmain, Summer Hill, and Annandale, all of which offer a wide range of cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as excellent transport links to the rest of the city.

    These suburbs are located to the west of the city centre and are generally known for their vibrant, creative and multicultural communities. The area is home to a mix of old and new architecture, with many historic buildings and charming terrace houses alongside modern apartments and renovated warehouses.


    The inner west is also known for its many parks and green spaces, including the popular Sydney Park, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline.


    Here’s an overview of some of the most well-known suburbs in the Inner West:


    Newtown

    Newtown is a bustling suburb renowned for its eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, bars, and vintage shops. It’s a hub for artists, musicians, and students, with a vibrant arts and music scene. Newtown offers a diverse range of housing options, including Victorian terraces, modern apartments, and converted warehouses.


    Balmain

    Balmain is a picturesque harborside suburb with a strong sense of community and a rich maritime heritage. It features charming streets lined with historic sandstone cottages, waterfront parks, and trendy boutiques. Balmain is known for its lively pub culture, gourmet food scene, and panoramic views of Sydney Harbour.


    Glebe

    Glebe is a bohemian suburb with a mix of Victorian terraces, workers’ cottages, and modern apartments. It’s home to the University of Sydney and offers a vibrant arts and cultural scene. Glebe’s bustling main street, Glebe Point Road, is lined with cafes, bookstores, and specialty shops.


    Leichhardt

    Known as Sydney’s “Little Italy,” Leichhardt is famous for its Italian heritage and authentic cuisine. It features leafy streets, historic architecture, and a thriving dining and shopping precinct along Norton Street. Leichhardt offers a mix of housing options, including Victorian terraces, federation-era homes, and modern apartments.


    Marrickville

    Marrickville is a diverse and multicultural suburb known for its thriving food scene, creative arts community, and leafy parks. It’s home to a mix of families, young professionals, and artists, with a strong sense of community spirit. Marrickville’s main thoroughfare, Marrickville Road, is lined with multicultural eateries, cafes, and specialty shops.


    Annandale

    Annandale is a charming suburb with tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and a village-like atmosphere. It features a mix of Victorian terraces, federation-era homes, and modern developments. Annandale offers easy access to parks, waterfront reserves, and local amenities.


    3. Which suburbs In the inner west are most poised for growth?

    Marrickville

    Marrickville has been experiencing gentrification and increasing popularity among buyers and investors in recent years. Its proximity to the CBD, vibrant cultural scene, diverse dining options, and relatively more affordable property prices compared to neighbouring suburbs make it attractive. Additionally, Marrickville has seen improvements in infrastructure, including the Marrickville Metro shopping center redevelopment, which has contributed to its growth potential.

     

    Petersham

    Petersham is another Inner West suburb that has been attracting attention for its affordability, leafy streets, and proximity to the CBD. The suburb offers a mix of housing options, including Victorian terraces and apartments, making it appealing to a diverse range of buyers. Petersham’s vibrant dining scene, cultural diversity, and community atmosphere contribute to its growth potential.

     

    Ashfield

    Ashfield is undergoing significant transformation with several urban renewal projects and infrastructure developments underway. The Ashfield Town Centre revitalization project aims to enhance public spaces, streetscapes, and amenities, making the suburb more attractive to residents and investors. Ashfield’s convenient location, good transport links, and diverse housing stock make it a suburb to watch for future growth.

     

    Dulwich Hill

    Dulwich Hill has seen steady growth in property prices and popularity in recent years, driven by its leafy streets, village atmosphere, and proximity to amenities. The light rail extension to Dulwich Hill has improved transport connectivity and accessibility to the CBD, further enhancing its appeal. Dulwich Hill’s mix of housing options, including period homes and apartments, make it an attractive choice for buyers seeking a suburban lifestyle with urban conveniences.

     

    Summer Hill

    Summer Hill is known for its historic charm, tree-lined streets, and village atmosphere. The suburb offers a mix of Victorian and federation-era homes, as well as apartments and townhouses. Summer Hill’s proximity to schools, parks, and public transport, along with its vibrant village center and community events, make it an appealing suburb for families and professionals alike.

     

    While these suburbs show promise for future growth based on current trends and developments, it’s essential to conduct thorough research and seek professional advice before making any property investment decisions. Factors such as market conditions, economic trends, and government policies can influence the growth potential of a suburb over time.

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    12 popular buyers agent questions answered 

     

    When it comes to buying a property, many people assume that they can navigate the process on their own. However, purchasing a home or an investment property is often a complex and time-consuming process that requires expert knowledge and guidance. This is where a buyers agent can be incredibly valuable. A buyers agent is a licensed real estate professional who specializes in representing the interests of homebuyers. 

     

    In this article, we will explore what a buyer’s agent is and the benefits they offer, as well as when it is appropriate to engage their services. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, understanding the role of a buyer’s agent can make all the difference in finding your dream property.

     

    What You’ll Learn From This Article

     

    1. What is a buyers agent? 
    2. What’s the difference between a real estate agent and a buyers agent?
    3. How much do buyers agents charge?
    4. Are buyers agents worth it?
    5. How much will it cost me not to use a buyer’s agent?
    6. Do i need a buyers agent in today’s market?
    7. How to choose a buyers agent?
    8. What questions should i ask a buyer’s agent before hiring them?
    9. Can you claim buyer’s agent fees on tax?
    10. Can a property seller contact the buyer agent directly?
    11. Do i have to sign a buyer agent agreement?
    12. Can you have multiple buyers agents?

     

    What is a buyers agent?

    A buyer’s agent is a fully licensed property agent who works on behalf of a homebuyer or property investor in a real estate transaction. The primary responsibility of a buyer’s agent is to help their client find and purchase a home that meets their specific needs and budget.

     

    Buyer’s agents work exclusively with buyers and are therefore focused on helping buyers navigate the complex and sometimes overwhelming process of purchasing a home. They typically have extensive knowledge of a local real estate market and relationships with a network of selling agents in that area.  

     

    Buyer agents offer purchasers transparency and clarity around price and market value by researching comparable sales transactions and will drive the due diligence and research process to mitigate the risk of a purchased property causing problems or stress to its new owner in the future. 

     

    The way a property is marketed, negotiated, and sold depends on many factors including demand for that property type, the expectations of the vendor, and the particular style of the sales agent. Every transaction is unique and a buyers agent’s experience navigating the many variations of the sales process and the legal and financial requirements involved can undoubtedly give a purchaser an advantage.

     

    Another of the key benefits of working with a buyer’s agent is that they can provide objective advice and representation throughout the home buying process which may otherwise become an emotional decision. 

     

    Because they work solely on behalf of the buyer, they can help their clients make informed decisions without being influenced by any other parties involved in the transaction. Additionally, many buyer’s agents will deploy methods and resources that can help buyers find and evaluate the right property more efficiently than they might be able to on their own. This includes accessing properties not listed for sale by traditional means (off-market or silent listings). 

    What’s the difference between a real estate agent and a buyers agent?

    Buying and selling real estate can be complicated. That’s where buyers agents and real estate agents come in. A real estate agent is a professional who sells properties. Who does a real estate agent represent? The seller. Real estate agents are paid through commission from either the seller or the vendor. A buyer’s agent, exclusively represents the buyer. They act in the buyer’s best interest and help them through the process of securing the property they want.

     

    How much do buyers agents charge?

    Many buyer’s agents charge for service like a real estate sales agent ie, a percentage commission. This can make sense if you’re selling a property as the sales agent is incentivised to achieve a higher sales price. Paying more commission to your buyers agent the more you pay for your property can make less sense for buyers In hotter market years such as during 2020- 2021, Unicorn Buyers Agents offered fixed fees, to protect our clients.

     

    In neutral or cooler years we offer a percentage-based fee capped at a pre-agreed rate. This way our buyers may benefit from a lower-than-expected commission whilst also having the peace of mind of knowing the maximum they’ll pay. 

    For maximum flexibility and transparency, we offer clients the choice to lock in a fixed fee or to hire us on a percentage-based fee capped at a pre-agreed amount.

     

    Are buyers agents worth it?

    In Australia until recently the use of a professional buyers agent to undertake one’s search and property purchase was uncommon.

     

    Sydney house hunters have long been resigned to the stresses of endless weekend inspections and annoying agent phone calls, not to mention having to negotiate with seasoned professionals trained in the art of extracting the highest possible price for their client- the seller. 

     

    In the last few years however Australians are increasingly following the trend of their US counterparts to engage a buyers agent to find, negotiate and secure residential owner-occupied and investment property. Why?

     

     The competition for the best property in the most desirable suburbs has intensified, with a significant percentage invisible to the average house hunter. Property prices have spiked- and so has the cost of making a mistake. And we have increasingly become time-poor professionals who realise the value in deploying another professional to do what they do best.

     

    Hiring a buyers agent does make sense but what can you expect for your money, and how will you assess the value of your buyers agent’s services?

     

    A good buyer’s agent in Sydney will understand your brief in detail, then tailor their services and fees to your exact needs. This may be as simple as attending an auction to bid on your behalf, or appraising a property you have found, or conducting the entire search campaign all the way from day one to contract settlement.

     

    • ‘Bid at auction’ gets you a hired gun as your proxy on the big day. They will bid, deploying one of many strategies they have available, which they believe is best on the day to secure the property for you for the lowest price possible whilst taking into consideration other bidders, and the auctioneers style.
    • An appraisal and negotiate service will see a buyers agent provide you with a professional opinion on the market value and likely selling price of a property you have found, based on recent comparable sales, market momentum, and level of interest in that particular property. The agent will then deploy their negotiation expertise and relationships to negotiate a purchase by private treaty.
    • A complete search really should be just that. The best buyers agents will go beyond public listings to use real estate agent outreach, professional research tools, community networking , door knocking and letterbox drops to source and shortlist potential properties. 

    Dozens of physical inspections will follow, accompanied by detailed research to validate the properties have no issues and can be secured within your budget. They will have a team of professionals including building inspector, engineer, solicitor, builder, handyman and property manager- to do all the heavy lifting, and will coordinate them all on your behalf. They’ll deal with selling agents, so you don’t have to. And they’ll package up a shortlist of desirable options to make your decisions. easier.

     

     A top buyers agent will show you the property that ticks your boxes, and sometimes that may be unconventional- but a buyers agent will also show you how an easy low-cost renovation can leave you with the property you dreamed of.

     

     An expert buyers agent will be your voice of reason- guiding you to avoid psychological pitfalls like analysis paralysis, FOMO, buyers remorse, and more.

     

     Finally, a good buyers agent will ensure you pay the right price, the lowest price possible given market conditions. 

     

    How much will it cost me not to use a buyer’s agent?

    I talk to buyers every day and a comment I often hear is “I’d love to use a buyers agent to find my property but I really can’t afford it because I need to put every dollar toward my purchase”.

     

    I put one to three on-market and off-market property matches in front of my clients every week. These properties are within budget, they have been physically inspected and researched to make sure they’re problem free. 

     

    I know how the sales agent will run the campaign and by deal time I’ll know the minimum price that needs to be paid to secure the property. This saves my clients thousands of dollars of search time  and many thousands more by not overpaying. I’ll also buy a better house on a better street which means tens, or hundreds of thousands of dollars more in your pocket. 

     

    How? Let’s assume you manage to buy without overpaying and you’ve chosen a good suburb, street, and property type that grows in value at say 4% a year for the next decade.

     

     Now let’s assume I could buy you a slightly better property that grows in value at a slightly better 5% for the next decade. That 1% extra on a $2m property means my purchase will be worth $200k more than yours in ten years time. Not using a good buyers agent will cost you money.

     

    Do i need a buyers agent in today’s market?

    In a seller’s market with FOMO running high it seems easier to understand the value proposition for a buyers agent.

    But great buyer agent work is just as critical in a cooler market. Here’s a few reasons why.

    1. Selling agents get much better at returning your calls in a tough market but they still have one thing top of mind – squeezing the highest possible price out of you. That’s their job. 
    2. We have the relationships with agents which helps us find opportunities in the form of off-market /silent listings by anxious and distressed owners. We also help bring things to market. Potential sellers are more likely to list when a buyers agent walks through the home during an appraisal. 
    3. We assess up to the minute market value. Sydney property prices are volatile. Price action varies suburb to suburb, street to street. Last nights’ sale resets todays suburb benchmark. On a $2M home purchase overpaying by 3% is a $60,000 mistake and buying at a 5% discount to market is a $100,000 win.
    4. Cooling markets are a minefield of second grade properties and unrealistic vendors. We shortlist, inspect and present only the best, most viable options saving you time money and stress. 

    How to choose a buyers agent?

    Hiring a buyer’s agent is a significant investment. Understanding how to prepare for the buying process and how to choose the right agent for your search will save you in every respect. Avoid the following mistakes and you’re well on the way to a profitable, and enjoyable buyer’s agent experience.

     

    Mistake #1. Hiring an agent before your finance is approved.

    Serious property hunting without the funds available is unproductive. You cant buy if you haven’t got the money! The first step of buyer preparation is to have your finance in place- preferably a fully assessed loan rather than just an approval in principle.

     

    It’s certainly advisable to research your property market, write your brief, and get your buying team in place whilst arranging finance. However, the right time to put your buyer’s agent to work officially is when your finance is approved.

     

    Mistake #2. Choosing a buyer’s agent without a buying team if you don’t have one of your own

    A successful buying assault on a sought-after home or investment requires a crack team of experts; In addition to your buyer’s agent you’ll need a top broker and solicitor, and if the property is a renovation project, an architect, private certifier, a builder, or tradespeople, an engineer a  quantity surveyor as well. This group comprises your personal army, your buying team.

     

    If you don’t have a team at hand make it a high priority to select a buyers agent who can bring one to the table. Hiring this agent means you’ll inherit their panel of experts who have worked together in the past. You’ll enjoy the advantage of ‘synergy’ when an experienced team works together with your buyer’s agent for a great result -all without you having to lift a finger.

     

    Mistake #3 Not choosing a buyer’s agent who is completely independent and working for you

    A buyer’s agent must be  100% working in your best interest.

     

    This means they should not accept any type of incentive or remuneration that would affect their ability to give you independent advice.  A clear contravention of this principle would be a buyer’s agent accepting an incentive from a builder or developer for an introduction that leads to a sale. 

     

    Standard agency agreements in all states generally make provision for an agent to disclose referral fees and commissions so you can understand whether there is a financial incentive involved with any of your buyers agents associations.

     

    Mistake #4 Not choosing the buyer’s agent service that corresponds to your needs

    Good buyers agents generally have three or four core offerings ranging from “Done For You” to appraisal, negotiation, and auction attendance. Choosing the appropriate service will require you to be realistic about your own property skillset and the time you can allocate to your house hunting.

     

     If you have the network, resources, and experience to access suitable properties then an ‘appraise and negotiate’ or ‘bid at auction’ service may really be all you need.


    Be aware that although you think you can do the job using just these services, you can’t buy what you can’t see and this approach may cost you more time and money in the long run. 

     

    Mistake #5 Not choosing a buyer’s agent who specializes in your desired area

    An agent that works (and lives and plays) in the suburbs you are searching within is tuned into the important details that can affect a successful purchase. A formal appraisal or valuation is no comparison to the local knowledge of a seasoned area specialist. Bad neighbours, upcoming poor development, problematic executive committees..a local specialist will be aware and steer you clear of troublesome issues that are not apparent to an outsider.

     

    Mistake #6 Not paying the right price for the service you’re getting

    Buyer’s agents’ pricing can vary widely, and with good reason. Any good agent will tailor the scope of works to your circumstance and most will agree on a fixed price that reflects the work involved. It is worthwhile to understand what that work entails.

     

     A detailed, particular brief for a property in a tightly held suburb should command a premium and what you’ll be paying for is the buyer’s agent’s network of local selling agents, business people, and community, as well as their less conventional methods of sourcing property.

     

    More abundantly available property in a less salubrious suburb will see you paying a buyer more for their time conducting inspections and putting together the deal, or their analytical skills if it is an investment property.

     

    Paying an entry-level agent an entry-level fee for a challenging brief will not give you an expert outcome.

     

    Be as wary of ‘cheap’ fees as exorbitant fees. Take a moment to consider the difficulty of the task at hand and the time and expertise required.

     

    Mistake #7 Not assessing the methods your buyer’s agent will use to find your ideal property

    Good buyer’s agents will apply multiple resources to source property and it merits asking how your buyer’s agent operates. Key activities you should listen for include personal outreach to a selling agent network, extensive use of research tools such as RPData, and personal outreach to potential sellers, amongst others. Opportunities arise from contact with people and the best agents spend all day talking and researching.

     

    Mistake #8 Not choosing an agent with auction experience if that’s the likely method of sale for your property

    If the common method of sale for your future home or investment is via an auction then your buyer’s agent should have extensive bidding experience.

     

    Auctions are volatile environments where the odds are stacked against the seller. There is plenty of room for error leading up to, and on the day and you will need an agent that, is calm, knows all the rules, and has multiple battle-tested bidding strategies. A well-chosen agent will often know the auctioneer and their calling style which can help.

     

    It’s not considered rude to ask your prospective buyer’s agent about their auction experience, and their preferred bidding strategies.

     

    Mistake #9 Not screening your agent for negotiating power

    Buyer’s agents are negotiators. They are the conduit between you and all the other players in a high-stakes situation. They’ll likely even mediate between you and your spouse when the pressure is on at deal time! To screen for a good negotiator you’ll need to trust your instincts rather than ask questions. Your prospective hire should leave you with the sense that things are going to go your way. Chances are they’ll be waving that magic wand over the other parties too which makes a good deal more likely.

     

    Mistake #10 Not having a well-defined brief for your agent

    The more thoroughly you detail and communicate your wants and needs, the better your outcome. A good brief goes way beyond just the property attributes. If the property is to be an investment share your overall long-term goals, how the purchase will fit into your portfolio, and when and how it will be divested.

     

    If it’s your family home share what you do for work sports and hobbies, what your evenings and weekends look, like where your kids spend their time. Property choice is driven by lifestyle and understanding this is key for your agent to find that perfect property match.

     

    Mistake #11 Not confirming your buyer’s agent will be working exclusively on your brief

    A buyer’s agent cannot work in your best interest if they have signed on other clients looking for the same type of home in the same suburb and a similar price range.

     

    You need to ask the question- will your brief, price range and instruction have exclusivity in your agents’ portfolio, until they have found your property? It’s not a rude question to ask a prospective buyers agent what other types of clients they will concurrently be working on and what assurances they can give you there will be no conflict of interest.

     

    It’s easy for buyer’s agencies large and small to blur the line by having multiple clients with similar briefs. In a tight market with short supply who gets first dibs on something matching multiple briefs?

     

    Mistake #12 Choosing a larger agency and being assigned a junior or an associate.

    As with many professional services sectors you run into the possibility of being pitched to by a senior expert only to have your brief delegated to a junior once you are on board.

     

     This can be a frustrating experience. If you are choosing a larger organisation always confirm that the agent you want to be looking after you actually will personally be responsible for your search.

     

    Mistake #13 Not reference checking your Buyers Agent

    Just as you would when you hire an employee- dont be afraid to ask your buyers agent for one or two names of past clients who would be happy to comment on how they worked. Confidentiality issues aside a good buyers agent should be able to agree to this. 

     

    So there it is in a nutshell. Using a buyer’s agent will be a profitable and enjoyable experience so long as you can avoid the above mistakes.

    What questions should i ask a buyer’s agent before hiring them?

     

    When you’re hiring a buyer’s agent, it’s important to ask a few questions to ensure that they’re the right fit for you. Here are some questions you may want to consider:

     

    1. What experience do you have as a buyer’s agent?
    2. How do you plan to help me find the right property?
    3. How familiar are you with the local real estate market?
    4. Can you provide references from previous clients?
    5. How will you communicate with me throughout the buying process?
    6. How do you handle negotiations and bidding wars?
    7. Do you have experience working with first-time homebuyers?
    8. How do you get paid for your services?
    9. How many clients do you currently have?
    10. Do you work full-time as a buyer’s agent or do you also handle listings?

    Asking these questions will help you get a better sense of the agent’s experience, expertise, and approach to working with clients, which will help you make an informed decision when hiring a buyer’s agent

     

    Can you claim buyers agent fees on tax?

    If you are using a buyer’s agent to purchase an investment property, for example, your buyers agent fees may be capitalised into the purchase and be deductible on sale. Even if you are using a buyer’s agent to purchase a personal residence, it’s worthwhile hanging on to the invoice. Check with your accountant and tax agent to see what portion of fees may be expensed and how. 

    Can a property seller contact the buyer agent directly?

    Yes, a property seller can contact the buyer’s agent directly. This does in fact happen. Here at Unicorn Buyers Agents we are contacted daily by sellers interested to avoid sales agents commissions by seeing if we may have a buyer for their property.

    A property seller who already has their home listed with a sales agent is much less likely to contact the buyers agent directly as they trust their nominated agent to facilitate the transaction. 

     

    A property seller who is selling privately will contact the buyer agent directly and we have conducted a number of purchases directly with the seller.

     

    On occasion, a buyers agent may contact a seller directly even if they have a sales agent- but always with the permission of the sales agent. It may be to clarify some detail directly, to give a client peace of mind. 

     

    Do i have to sign a buyer agent agreement?

    Yes, you do have to sign a buyer agent agreement. A buyers agent operating in NSW is required to be either a class one or class two real estate agent and must operate under legislation set down in the Property, Stock and Business Agents Act and Regulation. The legislation stipulates that an agency agreement must be in place between an agent and a principal, outlining the terms on which the work will be conducted.

    Can you have multiple buyers agents?

    Whilst you could theoretically have multiple buyers agents working for you, it would be both unlikely and undesirable for you to enter into this arrangement. Most buyers agents will require you to enter into an exclusive agency agreement which recognizes they alone are working for you and their fee is liable to be paid even in the instance another buyers agent finds a property.

     

    Here at Unicorn Buyers Agents we work with clients confident to trust us to find and purchase their home and as such only enter into exclusive agency agreements. We do not co-opt with other agents. 

     

    So saying, we do occasionally collaborate with buyers agent colleagues outside of our organisation to assist us with a challenging brief. In this instance, we negotiate remuneration directly from our commission and no further fee is payable by our clients.