An independent Australian journal
Independent Australian guidance for hiring a buyer's agent
The paperwork
Percentage fees, fixed fees, retainers and the buyer's agency authority — what you sign before anyone searches.
Most firms take money before they search. That engagement fee or retainer is often credited against the success fee — and often is not refundable if you never buy. Ask the three questions that decide whether the upfront payment is a deposit or a sunk cost.
21 May 2026
The buyer's agency authority is the contract that creates the fee. NSW Fair Trading, Consumer Affairs Victoria and WA Consumer Protection all stress written authorities and rebate disclosure. Here is how to read the document before you sign it.
9 April 2026
A percentage fee rises with the purchase price. A fixed fee does not. Neither model is automatically fairer. This piece compares the incentives, the GST presentation, and the questions that show whether a quote is actually comparable.
20 March 2026
Buyer's agent fees in Australia are not set by law. Industry commentary puts a full-service campaign around 2 to 3 per cent plus GST and an engagement fee, or a flat fee instead. Here is how to read a quote without treating it as an official schedule.
12 February 2026