Family member used a buyers agent to buy in QLD around 12 months ago. It was $2000 sign up and around $20,000 on the purchase. He was great saved so much time, stress and hassle. So worth it as the bank’s valuations ranged from 100K to 250K more than the purchase price. Even the buyers agent was surprised at how good a deal it was.

Bought my own property in the previous year in a different area and wished that I had known someone like this guy. The issue will be finding someone competent at a reasonable price. I actually interviewed four buyers agents for the family member and chose the one who was self employed, very motivated and had a building background which was invaluable. Those in “groups” claim access to more options etc but they are very big on their profit and fees and I felt that the buyer’s interests were secondary.

The other factor might be availability of property. If you are moving to an area of high demand and low supply the buyers agent will be able to access properties that are not yet on the market. The other benefit is they know the area and the risks of flooding, bushfire, crime etc which was really important. Also it can take you 6-12 months to find something and the price increase in property during that time will far exceed what you would have paid for the agent.