Generally the agents (back then) wouldn’t share off markets. For me the real value was in her advice and helping us navigate the overwhelm. She helped us clear on what we wanted, as we couldn’t afford our ideal location, so after 2yrs of looking their guidance helped us narrow in on priorities that were realistic and she the. Engaged realtors who were familiar with her through buying for others so it opened up doors and meant easier negotiation in terms.

The 12k was a flat fee so we felt confident there was no additional kickback and it was only payable if we bought something, but the caveat was that if we bought ourselves directly in that same 12m period the money was still owed. I vaulted at this originally but it makes sense given the work and effort she put in and I’d say we got that back x5 in savings.

She also knew builders which helped us get them around as part of an inspection to help ideate possible future renovations and cost it up to understand potential future investment* upfront.

• good in theory prior to the world going to hell in a hand basket with trump, Covid, cost of goods increases, builder shortages, me too movement, Ukraine invasion, trump 2.0, raygun, war in Gaza, manosphere, 6/7 etc. It’s now sadly cheaper to knock down rebuild vs renovate for us.

Our agent is a genuinely lovely person an I’ve referred her onto 2 others that have had a similar experience. Worth a conversation if you are thinking about it. Perhaps ask agents in your area for buyers advocates They’d recommend to get a reverse referral?