For property owners in Inner West Sydney or beyond contemplating the sale of their home, the question often arises: is it worthwhile to approach a buyer’s agent in the hope that the buyer’s agent may have a suitable buyer? As property buyers’ agents, we are frequently asked about the benefits and limitations of this approach. In this article, we will clarify the distinct roles of selling agents and buyers’ agents, examine whether it is a strategic move to contact a buyer’s agent when selling, and highlight when engaging a buyer’s agent is truly advantageous—especially if you are also seeking to purchase another property in the area.
Understanding the Distinct Roles: Selling Agent vs Buyer’s Agent
Selling Agent (Vendor’s Agent):
A selling agent, also known as a real estate agent or vendor’s agent, is engaged by the property owner to market and sell the property. Their primary objective is to secure the highest possible price and best terms for the vendor. This involves preparing the property for sale, developing a marketing strategy, managing open homes, negotiating with prospective buyers, and facilitating the legal and administrative aspects of the transaction through until settlement.
Buyer’s Agent:
Conversely, a buyer’s agent (also known as a buyer’s advovate) exclusively represents the interests of property buyers. Their role is to identify suitable properties, conduct due diligence, negotiate the purchase price or bid at auction, and manage the acquisition process on behalf of the buyer. Buyers’ agents are advocates for the purchaser, ensuring their clients secure the right property at the best possible price and terms, often leveraging their access to off-market opportunities and in-depth local market knowledge.
Key Differences at a Glance:
| Role | Represents | Primary Objective | Paid By |
| Selling Agent | Seller (Vendor) | Maximise sale price and terms | Vendor |
| Buyer’s Agent | Buyer (Purchaser) | Secure best property and price | Buyer |
Should You Speak to a Buyer’s Agent When Selling?
Is It Worth Approaching a Buyer’s Agent for a Buyer?
It is not uncommon for sellers to consider contacting buyers’ agents in the hope that they may have a client seeking a property like theirs. In Inner West Sydney, where demand for quality homes is strong and buyers’ agents are highly active, this approach can occasionally yield results. Buyers’ agents often have active clients with specific requirements of buyers who may be seeking properties similar to yours. It is really pot luck though whether the buyer’s agent will have a suitable buyer for your home.
However, it is important to understand that buyers’ agents do not represent sellers. Their loyalty and legal obligations are to their buyer clients. If a buyer’s agent has a client whose criteria align with your property, they may facilitate an introduction or negotiation. In some cases, this can result in a discreet, off-market sale, saving both parties time and marketing expenses. However, this is the exception rather than the rule, and there is no guarantee that a buyer’s agent will have a suitable buyer ready at the precise time you wish to sell.
The Standard Sales Process
The primary responsibility for marketing and selling your property remains with the selling agent. Selling agents have the resources, networks, and marketing platforms necessary to reach the broadest audience and generate competitive interest, which is typically required to achieve the best sale price. While buyers’ agents may bring individual buyers to the table, they are not a substitute for a comprehensive sales campaign managed by an experienced selling agent.
When Engaging a Buyer’s Agent Makes Sense
If You Are Also Looking to Buy
If your property sale in Inner West Sydney or beyond is motivated by the need to purchase another home—whether upsizing, downsizing, or relocating—now is the ideal time to engage a buyer’s agent. The process of selling and buying can be complex, particularly in a competitive market where timing is crucial and emotions can run high.
A buyer’s agent can:
- Source and shortlist suitable properties that meet your criteria, including off-market opportunities not available to the general public.
- Conduct thorough due diligence on prospective properties, ensuring you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
- Negotiate on your behalf to secure the best possible price and terms, leveraging their experience and objectivity.
- Coordinate the transition between your sale and purchase, reducing stress and ensuring a smooth process.
Access to Off-Market Properties
Buyers’ agents in Inner West Sydney often have privileged access to properties that are not publicly advertised. These off-market opportunities can be particularly valuable for buyers seeking unique or high-demand homes, and for sellers who prefer a discreet transaction.
Expert Local Knowledge
A buyer’s agent specialising in Inner West Sydney will have intimate knowledge of the area’s micro-markets, recent sales, development plans, and neighbourhood nuances. This expertise is invaluable in identifying the right property and negotiating effectively.
Why Not Use a Buyer’s Agent to Sell?
It is essential to reiterate that buyers’ agents do not act for sellers. Their professional and legal duty is to the buyer, and they are paid by the buyer for their services. Engaging a buyer’s agent to sell your property is not possible; instead, you should appoint a reputable selling agent with a proven track record in your suburb.
Potential Conflicts of Interest
Legislation and industry best practice dictate that an agent cannot act for both buyer and seller in the same transaction, as this would create an irreconcilable conflict of interest. The roles are distinct and must remain so to ensure fair and ethical representation for all parties.
The Value of Professional Representation
For Sellers:
Your selling agent will design a tailored marketing campaign, attract the widest pool of buyers, manage negotiations, and work to achieve the highest possible sale price for your home.
For Buyers:
A buyer’s agent will act as your advocate, sourcing the best properties, conducting due diligence, and negotiating on your behalf to secure the right home at the lowest possible price.
For Those Doing Both:
If you are selling and buying, engaging both a skilled selling agent and a buyer’s agent ensures you are professionally represented on both sides of the transaction, maximising your outcomes and minimising stress. We are frequently in this position and are able to liaise with your selling agent to ensure a smoother process between selling and buying.
Conclusion: Should You Speak to a Buyer’s Agent When Selling?
In summary, while it is occasionally worthwhile to notify buyers’ agents in Inner West Sydney that your property is available—particularly if you are seeking a discreet, off-market sale—their core function is to represent property buyers, not sellers. The best strategy for selling your home remains engaging a dedicated selling agent.
However, if you are planning to purchase another property following your sale, now is the ideal time to consult a buyer’s agent. Their expertise, local market knowledge, and professional advocacy will provide you with a significant advantage in securing your next home in Inner West Sydney’s competitive property market.
At Buyer’s Domain, we specialise in representing property buyers in the Inner West and beyond. If you are considering your next move, we invite you to contact us to discuss how our buyer’s agent services can help you achieve your property goals with confidence and clarity.
