I have personally used a Buyers agent for two IPs.

For the first, we had a budget of $500k and we asked them to source us a good investment. They advised us that the at the time the best bang for the buck came out of a $370k property – that was five years ago and it was great advice (we paid on a % of purchase price, so there are honest ones out there – after all, they rely on referral business for their next client).

The second IP they helped purchase was a holiday unit in a coastal town. We had selected the property and needed their expertise in closing the deal so we would not get guzumped. They saved us $35k on the purchase price and the service cost us $5k – this was a fixed price agreement. Again, a great service.

If you are time poor and feeling stressed over the whole IP thing, then a buyers agent is a great idea. But make sure you “feel” comfortable with the person you are dealing with. Trust your gut instinct, but do not be afraid of the concept itself.

The guys I used were Buyers Agents for Real Estate – Brendan & Anne Jack, +61 418 882 222. I highly recommend them.