What Does a Buyer’s Agency Do and How Are They Different from a Selling Agent?

If you’ve ever searched for a property, chances are you’ve dealt with a selling agent. They’re the ones hosting open homes, following up after inspections, and talking up the features of a property. But have you heard of a buyer’s agent? While both work in real estate, our roles are completely different and if you’re buying on the Sunshine Coast, understanding the difference could save you time, stress, and potentially tens of thousands of dollars.

Watch this short video for a quick overview:

The Selling Agent: Working for the Seller

A selling agent’s client is the property owner. Their job is to secure the highest possible price and the best terms for the seller. They are paid by the seller and have a legal obligation to act in the seller’s best interests. That means their focus is on achieving a sale that benefits the vendor, not you, the buyer.

Selling agents handle marketing, advertising, and negotiations to make the property as appealing as possible to attract competing offers. Their skill lies in creating urgency, managing multiple interested buyers, and negotiating terms that maximise the seller’s outcome. While they may be friendly and helpful, remember that their loyalty lies with the person who is paying them.

The Buyer’s Agent: Working for You

A buyer’s agent is hired by the buyer, that’s you. My role as a buyer’s agent on the Sunshine Coast is to work exclusively in your best interests. I’m here to find, evaluate, and secure the right property for your needs, at the best possible price and with the best terms for you. I represent only your side of the transaction, never the seller’s.

That means I take the time to understand your unique requirements, whether you’re relocating, upgrading, downsizing, or investing. I research the market thoroughly, shortlist properties, and inspect them on your behalf. I also uncover potential issues that could affect your purchase, from flood zones and easements to strata concerns and planned developments nearby.

One of the biggest advantages of using a buyer’s agent is access to off-market properties. These are homes that are not listed publicly on real estate websites. Through established relationships with local selling agents, property managers, and community networks, I can often bring clients opportunities that other buyers will never see. This gives you more choice, less competition, and a better chance of securing the right property before it hits the open market.

Key Differences Between a Buyer’s Agent and a Selling Agent

1. Who they work for:

• Selling Agent – Works for the seller and is paid by them.

• Buyer’s Agent – Works for the buyer and is paid by them.

2. Primary goal:

• Selling Agent – Achieve the best price and terms for the seller.

• Buyer’s Agent – Secure the right property at the best price and terms for the buyer.

3. Process:

• Selling Agent – Markets properties, hosts open homes, manages buyer enquiries.

• Buyer’s Agent – Searches for properties, evaluates them, negotiates on the buyer’s behalf, and manages the process through to settlement.

4. Property access:

• Selling Agent – Promotes properties on the open market.

• Buyer’s Agent – Has access to both on-market and off-market opportunities.

Why This Matters on the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast property market moves quickly. High demand from interstate relocators, limited supply, and strong competition mean the best homes often sell within days — sometimes hours — of being listed. Without local knowledge and strong industry connections, it’s easy for buyers to miss out or overpay.

As a Sunshine Coast buyer’s agent, I know the micro-markets, from the most sought-after school zones to the streets that flood in heavy rain. I know which areas are about to benefit from infrastructure projects, which developments to be cautious of, and where you can still find hidden gems.

I also act as a buffer between you and the selling agent. Instead of feeling pressured during negotiations or unsure whether the “highest offer” they’re talking about really exists, I handle all discussions to protect your position. My role is to give you the confidence that every decision is based on facts, not emotion or sales tactics.

How the Process Works

When you engage me as your buyer’s agent, the process is clear:

1. Initial Consultation – We discuss your needs, budget, and goals.

2. Brief and Research – I create a detailed property brief and start the search.

3. Shortlisting – I present properties (including off-market ones) that fit your criteria.

4. Inspections and Evaluation – I attend inspections, assess condition and value, and identify potential issues.

5. Negotiation – I handle all negotiations to secure the best possible deal.

6. Settlement Support – I liaise with solicitors, building inspectors, and other professionals to ensure a smooth process through to settlement.

The Bottom Line

If you’re buying property on the Sunshine Coast, it pays to have someone in your corner. A selling agent is there to get the best result for the seller. A buyer’s agent is there to get the best result for you. It’s that simple.

I’m Keeta Gibson from Ocean Buyers Agency, the No. 1 buyer’s agent on the Sunshine Coast. Whether you’re moving to Queensland, upgrading locally, or investing, I’d love to help you find and secure the right property without the stress. Contact me today to get started.