Guide
Buyer's agent vs real estate agent: who works for whom
Both are licensed real estate agents, but they sit on opposite sides of the deal. Here's who each works for, who pays them, and where a mortgage broker and conveyancer fit in.
By Mossy Taheri, licensed buyer’s agent · Updated
The short answer
A real estate agent (selling agent) is hired and paid by the seller to get the highest price and best terms for the seller. A buyer’s agent is hired and paid by the buyer to find, assess and negotiate a property for the buyer. Both hold a real estate licence, but they work for opposite sides of the same sale.
The key difference: who the agent works for
When you see a property advertised, the agent on the listing works for the seller. Their legal duty is to the seller, and their commission is usually a percentage of the sale price, so a higher price is a better result for them and their client. They must deal with buyers honestly and must not mislead you, but they can’t act in your interests.
A buyer’s agent is the reverse. You engage them under a written agreement, you pay them, and their duty is to you. Their job is to find the right property and buy it on the best terms they can negotiate.
Buyer’s agent vs real estate agent: side by side
| Real estate (selling) agent | Buyer's agent | |
|---|---|---|
| Works for | The seller | The buyer |
| Paid by | The seller, usually a commission on the sale price | The buyer, usually a fixed fee or a percentage of the price |
| Goal | Highest price and best terms for the seller | The right property at the best price and terms for the buyer |
| Licence | Real estate licence in the state | Real estate licence in the state |
| Main tasks | Marketing, open homes, managing buyers, running the auction or sale | Strategy, research, searching on and off market, due diligence, negotiating and bidding |
| Properties | Only the properties they're selling | Any property that fits the brief, including off-market |
What a real estate (selling) agent does
- Appraises the property and recommends a price and method of sale.
- Markets it: photos, listings, signboards and open homes.
- Manages enquiries and buyer feedback, and reports to the seller.
- Negotiates offers or runs the auction to get the seller the best result.
- Coordinates the contract and exchange with the seller's solicitor.
What a buyer’s agent does
- Sets a brief with you: budget, borrowing, goals and the type of property.
- Researches markets and suburbs, and for investors, tests growth and rental demand.
- Searches listed, pre-market and off-market properties.
- Inspects and checks properties: comparable sales, contracts, strata records and building reports.
- Negotiates the price and terms, or bids for you at auction.
- Manages the purchase through to settlement.
For the full picture, read our buyer’s agent guide. For what it costs, see buyer’s agent fees in Australia.
Buyer’s agent vs mortgage broker and conveyancer
Buying a property usually involves three different professionals, each with a separate licence and job:
- Buyer’s agent: finds, assesses and negotiates the property. Needs a real estate licence.
- Mortgage broker: compares lenders and arranges your loan and pre-approval. Needs an Australian credit licence or to be an authorised credit representative.
- Conveyancer or solicitor: reviews the contract, handles the legal transfer and settles the purchase.
They work best together: pre-approval from your broker sets the budget, your buyer’s agent finds and negotiates the property, and your conveyancer checks the contract before you commit.
When a buyer’s agent makes sense
- You're buying an investment property and want the market chosen on data, not on where you live.
- You're buying in a city or state you don't know, or can't inspect yourself.
- You're short on time, or you've missed out at auction before.
- You want access to off-market and pre-market properties.
- You'd rather have a professional negotiate against the selling agent.
Not sure it’s worth it? Read is a buyer’s agent worth it? and how to choose a buyer’s agent.
Want someone on your side of the deal?
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Book a free discovery callBuyer's agent vs real estate agent: common questions
What is the difference between a buyer's agent and a real estate agent?
A real estate agent (selling agent) is hired and paid by the seller to get the best price and terms for the seller. A buyer's agent is hired and paid by the buyer to find, assess and negotiate a property for the buyer. Both must be licensed.
Who pays the buyer's agent?
The buyer. A buyer's agent's fee is usually a fixed amount or a percentage of the purchase price. The selling agent's commission is paid by the seller.
Can a real estate agent represent the buyer?
A selling agent acts for the seller, so they can't represent your interests in the same sale. They must not mislead you, but their job is to get the seller the best result.
Is a buyer's agent the same as a mortgage broker?
No. A mortgage broker arranges your loan and needs an Australian credit licence or to be an authorised credit representative. A buyer's agent finds and negotiates the property and needs a real estate licence. Most buyers use both, along with a conveyancer or solicitor.
Do I need a buyer's agent if I have a real estate agent?
No one is required to use a buyer's agent. Buyers use one when they want someone on their side: to research the market, access off-market listings, check the property and negotiate. It's most useful when you're short on time, buying in a city you don't know, or buying an investment.
General information only. It doesn’t consider your personal circumstances and isn’t financial, tax, credit or legal advice. Speak to a licensed professional before you act.