Choosing the right buyer’s agent matters almost as much as choosing the right property. Standards and experience vary a lot from one agent to the next, so before you commit to working with someone, and before you sign anything, there are a few checks worth doing.
Licensing
Ask if they are a fully licensed real estate agent in the state where you’re purchasing. A properly licensed agent should be able to give you their licence number and its expiry date without hesitation. If they can’t, that’s worth questioning.
Experience & local knowledge
Make sure the agent is both experienced and genuinely local. Ask how many properties they’ve sourced in the area you’re looking at, and choose someone who specialises in the city or region where you want to live or invest, rather than someone spreading themselves across the whole state.
Specialisation
Agents often specialise in particular client types: owner-occupiers, investors, SMSF purchasers, medical professionals, or first-home buyers, among others. Find out where their specialty lies, and whether it matches your situation, before signing anything.
Form 6
In Queensland, a buyer’s agent must have you complete a Form 6 (or Form 6A) residential appointment. This authorises the agent to act on your behalf and sits within the requirements of the Property Occupations Act 2014 and Property Occupations Regulation 2014. Some agents also use a separate Client Agreement alongside it, so it’s worth asking exactly what you’re being asked to sign, and why.
AML/CTF compliance
As of 1 July 2026, buyer’s agents must conduct customer due diligence checks on all new clients, as part of new Anti-Money Laundering / Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) regulations. These rules are designed to prevent criminals from using illegally obtained money to fund property purchases.
Expect to be asked for identification and some background information as a normal part of engaging a compliant agent. It’s a sign they’re doing things properly, not a red flag.
Insurance & professional standards
Confirm the agent is fully insured, ideally with public liability, professional indemnity, and cyber insurance, and that they’re up to date with their CPD (Continuing Professional Development) points. These aren’t formalities. They’re what stands behind you if something goes wrong.
Fees
Fee structures vary between agents, so ask early. You shouldn’t be asked to pay the full fee upfront. A non-refundable retainer at the time of signing your Form 6 is standard practice, with the balance due upon successful settlement.
A few more questions worth asking
Beyond the checks above, these are worth raising before you sign:
- What is your due diligence process?
- What are your payment options?
- Do you accept third-party referral fees?
- What is your ABN?
- What services do you provide? Full service only, or can it be tailored?
- What’s included in your service?
Still deciding who to work with?
I’m always happy to answer these questions directly, and to explain exactly how my service works before you commit to anything.
