You’re ready to buy a home. Maybe it’s your first, maybe it’s your next. And like most Aussies, you’re wondering: Do I really need a buyer’s agent, or can I do this myself?
On paper, DIY might seem cheaper. But when you add in the hidden costs, stress, time, and potential missteps, it’s worth taking a closer look.
This article breaks down the real-world pros, cons, and costs of both approaches, so you can make a smarter move.
The pros and cons of DIY home buying
Pros:
No buyer’s agent fees: That’s one cost off your list.
Total control: You call the shots. From shortlisting homes to negotiating price, it's all up to you.
Learn as you go: Great for those who want to immerse themselves in the process.
Cons:
Emotional toll: It can be draining. Open homes every weekend. Offers falling through. It adds up.
Risk of overpaying: Without access to real-time market data or negotiation experience, you could pay more than a property is worth.
Missed off-market deals: Around 1 in 5 homes are sold off-market. Buyer’s agents get early access others don’t.
Decision fatigue: When every detail’s on your plate, burnout is real.
The pros and cons of hiring a buyer’s agent
Pros:
Stronger negotiation power: Most agents pay for themselves through what they save you.
Time-saving: They handle shortlisting, inspections, background research, and negotiating.
Access to off-market listings: That early access can make or break your journey.
Confidence in your decisions: Buyer’s agents bring clarity and expertise to every step.
Cons:
Upfront cost: Typically 1.5% to 2% of the purchase price. But often recouped through savings.
Trust and communication needed: You’ll need to align on goals, budgets and non-negotiables.
"After five months searching, I was ready to give up. Within days of working with Aussie Homes, I found my perfect place. By Saturday night, the offer was accepted and I’d saved $9,000." - Craig, Bracken Ridge QLD
Cost comparison: Doing the maths clearly
Let’s say you’re buying a $900,000 home:
DIY Approach:
No agent fee: $0
Overpaying risk (e.g., 3% overvalue): $27,000
Legal missteps or missed defects (repairs/legal fees): $5,000–$10,000
Time cost (days off work, ongoing search): Add subjectively
Total potential cost: $32,000–$40,000
Buyer’s agent approach:
Agent fee (2% of $900K): $18,000
Negotiation savings (5% under value): -$45,000
Risk avoidance (hidden issues flagged): priceless
Time saved (average buying time cut by 50%): substantial
Net benefit: up to $27,000+ in savings, not including stress avoided
Risk vs reward: DIY mistakes vs agent success stories
DIY Pitfalls:
A buyer skipped the building inspection to move fast. Turned out the property had major water damage. Repair bill: $20K.
Another paid $70K over market value in a bidding war without comparative sales data.
Buyer’s agent wins:
An agent secured a property for a young family before it went to market and $50K under budget.
An investor saved $60K on a high-yield duplex thanks to their agent’s suburb insight and off-market access.
"I was skeptical at first, but within three days I had the keys to a home I never thought I could afford and for $40K less than I budgeted." - Jessa, Kellyville NSW.
Which approach fits you?
Ask yourself:
Do I have 10+ hours a week to devote to searching, shortlisting, and inspecting?
Am I confident negotiating with seasoned selling agents?
Do I have the tools to access suburb growth forecasts and property risks (e.g., flood zones)?
Am I prepared to risk missing off-market listings?
Is saving $20K–$50K worth an upfront fee?
If most of these feel like a no, a buyer’s agent may be your smartest next move.
Why smart buyers consider professional help
Buying a home is one of the biggest moves you’ll make. And while you can go it alone, the data, the stress, and the risks show why more buyers are choosing expert support.
An Aussie Buyer’s Agent doesn’t just help you buy. They help you buy smarter, faster, and with confidence. That could mean:
Securing a home in half the time
Saving tens of thousands in negotiations
Avoiding the stress that derails too many buyers
In a hot market, every edge counts. Let’s make your next move your smartest one yet. Take the guesswork out of buying.