The first question in any property conversation is who the professional is engaged to represent. A helpful selling agent can provide information, while a separately engaged buyer’s agent has a different role in your purchase.
Understand the engagement
Ask who appointed the agent and whose instructions they follow. The selling agent markets the vendor’s property and negotiates its sale. A buyer’s agent is engaged to assist the purchaser with an agreed scope, which might cover searching, appraisal or negotiation. Clarify the actual arrangement rather than relying only on a job title.
Keep information and independent advice separate
You can ask the selling agent for documents, inspection access and information about the campaign. Check important statements against records or appropriate advisers. A buyer’s agent can help organise research, but contract advice, specialist inspections and loan approval still require the relevant professionals.
Practical rule: record the evidence behind each option before you compare it. A consistent written process makes the final decision easier to explain and revisit.
Ask about fees and relationships
Obtain the buyer-agency fee and services in writing. Ask whether anyone involved receives referral payments or other benefits relevant to your purchase. Clarify business relationships that could affect recommendations. Have any uncertainty about representation or an agreement explained before signing.
Build a clear communication chain
Decide who communicates offers, who approves changes and where written instructions are stored. Avoid having several people negotiate inconsistent terms on your behalf. Keep a record of the proposed price, conditions and deadlines and ensure your legal adviser sees the appropriate documents.
Your practical checklist
- ✓Confirm who appointed each agent.
- ✓Get your service scope in writing.
- ✓Set approval rules for offers.
What to record before you decide
| Decision point | What to keep |
|---|---|
| Understand the engagement | Record the facts, documents and questions relevant to this step before moving on. |
| Keep information and independent advice separate | Record the facts, documents and questions relevant to this step before moving on. |
| Ask about fees and relationships | Record the facts, documents and questions relevant to this step before moving on. |
| Build a clear communication chain | Record the facts, documents and questions relevant to this step before moving on. |
Frequently asked question
Does using a buyer’s agent remove the need for a conveyancer?
No. Discuss legal and conveyancing work with an appropriately qualified professional and confirm the boundaries of each service.
Sources and further reading
