Buyer's agent vs property investment strategist: the key differences

Learn about the roles, approaches and fee structures of a buyer's agent compared with a property investment strategist to understand what’s right for you.

When navigating the real estate market, understanding the roles of various professionals is crucial. Two key players are a buyer's agent and a property investment strategist. Although their services may overlap, their core functions, approaches, and fee structures differ significantly.

Buyer's agent

A buyer's agent helps mostly home buyers, and sometimes investors, to purchase property. A licensed real estate professional, a buyer’s agent’s responsibilities include:

  • Understanding client needs and preferences
  • Conducting property searches
  • Viewing properties, which is handy if you are time-poor or interstate
  • Negotiating purchase terms
  • Assisting with the closing process

Fee structure

Buyer’s agents typically charge for their services in one of two ways:

1. Commission - a percentage of the property's purchase price, typically ranging from 1% to3%.

2. Flat fee - some agents may offer a fixed fee for their services, regardless of the property's price

Property investment strategist

As the title suggests, a property investment strategist takes a strategic approach, focusing on maximising clients' returns on investment.

While a buyer’s agent concentrates on the purchase process, a property investment strategist takes a holistic approach to property investment. They help clients develop long-term strategies, considering factors like market trends, economic indicators, and personal financial goals. Their key responsibilities include:

  • Conducting market analysis to identify high-growth areas
  • Evaluating potential investment properties based on rental yield and capital growth
  • Providing detailed investment reports and forecasts
  • Offering strategic advice on property portfolios, diversification, associated tax minimisation opportunities, and finance solutions
At DPN, we offer a complimentary property strategy service, with no charge to our clients

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The big differences

Which professional you should engage depends on your goals and property purchase needs. We compare the focus, clientele and fees of these different professionals to help you make the right choice.

Focus

A buyer's agent is transaction-oriented, assisting with the purchase process, while a property investment strategist is strategy-oriented, focusing on long-term investment goals.

Clientele

Buyer’s agents typically work with individuals looking to purchase a home for personal use. Property investment strategists cater to investors aiming to build or enhance their property portfolios.

Fee structure

Buyer’s agents usually charge a commission or flat fee for their services. In contrast, property investment strategists may charge a consultancy fee, which could be hourly or project-based, reflecting the detailed analysis and strategic planning provided. At DPN, we offer a complimentary service, with no charge to our clients.

Understanding these differences can help you decide which professional to engage based on your real estate needs. Whether you're buying your first home or expanding your investment portfolio, choosing the right expert is essential for achieving your goals.

How we can help

DPN offers a complete solution with a complimentary, personalised Property Investment Plan, which is a detailed strategy to help you build wealth through property. Our in-house Research Team uses independent, market independent, market independent, market-leading research to identify high-growth regions and provide access to quality, multi-rental house & land packages.

As an accredited mortgage broker, DPN has access to more than 30 major lenders to help finance your purchase. Importantly, you’ll enjoy a concierge service across the build of your investment and ongoing property management services, backed by our guarantees for peace of mind.

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