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Buyers Agents Fees for 2025: Commission or Fixed Rate ?

Wise Real Estate Advice - Buyer Agents Melbourne > Buyers Agents Fees for 2025: Commission or Fixed Rate ?

The cost of hiring a buyer’s agent can vary depending on the level of service, the amount of assistance required, and the agent’s experience.

In Melbourne, you generally have the option to hire a fully licensed buyer’s agent for one of three main services:

  • Full Property Search
  • Appraisal and Negotiation
  • Auction Bidding

For these services, buyer’s agents typically offer two main fee structures: a fixed rate or a commission based on a percentage of the sale.

Buyers Agents Fees- Commission or Fixed Rate ?

The Hidden Costs of Commission-Based Fees

Choosing a buyer’s agent who charges a commission or percentage of the purchase price may seem cost-effective for lower-value homes—but it can cost you more with higher-end properties.

In Melbourne, it’s common for properties to sell well above the advertised range. Agents working on commission may benefit from this, giving them less incentive to steer you toward better-value options.

A commission-based agent might focus on stretching your budget rather than helping you secure a quality property below market value—ultimately reducing your savings.

Why We Use a Fixed Fee Model

A fixed-rate service gives you full transparency—no hidden costs, no sliding scales based on property price. Unlike percentage-based models, we have no incentive to push you toward higher-priced homes. Our only goal is finding the right property for you.

Whether you’re spending $500k or $2 million, the process and due diligence required are largely the same. That’s why our fixed fee covers everything—from search to settlement—no matter how many auctions or negotiations it takes, for up to six months.

Our buyer’s agents are performance-driven. We search, inspect (with video), and handle all negotiations. You receive detailed property reports and market insights every step of the way.

With Wise Real Estate Advice, you pay once and get expert support until you secure your ideal home. 

Our clients have a choice of two service plans:

Fixed fee buyers agent

Fully Serviced Plan. 

We offer a fixed fee, no matter your budget, search criteria, or the complexity of the brief.

Our expert buyers agents search both on and off-market listings, carefully screening properties to ensure strong long-term investment potential.

Once you’ve shortlisted options, we inspect each property, record detailed walkthrough videos, and share commentary along with aerial drone footage.

When it’s time to buy, we complete thorough due diligence so you’ll know:

  • The property’s true market value (not just the agent’s guide)

  • Any structural or maintenance issues

  • A written rental appraisal (for investors)

  • A bidding strategy with clear start and walk-away points

We then use this due diligence to negotiate or bid on your behalf — at no extra cost, no matter how many offers or auctions are involved.

This service allows you to pursue multiple properties across Melbourne under the one plan.

Negotiate for me Plan

Appraisal & Negotiation Service

This service is ideal for buyers who enjoy the search but want expert support to assess true market value and secure the property at the right price.

You find the property — we handle the rest.

Our buyers agents conduct full due diligence, including a detailed inspection video with expert commentary and aerial drone footage of the property and surrounds.

You’ll receive:

  • A true market value assessment — not just the advertised price

  • Insights into structural issues or maintenance concerns

  • A bidding plan with starting and walk-away points

We’ll negotiate with the selling agent, whether it’s a private sale or auction, and stay on until the property is secured.

One fixed fee — no matter how many negotiations or auctions.

This plan covers one property per negotiation across Melboure.

Upfront Costs for Hiring a Buyer’s Agent: What to Expect

Most buyer’s agents ask for an upfront payment when you sign on—usually a portion of their total fee. This can range from $1,000 to as much as 50%, and in many cases, it’s non-refundable, even if you don’t end up buying.

At WISE, our engagement fee is about 30% upfront, with the rest only due once you successfully purchase a property. So if you don’t buy, you don’t pay the full fee—keeping us fully aligned with your goals.

Buyer’s Agent Fees: Your Essential Checklist

Here’s a checklist to help you navigate paying for a buyer’s advocate:

  • Fixed fees until a property is secured.
  • No commission-based payments.
  • Choose a buyer’s agent with the right experience. Learn more about buyer’s agent qualifications here.
  • Ensure your buyer’s advocate is a fully licensed real estate agent. You can verify their license on the Consumer Affairs Register here.
  • Be cautious of exclusive contracts that lock you in for an extended period. If you’re unhappy, you should have the freedom to exit.
  • Make sure all the above points are clearly stated in your written agreement or contract.

At Wise Real Estate Advice, we take pride in ensuring every detail is covered. We provide thoughtful, expert guidance throughout the buying process. To speak with one of our friendly buyer’s agents, click here to fill out an inquiry form.

Summary
How much do Buyers Agents Fees Cost in Melbourne?
Service Type
How much do Buyers Agents Fees Cost in Melbourne?
Provider Name
Wise Real Estate Advice,
Level 27, 101 Collins Street,Melbourne,Victoria-3000,
Telephone No.+61 3 9108 4266
Area
Melbourne.
Description
So what does the service of a Buyer’s Agent actually cost? Wise Real Estate Advice looks at what buyers advocates charge across Melbourne.

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