If you’re a first home buyer in Australia, you’ve probably felt the frustration of missing out on properties time and time again. It’s tough, and I totally get it. Right now, I’m working with five first home buyer couples, and a common theme keeps popping up: they keep missing out. But why is this happening? Let’s take a look at some of the reasons, and more importantly, how you can level the playing field to increase your chances of securing your first home.

The Tough Reality for First Home Buyers

As a first home buyer, you’re entering a highly competitive market with limited experience. You’re up against seasoned buyers like downsizers who have a lot more cash to spend and don’t mind paying a bit extra if it means securing their dream home. On top of that, you’re also competing with investors who are well-versed in property purchases and often have deep pockets.

Many investors know exactly what to look for, what to avoid, and how to negotiate. They’ve done it before and they’re good at it. Investors and downsizers don’t face the same challenges as first-time buyers, which puts you at a disadvantage.

The Hidden Threat: Buyer’s Agents and Real Estate Agents

Another key player in the property market is the buyer’s agent, who has become more common in today’s market. These professionals know exactly how to talk to real estate agents and often have access to properties before they’re even listed. They are experts at finding the right property at the right price, and they’re not afraid to act fast.

On the other hand, real estate agents work for the sellers and are trained to get top dollar for the property. Their job is to make you, the buyer, pay as much as possible. So, when you’re a first home buyer, it can feel like you’re stepping into the ring with a heavyweight champion who’s been in the game for years.

Why First Home Buyers Are at a Disadvantage

To put it simply, buying your first home can feel like you’re stepping into the ring with Muhammad Ali or Mike Tyson. You might not know all the rules, and you certainly haven’t landed many punches yet. Meanwhile, these experienced players—investors, downsizers, and buyer’s agents—have been doing it for years. They know exactly how to win, and they’re playing the game on hard mode.

I’m not saying this to discourage you, but rather to help you understand that it’s not a fair fight when you go it alone. I want you to succeed, but the reality is that navigating the property market as a first-time buyer can be tough without the right support.

The Solution: Work with a Buyer’s Agent

So, how do you level the playing field? The answer is simple: hire a buyer’s agent.

A buyer’s agent can make a huge difference in your property journey. These professionals can leverage their expertise to help you secure properties before they even go to auction, and they have strong relationships with real estate agents. This allows them to access off-market opportunities that most first-time buyers wouldn’t even know about.

Yes, buyer’s agents come at a cost, but think of it as an investment in your future. Right now, it might cost you anywhere from $10,000 to $15,000, but if you’re constantly missing out on properties, the rising market is going to cost you more in the long run. You’ll likely end up paying that money anyway as prices continue to climb.

Real-Life Example: A Rising Market and Borrowing Capacity

I had a client this morning who was pre-approved for $730k-$740k, and they were looking at properties in the $820k-$830k range. Fast forward, and they’re now looking at properties for $900k, as the properties they thought would cost $830k are now priced at $890k or more. This is a direct result of missing out on properties and watching prices rise.

In this situation, working with a buyer’s agent could have saved time, stress, and potentially thousands of dollars. They could have found an opportunity that didn’t slip through the cracks.

Why You Need a Quality Buyer’s Agent

It’s not just about hiring any buyer’s agent. You need to work with someone who knows the market and has a proven track record of success. The right buyer’s agent will understand the nuances of your local market, your specific needs, and the type of property you’re looking for. They’ll also have the negotiation skills to get the best deal for you.

If you’re ready to make your first home purchase, consider hiring a professional to help you through the process. Yes, there’s an upfront cost, but it’s well worth it to avoid frustration and missing out on properties that could be yours.

Save Time, Stress, and Money

A buyer’s agent can save you not only money but also time and stress—two things you don’t want to waste. You’ll be able to focus on other aspects of your life while they handle the complex, time-consuming process of finding the right property, negotiating the best price, and securing a deal before it slips away.

Get the Right Help for Your First Home Purchase

If you’re struggling to secure your first property or you just want expert help navigating the competitive market, a buyer’s agent could be the solution you need. Get in touch with us today to find out more about how a buyer’s agent can help you, and let us guide you through the process.

If you also need pre-approval for your home loan, we’re here to help with that too. Schedule a free consultation with us, and let’s make your first home purchase as smooth as possible!