19 September 2026

Buyers Agent Fees in Australia: What They Cost and How They Work

One of the most common questions buyers ask before engaging a buyers agent is the simplest one: what does it actually cost? The honest answer is that it depends on the model - and understanding the differences helps you compare quotes properly instead of just picking the lowest number.

The three common fee models

Buyers agents in Australia typically charge in one of three ways, or some combination of them:

• Fixed fee. A flat dollar amount agreed upfront, regardless of the final purchase price. This is the most transparent model, because the agent's fee doesn't change based on how much you spend.
• Percentage of purchase price. A fee calculated as a percentage of what you pay for the property. It scales with more expensive purchases, which is worth factoring in when comparing to a fixed fee.
• Engagement fee plus success fee. A smaller fee paid upfront to begin the search (covering research and shortlisting), plus a further fee payable only once a property is successfully secured. This structure ties part of the cost to a result.

What should be included in the fee

Before comparing prices, check what's actually covered. Some agents bundle due diligence - building and pest inspections, contract review, comparable sales analysis - into their fee. Others charge for these separately, or leave you to organise and pay for them yourself. A lower headline fee isn't necessarily cheaper once you add back the services it doesn't include.

Why independence matters more than the number

The fee structure that matters most isn't really about the number - it's about where else the agent might be getting paid from. A buyers agent who accepts referral fees or commissions from selling agents, developers or lenders has a conflict of interest, even if their stated fee to you looks competitive. Ask directly whether they take payment from anyone other than you. A genuinely independent buyers agent should have a straightforward, one-word answer.

How Acquira Property charges

We use a fixed engagement fee to begin the search, plus a success fee payable on settlement - agreed with you in writing before any work starts, with no commissions or referral kickbacks from vendors, developers or agents. If you're weighing up buyers agents in Melbourne specifically, our Melbourne buyers agent page has more detail, or you can book a free call and we'll talk you through the exact numbers for your situation.

This article is general information only and doesn't take into account your personal circumstances. It isn't financial, taxation or legal advice - speak with a qualified professional before making a property decision.