Real estate agents are legally required to act in the vendor’s best interest — not yours. This is not a criticism; it is how the industry works. But it means that as a buyer, you cannot rely on the selling agent to give you unbiased advice. Knowing how to assess an agent’s trustworthiness — and when to bring in independent advice — is one of the most valuable skills a property buyer or seller can have.

The Problem: Agents Work for the Vendor

When you walk into an open home, the agent is working for the vendor. Their legal obligation is to get the highest possible price for their client. Any information they share about the property, the price, or the competition is filtered through that lens. This is not unethical — it is their job. But it means you need your own source of independent advice.

Warning Signs of an Untrustworthy Agent

• Quoting unrealistically low price guides designed to attract more bidders to auction
• Claiming there are other offers without substantiation — a common pressure tactic
• Rushing you to make a decision — urgency is almost always artificial
• Not disclosing known defects — agents have legal disclosure obligations
• Giving vague or evasive answers to direct questions about the property’s history
• Pressuring you to use their recommended conveyancer or mortgage broker who may pay referral fees

Questions to Ask a Real Estate Agent

• How many people have inspected the property?
• Are there any known defects or issues with the property?
• Has the property been listed before? At what price?
• What is the vendor’s preferred settlement timeline?
• Are there any offers already submitted?

How an Independent Property Advisor Protects You

• Independent market value assessment based on comparable sales — not the agent’s price guide
• Negotiation strategy so you are not relying on the agent’s advice about what to offer
• Contract review to identify red flags the agent is not required to tell you about
• A second opinion on everything the agent tells you

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I complain about a real estate agent?

Yes. Complaints about agent conduct can be lodged with Consumer Affairs Victoria, NSW Fair Trading, or the relevant state authority.

How do I find a trustworthy real estate agent to sell my property?

Compare agents on recent sales history in your specific street and price range, interview at least three agents, and ask for a list of comparable recent sales. A Collings Seller Advisory can help you assess agent proposals independently.

Why Collings Property Advisory?

Collings is independent, fixed-fee and powered by GeeVee AI property intelligence. We have no referral arrangements with agents, conveyancers or mortgage brokers. We work for you — and only you.

Buyer Advisory: $4,500 + GST | Seller Advisory: $4,500 + GST

Get independent property advice from Collings today