Why you should use a WA buyer’s agent when investing in WA 

Eastern States investors have been drawn to WA in recent years, and for good reason - our relatively affordable housing and strong rent price growth have created some excellent investment opportunities.

And while rising property prices have seen yields decline slightly there are still good opportunities for savvy interstate investors.

However, navigating an investment purchase can be challenging when you’re buying in a state where market dynamics and legislation differ from your own.

Engaging a buyer’s agent will help make the process easier, but I believe it is essential for interstate investors to work with WA buyer’s agents to ensure they find the right property, at the right price, that aligns with their goals and delivers strong returns over time.

One of the biggest benefits of using a WA buyer’s agent is their extensive knowledge of WA’s property market. They know the intricate factors driving the market - and these frequently vary from the east coast. They know what’s hot right now and what areas will have sustained demand, which is important for long-term capital growth.

They’re across the features that make a suburb appealing to tenants, such as good schools, public transport and local infrastructure, and what types of homes tenants are seeking in particular areas. They will also be aware of potential changes to local amenity and upcoming infrastructure projects that could benefit or hinder your investment.

If you are buying sight unseen, as many interstate investors do, it is important to have someone on the ground who can act for you. Your WA buyer’s agent can attend inspections, provide detailed property assessments and flag issues that you might miss when relying on photos and video walk-throughs provided by a selling agent. They will negotiate on your behalf and can even bid at auctions.

Another benefit is the relationships they have with local selling agents, this gives you access to off-market opportunities that you wouldn’t otherwise hear about.

When you engage a WA buyer’s agent you also have the advantage of dealing with someone who is licensed under the Real Estate and Business Agents Act 1978. This gives you peace of mind as well as protections under WA consumer law.

This is particularly important, as in some states the contract of sale is usually prepared by a solicitor and not a real estate agent. If you’re using a non-WA buyer’s agent to purchase in WA, can you be sure they have an adequate understanding of our documentation and legislation? Issues may arise if they do not.

And finally, working with a WA buyer’s agent isn’t just beneficial for interstate investors, their services are also invaluable for people looking to move to our state, or even for time-poor local buyers wanting assistance including an investment property or their dream home.

Suzanne Brown
REIWA President