Buyer advocate in Melb: Wakelin vs James vs Secret Agent

Hi folks,

I'm from the USA, recently resettled in Melbourne, and I'm interested in buying a place of primary residence and also getting started in property investing, but I have zero experience. As such, I am seriously considering hiring a buyer advocate, and so far I am considering Wakelin (Wakelin: Melbourne Buyers Agent, Buyers Advocate, Property Investment Adviser - Wakelin Property Advisory Melbourne | buyers advocate and buyers agent | investment property advisors), James (James Buyer Advocates, Melbourne's Property Buyers Agent), and Secret Agent (Melbourne Buyers Agent | Secret Agent Buyers Advocates). Do you any of you have any experience with / opinions on any of the above? Feel free to reply in the thread or privately if you prefer.

Thanks in advance,
FFTB

 

Haven't used any of those ones to be able to comment, but @Lisa Parker- Buyers Agent posts on these forums and sounds very familiar with Melbourne.

 

For PPoR, why not simply pick an area you like, then research it to find the best streets, and then wait for the right house to come up in one of those streets?

A few drive-throughs on a few weekends will do the trick for research.

Don't over-think it; you've already got plenty, so it won't matter in the long run if your PPoR selection isn't the best selection ever made.

I can see paralysis by analysis coming on already.

 

I've been working with Lisa for years and she's fantastic. Very down to earth, works with you to find what your real needs are and finds properties to meet those needs. She was also a nominee for the Testra Business Woman of the Year.

Lisa's number is 03 9773 6663

 

REBAA is a good place to start Members - REBAA
All members are exclusive (don't sell property so no blurred lines or conflicts of interest) licensed, experienced (full members min 2 yrs) insured and have been vetted by the association.
I'm more than happy to personally recommend Cate Bakos or Master Advocates for Melb itself- both excellent BAs and as a colleague in the industry (and ex President of REBAA 2012-2015) I've heard only good things from other BAs and clients about these two. Certainly also take the time to check all the other members out too, as acquiring the right BA for the job (and area) will take interviewing time and due diligence. Best of luck.

 

I agree that I am inclined to over analysis, and that sometimes contributes to missing opportunities, but I would also suggest that it's better to do things right the first time if we can. Measure twice, cut once.

 

I, too, have spoken to Lisa (trying to get her to come join REBAA too as I think she'd be a great asset ) and, along with a great surname she certainly comes across as an ethical and caring operator.

It's vital that you feel comfortable with whomever you do choose, not only checking out their credentials but asking for recent references (I'd suggest requesting 3 recent clients who would be happy to speak to you by phone or email) and ensuring you are on the same page with search requirements. A great BA will be able to realistically assess your criteria, provide advice and explain their processes thoroughly. Best of luck with it all.

 

All the advocates you mentioned would do the job well if you're looking for an inner suburbs property. I would also consider Morell and Koren.

 

Hi @Fortune Favors the Bold, I would love to chat with you about developing a property investment strategy for your investments and your own home purchase. You are welcome to PM me and we can set up a time to speak further from there if you would like to.

Thank you very much for the kind recommendations @Peter_Tersteeg, @D.T. and your vote of confidence @Jacque. I agree with your sentiments, its important to feel comfortable with the person you are working with, as well as ensuring they tick all the boxes.

 

Hi FFTB,

Lot's of great tips in the replies above.

I would recommend finding an 'individual' buyers agent as opposed to the 'firms' you've listed above.

I've used Wakelin's before and feel while they offer a valuable service, it's more appropriate if you're looking for a blue chip type property.

From a value perspective, I think you'll do much better with an individual agent who hasn't got the larger overheads of a firm.

Also look to sign an agreement based on a fixed rate as opposed to a percentage of purchase price, which is how many of the firms charge.

Good luck with the hunt!

 

What about renting for 6 months and work out what areas you like and what is suitable for lifestyle before you consider jumping in. Melb market been booming for at least 2 years, cooling is on the agenda.

don't bring all your US$ back to Aust, wait for another dip below 70, at moment 72. nice to be holding US $ at the moment, big windfall for you

Our economy not brilliant at the moment, could be in your favour

MTR