Why a buyer’s agent is your secret weapon in Canberra’s competitive property market

Posted on 11 April, 2025

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions you’ll ever make. Yet, many buyers enter Canberra’s highly competitive property market armed with little more than online research and advice from family.

That’s where a buyer’s agent comes in – a professional who works exclusively for you, the buyer, to secure the right property at the right price. Without a buyer’s agent, you risk spending endless hours on open homes, paying more than you should, and ending up with a property that doesn’t deliver the value you expect. 

Penny Hyde and Ian Burchell of Hyde Burchell Buyers Agents are Canberra’s trusted buyer’s advocates, bringing decades of real estate experience to help clients navigate the often overwhelming process. Their partnership was born from a shared passion: ensuring buyers have the knowledge, support, and strategy needed to compete in an increasingly fast-moving market. 

“We’ve seen too many buyers struggle through this process alone.” Penny says. 

They’ve overpaid for properties or missed out because they didn’t have the right guidance. Our job is to level the playing field.” 

What does a buyer’s agent actually do?

A buyer’s agent does far more than just attend inspections. They act as your strategic partner throughout the buying journey, helping with:

• Property search & shortlisting – accessing both on-market and off-market opportunities to find the best fit for your needs. 
• Price analysis & due diligence – ensuring you don’t overpay by assessing market data and identifying red flags. 
• Negotiation & auction bidding – removing emotion from the process to secure the best possible price and terms. 
• Saving time & reducing stress – handling the legwork so you can focus on the excitement of finding your home. 

Many buyers rely on well-meaning advice from parents and friends. While they may have experience purchasing property, real estate markets evolve, and what worked ‘back in Mum and Dad’s day’ might not apply today. Having a professional who is immersed in Canberra’s property trends, regulations, and pricing ensures you’re making decisions based on facts, not just opinions.

“As buyer’s agents, we know exactly who to call if something doesn’t look right.” says Penny. 

“Where to find the latest building reports, and how to uncover potential issues before they become expensive problems”

One of the biggest risks buyers face is making emotionally driven decisions. It’s easy to fall in love with a property and overlook hidden flaws—or worse, stretch beyond your budget in a heated auction. Penny and Ian act as a rational, experienced buffer to keep emotions in check and ensure you’re making a smart investment.

“Most buyers wouldn’t sign a legal contract without a solicitor or take out a mortgage without consulting a broker,” says Ian.

 “So why navigate one of the biggest financial transactions of your life without professional representation?”

Can I afford a buyer’s agent? 

A common misconception is that buyer’s agents are only for the wealthy. In reality, they can actually save you money by securing better deals, avoiding overcapitalisation, and ensuring you don’t end up with a property that will drain your finances in the long run because of missed issues during the purchase phase.

“You’re investing in an expert who knows the tricks of the trade, has access to off-market properties, and can negotiate in ways that most buyers can’t,” Ian explains. 

“Our tailored packages cater to all buyers—from first-home buyers to downsizers and seasoned investors.”

Buying a home should be exciting, not overwhelming. Using a buyer’s agent means you’ll have the confidence, expertise, and strategy needed to secure your dream home without the stress.