You’ve decided you want to buy property on the Gold Coast. You’ve used a buyer’s agent before and you really liked working with them, and they’ve become a trusted advisor. You’d love to work with them again, but they don’t live on the Gold Coast, they live in Brisbane/Cairns/Sydney/Melbourne – basically anywhere that’s not the Gold Coast.
Does it really matter if they don’t live locally? Isn’t property essentially the same everywhere?
For the same reason that we would never take on a client who was looking for property anywhere north of Ormeau, south of the Tweed or west of Tallebudgera Valley, your buyer’s agent should always be someone who knows their local area like the back of their hand.
Here’s why it’s important.
1. In-depth knowledge of the local market
A Gold Coast-based buyer’s agent lives and breathes the local real estate market. They are immersed in the latest property trends, pricing shifts, and new developments that someone based in a different city might not be aware of. Markets can vary significantly between Brisbane (or any other city) and the Gold Coast, and local knowledge can help you navigate the subtleties of:
- Local property values: A Gold Coast buyer’s agent will have a deeper understanding of which suburbs are on the rise and where you can get the best value for money.
- Off-market and pre-market opportunities: Because of their local knowledge and relationships they will potentially have access to some properties before they come to market.
- Local regulations: The Gold Coast City Plan and local building and development rules can be complex. A local agent understands these intricacies and can steer you clear of potential pitfalls.
2. Relationships with local real estate agents
When you’re house hunting, one of the most important activities to do is build and maintain relationships with local agents so you’re first on the list to be called when a property matching your brief comes to market. A local buyer’s agent will already have these relationships in the suburbs on your hit list. Local agents are more likely to trust and work closely with a buyer’s agent they know personally, which can make all the difference in a competitive market.
3. Deep understanding of all Gold Coast suburbs
Before relocating to the Gold Coast five years ago, we lived in Brisbane for many years, and bought and sold a number of properties. While we feel like we know Brisbane well, we definitely wouldn’t classify ourselves as Brisbane suburb experts.
But we would classify ourselves as Gold Coast suburb experts. The Gold Coast is made up of many unique suburbs, each with its own character, property values, and community vibe. We know whether your brief is best suited to a property in Bundall vs Southport, or Burleigh vs Mermaid Beach.
4. Hands-on property inspections and evaluations
Hiring a local Gold Coast buyer’s agent means they can easily attend open homes and property inspections on your behalf. They won’t need to schedule in advance or make a special trip from Brisbane—they’re already here. This allows them to:
- Act quickly when a great property comes on the market.
- Provide you with timely feedback and property reports.
- Regularly visit and evaluate properties to determine if they meet your brief.
Having someone on the ground is particularly important in a fast-moving market like the Gold Coast, where properties can sell in days.
5. Navigating local developments and projects
The Gold Coast is constantly evolving with new infrastructure projects, developments, and zoning changes. A local buyer’s agent will have firsthand knowledge of current and upcoming developments that could impact the decision you make about which property to purchase. Whether it’s the new light rail extension, changes to local school catchments, or future development projects that could affect property values, a Gold Coast-based agent will have insights that someone from out of town might miss.
6. Local lifestyle expertise
When you’re buying a home, it’s not just about the property—it’s about finding the right lifestyle fit. A local agent will have a true understanding of the Gold Coast lifestyle, including:
- Beaches and parks: Which beaches are quieter, which parks are family (or dog!)-friendly, and which areas offer the best outdoor activities.
- Restaurants, cafes, and shops: Where to find the best local spots for dining, shopping, and entertainment.
- Community feel: each suburb has its own sense of community, and a local agent will know which one aligns best with what you’re looking for.
If you’re relocating from Brisbane or interstate, these insights can be invaluable in helping you choose not just a property, but a neighbourhood that suits your lifestyle.
Check out our neighbourhood guides here as a starting point for insights into what we know about local neighbourhoods on the Gold Coast.
7. Support during settlement and beyond
A local Gold Coast buyer’s agent can offer you continued support after the sale. This is particularly relevant to our clients who might be considering a small or major renovation since we have so much experience in this ourselves through Hemko Projects. This includes our extensive network of trusted suppliers from builders and tilers to painters, cabinet makers and interior stylists.
We can also help you to navigate local council processes. Whether you’re planning renovations or just need help understanding local council regulations, we can help guide you through the process from our own experience.
But what about your trusted buyer’s agent in Brisbane/Sydney/Melbourne?
This doesn’t mean they don’t have a role to play – they sure do! We suggest you ask them for a referral to another buyer’s agent in the area where you’re looking. A good buyer’s agent will have a strong referral network with other buyer’s agents they trust, and will be happy to refer you to a local buyer’s agent. For example, when we have clients enquire about buying on the Sunshine Coast, we will always refer them to Bronwen at Home Scouts. I often also include a recommendation to one or two other buyer’s agents, so the client can speak to them all and see who the best fit is for them.