Client SUCCESS
Trust Through Every Step
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As North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agents, at Sarah Kaye Buyers Agents, we don’t just help you buy property —we help create your future. Our clients’ stories reflect our commitment to creating a seamless, stress-free buying journey. Whether you’re securing a family home, navigating a major life transition, or uncovering hidden off-market gems, we’re here to guide you with confidence, transparency, and expertise.
Buying property in New South Wales is more than just a financial decision—it’s a significant milestone. That’s why we bring empathy, local insights, and data-driven strategies to each step of your journey. Don’t just take our word for it—hear from those who’ve experienced firsthand how a trusted North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent makes all the difference.
From first-home buyers to seasoned investors, these videos showcase why choosing the right buyer’s agent can transform your property-buying experience on the Northern Beaches. If you’re buying property on the Northern Beaches or North Shore, we’re here to help guide you.
CLIENT EXPERIENCES
A Trusted and Stress-Free Experience
Lotta’s experience with us is a testament to how we make the property-buying journey as stress-free as possible. From understanding her specific needs to finding off-market properties that suited her goals, our team took care of every detail.
Watch how we made her property dreams a reality and why she trusts Sarah Kaye Buyers Agents as her go-to North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent for future investments.
Enjoyable Experience and a Great Outcome
Sabrina’s journey with us highlights how we prioritise our clients’ best interests. Faced with a tight timeline, we worked swiftly to secure a property she loved.
This video shares how we helped her navigate the purchase and land her dream home on the Northern Beaches. If you are buying property on the Northern Beaches, our team can help you achieve similar results.
BUILDING TRUST
Media Coverage
We are proud to have been featured in respected media outlets over the years. From interviews to thought leadership articles, our commitment to transparency, trust, and client success continues to be recognised in the community.
This reinforces why Sarah Kaye & Co. Buyers Agents is your trusted partner for buying property on the Northern Beaches and North Shore.
Building Trust Through Transparency
The real estate industry often feels opaque, leaving many buyers unsure of where to turn. Mike’s video explains how we aim to change that. By acting in your best interest, with no hidden agendas or competing interests, we ensure every step of the process is transparent and aligned with your goals.
This is why we are recognised as a trusted North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent for clients buying property on the Northern Beaches or North Shore.
Trusted Buying Resources to Help You
Fair Trading Guidelines and Consumer Protection
Guidelines for Buying Property Off-the-Plan or at Auction
First-Time Home Buyers’ Resources and Government Schemes
Northern Beaches Property Planning and Development Controls
Property Buying Legal Requirements and Conveyancing
Mortgage Brokers and Home Loan Advice
Northern Beaches Property Research and Market Trends
Hear from Sarah
Sarah talks about what truly sets Sarah Kaye Buyers Agents apart: our unwavering commitment to the success of our clients. Whether it’s navigating the competitive North Shore or Northern Beaches property market or managing the stress of finding the right property, we ensure you never have to go it alone.
Whether you’re buying property on the Northern Beaches or looking to explore new opportunities on the North Shore, we’ve got you covered.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
How to Buy a House on the Northern Beaches - with Confidence
Buying a house on the Northern Beaches means embracing a coveted coastal lifestyle, but it comes with high demand and prices.
The Northern Beaches offer a relaxed, beach-centric community vibe – think morning surfs, coastal walks, and a strong outdoor culture. Properties here range from clifftop luxury homes to family houses near village centers. Keep in mind that the Northern Beaches property market is very competitive (with limited listings at any given time), so prices tend to be well above Sydney’s average.
It’s not unusual for attractive homes to sell above the quoted price, especially at auction, due to fierce buyer interest. Also, note that public transport is mostly via buses (no train line) and the Manly ferry, so commute times can be longer if you work in the CBD. In short, you’ll be paying a premium for the lifestyle and scenery – but many consider it worth every cent.
Key Northern Beaches suburbs and their characteristics include:
Manly: A vibrant beachside suburb famous for its surf beach and ferry access to the city. Lifestyle: lively cafes, bars, and an active social scene, ideal for professionals and young families. Property: Highly competitive; houses in Manly often sell in the multi-millions due to location and lifestyle, and even semi-detached homes attract premium prices. Expect strong demand and auction pressure for any home with walking distance to the beach.
Clontarf: An exclusive enclave on Middle Harbour with secluded beaches and waterfront views. Lifestyle: quiet and affluent, with a family-friendly feel and easy access to parks and the Spit Bridge into the city. Property: Predominantly large family homes – many with water vistas – on generous blocks. Clontarf’s house prices are among the highest on the Northern Beaches, reflecting its prestige (medians here are routinely in the $4–5 million range). Buyers are often established families or downsizers seeking a tranquil, high-end community.
Fairlight: Nestled next to Manly, Fairlight offers harbor beaches and a slightly quieter charm. Lifestyle: scenic walking paths, a local village atmosphere, and quick access to Manly’s amenities without the constant tourist bustle. Property: Primarily upscale family homes and units, many with harbour views. Prices are comparable to Manly – expect to pay a premium for views or character homes. Fairlight appeals to those who want proximity to Manly (and the ferry) but a more residential, calm environment.
Freshwater: A beloved surf suburb just north of Manly (once known as Harbord). Lifestyle: strong community feel, centered around Freshwater Beach and village shops; popular with young families and surfers. There’s a mix of trendy cafes and the local surf club, giving it a casual, village vibe. Property: Characterized by renovated bungalows and modern builds; houses often fetch high prices (well into the $2–3 million range) given the beachside location. Freshwater is slightly more affordable than Manly but has been rising quickly as buyers seek beach proximity without Manly’s crowds.
Curl Curl (incl. North Curl Curl; South Curl Curl): Two adjoining suburbs known for their beautiful, less-crowded beaches. Lifestyle: laid-back and very community-oriented, with local sporting clubs and coastal reserves; a favorite for families who love surf but prefer a quieter setting. Property: Mostly residential houses, some with ocean views from elevated streets. Prices are robust – family homes often exceed $2 million – yet Curl Curl can offer a bit more space or value compared to neighbouring Freshwater and Dee Why.
Dee Why: A central Northern Beaches hub with a broad mix of housing. Lifestyle: features a busy town center and a gorgeous long beach with a beachfront dining strip; more urbanized than the smaller beach suburbs. Property: Dee Why has a higher supply of apartments, making it relatively affordable for unit buyers, while freestanding houses in Dee Why (especially near the beach or on the headland) still command strong prices (often mid-$1 million to $2 million+). It’s popular with first-home buyers and investors due to the apartment market, while still appealing to families for its amenities.
Avalon Beach: A charming coastal village toward the northern end of the peninsula. Lifestyle: very relaxed, with a creative, bohemian flair – boutique shops, cafes, and a surf culture define Avalon. It’s a tight-knit community that values a slower pace and natural beauty (beach on one side, Pittwater bay on the other). Property: A mix of beach houses and bushland retreats; many properties have a beachy character (think timber decks and tropical gardens). Prices are high but generally lower than the lower Northern Beaches – houses often range in the low-to-mid $2 millions, though waterfront or architect-designed homes can be much more. Avalon is ideal if you work remotely or don’t mind a long commute, as it’s about 1–1.5 hours from the CBD.
Palm Beach: The northernmost suburb, famous as a luxury holiday enclave (known for TV’s Home and Away). Lifestyle: tranquil and exclusive – boasting golden beaches on one side and serene Pittwater on the other. Many residents are part-time (weekenders) or retirees, and the vibe is quiet outside of peak holiday periods. Property: Prestige market – Palm Beach houses are among Sydney’s most expensive. Waterfront estates and architecturally designed holiday homes regularly sell for well over $5 million. Inventory is very limited, so buyers face steep competition for the rare offerings. This suburb is perfect for those seeking a resort-like retreat (and who can afford it), but it’s remote for daily commuting (roughly a 1.5+ hour drive to the city).
In summary, the Northern Beaches offers everything from buzzing beach towns to secluded harborside pockets. When house hunting here, align the suburb with your lifestyle – whether you crave nightlife and convenience (Manly), family-friendly surf suburbs (Freshwater, Curl Curl), prestige and privacy (Clontarf, Palm Beach), or a relaxed village feel (Avalon). Always do your research on recent price trends in your target suburb, as values can vary widely. Engaging a local buyer’s agent with Northern Beaches expertise can also help you find the right property (including off-market homes) and navigate the competition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a House on the Northern Beaches
Buying in these sought-after Sydney suburbs can be tricky – here are common mistakes home buyers make, and how to avoid them:
Misconception about Pricing – underestimating true costs: One big mistake is assuming the list price or price guide is what you’ll pay. In hot markets like the Northern Beaches, properties often sell for significantly more than the guide. Some buyers unfamiliar with the area are shocked when a home quoted around $2 million sells for $2.5M+.
How to avoid it: Do your homework on recent comparable sales, not just asking prices. Understand that agents may quote low to attract interest. Set a realistic budget cushion above the guide. If a house seems “cheap” for the suburb, ask why – it might indicate an issue or simply a strategy to spark an auction bidding war. Having a buyers agent or local expert can also give you an honest read on a property’s likely selling range so you’re not caught off guard.
Not Prepared for Auction Dynamics – going in without a strategy: In these areas, many sales go to auction, and auctions here move fast and emotionally. A common mistake is attending an auction unprepared – for example, not having your finance pre-approved, or hesitating with bids and showing your nerves. Some buyers also get caught in the excitement and bid beyond their limit.
How to avoid it: Do plenty of groundwork before auction day. Attend a few auctions as an observer to understand the pace. Set a firm maximum price and stick to it (write it down if needed). Make sure all your finances and inspections are sorted beforehand, because if you win, it’s an unconditional contract. Consider engaging a professional or an experienced friend to bid on your behalf if you feel intimidated – or again, a buyers agent can bid for you calmly and strategically. Going in with a clear plan will help you stay composed and not overpay due to auction adrenaline.
Overlooking Off-Market Opportunities – only searching online listings: In tightly held markets like the Northern Beaches, a significant chunk of properties sell off-market (quietly, without public advertising). A mistake is relying solely on real estate websites and missing these hidden sales.
How to avoid it: Let all the local agents know what you’re looking for – build relationships and check in regularly so you hear about any off-market or pre-market opportunities. Networking is key. Better yet, work with a local independent buyers agent who often has access to off-market listings; over 20% of sales can happen off-market in some Sydney areas, and buyer’s agents thrive on uncovering these. By expanding your search beyond the obvious channels, you increase your chances of finding the right property without facing as much open competition.
If you want additional insight or support buying a property on the Northern Beaches reach out to Sarah Kaye & Co. Trusted Buyers Agents – T. 1300 500 053 | sarahkaye.com.au
How to Buy a House on the North Shore - without the Stress
Buying a house on the North Shore means diving into a market of high-demand properties with a mix of urban convenience and leafy suburban appeal. From luxurious harbourside homes in Mosman to spacious family houses in the Upper North Shore, the North Shore offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for high-end luxury or more spacious suburban living.
Real estate prices on the North Shore are premium, but the location, lifestyle, and school catchments often make it worth the investment. Buyers will need to act quickly, as properties can sell fast in this competitive market. Public transport is excellent in areas like North Sydney, Chatswood, and Mosman, with easy access to the CBD, making the North Shore a prime choice for families, professionals, and downsizers alike.
Key North Shore suburbs and their characteristics include:
Mosman: A large, prestigious suburb encompassing various pockets (from Balmoral Beach to Spit Junction). Lifestyle: elegant and family-oriented, with top-rated schools, village shopping, and numerous bay-side parks. Mosman’s residents enjoy boutique shops on Military Road, Taronga Zoo at their doorstep, and a short commute to the city. Property: Primarily upscale family homes – from grand Edwardian and Victorian houses to luxury new builds – often with harbour or Middle Harbour views. Mosman’s real estate is among the priciest in Australia, with median house prices around the mid-$5 millions. Even semis and townhouses here can fetch several millions. Buyers are typically established professionals, executives, or downsizers with deep pockets, drawn to Mosman’s prestige and convenience.
Neutral Bay: A vibrant Lower North Shore suburb just minutes from the Harbour Bridge. Lifestyle: offers a mix of city convenience and leafy residential appeal. The Military Road strip provides trendy cafes, restaurants, and pubs – giving Neutral Bay a lively nightlife scene popular with young professionals. Property: A blend of apartment complexes and charming federation houses in back streets. Detached houses are scarce and expensive (often $3–4 million+), given the suburb’s proximity to the CBD and harbour views in some pockets. Many buyers here opt for units, which, while cheaper than houses, are still premium by Sydney standards. Neutral Bay is ideal for those who want a quick commute (bus or ferry to the city) and an active social scene.
North Sydney (and surrounds): North Sydney is known as a commercial hub (with skyscraper offices), but it also includes residential pockets like Kirribilli, McMahons Point, and Waverton. Lifestyle: urban and convenient – living here means you’re just across the Harbour Bridge from the CBD. Areas like Kirribilli offer cafes and harbourfront walks near the Prime Minister’s Sydney residence, while McMahons Point has a charming village and ferry wharf. Property: Many apartments with stunning harbour views (especially in Kirribilli and Milsons Point), and a limited number of heritage terrace houses or freestanding homes in areas like McMahons Point. Houses are very tightly held and extremely expensive when they hit the market (often auctioned for multi-millions due to their rarity and location). North Sydney and its surrounds suit professionals who value a quick commute and cosmopolitan living, though families also seek out the few quiet residential pockets with houses.
Chatswood: A major center on the North Shore, roughly the border of lower and upper sections. Lifestyle: bustling and multicultural – Chatswood is known for its huge shopping malls, diverse restaurants (especially Asian cuisine), and a busy transit interchange (train and buses). It’s more urban in feel than the leafy suburbs around it. Property: Lots of modern apartment towers near the station (popular with investors and first-home buyers), but also established residential streets with California bungalows and post-war houses a bit farther out. House prices in Chatswood are high (often $2.5–3.5 million for a typical family home) due to the suburb’s convenience and school catchments, while apartments, though plentiful, are also pricey given strong demand. Chatswood appeals to those who want city-like amenities without leaving the North Shore, including many families who love the convenience.
Lindfield: The start of the Upper North Shore’s classic leafy belt, about 15km from the CBD. Lifestyle: peaceful and green; Lindfield has a village atmosphere with local cafes and shops near the station, and is known for excellent public and private schools nearby. It’s a suburb where weekends involve local sports, park picnics, and community markets rather than nightlife. Property: Dominated by large family homes on generous blocks. You’ll find beautiful heritage homes (Federation and Californian bungalows) as well as new luxury builds. With its space and prestige, Lindfield’s house prices are very high (around the $3–4 million median), reflecting its status as a premium family suburb. Apartments have been developed near the train line in recent years, offering downsizers or young buyers a foothold, though even units here are upscale.
Killara: Adjacent to Lindfield, sharing a similar affluent, leafy character. Lifestyle: extremely quiet and residential – there are few shops in Killara itself aside from a small strip, so residents often go to nearby Lindfield or Gordon. It’s prized for its tranquility, greenery, and top-notch schools (Killara High has a strong reputation). Property: Almost exclusively large houses, often sitting on even bigger land parcels than Lindfield. Many homes are heritage-listed or architecturally significant. Prices are on par with Lindfield (multi-million dollar range). Killara is all about prestige and peace – ideal for families looking for space and willing to trade walkable amenities for a serene environment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a House on the North Shore
Buying in the North Shore can be a competitive process, so here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
1. Misconception about Pricing – underestimating true costs: Buyers often think that the quoted asking price is what they’ll pay, but in competitive markets like the North Shore, prices can escalate significantly above the guide.
How to avoid it: Do your research on comparable properties sold recently to understand the market better and adjust your expectations. Always have a buyers agent who can advise on price ranges in each suburb.
2. Not Prepared for Auction Dynamics – going in without a strategy: Auctions can be fast-paced and emotional, with many North Shore properties selling this way. Buyers can get caught up in the excitement and end up overbidding.
How to avoid it: Attend auctions beforehand to get a feel for the process, set a clear maximum bid, and stick to it. Always ensure your finances are pre-approved.
3. Overlooking Off-Market Opportunities – only searching online listings: A significant portion of high-demand properties sell off-market, especially in sought-after North Shore suburbs.
How to avoid it: Establish relationships with local agents or hire a buyers agent to get access to these properties before they hit the public market.
If you want additional insight or support buying a property on the Northern Beaches reach out to Sarah Kaye & Co Trusted Buyers Agents – T. 1300 500 053 | sarahkaye.com.au
Why Should We Trust You with Our Property Search?
At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we understand that trusting someone with your property search is a big decision. Here’s why we’ve earned our reputation as trusted North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agents, and why you can feel confident working with us:
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Experience with Many Property Purchases, Both Personally and Professionally
We don’t just work as buyers agents—we’ve also purchased many properties ourselves. This gives us a personal and hands-on understanding of the property market, which enhances our ability to guide you effectively. We know the ins and outs of the process, from the emotional challenges to the practical negotiations, and we’re ready to use that knowledge to help you buy property on the Northern Beaches or North Shore. -
We Live in the Markets We Serve
Unlike many buyers agents who may not live in the area, we do. We live and breathe the Northern Beaches and North Shore markets every day. We’ve been living here for over 20 years! This provides us with insider knowledge and an authentic understanding of the local community, schools, amenities, and lifestyle—insights that help us find the best homes for our clients. Whether you’re buying a home or investment property, we know the area better than anyone. Unlike many, while we are licensed to help anyone who is buying a House in NSW, we focus on what we know best. -
Proven Negotiation Expertise
Our prior experience as real estate sales agents gives us a distinct advantage when negotiating on your behalf. We’ve been on the other side of the deal and know how sales agents think. We leverage this insider knowledge to ensure you’re getting the best price and conditions, whether you’re buying property on the Northern Beach or the North Shore. With us, you’ll never miss out on securing a great deal. -
Fully Licensed and Accredited
We are fully licensed real estate agents, not reliant on third parties for oversight, which gives you peace of mind that we meet the highest professional standards. Additionally, we are accredited by leading industry bodies such as REBAA (Real Estate Buyers Agents Association) and REINSW (Real Estate Institute of NSW). This ensures that you are working with ethical professionals who are held to stringent industry standards. We are licensed to help anyone who is buying a house in NSW. -
A Straightforward Approach
We are committed to being transparent and honest in every interaction. We believe in clear, direct communication and will always tell you exactly what you need to hear—not just what you want to hear. Trust is built through honesty, and we work hard to ensure you feel informed and empowered throughout the process of buying property on the Northern Beaches. -
Specialists in Northern Beaches and North Shore Markets
Our specialization in the Northern Beaches and North Shore markets allows us to offer unparalleled expertise. We focus on these areas because we know them inside and out. This targeted focus ensures that we can provide you with the most relevant advice and the best opportunities for buying property in these sought-after regions. We’re not “Jack of all trades, master of none”—we’re experts where it matters most to you.
We understand that trust is earned through experience, transparency, and dedication. With years of experience in the local market and a commitment to helping our clients achieve their property goals, we’re confident that Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents is the right partner for your property search. Whether you’re looking to buy property on the Northern Beaches or invest in the North Shore, we’re here to guide you through every step with honesty, professionalism, and expertise.
How Can a Buyers Agent Help me Find Off-market Properties?
When buying a house in NSW, it is vital to understand precisely what off-market properties are (.. and what they are not). Simply put, off-market properties are properties that are not marketed using the main property directories (realestate.com.au and domain.com.au)
A trusted North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent has access to an exclusive network, which allows us to source off-market properties that you might otherwise miss.
This can give you a competitive edge, especially in the highly sought-after Northern Beaches market, ensuring you have access to all available opportunities when buying property on the Northern Beaches.
What Should I Consider When Buying a Property in New South Wales?
When buying a property in New South Wales, it’s crucial to work with a buyer’s agent who understands the local market. At Sarah Kaye Buyers Agents, we leverage our deep knowledge of the Northern Beaches and North Shore to help you navigate property laws, pricing trends, and neighbourhoods that align with your lifestyle and investment goals. The same regulatory framework exists for anyone buying a house in NSW.
How do I know if I’m paying the right price for a property?
With a North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent on your side, you can be confident that we’ll use our market expertise to negotiate the best possible price. We conduct detailed market analysis to ensure that the property you’re buying on the Northern Beaches is priced fairly and aligns with current market conditions.
If you are buying a house in NSW – outside the North Shore and Northern Beaches – we suggest you contact us and we will put you in touch (with no referral fee, of course) with a trusted buyers agent in your search area!
How Do I Get Started with Buying a Property on the Northern Beaches?
Starting your property search on the Northern Beaches is easy when you work with Sarah Kaye Buyers Agents. We’ll guide you through every step, from understanding your needs to securing financing and finding your ideal property. Reach out today to start your journey to buy property on the Northern Beaches. While the regulatory real estate ramework is the same for anyone buying a house in NSW, due to the differences in local markets, the journey can be quite different.