SARAH KAYE & CO.
TRUSTED NORTH SHORE AND NORTHERN BEACHES BUYERS AGENTS
Trusted buying, Reimagined by Sarah Kaye & Co.
At Sarah Kaye & Co., we’re trusted buyers agents delivering clarity, independent advice, and exceptional results. Fully accredited with both REBAA and REINSW and highly experienced, we specialise in off-market access and expert negotiation, turning complex property searches into rewarding outcomes for discerning buyers. Sarah Kaye & Co – where knowledge, experience and trust drive results!
With unrivalled qualifications, practical real estate expertise, and respected accreditations from REBAA, REINSW, and the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD), our advice goes far beyond the ordinary.
Discover the difference of working with a truly independent buyers agent on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and North Shore—trusted guidance, genuine transparency, and outcomes you can rely on.
We’re not here just to facilitate a transaction—we’re here to help you make informed, strategic decisions that truly align with your goals.
HOW ARE WE DIFFERENT?

Local Experience You Can Trust
We’ve lived on the Northern Beaches and North Shore for over two decades. Our deep local knowledge includes understanding schools, traffic patterns, flood zones, hidden gems, and growth opportunities beyond just knowing the streets.

Strategic Property Advisory
Our unique strength lies in our blend of strategic advisory expertise and real-world property market experience. With decades spent advising global leaders on significant investment decisions, our founders apply unparalleled analytical rigour to your property search.
Complementing this, Sarah’s deep practical experience as a former real estate sales agent gives us insider knowledge of selling strategies.

Unmatched Qualifications
Our formal university qualifications in town planning, valuation, property law, economics, land information systems, and engineering (Honours and Masters) provide comprehensive insights. You’ll understand not just what to buy—but precisely why.

Personal, Principal-Led Service
You’ll always engage directly with one of our directors throughout your property journey. While supported by a capable team behind the scenes, critical aspects such as strategy, communication, and negotiation are personally managed by our principals.
WE WILL BUY YOU THE RIGHT PROPERTY AT THE RIGHT PRICE
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Leading North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agents.
At Sarah Kaye Buyers Agents, our directors are not just experienced professionals but a dedicated local team who are deeply invested in your success.
With hands-on experience leading a major global consulting firm and an international property advisory business and over 20 years of experience living in the area, we offer a unique combination of local insight and analytical expertise for every property journey.
We Deliver Results.
This blend enables us to grasp the intricacies of the Northern Beaches and North Shore property markets and provide you with the most effective strategies for your property goals – supported by data and research.
Our extensive local knowledge enables us to grasp the distinct character of each suburb—whether you’re seeking a family-friendly community, a tranquil beachfront retreat, or a high-performing investment opportunity.
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As your trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent, we discover hidden gems and customise our strategies to align with your goals precisely and thoughtfully.
By blending empathy, market insight, and data-driven strategies, our personalised service transforms the often complex property buying process into a seamless, stress-free experience. At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we don’t just help you find a property—we guide you in building the life you envision in Sydney’s stunning Northern Beaches, ensuring you feel cared for and understood.
By choosing us as your dedicated Northern Beaches buyers agent, you’ll benefit from our unparalleled commitment, local expertise, and results-driven approach, instilling confidence in our ability to deliver.
We provide a range of tailored buying services and address any challenges our clients face.
EXPLORE NORTHERN BEACHES SUBURBS AND
HOUSE PRICES IN DETAIL
At Sarah Kaye & Co. we’ve created detailed suburb house prices and profiles for all 42 Northern Beaches suburbs we serve.
Whether you’re buying in Avalon, Manly, Freshwater, Palm Beach or anywhere in between, we bring deep local knowledge, strong agent relationships, and on-the-ground insight to every search.
Click on your suburb below to explore Northern Beaches house prices, what it’s like to buy there, and how we can help you secure the right property. You may also want to review our latest 2025 Property Price Forecast , our detailed seven year assessment of the Northern Beaches Property Market or perhaps one of our latest blogs – for example Manly House Prices – Over-Hyped or Justified – or whether the Palm Beach market represents value?
We Specialise in the Following Suburbs
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Allambie Heights Buyers Agent
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Avalon Beach Buyers Agent
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Balgowlah Buyers Agent
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Balgowlah Heights Buyers Agent
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Bayview Buyers Agent
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Beacon Hill Buyers Agent
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Belrose Buyers Agent
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Bilgola Plateau Buyers Agent
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Brookvale Buyers Agent
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Clontarf Buyers Agent
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Collaroy Buyers Agent
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Collaroy Plateau Buyers Agent
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Cromer Buyers Agent
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Curl Curl Buyers Agent
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Davidson Buyers Agent
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Dee Why Buyers Agent
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Duffys Forest Buyers Agent
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Elanora Heights Buyers Agent
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Fairlight Buyers Agent
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Forestville Buyers Agent
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Frenchs Forest Buyers Agent
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Freshwater Buyers Agent
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Ingleside Buyers Agent
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Killarney Heights Buyers Agent
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Manly Buyers Agent
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Manly Vale Buyers Agent
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Mona Vale Buyers Agent
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Narrabeen Buyers Agent
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Narraweena Buyers Agent
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Newport Buyers Agent
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North Balgowlah Buyers Agent
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North Curl Curl Buyers Agent
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North Manly Buyers Agent
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North Narrabeen Buyers Agent
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Palm Beach Buyers Agent
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Queenscliff Buyers Agent
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Scotland Island Buyers Agent
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Seaforth Buyers Agent
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Terrey Hills Buyers Agent
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Warriewood Buyers Agent
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Whale Beach Buyers Agent
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Wheeler Heights Buyers Agent
Who We Help– Tailored Solutions for all North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyers
At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we work with a diverse range of clients, offering personalised expertise to help navigate the often-challenging Northern Beaches property market. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, our hands-on approach and deep local knowledge ensure a seamless and stress-free property journey.
Here’s how we assist our clients:
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Upsizers and Downsizers
Whether you’re expanding to accommodate a growing family or simplifying your lifestyle, we’ll assist you in finding a property that perfectly matches your needs in the highly competitive Northern Beaches property market.
Sea Changers
Are you ready to embrace the stunning Northern Beaches lifestyle? With over 20 years of living and working in the area, we’ll guide you to a property that aligns with your dream of a beachside haven.
First-Time Buyers
Entering the market can feel overwhelming, but with a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent by your side, you’ll gain clarity and confidence. As experienced independent buyers agents on the Northern Beaches, we will ensure you are well informed at every step.
Returning Expats
Returning to Sydney? We’ll make your relocation easier and help you find a property that ensures a smooth transition back to the Northern Beaches. Having been expats ourselves, we understand the journey.
Investors
Leverage our strategic insights into high-growth areas to maximise your returns. We’ll help you identify opportunities that align with your financial goals in one of Sydney’s most desirable regions.
With a proven track record of delivering exceptional results, we take pride in being trusted buyers agents on the Northern Beaches, dedicated to making your property journey as smooth and successful as possible.
Whether it’s securing the ideal family home or a strategic investment, by engaging a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent, their expertise will ensure you’ll achieve your property goals with confidence.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
How Does a Buyer’s Agent Help You?
When considering a property purchase on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the idea of engaging a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent might seem unnecessary at first glance. But peel back the layers, and the real value of partnering with a skilled advocate becomes crystal clear. Here’s an honest, no-nonsense exploration of exactly how a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent assists you.
Cutting Through the Market Noise
The Northern Beaches property market is complex, fiercely competitive, and saturated with conflicting messages. Real estate agents typically represent sellers, and their goal is straightforward—sell properties at the highest price possible. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, however, works exclusively for the buyer. This means their sole responsibility is protecting your interests, ensuring you don’t fall prey to inflated property values or sales pressure.
With deep market knowledge, a reputable Northern Beaches Buyers Agent can accurately assess fair value and market conditions, quickly identifying overpriced listings and saving you from costly mistakes. While many buyers attempt to navigate this process independently, the reality is stark: without dedicated advocacy, they’re frequently at a disadvantage, particularly in competitive negotiations or auction scenarios.
Providing Access to Exclusive Opportunities
Many buyers assume they have full market visibility through online portals. The reality? A substantial portion of properties on the Northern Beaches are never publicly advertised. Instead, they’re traded quietly through networks known only to those deeply entrenched in the local market. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent specialises in uncovering these off-market opportunities, significantly widening your potential pool of properties.
This isn’t mere marketing fluff. A genuine Northern Beaches Property Buyer can connect you with homes before they hit mainstream advertising, enabling you to avoid competitive bidding wars. This can be particularly beneficial in tightly held suburbs like Manly, Freshwater, and Palm Beach, where the best properties are snapped up swiftly behind closed doors.
Objective Property Evaluation
When buyers inspect properties alone, emotional attachment can cloud judgement, leading to impulsive and financially detrimental decisions. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent approaches each property with a disciplined, objective lens. They examine everything—structural issues, council regulations, zoning complications, and hidden renovation costs—with a detached, analytical approach.
This diligent assessment is crucial. Consider this scenario: a property may seem like a perfect family home until your Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate uncovers major structural problems or restrictive zoning laws that prevent essential renovations. By identifying these critical issues early, the buyers agent ensures you don’t commit to an expensive mistake. The benefit here isn’t theoretical; it’s tangible, frequently saving buyers tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Expert Negotiation Without Emotion
Emotion is a potent force in real estate. Sellers and their agents know this and often exploit emotional attachment to drive prices upward. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent provides a professional buffer against emotional decision-making. Their negotiations are calm, strategic, and always data-driven.
Take auctions, for example. Auctions can quickly become intense and stressful, causing inexperienced buyers to bid beyond their budget. Having a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent represent you at auction removes emotional pitfalls. They approach each bid strategically, ensuring you stick rigidly to your predetermined financial limit. Their expert handling of auctions and private treaty negotiations often results in substantial financial savings, frequently offsetting the agent’s fees.
Saving Time and Reducing Stress
House hunting is often portrayed romantically, but the reality is starkly different—countless weekends spent at inspections, endless online searches, and hours lost managing paperwork and contracts. For busy professionals or those juggling family commitments, this can quickly become overwhelming.
This is where a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent truly shines. By filtering unsuitable properties, conducting initial inspections, and managing every detail of the purchasing process, they dramatically reduce the time and stress involved. Instead of spending your weekends trudging through unsuitable open homes, you receive a curated shortlist tailored specifically to your requirements. The value here isn’t abstract; it’s tangible quality-of-life improvements.
Preventing Common Pitfalls
Navigating property purchase complexities alone significantly increases the risk of errors. Common pitfalls include overlooking key contract clauses, misinterpreting pest and building reports, or missing zoning restrictions that limit future renovations. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent acts as your professional safeguard, ensuring each step of your purchase is meticulously vetted.
For example, buyers often don’t realise that signing a contract doesn’t guarantee ownership immediately—there are numerous conditions to meet first. A Northern Beaches Property Buyer ensures every legal and financial aspect is managed professionally, safeguarding your deposit and reducing the risk of costly, time-consuming legal battles.
Who Really Needs a Buyers Agent?
A common myth is that buyers agents are only for high-end purchases or inexperienced buyers. This simply isn’t true. Any buyer—first-home buyer, experienced investor, busy professional, or downsizer—benefits significantly from dedicated representation. The Northern Beaches market is fiercely competitive and filled with nuanced pitfalls that can trap even seasoned property buyers.
The true value of a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent lies in their detailed market understanding, robust negotiation skills, and rigorous due diligence processes. These aren’t luxuries; they’re essentials in ensuring a wise, informed purchase.
In Summary
A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent provides objective expertise, invaluable market insight, exclusive access, strategic negotiation skills, and considerable time and stress savings. Their role is to protect your interests, secure fair value, and ensure your property journey is strategic and successful.
While it’s entirely possible to purchase a property independently, the risks—financial, emotional, and logistical—are significant. In the challenging landscape of the Northern Beaches property market, engaging a skilled, independent buyers agent isn’t just a prudent choice; it’s a strategic necessity.
Buying a home is one of life’s major decisions. The real question isn’t whether you can do it alone—it’s whether you should.
How to Find the Best North Shore or Northern Beaches Buyers Agent
In 2025, the Northern Beaches property market continues to challenge buyers with low stock, shifting prices, and high competition. For any Northern Beaches property buyer, choosing the right Northern Beaches Buyers Agent isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. But not all agents are created equal. Here’s how to identify the most trusted, effective, and genuinely local professional for your journey.
✅ Check Experience – Local Matters More Than Ever
Look for a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent with a track record grounded in this region — not just someone who works Sydney-wide. Have they been active across multiple market cycles? A seasoned Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate knows when to push, when to pause, and how to manage the emotional ups and downs of buying in 2025.
✅ Prioritise Independence – No Hidden Agendas
Not every Northern Beaches Buyers Agent is truly on your side. Independence means your agent doesn’t accept commissions from sellers, developers, or third parties. Instead, they work solely for you — the Northern Beaches Property Buyer. Seek credentials from REBAA or REINSW. These are signs your agent is fully licensed, held accountable, and represents your interests alone.
✅ Deep Local Knowledge Beats Generic Claims
The best Northern Beaches Buyers Agent should know the nuances of every suburb — from Avalon to Manly. Ask what they know about your street, local schools, zoning changes, or upcoming infrastructure. A genuine Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate can point out pockets of hidden value or rising demand before they become obvious to the market.
Crucially, top agents use their personal networks to uncover off-market properties. These never hit realestate.com.au — and the right Northern Beaches Buyers Agent gets you through the door first.
✅ Trust Word of Mouth – Not Just a Polished Pitch
Online reviews, personal referrals, and in-depth case studies speak louder than sales talk. A credible Northern Beaches Buyers Agent should offer client stories that mirror your own goals — whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or buying your first home.
Do past clients mention transparency, communication, or feeling heard? That’s a good sign. A trusted Northern Beaches Property Buyer advisor wins praise not for pushy tactics, but for patience, strategy, and results.
✅ Ask Better Questions in the Consultation
Don’t just “have a chat” — interview them. Ask:
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How many clients do you take on at once?
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Will I be dealing with you directly or an assistant?
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How do you handle high-pressure auctions?
A quality Northern Beaches Buyers Agent will give honest answers. Most importantly, they should listen well. You should feel informed, not sold to. This is how you know they’ll have your back.
Final Word
A great Northern Beaches Buyers Agent isn’t just about finding homes. It’s about trust, local expertise, and putting your interests first. In 2025, that kind of advocate is more valuable than ever. Choose wisely — the right Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate could change your outcome entirely.
So, What Makes Us Different?
This video says it all.
When choosing a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, you’re often faced with a blur of similar promises and clichés. Let’s strip away the fluff and talk openly—without the sales pitch—about what genuinely makes Sarah Kaye & Co different from other Northern Beaches Buyers Agents or Northern Beaches Property Buyers.
We Don’t Just Talk Experience—We Have It
Many Buyers Agents boast “experience,” but there’s a difference between ticking a few boxes and genuinely living the role. We’re not 20-somethings fresh out of training, sitting behind a desk clicking through listings. Instead, we’re seasoned Northern Beaches Property Buyer advisors who’ve walked the streets, attended countless inspections, and personally lived through the property market cycles.
Co-founder Mike has decades of experience advising global CEOs on major investment decisions. Sarah complements this strategic rigour with real-world property market expertise from years as a successful real estate sales agent. Together, we’ve lived and breathed the nuances of Sydney’s Norther SHore and Northern Beaches for over 20 years, making us uniquely qualified North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agents.
We understand property deeply, practically—not just theoretically. This isn’t a casual side job for us; it’s our core professional focus, every day of the week.
Qualifications That Actually Mean Something
Let’s be blunt: Many Buyers Agents get by with minimal industry certifications. That’s not us. Our qualifications aren’t just bits of paper—they significantly enhance our ability to protect your interests and secure better deals as your chosen Northern Beaches Property Buyer.
We hold formal university degrees that cover town planning, property law, valuation, economics, and engineering from UNSW. Moreover, our governance accreditation from the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) ensures strategic, ethical, and professional conduct beyond what you typically find in the industry. Affiliations with respected bodies like REBAA and REINSW further bolster our professional accountability, distinguishing us clearly from the average Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate.
In practical terms, this means when we provide advice you’re receiving informed guidance from a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent backed by genuine, robust academic and professional credentials.
Local Knowledge Isn’t Just a Buzzword
It’s easy for any Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate to claim they “know the area,” but the difference is in depth and authenticity. We’ve lived on the North Shore and Northern Beaches for decades—we know the hidden gems and red flags firsthand. When you mention a street, we’re not checking Google Maps; we’re mentally walking it, recalling property histories, school catchments, flood risks, and upcoming local developments.
This isn’t superficial familiarity. It’s a comprehensive insight that gives you the edge. This deep local knowledge translates directly into tangible benefits: spotting undervalued properties, avoiding costly pitfalls, and pinpointing locations with growth potential—exactly what you should expect from your Northern Beaches Buyers Agent.
Independent and Proudly Transparent
It’s disturbingly common for Buyers Agents to maintain quiet relationships with selling agents, developers, or mortgage brokers. We categorically do not. We accept no commissions, kickbacks, or hidden incentives from third parties. Our business model is transparent, straightforward, and independent—our loyalty is solely to you, the Northern Beaches Property Buyer.
If a property isn’t right, we’ll tell you bluntly—even if it means walking away. We won’t sugar-coat market conditions or potential downsides. That honest advice may sometimes be uncomfortable, but it’s always invaluable. You’ll make decisions fully informed and eyes-wide-open, as you should expect from any credible Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate.
Direct, Principal-Led Service
Here’s a reality check: Many Northern Beaches Buyers Agents promote a personal touch but quickly delegate critical aspects of the buying process to junior staff or outsourced services. We don’t.
At Sarah Kaye & Co, you deal directly with our principals—Sarah and Mike—throughout your entire property journey. While we have a skilled support team, all critical strategies, negotiations, and advice come directly from us. There’s no dilution of expertise. You’re never left guessing who’s making decisions or who’s really looking after your best interests, ensuring you get true Northern Beaches Buyers Agent expertise.
Strategic Advisory, Not Transactional Selling
While other North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyers might rely primarily on market movements, basic negotiation tactics, or emotional appeals, we take a fundamentally different approach. Our roots in strategic advisory, honed through decades of high-stakes investment consulting, mean we treat your property purchase as a strategic decision, not just a transaction.
This translates into rigorous analytical research, thoughtful scenario planning, and carefully managed risk mitigation. We don’t just help you buy a home; we help you make an astute, well-informed investment decision that aligns clearly with your long-term goals, something not every North Shore or Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate can promise.
We Know What’s Really Important to Buyers
We understand what truly matters to Northern Beaches Property Buyers—not just what sounds good on paper. It’s not about glossy brochures, charismatic salespeople, or flashy open homes. It’s about clarity, certainty, and calm in what is often a high-stress situation.
We’ve been through hundreds of buying journeys alongside our clients. We understand that it’s essential to genuinely listen, anticipate your needs, and provide practical guidance every step of the way. We don’t chase quick deals—we build long-term relationships grounded in trust and tangible results, setting us apart as genuinely committed North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agents.
In Short: We’re Different Because We Actually Deliver
When we say we’re different, it’s not marketing jargon—it’s a fact-based claim supported by demonstrable credentials, depth of local insight, and unwavering independence. We’re seasoned, strategically driven North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agents who genuinely understand the local market and what matters to you.
In choosing Sarah Kaye & Co, you’re opting for proven expertise, transparent integrity, strategic advice, and genuinely personalised service. We’re not here to impress you with fluff; we’re here to deliver meaningful outcomes for your property journey.
Honestly, Why Do We Consider Ourselves one of the Most Trusted Buyers Agents?
At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we’ve built our reputation as a trusted North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent by providing a transparent, expert-driven service rooted in experience and dedication to our clients’ success. Here’s what makes us different:
Our Experience and Local Advantage
Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents has been serving the Northern Beaches and North Shore communities for over five years. This established presence has allowed us to refine our skills, build trust, and understand the local market better than newer agents. Our longevity in the industry gives you confidence that we’ve seen it all and can consistently deliver results.
Local Knowledge You Can Trust
Being a leading North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, we actually live in the local markets we represent. Daily firsthand experience provides insight into the best schools, hidden market gems, and the lifestyle clients seek. Living locally offers an unparalleled advantage in helping you buy property on the Northern Beaches.
Expert Negotiators with Real Estate Sales Experience
Our background as real estate sales agents provides a distinct advantage. Having previously negotiated directly with buyers, we deeply understand how sales agents think, act, and negotiate. This experience is essential when navigating the complexities of buying property in New South Wales.
Accredited by Leading Industry Bodies
As an accredited agency with both REBAA (Real Estate Buyers Agents Association) and REINSW (Real Estate Institute of NSW), we adhere to the highest industry standards. Commitment to strict ethical guidelines guarantees professional, transparent, and dependable service whenever you buy property on the Northern Beaches.
Fully Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Both directors are fully licensed real estate agents, ensuring comprehensive expertise and the ability to act exclusively in your best interest. Unlike agencies relying on third-party oversight, our in-house expertise guarantees informed, professional guidance throughout your Northern Beaches property purchase.
Honest, Straightforward Communication
Honesty defines our client interactions. At Sarah Kaye & Co, you’ll always receive clear, straightforward advice. When choosing a North Shore or Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, ensure you emphasise honest and straightforward communication throughout your property buying journey.
World-Class Advisory Experience
Our experience extends beyond traditional real estate roles. We have extensive backgrounds leading advisory businesses globally, bringing a strategic, world-class perspective to every transaction. Your property purchase on the Northern Beaches or North Shore will always be strategic, informed, and aligned with your long-term goals.
Specialisation in the Northern Beaches & North Shore
The real estate industry, particularly the buyers’ agent profession, sometimes allows inexperienced entrants due to low barriers. At Sarah Kaye & Co, we focus specifically on the Northern Beaches and North Shore markets, delivering targeted insights. From family homebuyers to investors, our experience as a trusted North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agent will ensure informed decisions, minimal risk, and maximised value.
What are Our Fees? The One Question Most Agents Won't Answer Up Front
In an industry ranked as the least trusted in Australia, transparency isn’t optional—it’s essential. As a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent, we are committed to complete honesty, starting with our fees. While other agents may hide their costs, we make ours clear from the outset—no vague percentages, no hidden surprises.
How We Charge: A Fair and Transparent Model
As independent North Shore and Northern Beaches property buyers, we are paid only by you—never by the sales agent or vendor. This ensures we are 100% on your side, working solely in your best interest as your independent North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agent.
Many buyer’s agents charge between 1% and 2.5% of the purchase price (plus GST). But here’s the reality:
- At 1%, you may receive a cut-rate service that doesn’t go the extra mile.
- At 2.5%, you’re likely overpaying for a service that should be more competitively priced.
Instead, we offer a simple, fixed-fee model. This ensures fairness and transparency from the start.
Our Fees: Fixed, Fair & Transparent
Our pricing model is clear and transparent:
- Fixed upfront retainer: $5,000 + GST, covering your property search.
- Success fee agreed upfront, payable only when securing your ideal property.
Our success fees:
- $15,000 + GST for properties under $2.5 million
- $20,000 + GST for properties between $2.5 million – $3.5 million
- $25,000 + GST for properties between $3.5 million – $4.0 million
- $30,000 + GST for properties over $4.0 million
What’s Included?
We offer comprehensive, end-to-end property buying services:
✅ Sourcing, inspecting & appraising properties, including off-market opportunities. ✅ Private inspections & due diligence, coordinating closely with your conveyancer, mortgage broker, and building inspector. ✅ Skilled negotiation & contract management to secure optimal terms and pricing. ✅ Pre-settlement inspections & post-purchase support, ensuring satisfaction with your purchase.
Our Directors personally manage each client engagement, guaranteeing attentive, high-quality service from start to finish—you won’t be passed off to a junior agent.
Why Fees Matter When Choosing a Buyer’s Agent
When selecting a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, consider value, transparency, and expertise. The right agent saves time, money, and stress, ensuring you don’t overpay.
Always ask:
✔ Real Estate Licence Number (verify here).
✔ Current Professional Indemnity & Public Liability Insurance.
✔ At least five years of experience as a buyer’s agent.
With a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent on your side, you will secure your dream home at the right price with confidence and clarity.
What is an Off-Market Property?
Are Off-Market Properties a Good Deal for Buyers?
As an established North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent, we purchase many properties off-market for our clients and they can offer advantages in certain situations, but they aren’t always the golden ticket they’re made out to be.
Potential Benefits for Buyers:
✔ Less Competition – With fewer buyers aware of the listing, there’s often less pressure to compete.
✔ Quieter Negotiations – No public auctions, no last-minute bidding wars—just a direct negotiation process.
✔ Early Access – Off-market deals provide a first-mover advantage on properties that may later hit the market.
Potential Downsides for Buyers:
❌ Lack of Price Transparency – Without open market comparisons, it’s harder to gauge fair value.
❌ Limited Choice – Only a small percentage of properties are truly off-market, reducing your options.
❌ Selling Agent Control – Some selling agents use off-market listings to create a false sense of urgency, even when the property is likely to be listed publicly.
The Real Story Behind Off-Market Hype
The real estate industry—particularly large franchise agencies—has heavily promoted off-market sales. Why? Because platforms like realestate.com.au have reduced their traditional control over listings, and they’re looking for ways to regain influence over buyers and sellers.
The truth is that genuinely off-market properties (those never intended to go public) make up a very small fraction of the market. Many properties marketed as “off-market” are simply in a pre-market phase and will be publicly listed if they don’t sell privately.
How Should Buyers Approach Off-Market Properties?
As a successful North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent, we advise property buyers that their property search strategy should not rely solely on off-market listings but should consider both on-market and off-market opportunities.
💡 The smart approach? Work with a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent who can:
✔ Give you access to legitimate off-market properties while filtering out “fake exclusives.”
✔ Assess the real market value to ensure you don’t overpay in a private deal.
✔ Provide a balanced strategy—exploring both on-market and off-market options so you don’t miss the best property for your needs.
Final Thoughts: Off-Market Properties Are Not a Magic Bullet
While off-market properties can be beneficial in some cases, they aren’t always better deals, nor do they guarantee buyers will find the right home. The best results come from a balanced, fact-based approach—not from chasing exclusivity myths.
If you’re looking to buy property in the Northern Beaches, work with a buyer’s agent who prioritises strategy over hype. Whether you’re searching in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach, or other Northern Beaches suburbs, a buyer’s agent ensures you explore every opportunity and make the best decision for your future home.
What is Gazumping, and Is It Legal in NSW?
Gazumping is one of the most frustrating experiences for a North Shore or Northern Beaches property buyer. Imagine having your offer accepted on a Northern Beaches property, only to be told later that the seller has taken a higher offer from someone else. Unfortunately, this happens often—but is it legal?
Is Gazumping Legal in NSW
Yes, gazumping is legal in New South Wales. Until contracts are exchanged, the seller is under no legal obligation to proceed with your offer, even if they have verbally accepted it or confirmed in writing.
Under the Property and Stock Agents Regulation 2022 (NSW), Section 6, if you pay a deposit before exchange, the agent must inform you in writing that:
- The seller has no obligation to sell the property to you.
- You have no obligation to proceed with the purchase.
- Your deposit is fully refundable if the contract is not signed.
This means that even if you put down a deposit, the seller can still accept a better offer from another buyer. The only way to secure a property is through a signed contract.
How to Avoid Gazumping
If you are a North Shore or Northern Beaches Property Buyer, here’s how you can reduce the risk of being gazumped:
1. Move Quickly to Echange Contracts
✅ A property sale only becomes legally binding once contracts are exchanged.
✅ Work with a solicitor or conveyancer to finalise everything and arrange a quick exchange.
2. Request a Cooling-Off Period
✅ Some buyers exchange contracts with a 5-day cooling-off period, which prevents the seller from accepting another offer.
✅ If you back out during this period, you’ll forfeit 0.25% of the purchase price.
3. Consider Buying at Auction
✅ Auctions eliminate gazumping, as the sale is legally binding immediately when the hammer falls.
4. Negotiate a Binding Pre-Contract Agreement
✅ Some buyers attempt to lock in the deal with a pre-contract agreement before exchange.
✅ However, these agreements are not standard practice and may not always be enforceable.
What This Means for You
If you’re serious about buying a Northern Beaches property, don’t assume that a verbal agreement or deposit secures the deal. Gazumping happens often, so it’s crucial to protect yourself by:
✔ Acting fast to exchange contracts.
✔ Engaging a solicitor or conveyancer early in the process.
✔ Understanding that until contracts are signed, nothing is guaranteed.
If you want a stress-free and secure property purchase, working with a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent ensures you have an expert in your corner to navigate these risks, negotiate effectively, and help you secure the right property without the uncertainty of gazumping.
Why Work With a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent?
As an independent Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, we ensure you:
✅ Move faster to secure your ideal property before someone else does.
✅ Negotiate from a position of strength with expert guidance.
✅ Access off-market opportunities to avoid competitive bidding wars.
If you’re looking to buy property on the Northern Beaches—whether in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach, or beyond—having a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent in your corner can make all the difference.
Can a Real Estate Sales Agent Represent Buyers? Here’s the Truth.
Many homebuyers assume that the real estate agent they meet at an open home or through a listing can help them secure a property in their best interests—but this is not the case under NSW law.
If you’re looking to buy property on the North Shore or Northern Beaches, it’s critical to understand who works for whom in a property transaction.
The Legal Reality: Who Does a Real Estate Agent Work For?
Under the Property and Stock Agents Act 2002 (NSW), Section 48, a real estate sales agent is legally obligated to act in the seller’s best interests.
Here’s what this means for buyers:
- A real estate agent cannot legally represent both the buyer and seller in the same transaction.
- The seller’s agent’s duty is to secure the highest price and best terms for the seller—not the buyer.
- The agent is paid by the seller, creating an inherent conflict of interest when engaging with buyers.
Simply put, if you’re purchasing a property, the real estate agent you’re dealing with is not working for you—they are working for the seller.
What About Buyer’s Agents?
To ensure independent representation, buyers can engage a licensed Northern Beaches buyers agent, whose sole duty is to act in their best interests. Unlike real estate sales agents, buyer’s agents:
✔ Negotiate exclusively for the buyer—working to secure the best possible price and terms.
✔ Are prohibited from accepting commissions or fees from the seller or selling agent, ensuring unbiased advice.
✔ Are legally bound to act in the buyer’s best interests, ensuring fair representation, transparency, and protection.
By working with a trusted Northern Beaches buyer’s agent, you gain an expert who understands the Northern Beaches property market, giving you an advantage in negotiations and access to off-market opportunities.
What This Means for You as a Buyer
If you’re looking to buy property on the Northern Beaches, it’s essential to understand that a sales agent’s role is to maximise the seller’s profit. That means they are not on your side.
A North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyer (or Buyers Agent) however, works exclusively for you—helping you:
✔ Find and secure the right property in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach, and other Northern Beaches suburbs.
✔ Negotiate from a position of strength, ensuring you don’t overpay.
✔ Avoid costly mistakes and confidently navigate the buying process.
For truly independent representation, consider engaging a licensed Northern Beaches buyers agent—someone who will help you secure the right property at the right price and without hidden agendas.
Did You Know? NSW Laws Prohibit Underquoting—But It Still Happens
Many buyers assume that the advertised price of a property reflects what the seller is actually willing to accept. However, this is not always the case. Underquoting—when a property is marketed at a price lower than its likely selling price—is illegal in NSW, yet it still occurs in subtle ways.
If you’re looking to buy property in the Northern Beaches, understanding underquoting laws can help you avoid misleading price guides and wasted time.
What Does NSW Law Say About Underquoting?
📌 It is an offence for a real estate agent to underquote a property’s price in advertising or any verbal or written representation to a buyer.
An agent is underquoting if they market the property at a price lower than:
✅ Their reasonable estimate of the likely selling price (stated in the agency agreement).
✅ The seller’s price instructions, if the seller has set a minimum price.
Key Legal Requirements for Selling Agents
✔ Agents must include an estimated selling price in the agency agreement.
✔ This estimate can be a range, but the range cannot exceed 10%.
✔ It is illegal for agents to use misleading pricing phrases, including:
❌ “Offers above”
❌ “Offers over”
❌ Any “+” symbol (e.g., “$1.5M+”)
Agents can choose not to disclose any price at all, but if they do, the stated price must not be lower than the estimated selling price in the agency agreement.
What Happens if Market Conditions Change?
If buyer feedback or market trends suggest a shift in property value, agents must update their estimated selling price regularly—typically on a weekly basis—and amend the agency agreement accordingly. As an established North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent, we do get advised regularly by agents of price adjustments, both up and down.
👉 Important: The agent’s estimated selling price does not have to match the seller’s expectations. Their legal obligation is to provide a reasonable market estimate, not simply reflect the seller’s asking price.
If a seller instructs the agent not to disclose any price, the agent must not provide any price guide at all—whether in advertising, in writing, or verbally.
What This Means for Buyers
❌ Don’t assume the advertised price is what the property will sell for—it could be higher.
✅ Ask the agent directly: “What is the estimated selling price in the agency agreement?”
✅ Watch for price adjustments—if a property lingers on the market, the estimated price may have been revised.
✅ Work with a buyer’s agent who can provide real market insights and protect you from misleading price expectations.
💡 Bottom Line: While underquoting is illegal, it still happens in indirect ways. If you want to buy a home in the Northern Beaches without falling for misleading price guides, working with a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent ensures you get accurate market insights and avoid wasted time
Why Do Some Buyer’s Agents Use the Term Property Buyer?
Despite the clear legal definition, some professionals opt to use the term property buyer instead of buyer’s agent. The reasons for this include:
1. Market Perception and Branding
The term buyer’s agent is still relatively new in Australia compared to selling agents, and many consumers do not fully understand the role of a buyer’s agent. As a result, a North Shore or Northern Beaches Buyers Agent may use a more neutral or approachable term like North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyer to appeal to a broader audience.
2. Reputation Concerns
The real estate industry in Australia ranks among the least trusted professions. Some professionals believe the term buyer’s agent is associated with aggressive sales tactics, despite the fact that buyer’s agents work exclusively for buyers. By being referred to as a North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyer they aim to position themselves as independent, savvy property experts rather than traditional agents.
3. Business Names and Marketing
Some firms incorporate “property buyer” into their business names and branding. This may be due to SEO strategies, consumer behavior, or simply an attempt to differentiate from competitors who market themselves as “buyer’s agents.”
Does Using “Property Buyer” Violate the Law?
The legislation does not explicitly prohibit the use of “property buyer.” However, the Property and Stock Agents Act 2002 includes strict rules about misrepresentation and misleading conduct.
A licensed buyer’s agent must not imply they are unlicensed or acting in any role other than as a real estate agent representing the buyer. If using “property buyer,” they must clearly disclose their licensed status to avoid potential breaches of the Act.
Key Takeaways
- Buyer’s Agent is a legally defined term requiring a licence (eg. North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agent)
- Property Buyer is not a legal designation but is often used for branding and marketing (eg. North Shore and Northern Beaches Prpoperty Buyer)
- The use of “property buyer” should not mislead clients about the agent’s licensed status.
- Legislation prohibits false or misleading representations, so clarity is essential in advertising and client communication.
For buyers seeking professional representation, the safest approach is always to verify that the professional they engage holds a valid real estate licence under the Property and Stock Agents Act 2002.
Did You Know? A Seller’s Agent Is Not Required to Disclose All Property Issues?
The Truth About Property Disclosures in NSW
- Many buyers assume that the vendor’s agent must disclose all issues with a property.
- In reality, agents are only required to disclose “material facts”, such as whether the home has been used for a crime or contains major defects they are aware of.
- What this means for buyers: Unless you conduct your own due diligence, you could be buying a home with hidden structural issues, pest infestations, or zoning restrictions.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Work with a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you receive thorough independent due diligence before you commit.
Did You Know? Your 10% Deposit Isn’t Always Safe
Can You Lose Your Deposit?
- If you sign a contract and later back out, you could lose your entire deposit.
- In some cases, the seller can even sue you for damages beyond the deposit amount.
- What this means for buyers: Always be 100% sure before you sign, and understand your legal rights.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Work with a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure your contract conditions protect you from unnecessary risks.
Did You Know? How Long Does a Buyers Agent Agreement Last - Really?
Most Buyers Agents
Often, a North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent will operate on a standard 90-day agreement, meaning they will search for your property within that timeframe. If you don’t secure a property within 90 days, some Northern Beaches Property Buyers stop working with you entirely, while others require an additional retainer or fee to continue the search.
At Sarah Kaye Buyers Agents, we believe this time limit is unnecessary and not in your best interest. Buying the right property in the Northern Beaches property market isn’t about working to an arbitrary deadline—it’s about securing the perfect home at the right price.
How We Work
That’s why, as a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent, we don’t impose a 90-day limit. Once you engage us, we work for you until we find the right home—whether that takes days, weeks, or months. No extra fees. No hidden charges. Just a dedicated, trusted service.
We start by deeply understanding your needs, ensuring we’re the right fit for you before you commit. From there, we go all in, leveraging our expertise in Northern Beaches suburbs like Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, and Palm Beach to secure the best possible property.
If you’re serious about buying in the Northern Beaches, you need a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent who won’t walk away just because the contract says 90 days. With us, you get commitment, transparency, and an unwavering focus on securing the best home for you.
Did You Know? The Seller Can Make Fake Bids at Auction
Can the seller make fake bids at auction?
Yes—many buyers don’t realise that at auction, the seller is legally allowed to bid on their own property through the auctioneer. This is called a vendor bid, and it’s a tactic commonly used to artificially drive up the price, making buyers believe there’s more competition than there actually is.
What does this mean for you as a buyer?
You might think you’re bidding against other buyers, but in reality, you could be bidding against the seller. This can lead to overpaying for a property—a risk that many buyers aren’t aware of when they step into the Northern Beaches property market.
How can you protect yourself?
Working with a trusted Northern Beaches Buyers Agent can help you avoid overpaying at auction. At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we ensure you only pay what the property is truly worth. Whether you’re looking to buy property in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach or other Beaches Suburbs, our expert negotiation can help you stay in control and secure your home at the right price.
If you’re considering buying at auction in Sydney’s Northern Beaches suburbs, don’t go in alone—speak with a Northern Beaches buyers agent first to ensure you’re not caught in a bidding war with the seller!
Did You Know? A Signed Contract Doesn’t Always Mean You Own the Property
When Can a Seller Back Out?
- Even after you sign a contract, the seller can pull out before settlement in certain situations, including:
- If you fail to meet a contract condition, such as arranging finance or paying a deposit on time.
- If they invoke a sunset clause (in off-the-plan contracts) to cancel the deal.
- What this means for buyers: Just because you’ve signed doesn’t mean it’s locked in.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you negotiate fair contract terms and meet all obligations on time.
Did You Know? A “Cooling-Off” Period Doesn’t Always Protect You
When Can You Lose Money?
- If you buy at auction, there is NO cooling-off period—your offer is final.
- If you buy through private treaty, you have 5 days to change your mind—but you’ll forfeit 0.25% of the purchase price if you back out.
- What this means for buyers: A cooling-off period isn’t always a safety net.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you understand the risks before signing anything. If you work with us as your independent Northern Beaches Property Buyer we will ensure there are no surprises.
Did You Know? Off-the-Plan Properties Aren’t Always What You Expect
Can a Developer Change the Property?
- If you buy off-the-plan, the final property may not match what was promised in the marketing materials.
- Developers can make legal changes to the design, size, and even layout without your approval.
- What this means for buyers: Your dream apartment could shrink in size, lose features, or be delayed.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure your contract limits the developer’s ability to make major changes.
Did You Know? Strata Levies Can Skyrocket After You Buy
What are the hidden costs of buying an apartment or townhouse?
Many buyers focus on the purchase price of an apartment or townhouse but underestimate the long-term financial risks, particularly when it comes to strata levies and special levies.
Why is this important?
🔹 Strata levies can increase significantly after purchase, particularly in newer buildings where there is no history and investment in some areas may have been artificially low.
🔹 If major building defects or repairs arise, owners may be hit with unexpected special levies—often running into thousands of dollars. This risk is generally higher in new or newly built apartment complexes.
🔹 Failing to research the building’s ‘financial and structural health’ before buying can lead to costly surprises.
How can you protect yourself?
Before you buy, due diligence is critical—and this is where an experienced Northern Beaches Buyers Agent can make all the difference.
At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we thoroughly investigate the building’s financial records, past maintenance history, and upcoming repair costs. Whether you’re looking at apartments in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach or other Northern Beach suburbs, we ensure you’re not walking into a financial trap.
If you’re considering buying property on the Northern Beaches, don’t take unnecessary risks. Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you uncover hidden costs before you buy, ensuring you make an informed and financially sound decision.
Did You Know? You Can’t Always Build or Renovate as You Please
The Truth About Zoning & Building Restrictions
- Just because you buy a property doesn’t mean you can extend, subdivide, or renovate as planned.
- Councils have strict zoning laws, and heritage overlays or easements can restrict what you do.
- What this means for buyers: If you don’t check the zoning, your dream renovation could be denied.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Ensure you engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to confirm zoning and development restrictions before you buy.
Did You Know? A Pre-Approval for a Loan Doesn’t Guarantee You Can Buy
Pre-Approvals
Many buyers assume that home loan pre-approval guarantees financing, but this isn’t the case. As an established Northern Beaches property buyer, we can tell you that pre-approval is not legally binding, and a lender can still reject your final loan application, leaving you without financing at the last moment.
As an established North Shore and Northern Beaches property buyer, we always ensure our clients understand why lenders may decline a loan after pre-approval and how to protect themselves.
Why Can a Bank Reject Your Home Loan After Pre-Approval?
Even with pre-approval, your final loan approval can be denied for several reasons:
✔ The property is deemed too high-risk – Some lenders have restrictions on certain property types, locations, or conditions, including properties in specific Northern Beaches suburbs.
✔ Your financial situation has changed – If your income, employment status, debts, or credit score changes, the bank may reassess your borrowing capacity.
✔ The lender’s valuation is lower than the purchase price – If the lender values the property below what you’ve agreed to pay, they may not approve the full loan amount, leaving you to cover the shortfall.
This means that even if you’re pre-approved, you are not guaranteed financing—and this can cause serious issues if you’ve already exchanged contracts.
How to Protect Yourself from Loan Rejection
❌ Don’t assume pre-approval guarantees loan approval—always double-check lender requirements before making an offer.
✅ Work with a buyer’s agent who understands lender restrictions and can help you identify properties that banks are more likely to approve.
✅ Engage a mortgage broker early to ensure your finances align with lender expectations.
✅ Consider a valuation contingency when negotiating your purchase to reduce financial risk.
💡 Bottom Line: Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you choose properties that lenders will approve, ensuring you don’t face financing roadblocks at the last minute.
How Does a Buyer’s Agent Help You?
How Does a Buyers Agent Help You?
When considering a property purchase on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, the idea of engaging a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent might seem unnecessary at first glance. But peel back the layers, and the real value of partnering with a skilled advocate becomes crystal clear. Here’s an honest, no-nonsense exploration of exactly how a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent assists you.
Cutting Through the Market Noise
The Northern Beaches property market is complex, fiercely competitive, and saturated with conflicting messages. Real estate agents typically represent sellers, and their goal is straightforward—sell properties at the highest price possible. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, however, works exclusively for the buyer. This means their sole responsibility is protecting your interests, ensuring you don’t fall prey to inflated property values or sales pressure.
With deep market knowledge, a reputable Northern Beaches Buyers Agent can accurately assess fair value and market conditions, quickly identifying overpriced listings and saving you from costly mistakes. While many buyers attempt to navigate this process independently, the reality is stark: without dedicated advocacy, they’re frequently at a disadvantage, particularly in competitive negotiations or auction scenarios.
Providing Access to Exclusive Opportunities
Many buyers assume they have full market visibility through online portals. The reality? A substantial portion of properties on the Northern Beaches are never publicly advertised. Instead, they’re traded quietly through networks known only to those deeply entrenched in the local market. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent specialises in uncovering these off-market opportunities, significantly widening your potential pool of properties.
This isn’t mere marketing fluff. A genuine Northern Beaches Property Buyer can connect you with homes before they hit mainstream advertising, enabling you to avoid competitive bidding wars. This can be particularly beneficial in tightly held suburbs like Manly, Freshwater, and Palm Beach, where the best properties are snapped up swiftly behind closed doors.
Objective Property Evaluation
When buyers inspect properties alone, emotional attachment can cloud judgement, leading to impulsive and financially detrimental decisions. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent approaches each property with a disciplined, objective lens. They examine everything—structural issues, council regulations, zoning complications, and hidden renovation costs—with a detached, analytical approach.
This diligent assessment is crucial. Consider this scenario: a property may seem like a perfect family home until your Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate uncovers major structural problems or restrictive zoning laws that prevent essential renovations. By identifying these critical issues early, the buyers agent ensures you don’t commit to an expensive mistake. The benefit here isn’t theoretical; it’s tangible, frequently saving buyers tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Expert Negotiation Without Emotion
Emotion is a potent force in real estate. Sellers and their agents know this and often exploit emotional attachment to drive prices upward. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent provides a professional buffer against emotional decision-making. Their negotiations are calm, strategic, and always data-driven.
Take auctions, for example. Auctions can quickly become intense and stressful, causing inexperienced buyers to bid beyond their budget. Having a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent represent you at auction removes emotional pitfalls. They approach each bid strategically, ensuring you stick rigidly to your predetermined financial limit. Their expert handling of auctions and private treaty negotiations often results in substantial financial savings, frequently offsetting the agent’s fees.
Saving Time and Reducing Stress
House hunting is often portrayed romantically, but the reality is starkly different—countless weekends spent at inspections, endless online searches, and hours lost managing paperwork and contracts. For busy professionals or those juggling family commitments, this can quickly become overwhelming.
This is where a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent truly shines. By filtering unsuitable properties, conducting initial inspections, and managing every detail of the purchasing process, they dramatically reduce the time and stress involved. Instead of spending your weekends trudging through unsuitable open homes, you receive a curated shortlist tailored specifically to your requirements. The value here isn’t abstract; it’s tangible quality-of-life improvements.
Preventing Common Pitfalls
Navigating property purchase complexities alone significantly increases the risk of errors. Common pitfalls include overlooking key contract clauses, misinterpreting pest and building reports, or missing zoning restrictions that limit future renovations. A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent acts as your professional safeguard, ensuring each step of your purchase is meticulously vetted.
For example, buyers often don’t realise that signing a contract doesn’t guarantee ownership immediately—there are numerous conditions to meet first. A Northern Beaches Property Buyer ensures every legal and financial aspect is managed professionally, safeguarding your deposit and reducing the risk of costly, time-consuming legal battles.
Who Really Needs a Buyers Agent?
A common myth is that buyers agents are only for high-end purchases or inexperienced buyers. This simply isn’t true. Any buyer—first-home buyer, experienced investor, busy professional, or downsizer—benefits significantly from dedicated representation. The Northern Beaches market is fiercely competitive and filled with nuanced pitfalls that can trap even seasoned property buyers.
The true value of a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent lies in their detailed market understanding, robust negotiation skills, and rigorous due diligence processes. These aren’t luxuries; they’re essentials in ensuring a wise, informed purchase.
In Summary
A Northern Beaches Buyers Agent provides objective expertise, invaluable market insight, exclusive access, strategic negotiation skills, and considerable time and stress savings. Their role is to protect your interests, secure fair value, and ensure your property journey is strategic and successful.
While it’s entirely possible to purchase a property independently, the risks—financial, emotional, and logistical—are significant. In the challenging landscape of the Northern Beaches property market, engaging a skilled, independent buyers agent isn’t just a prudent choice; it’s a strategic necessity.
Buying a home is one of life’s major decisions. The real question isn’t whether you can do it alone—it’s whether you should.
So, What Makes Us Different?
What Makes Us Different?
This video says it all.
When choosing a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, you’re often faced with a blur of similar promises and clichés. Let’s strip away the fluff and talk openly—without the sales pitch—about what genuinely makes Sarah Kaye & Co different from other Northern Beaches Buyers Agents or Northern Beaches Property Buyers.
We Don’t Just Talk Experience—We Have It
Many Buyers Agents boast “experience,” but there’s a difference between ticking a few boxes and genuinely living the role. We’re not 20-somethings fresh out of training, sitting behind a desk clicking through listings. Instead, we’re seasoned Northern Beaches Property Buyer advisors who’ve walked the streets, attended countless inspections, and personally lived through the property market cycles.
Co-founder Mike has decades of experience advising global CEOs on major investment decisions. Sarah complements this strategic rigour with real-world property market expertise from years as a successful real estate sales agent. Together, we’ve lived and breathed the nuances of Sydney’s Norther SHore and Northern Beaches for over 20 years, making us uniquely qualified North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agents.
We understand property deeply, practically—not just theoretically. This isn’t a casual side job for us; it’s our core professional focus, every day of the week.
Qualifications That Actually Mean Something
Let’s be blunt: Many Buyers Agents get by with minimal industry certifications. That’s not us. Our qualifications aren’t just bits of paper—they significantly enhance our ability to protect your interests and secure better deals as your chosen Northern Beaches Property Buyer.
We hold formal university degrees that cover town planning, property law, valuation, economics, and engineering from UNSW. Moreover, our governance accreditation from the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) ensures strategic, ethical, and professional conduct beyond what you typically find in the industry. Affiliations with respected bodies like REBAA and REINSW further bolster our professional accountability, distinguishing us clearly from the average Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate.
In practical terms, this means when we provide advice you’re receiving informed guidance from a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent backed by genuine, robust academic and professional credentials.
Local Knowledge Isn’t Just a Buzzword
It’s easy for any Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate to claim they “know the area,” but the difference is in depth and authenticity. We’ve lived on the North Shore and Northern Beaches for decades—we know the hidden gems and red flags firsthand. When you mention a street, we’re not checking Google Maps; we’re mentally walking it, recalling property histories, school catchments, flood risks, and upcoming local developments.
This isn’t superficial familiarity. It’s a comprehensive insight that gives you the edge. This deep local knowledge translates directly into tangible benefits: spotting undervalued properties, avoiding costly pitfalls, and pinpointing locations with growth potential—exactly what you should expect from your Northern Beaches Buyers Agent.
Independent and Proudly Transparent
It’s disturbingly common for Buyers Agents to maintain quiet relationships with selling agents, developers, or mortgage brokers. We categorically do not. We accept no commissions, kickbacks, or hidden incentives from third parties. Our business model is transparent, straightforward, and independent—our loyalty is solely to you, the Northern Beaches Property Buyer.
If a property isn’t right, we’ll tell you bluntly—even if it means walking away. We won’t sugar-coat market conditions or potential downsides. That honest advice may sometimes be uncomfortable, but it’s always invaluable. You’ll make decisions fully informed and eyes-wide-open, as you should expect from any credible Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate.
Direct, Principal-Led Service
Here’s a reality check: Many Northern Beaches Buyers Agents promote a personal touch but quickly delegate critical aspects of the buying process to junior staff or outsourced services. We don’t.
At Sarah Kaye & Co, you deal directly with our principals—Sarah and Mike—throughout your entire property journey. While we have a skilled support team, all critical strategies, negotiations, and advice come directly from us. There’s no dilution of expertise. You’re never left guessing who’s making decisions or who’s really looking after your best interests, ensuring you get true Northern Beaches Buyers Agent expertise.
Strategic Advisory, Not Transactional Selling
While other North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyers might rely primarily on market movements, basic negotiation tactics, or emotional appeals, we take a fundamentally different approach. Our roots in strategic advisory, honed through decades of high-stakes investment consulting, mean we treat your property purchase as a strategic decision, not just a transaction.
This translates into rigorous analytical research, thoughtful scenario planning, and carefully managed risk mitigation. We don’t just help you buy a home; we help you make an astute, well-informed investment decision that aligns clearly with your long-term goals, something not every North Shore or Northern Beaches Buyers Advocate can promise.
We Know What’s Really Important to Buyers
We understand what truly matters to Northern Beaches Property Buyers—not just what sounds good on paper. It’s not about glossy brochures, charismatic salespeople, or flashy open homes. It’s about clarity, certainty, and calm in what is often a high-stress situation.
We’ve been through hundreds of buying journeys alongside our clients. We understand that it’s essential to genuinely listen, anticipate your needs, and provide practical guidance every step of the way. We don’t chase quick deals—we build long-term relationships grounded in trust and tangible results, setting us apart as genuinely committed North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agents.
In Short: We’re Different Because We Actually Deliver
When we say we’re different, it’s not marketing jargon—it’s a fact-based claim supported by demonstrable credentials, depth of local insight, and unwavering independence. We’re seasoned, strategically driven North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agents who genuinely understand the local market and what matters to you.
In choosing Sarah Kaye & Co, you’re opting for proven expertise, transparent integrity, strategic advice, and genuinely personalised service. We’re not here to impress you with fluff; we’re here to deliver meaningful outcomes for your property journey.
Honestly, Why Do We Consider Ourselves one of the Most Trusted Buyers Agents?
At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we’ve built our reputation as a trusted North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent by providing a transparent, expert-driven service rooted in experience and dedication to our clients’ success. Here’s what makes us different:
Our Experience and Local Advantage
Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents has been serving the Northern Beaches and North Shore communities for over five years. This established presence has allowed us to refine our skills, build trust, and understand the local market better than newer agents. Our longevity in the industry gives you confidence that we’ve seen it all and can consistently deliver results.
Local Knowledge You Can Trust
Being a leading North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, we actually live in the local markets we represent. Daily firsthand experience provides insight into the best schools, hidden market gems, and the lifestyle clients seek. Living locally offers an unparalleled advantage in helping you buy property on the Northern Beaches.
Expert Negotiators with Real Estate Sales Experience
Our background as real estate sales agents provides a distinct advantage. Having previously negotiated directly with buyers, we deeply understand how sales agents think, act, and negotiate. This experience is essential when navigating the complexities of buying property in New South Wales.
Accredited by Leading Industry Bodies
As an accredited agency with both REBAA (Real Estate Buyers Agents Association) and REINSW (Real Estate Institute of NSW), we adhere to the highest industry standards. Commitment to strict ethical guidelines guarantees professional, transparent, and dependable service whenever you buy property on the Northern Beaches.
Fully Licensed Real Estate Professionals
Both directors are fully licensed real estate agents, ensuring comprehensive expertise and the ability to act exclusively in your best interest. Unlike agencies relying on third-party oversight, our in-house expertise guarantees informed, professional guidance throughout your Northern Beaches property purchase.
Honest, Straightforward Communication
Honesty defines our client interactions. At Sarah Kaye & Co, you’ll always receive clear, straightforward advice. When choosing a North Shore or Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, ensure you emphasise honest and straightforward communication throughout your property buying journey.
World-Class Advisory Experience
Our experience extends beyond traditional real estate roles. We have extensive backgrounds leading advisory businesses globally, bringing a strategic, world-class perspective to every transaction. Your property purchase on the Northern Beaches or North Shore will always be strategic, informed, and aligned with your long-term goals.
Specialisation in the Northern Beaches & North Shore
The real estate industry, particularly the buyers’ agent profession, sometimes allows inexperienced entrants due to low barriers. At Sarah Kaye & Co, we focus specifically on the Northern Beaches and North Shore markets, delivering targeted insights. From family homebuyers to investors, our experience as a trusted North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agent will ensure informed decisions, minimal risk, and maximised value.
What are Our Fees? The One Question Most Agents Won't Answer Up Front
In an industry ranked as the least trusted in Australia, transparency isn’t optional—it’s essential. As a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent, we are committed to complete honesty, starting with our fees. While other agents may hide their costs, we make ours clear from the outset—no vague percentages, no hidden surprises.
How We Charge: A Fair and Transparent Model
As independent North Shore and Northern Beaches property buyers, we are paid only by you—never by the sales agent or vendor. This ensures we are 100% on your side, working solely in your best interest as your independent North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agent.
Many buyer’s agents charge between 1% and 2.5% of the purchase price (plus GST). But here’s the reality:
- At 1%, you may receive a cut-rate service that doesn’t go the extra mile.
- At 2.5%, you’re likely overpaying for a service that should be more competitively priced.
Instead, we offer a simple, fixed-fee model. This ensures fairness and transparency from the start.
Our Fees: Fixed, Fair & Transparent
Our pricing model is clear and transparent:
- Fixed upfront retainer: $5,000 + GST, covering your property search.
- Success fee agreed upfront, payable only when securing your ideal property.
Our success fees:
- $15,000 + GST for properties under $2.5 million
- $20,000 + GST for properties between $2.5 million – $3.5 million
- $25,000 + GST for properties between $3.5 million – $4.0 million
- $30,000 + GST for properties over $4.0 million
What’s Included?
We offer comprehensive, end-to-end property buying services:
✅ Sourcing, inspecting & appraising properties, including off-market opportunities. ✅ Private inspections & due diligence, coordinating closely with your conveyancer, mortgage broker, and building inspector. ✅ Skilled negotiation & contract management to secure optimal terms and pricing. ✅ Pre-settlement inspections & post-purchase support, ensuring satisfaction with your purchase.
Our Directors personally manage each client engagement, guaranteeing attentive, high-quality service from start to finish—you won’t be passed off to a junior agent.
Why Fees Matter When Choosing a Buyer’s Agent
When selecting a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, consider value, transparency, and expertise. The right agent saves time, money, and stress, ensuring you don’t overpay.
Always ask:
✔ Real Estate Licence Number (verify here).
✔ Current Professional Indemnity & Public Liability Insurance.
✔ At least five years of experience as a buyer’s agent.
With a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent on your side, you will secure your dream home at the right price with confidence and clarity.
What is an Off-Market Property?
Are Off-Market Properties a Good Deal for Buyers?
As an established North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent, we purchase many properties off-market for our clients and they can offer advantages in certain situations, but they aren’t always the golden ticket they’re made out to be.
Potential Benefits for Buyers:
✔ Less Competition – With fewer buyers aware of the listing, there’s often less pressure to compete.
✔ Quieter Negotiations – No public auctions, no last-minute bidding wars—just a direct negotiation process.
✔ Early Access – Off-market deals provide a first-mover advantage on properties that may later hit the market.
Potential Downsides for Buyers:
❌ Lack of Price Transparency – Without open market comparisons, it’s harder to gauge fair value.
❌ Limited Choice – Only a small percentage of properties are truly off-market, reducing your options.
❌ Selling Agent Control – Some selling agents use off-market listings to create a false sense of urgency, even when the property is likely to be listed publicly.
The Real Story Behind Off-Market Hype
The real estate industry—particularly large franchise agencies—has heavily promoted off-market sales. Why? Because platforms like realestate.com.au have reduced their traditional control over listings, and they’re looking for ways to regain influence over buyers and sellers.
The truth is that genuinely off-market properties (those never intended to go public) make up a very small fraction of the market. Many properties marketed as “off-market” are simply in a pre-market phase and will be publicly listed if they don’t sell privately.
How Should Buyers Approach Off-Market Properties?
As a successful North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent, we advise property buyers that their property search strategy should not rely solely on off-market listings but should consider both on-market and off-market opportunities.
💡 The smart approach? Work with a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent who can:
✔ Give you access to legitimate off-market properties while filtering out “fake exclusives.”
✔ Assess the real market value to ensure you don’t overpay in a private deal.
✔ Provide a balanced strategy—exploring both on-market and off-market options so you don’t miss the best property for your needs.
Final Thoughts: Off-Market Properties Are Not a Magic Bullet
While off-market properties can be beneficial in some cases, they aren’t always better deals, nor do they guarantee buyers will find the right home. The best results come from a balanced, fact-based approach—not from chasing exclusivity myths.
If you’re looking to buy property in the Northern Beaches, work with a buyer’s agent who prioritises strategy over hype. Whether you’re searching in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach, or other Northern Beaches suburbs, a buyer’s agent ensures you explore every opportunity and make the best decision for your future home.
What is Gazumping, and Is It Legal in NSW?
Gazumping is one of the most frustrating experiences for a North Shore or Northern Beaches property buyer. Imagine having your offer accepted on a Northern Beaches property, only to be told later that the seller has taken a higher offer from someone else. Unfortunately, this happens often—but is it legal?
Is Gazumping Legal in NSW
Yes, gazumping is legal in New South Wales. Until contracts are exchanged, the seller is under no legal obligation to proceed with your offer, even if they have verbally accepted it or confirmed in writing.
Under the Property and Stock Agents Regulation 2022 (NSW), Section 6, if you pay a deposit before exchange, the agent must inform you in writing that:
- The seller has no obligation to sell the property to you.
- You have no obligation to proceed with the purchase.
- Your deposit is fully refundable if the contract is not signed.
This means that even if you put down a deposit, the seller can still accept a better offer from another buyer. The only way to secure a property is through a signed contract.
How to Avoid Gazumping
If you are a North Shore or Northern Beaches Property Buyer, here’s how you can reduce the risk of being gazumped:
1. Move Quickly to Echange Contracts
✅ A property sale only becomes legally binding once contracts are exchanged.
✅ Work with a solicitor or conveyancer to finalise everything and arrange a quick exchange.
2. Request a Cooling-Off Period
✅ Some buyers exchange contracts with a 5-day cooling-off period, which prevents the seller from accepting another offer.
✅ If you back out during this period, you’ll forfeit 0.25% of the purchase price.
3. Consider Buying at Auction
✅ Auctions eliminate gazumping, as the sale is legally binding immediately when the hammer falls.
4. Negotiate a Binding Pre-Contract Agreement
✅ Some buyers attempt to lock in the deal with a pre-contract agreement before exchange.
✅ However, these agreements are not standard practice and may not always be enforceable.
What This Means for You
If you’re serious about buying a Northern Beaches property, don’t assume that a verbal agreement or deposit secures the deal. Gazumping happens often, so it’s crucial to protect yourself by:
✔ Acting fast to exchange contracts.
✔ Engaging a solicitor or conveyancer early in the process.
✔ Understanding that until contracts are signed, nothing is guaranteed.
If you want a stress-free and secure property purchase, working with a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent ensures you have an expert in your corner to navigate these risks, negotiate effectively, and help you secure the right property without the uncertainty of gazumping.
Why Work With a Northern Beaches Buyers Agent?
As an independent Northern Beaches Buyers Agent, we ensure you:
✅ Move faster to secure your ideal property before someone else does.
✅ Negotiate from a position of strength with expert guidance.
✅ Access off-market opportunities to avoid competitive bidding wars.
If you’re looking to buy property on the Northern Beaches—whether in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach, or beyond—having a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent in your corner can make all the difference.
Can a Real Estate Sales Agent Represent Buyers? Here’s the Truth.
Many homebuyers assume that the real estate agent they meet at an open home or through a listing can help them secure a property in their best interests—but this is not the case under NSW law.
If you’re looking to buy property on the North Shore or Northern Beaches, it’s critical to understand who works for whom in a property transaction.
The Legal Reality: Who Does a Real Estate Agent Work For?
Under the Property and Stock Agents Act 2002 (NSW), Section 48, a real estate sales agent is legally obligated to act in the seller’s best interests.
Here’s what this means for buyers:
- A real estate agent cannot legally represent both the buyer and seller in the same transaction.
- The seller’s agent’s duty is to secure the highest price and best terms for the seller—not the buyer.
- The agent is paid by the seller, creating an inherent conflict of interest when engaging with buyers.
Simply put, if you’re purchasing a property, the real estate agent you’re dealing with is not working for you—they are working for the seller.
What About Buyer’s Agents?
To ensure independent representation, buyers can engage a licensed Northern Beaches buyers agent, whose sole duty is to act in their best interests. Unlike real estate sales agents, buyer’s agents:
✔ Negotiate exclusively for the buyer—working to secure the best possible price and terms.
✔ Are prohibited from accepting commissions or fees from the seller or selling agent, ensuring unbiased advice.
✔ Are legally bound to act in the buyer’s best interests, ensuring fair representation, transparency, and protection.
By working with a trusted Northern Beaches buyer’s agent, you gain an expert who understands the Northern Beaches property market, giving you an advantage in negotiations and access to off-market opportunities.
What This Means for You as a Buyer
If you’re looking to buy property on the Northern Beaches, it’s essential to understand that a sales agent’s role is to maximise the seller’s profit. That means they are not on your side.
A North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyer (or Buyers Agent) however, works exclusively for you—helping you:
✔ Find and secure the right property in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach, and other Northern Beaches suburbs.
✔ Negotiate from a position of strength, ensuring you don’t overpay.
✔ Avoid costly mistakes and confidently navigate the buying process.
For truly independent representation, consider engaging a licensed Northern Beaches buyers agent—someone who will help you secure the right property at the right price and without hidden agendas.
Did You Know? NSW Laws Prohibit Underquoting—But It Still Happens
Many buyers assume that the advertised price of a property reflects what the seller is actually willing to accept. However, this is not always the case. Underquoting—when a property is marketed at a price lower than its likely selling price—is illegal in NSW, yet it still occurs in subtle ways.
If you’re looking to buy property in the Northern Beaches, understanding underquoting laws can help you avoid misleading price guides and wasted time.
What Does NSW Law Say About Underquoting?
📌 It is an offence for a real estate agent to underquote a property’s price in advertising or any verbal or written representation to a buyer.
An agent is underquoting if they market the property at a price lower than:
✅ Their reasonable estimate of the likely selling price (stated in the agency agreement).
✅ The seller’s price instructions, if the seller has set a minimum price.
Key Legal Requirements for Selling Agents
✔ Agents must include an estimated selling price in the agency agreement.
✔ This estimate can be a range, but the range cannot exceed 10%.
✔ It is illegal for agents to use misleading pricing phrases, including:
❌ “Offers above”
❌ “Offers over”
❌ Any “+” symbol (e.g., “$1.5M+”)
Agents can choose not to disclose any price at all, but if they do, the stated price must not be lower than the estimated selling price in the agency agreement.
What Happens if Market Conditions Change?
If buyer feedback or market trends suggest a shift in property value, agents must update their estimated selling price regularly—typically on a weekly basis—and amend the agency agreement accordingly. As an established North Shore and Northern Beaches buyers agent, we do get advised regularly by agents of price adjustments, both up and down.
👉 Important: The agent’s estimated selling price does not have to match the seller’s expectations. Their legal obligation is to provide a reasonable market estimate, not simply reflect the seller’s asking price.
If a seller instructs the agent not to disclose any price, the agent must not provide any price guide at all—whether in advertising, in writing, or verbally.
What This Means for Buyers
❌ Don’t assume the advertised price is what the property will sell for—it could be higher.
✅ Ask the agent directly: “What is the estimated selling price in the agency agreement?”
✅ Watch for price adjustments—if a property lingers on the market, the estimated price may have been revised.
✅ Work with a buyer’s agent who can provide real market insights and protect you from misleading price expectations.
💡 Bottom Line: While underquoting is illegal, it still happens in indirect ways. If you want to buy a home in the Northern Beaches without falling for misleading price guides, working with a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent ensures you get accurate market insights and avoid wasted time
Why Do Some Buyer’s Agents Use the Term Property Buyer?
Despite the clear legal definition, some professionals opt to use the term property buyer instead of buyer’s agent. The reasons for this include:
1. Market Perception and Branding
The term buyer’s agent is still relatively new in Australia compared to selling agents, and many consumers do not fully understand the role of a buyer’s agent. As a result, a North Shore or Northern Beaches Buyers Agent may use a more neutral or approachable term like North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyer to appeal to a broader audience.
2. Reputation Concerns
The real estate industry in Australia ranks among the least trusted professions. Some professionals believe the term buyer’s agent is associated with aggressive sales tactics, despite the fact that buyer’s agents work exclusively for buyers. By being referred to as a North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyer they aim to position themselves as independent, savvy property experts rather than traditional agents.
3. Business Names and Marketing
Some firms incorporate “property buyer” into their business names and branding. This may be due to SEO strategies, consumer behavior, or simply an attempt to differentiate from competitors who market themselves as “buyer’s agents.”
Does Using “Property Buyer” Violate the Law?
The legislation does not explicitly prohibit the use of “property buyer.” However, the Property and Stock Agents Act 2002 includes strict rules about misrepresentation and misleading conduct.
A licensed buyer’s agent must not imply they are unlicensed or acting in any role other than as a real estate agent representing the buyer. If using “property buyer,” they must clearly disclose their licensed status to avoid potential breaches of the Act.
Key Takeaways
- Buyer’s Agent is a legally defined term requiring a licence (eg. North Shore and Northern Beaches Buyers Agent)
- Property Buyer is not a legal designation but is often used for branding and marketing (eg. North Shore and Northern Beaches Prpoperty Buyer)
- The use of “property buyer” should not mislead clients about the agent’s licensed status.
- Legislation prohibits false or misleading representations, so clarity is essential in advertising and client communication.
For buyers seeking professional representation, the safest approach is always to verify that the professional they engage holds a valid real estate licence under the Property and Stock Agents Act 2002.
Did You Know? A Seller’s Agent Is Not Required to Disclose All Property Issues?
The Truth About Property Disclosures in NSW
- Many buyers assume that the vendor’s agent must disclose all issues with a property.
- In reality, agents are only required to disclose “material facts”, such as whether the home has been used for a crime or contains major defects they are aware of.
- What this means for buyers: Unless you conduct your own due diligence, you could be buying a home with hidden structural issues, pest infestations, or zoning restrictions.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Work with a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you receive thorough independent due diligence before you commit.
Did You Know? Your 10% Deposit Isn’t Always Safe
Can You Lose Your Deposit?
- If you sign a contract and later back out, you could lose your entire deposit.
- In some cases, the seller can even sue you for damages beyond the deposit amount.
- What this means for buyers: Always be 100% sure before you sign, and understand your legal rights.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Work with a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure your contract conditions protect you from unnecessary risks.
Did You Know? How Long Does a Buyers Agent Agreement Last - Really?
Most Buyers Agents
Often, a North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent will operate on a standard 90-day agreement, meaning they will search for your property within that timeframe. If you don’t secure a property within 90 days, some Northern Beaches Property Buyers stop working with you entirely, while others require an additional retainer or fee to continue the search.
At Sarah Kaye Buyers Agents, we believe this time limit is unnecessary and not in your best interest. Buying the right property in the Northern Beaches property market isn’t about working to an arbitrary deadline—it’s about securing the perfect home at the right price.
How We Work
That’s why, as a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent, we don’t impose a 90-day limit. Once you engage us, we work for you until we find the right home—whether that takes days, weeks, or months. No extra fees. No hidden charges. Just a dedicated, trusted service.
We start by deeply understanding your needs, ensuring we’re the right fit for you before you commit. From there, we go all in, leveraging our expertise in Northern Beaches suburbs like Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, and Palm Beach to secure the best possible property.
If you’re serious about buying in the Northern Beaches, you need a trusted Northern Beaches buyers agent who won’t walk away just because the contract says 90 days. With us, you get commitment, transparency, and an unwavering focus on securing the best home for you.
Did You Know? The Seller Can Make Fake Bids at Auction
Can the seller make fake bids at auction?
Yes—many buyers don’t realise that at auction, the seller is legally allowed to bid on their own property through the auctioneer. This is called a vendor bid, and it’s a tactic commonly used to artificially drive up the price, making buyers believe there’s more competition than there actually is.
What does this mean for you as a buyer?
You might think you’re bidding against other buyers, but in reality, you could be bidding against the seller. This can lead to overpaying for a property—a risk that many buyers aren’t aware of when they step into the Northern Beaches property market.
How can you protect yourself?
Working with a trusted Northern Beaches Buyers Agent can help you avoid overpaying at auction. At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we ensure you only pay what the property is truly worth. Whether you’re looking to buy property in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach or other Beaches Suburbs, our expert negotiation can help you stay in control and secure your home at the right price.
If you’re considering buying at auction in Sydney’s Northern Beaches suburbs, don’t go in alone—speak with a Northern Beaches buyers agent first to ensure you’re not caught in a bidding war with the seller!
Did You Know? A Signed Contract Doesn’t Always Mean You Own the Property
When Can a Seller Back Out?
- Even after you sign a contract, the seller can pull out before settlement in certain situations, including:
- If you fail to meet a contract condition, such as arranging finance or paying a deposit on time.
- If they invoke a sunset clause (in off-the-plan contracts) to cancel the deal.
- What this means for buyers: Just because you’ve signed doesn’t mean it’s locked in.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you negotiate fair contract terms and meet all obligations on time.
Did You Know? A “Cooling-Off” Period Doesn’t Always Protect You
When Can You Lose Money?
- If you buy at auction, there is NO cooling-off period—your offer is final.
- If you buy through private treaty, you have 5 days to change your mind—but you’ll forfeit 0.25% of the purchase price if you back out.
- What this means for buyers: A cooling-off period isn’t always a safety net.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you understand the risks before signing anything. If you work with us as your independent Northern Beaches Property Buyer we will ensure there are no surprises.
Did You Know? Off-the-Plan Properties Aren’t Always What You Expect
Can a Developer Change the Property?
- If you buy off-the-plan, the final property may not match what was promised in the marketing materials.
- Developers can make legal changes to the design, size, and even layout without your approval.
- What this means for buyers: Your dream apartment could shrink in size, lose features, or be delayed.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure your contract limits the developer’s ability to make major changes.
Did You Know? Strata Levies Can Skyrocket After You Buy
What are the hidden costs of buying an apartment or townhouse?
Many buyers focus on the purchase price of an apartment or townhouse but underestimate the long-term financial risks, particularly when it comes to strata levies and special levies.
Why is this important?
🔹 Strata levies can increase significantly after purchase, particularly in newer buildings where there is no history and investment in some areas may have been artificially low.
🔹 If major building defects or repairs arise, owners may be hit with unexpected special levies—often running into thousands of dollars. This risk is generally higher in new or newly built apartment complexes.
🔹 Failing to research the building’s ‘financial and structural health’ before buying can lead to costly surprises.
How can you protect yourself?
Before you buy, due diligence is critical—and this is where an experienced Northern Beaches Buyers Agent can make all the difference.
At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we thoroughly investigate the building’s financial records, past maintenance history, and upcoming repair costs. Whether you’re looking at apartments in Manly, Dee Why, Freshwater, Palm Beach or other Northern Beach suburbs, we ensure you’re not walking into a financial trap.
If you’re considering buying property on the Northern Beaches, don’t take unnecessary risks. Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you uncover hidden costs before you buy, ensuring you make an informed and financially sound decision.
Did You Know? You Can’t Always Build or Renovate as You Please
The Truth About Zoning & Building Restrictions
- Just because you buy a property doesn’t mean you can extend, subdivide, or renovate as planned.
- Councils have strict zoning laws, and heritage overlays or easements can restrict what you do.
- What this means for buyers: If you don’t check the zoning, your dream renovation could be denied.
➡️ How to protect yourself: Ensure you engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to confirm zoning and development restrictions before you buy.
Did You Know? A Pre-Approval for a Loan Doesn’t Guarantee You Can Buy
Pre-Approvals
Many buyers assume that home loan pre-approval guarantees financing, but this isn’t the case. As an established Northern Beaches property buyer, we can tell you that pre-approval is not legally binding, and a lender can still reject your final loan application, leaving you without financing at the last moment.
As an established North Shore and Northern Beaches property buyer, we always ensure our clients understand why lenders may decline a loan after pre-approval and how to protect themselves.
Why Can a Bank Reject Your Home Loan After Pre-Approval?
Even with pre-approval, your final loan approval can be denied for several reasons:
✔ The property is deemed too high-risk – Some lenders have restrictions on certain property types, locations, or conditions, including properties in specific Northern Beaches suburbs.
✔ Your financial situation has changed – If your income, employment status, debts, or credit score changes, the bank may reassess your borrowing capacity.
✔ The lender’s valuation is lower than the purchase price – If the lender values the property below what you’ve agreed to pay, they may not approve the full loan amount, leaving you to cover the shortfall.
This means that even if you’re pre-approved, you are not guaranteed financing—and this can cause serious issues if you’ve already exchanged contracts.
How to Protect Yourself from Loan Rejection
❌ Don’t assume pre-approval guarantees loan approval—always double-check lender requirements before making an offer.
✅ Work with a buyer’s agent who understands lender restrictions and can help you identify properties that banks are more likely to approve.
✅ Engage a mortgage broker early to ensure your finances align with lender expectations.
✅ Consider a valuation contingency when negotiating your purchase to reduce financial risk.
💡 Bottom Line: Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make. Engage a trusted North Shore or Northern Beaches buyers agent to ensure you choose properties that lenders will approve, ensuring you don’t face financing roadblocks at the last minute.
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Who We Help– Tailored Solutions for all North Shore and Northern Beaches Property Buyers
At Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents, we work with a diverse range of clients, offering personalised expertise to help navigate the often-challenging Northern Beaches property market. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, our hands-on approach and deep local knowledge ensure a seamless and stress-free property journey.
Here’s how we assist our clients:
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Upsizers and Downsizers
Whether you’re expanding to accommodate a growing family or simplifying your lifestyle, we’ll assist you in finding a property that perfectly matches your needs in the highly competitive Northern Beaches property market.
Sea Changers
Are you ready to embrace the stunning Northern Beaches lifestyle? With over 20 years of living and working in the area, we’ll guide you to a property that aligns with your dream of a beachside haven.
First-Time Buyers
Entering the market can feel overwhelming, but with Sarah Kaye & Co Buyers Agents by your side, you’ll gain clarity and confidence. As experienced independent buyers agents on the Northern Beaches, we will ensure you are well informed at every step.
Returning Expats
Returning to Sydney? We’ll make your relocation easier and help you find a property that ensures a smooth transition back to the Northern Beaches. Having been expats ourselves, we understand the journey.
Investors
Leverage our strategic insights into high-growth areas to maximise your returns. We’ll help you identify opportunities that align with your financial goals in one of Sydney’s most desirable regions.
With a proven track record of delivering exceptional results, we take pride in being trusted buyers agents on the Northern Beaches, dedicated to making your property journey as smooth and successful as possible. Whether it’s securing the ideal family home or a strategic investment, our expertise ensures you’ll achieve your property goals with confidence.