Frequently asked questions
Everything buyers usually ask us before getting started. Can't find what you need? Get in touch directly.
What is a buyers advocate?
A buyers advocate (also called a buyers agent) is a licensed professional who represents the property buyer's interests exclusively — searching for suitable properties, arranging inspections, and negotiating the purchase price. Unlike a real estate agent, a buyers advocate never represents or is paid by the seller.
How is Baxa Property Services different from a real estate agent?
Real estate agents are engaged and paid by the seller to achieve the highest possible sale price. Baxa Property Services works exclusively for the buyer — we search on- and off-market listings, inspect properties with a builder's eye, and negotiate to get you the best possible outcome, never the seller's. Read more in our buyers advocate vs. real estate agent guide.
What areas does Baxa Property Services cover?
We cover Melbourne's western suburbs including Sunshine (our home base), St Albans, Footscray, Point Cook, Truganina, Tarneit, Werribee and Caroline Springs, as well as Southbank, East Melbourne, Brunswick and regional Geelong. If your suburb isn't listed, get in touch — we cover greater Melbourne and regional Victoria more broadly.
Do you only help with residential property?
No. While most of our work is residential, we also assist with commercial property purchases, drawing on our combined real estate and building background to assess a property's condition and potential.
How much does it cost to use a buyers advocate?
Buyers advocates in Australia typically charge either a fixed flat fee or a percentage of the purchase price, sometimes with a smaller upfront engagement fee and the balance payable on a successful purchase. Because the right structure depends on what you're looking for and your budget, the most accurate answer is a conversation — see our guide to buyers advocate fees or contact us for a free, no-obligation quote.
Can you bid for me at auction?
Yes. Bidding at auction on your behalf is one of the services we provide — many clients find having an experienced negotiator bid for them removes much of the stress and emotion from auction day.
Do you arrange building and pest inspections?
Yes. Because our team has a building background, we're able to assess a property's condition ourselves as well as arrange independent building and pest inspections before you commit to a purchase.
How long does the buying process usually take?
It varies widely depending on the property type, your budget, and how specific your search criteria are. Some clients secure a property within a few weeks; others take a few months, especially in a competitive or tightly-held market. We'll give you a realistic timeframe once we understand what you're looking for.
Do you work with buyers who speak languages other than English?
Yes. Baxa Property Services is proud to work with Melbourne's multicultural community, including Vietnamese, Filipino and Chinese-speaking clients — our website is available in English, Filipino, Vietnamese and Chinese.
How do I get started?
Send us an enquiry through our contact form, email support@baxa.com.au, or call (03) 7046 9968. We'll arrange an initial conversation to understand what you're looking for and how we can help.