What to Expect from Your Real Estate Agent in Australia
This week’s question comes from Benedict, who asked me: “What should I expect from my real estate agent?”
Benedict had chosen a property online after watching the agent’s video walkthrough. The application was processed, he accepted, paid his deposit and first month’s rent in advance, and then flew into Australia—only to discover he wasn’t happy with the property.
He called me for advice, and there are a few lessons worth sharing here.
Why I’m cautious about choosing a property online
I’m always a little concerned when people secure a rental without seeing it in person. There are two big risks:
- Scammers – Unfortunately, rental scams are out there.
- Red flags from agents – If an estate agent is quick to do a video walkthrough for you, it could mean they’re struggling to rent out that property. If they’re not busy enough to fill it without extra effort, that’s something to pay attention to. In some instances they post misleading advertising.
In Benedict’s case, the property backed onto a shopping centre. From Google Maps, it looked like just a car park with some distance in between. But when he arrived, he discovered broken fencing at the back where people had kicked it in from the car park, making it insecure. There was also mould in the bathroom and a strong odour—like cats had been in the house.
Who you’re really dealing with at inspections
When you attend an open for inspection, the person showing you through isn’t always the property manager. They may not even be the person who decides on your application. One important question to ask is: “Are you the property manager?”
Another client of ours learned this the hard way. They arrived in Australia and decided to walk onto the property grounds to take a look before their lease officially started. They then emailed the agent demanding the rubbish in the garden be removed. The problem? They were trespassing. Until your lease begins and you have the keys, you cannot legally enter the property.
In that case, the agent not responding was probably a blessing—because they were in the wrong.
Understanding the condition report
Another critical step in the rental process is the condition report. Here’s how it works:
- Before your lease begins, the estate agent inspects the property and completes the report, noting any defects.
- You then complete your own check, confirming or adding to what’s written.
- That report is held on file until you move out, and it’s used to assess whether any new damage has occurred during your tenancy.
It’s important to remember: the condition report is not a maintenance request form. If something needs repair—say, a leaking tap or a broken window—don’t just record it on the report. Put it in writing and email the agent separately. The condition report protects you at the end of the lease, but repairs need to be requested directly.
Final thoughts
I hope that helps clarify what you can (and can’t) expect from your real estate agent.
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