LocalAgentFinder

LocalAgentFinder: real estate agent comparison platform in Australia

LocalAgentFinder is an Australian platform that lets homeowners compare real estate agents and property managers before deciding who to sell or rent with. The service is presented as free for the user, with no hidden fees and no obligation to hire. The company states that it helps more than 1.4 million Australians each year compare agent performance, fees and experience in one place.

How the comparison works

The process is structured in three steps. First, the user provides details about their property and their goals, and the platform shows agents in their area who match those needs. Then, it allows agents to be compared side by side based on fees, sales history, marketing approach, reviews and other data. Finally, the user chooses the agents they prefer and contacts them directly, with no pressure and no obligation.

The platform also offers specific tools: a commission calculator to estimate the fee based on the expected sale price, a cost of selling calculator that includes marketing and legal costs, and sections with typical fees and commissions by area, local agents and practical guides. It also publishes a blog and a knowledge centre with articles on when to change agents, questions to ask a rental manager, or what to do after a listing expires.

Fees and business model

According to the platform's information, real estate agent commissions in Australia typically range between 1.8% and 3.5% of the final sale price, and may be negotiable. LocalAgentFinder does not charge consumers for using the comparison service. Its model is based on a service fee paid by partner agents when a customer contacts them through the platform and ultimately sells or rents the property. This fee follows a pay-on-success model: the agent only pays if they succeed in listing and selling or renting the property. The company states that it charges the same fee to all agents Australia-wide to maintain the impartiality of the comparison service: 0.395% of the sale price, capped at $4,750, or the equivalent of 1.5 weeks' rent in the case of a rental.

Transparency in how agents are displayed

The platform warns that the appearance, prominence or order of agents does not constitute a recommendation, endorsement or guarantee, nor does it necessarily reflect their quality or suitability. Some agents may pay to participate in advertising or sponsored placement programmes, which influence their visibility and are clearly identified. LocalAgentFinder recommends that users consider multiple agents and make their own enquiries before selecting one.

Resources for homeowners

The site brings together guides and articles aimed at helping homeowners decide. Topics covered include the signs it's time to change real estate agents, the essential questions to ask a rental agent, managing a sale after a listing expires, stress and conflict when selling during a separation, and the legal steps after choosing an agent, with mention of conveyancing services. The platform also allows agents to be compared by state and city, including Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Adelaide, Darwin, Canberra and Hobart.

Track record and support

LocalAgentFinder states that it has been included in the Fast 100 list for four consecutive years. It has a customer support team to answer questions, clarify options and guide users through the next steps. The company operates from its headquarters in St Kilda, Victoria, and offers phone support via its number 133 033.

Location and contact

14 St Kilda Rd, St Kilda VIC 3182