The Difference Between a Vendor's Advocate and Real Estate Agent

Selling a property can be a complex and stressful process, and having the right support can make all the difference. When it comes to selling, many people are familiar with real estate agents, but fewer understand the role of a vendor's advocate. So, what exactly is the differences between a Vendor's Advocate and a Real Estate Agent, and which one is best suited for your needs? Let’s break it down.

When it comes to selling, many people are familiar with real estate agents, but fewer understand the role of a vendor's advocate.

What is a Real Estate Agent?

A real estate agent is the professional responsible for selling your property. They are hired by the vendor (seller) and work on commission, meaning they earn a percentage of the sale price once the property is sold. The primary role of a real estate agent includes:

• Marketing the property – Listing the home on various platforms, organising photography, and hosting open homes.

• Negotiating with buyers – Engaging in price discussions to secure the best possible offer.

• Liaising with potential buyers – Answering inquiries, conducting property inspections, and facilitating the buying process.

• Finalising the sale – Handling paperwork and ensuring a smooth transaction until settlement.

Real estate agents work in the best interests of their clients, but as they are paid based on commission, they have a vested interest in selling the property for the highest possible price as quickly as possible.

What is a Vendor’s Advocate?

A vendor’s advocate is an independent property expert who works exclusively for the seller to provide guidance and support throughout the selling process. Unlike a real estate agent, a vendor’s advocate does not sell the property themselves; instead, they assist the seller in making informed decisions and selecting the best real estate agent to handle the sale.

The role of a vendor’s advocate includes:

• Choosing the right agent – Helping the vendor select a trustworthy and capable real estate agent who aligns with their needs.

• Providing unbiased advice – Offering professional guidance without any conflict of interest.

• Negotiating agent commissions – Ensuring the vendor gets a fair deal on agent fees.

• Overseeing the sales process – Monitoring the real estate agent’s performance to ensure the best outcome.

• Ensuring the best price – Helping the vendor understand market trends and setting realistic price expectations.

A vendor’s advocate works in the seller’s best interests at all times, providing an additional layer of support and expertise to ensure a stress-free and financially rewarding sale.

Key Differences Between a Vendor’s Advocate and a Real Estate Agent

Feature	Real Estate Agent	Vendor’s Advocate
Who they work for	The seller, but their goal is to secure a sale	The seller, ensuring they make informed decisions
Main responsibility	Marketing and selling the property	Advising the seller and overseeing the sales process
Commission-based	Yes, paid a percentage of the sale price	No, typically a fixed fee or a portion of the agent’s commission
Focus	Selling the property at the highest possible price	Ensuring the vendor gets the best deal with minimal stress
Independence	Works for a real estate agency	Works independently for the vendor

If you want an extra layer of protection, unbiased advice, and expert guidance throughout the process, hiring a vendor’s advocate can be a game-changer.

A vendor’s advocate ensures you don’t get overwhelmed by the sales process, aren’t pressured into decisions, and ultimately receive the best possible outcome. They remove the stress and allow you to focus on what matters most—getting the best price for your property with the least amount of hassle.

Both real estate agents and vendor’s advocates play important roles in the property market, but their functions are quite different. A real estate agent sells your home, while a vendor’s advocate ensures you navigate the process with confidence, securing the best deal with the right agent.

If you’re thinking of selling and want expert, unbiased guidance, working with a vendor’s advocate could be one of the best decisions you make. At Walsh Brown Property, we offer vendor advocacy services to help you sell smarter, not harder. Contact us today to find out how we can assist you in achieving a seamless and successful property sale. Visit our website or contact us at aly@walshbrownproperty.com.au or 0411771181.

*** Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only. While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content, it should not be considered as personalised or professional advice. The homebuying process can vary based on individual circumstances, property types, and location-specific regulations.