Are you confused about how to choose a Renter's Agent?

Did you know that a Renter's agent is just another term to describe a Relocation Agent?



What is a Renter’s Agent?

The term ‘Renter’s Agent’ was created and utilised by me when I started Sydney Rental Search 17 years ago. The role is that of a Home Finder or Relocation Agent however it was a description and term that left the public confused so I decided to use a term which would make people understand better what it was that Sydney Rental Search did.

Quite simply, we help people find rental properties, a bit like how a Buyer’s Agent helps people find properties to buy. In many ways though, it is very different to a Buyer’s Agent. A Buyers Agent has a huge legal obligation to ensure you are buying the right property whereas a Renter’s Agent roles is more personal, informative, caring and consultative. We utilise our experience to guide you to the locations that suit your lifestyle and provide consultative advice on a property's shortfalls if they don't suit you or your family's needs. We discuss practicalities, security issues, the competition in the rental market and maximise our relationships with Real Estate agents to provide you with pertinent information on rental properties. This personalised service provides you with concise information to allow you to make your own informed decisions. We do not induce any clients to proceed with a tenancy - we are here to ensure you have a well-rounded and honest perspective of the property before you proceed with your application.



Are there many Relocation Agencies that service Sydney?

There are approximately 30 large Relocation agencies in Australia who specialise in all aspects of people moving to Sydney including carrying out destination services such as home search services. These companies have been assisting people find their rental homes when they have moved to Sydney on a corporate move for more than 30 years. There are four business who call themselves Renter’s Agents in Sydney.  

Does a Renter’s Agent need a Real Estate Licence?

None of the large Relocation companies have required a Real Estate agent's licence to conduct their services in finding rental properties for their clients. More recently, a few new Renter's Agents have appeared on the market to allow you to choose the best service for your own personal needs. A 'Renter's Agent' is actually not a job or role that is recognised by the Real Estate Institute of NSW as we are not Real Estate agents. Our role is to work as experienced personal assistants helping clients find and secure their homes. We represent our clients, who are not our tenants and we do not represent property in any way. 



History of the Renter’s Agent

When I created Sydney Rental Search in 2005, I included processes that were more personalised and market reactive than the standard corporate relocation services, which is why I wanted to name my service differently and therefore came up with the term ‘Renter’s Agent’



Choosing a Renter’s Agent

When choosing a Renter’s Agent/Relocation Agent/ Renter’s Assistant you should speak to the person who will be looking after you to ensure it is a comfortable fit between you and the person who is responsible for such a personal and emotional process in your life. It is not a good idea to be swayed by anyone placing false statements on their website about their competitors being required to operate under a Real Estate licence just so that this may make their own business seem more credible. It is also not wise to be swayed by sleazy sales tactics.



Why Sydney Rental Search?

When a business has survived for 17 years and also through COVID, you know that they are sustainable and reliable. Our business continues to thrive due to our raving fans referring new clients to our business as well as utilising our service time and time again themselves. We have several long term corporate accounts and we hold a credible reputation with the Real Estate agents we have dealt with over the years. We work with integrity and price our services fairly and reasonably which is why our business continues to remain one of the most reputable services in the industry.

Melinda Jensen