Estate Agent vs. Property Sourcer: What's the Difference?
- nicky657
- Apr 5
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 30
If you're looking to buy a property in Scotland—especially in competitive markets like Edinburgh—you may have heard the terms estate agent and property sourcer (or buying agent) used interchangeably. But they’re not the same.
Understanding the distinction could make all the difference when it comes to finding the right home, securing the best deal, and enjoying a smoother, more personal buying experience.
What Does an Estate Agent Do?
Estate agents are hired by the seller to market a property and achieve the highest sale price. They act on behalf of the vendor, managing viewings, negotiating offers, and guiding the sale through to completion.
Think of estate agents as salespeople for the property.
They represent the seller
Their aim is to achieve the best possible price and terms for their client
They typically work with multiple listings and buyers simultaneously
They only offer access to properties on their books
While they can be helpful to buyers during the process, their legal and financial duty is to the seller.
What Does a Property Sourcer or Buying Agent Do?
A property sourcer (also called a buying agent) works exclusively on behalf of the buyer. At 29Twelve, we act solely for clients who are purchasing, relocating, or investing.
Our role is to represent you—your goals, your budget, your lifestyle—and to remove the stress, guesswork, and time pressure from the buying process.
We:
Help define your brief
Carry out a full market search, including off-market and private listings
Preview and shortlist properties so you only view serious contenders
Handle negotiations on your behalf, ensuring you never overpay
Manage the entire process through to completion
Offer ongoing support, including vacant home management if needed
Unlike estate agents, we don’t sell properties. We find them—and fight for your best interests.
Why the Difference Matters
The key distinction is this:Estate agents are hired by the seller. We are hired by you.
That means:
Our advice is unbiased and focused on what’s right for you
We give you access to the whole market, not just what’s on Rightmove or Zoopla
We can identify off-market opportunities others never hear about
We negotiate fiercely on your behalf
And we’re by your side from the first conversation to the final key handover
29Twelve founder Nicky McConnachie viewing property for a relocating client in Scotland
Who Uses a Buying Agent?
Time-poor professionals and families relocating to Scotland
International buyers unfamiliar with the local market
Those looking for discretion or access to off-market property
Clients buying post-divorce or making a fresh start
Investors seeking strong long-term value
Why Choose 29Twelve?
29Twelve offers a boutique, independent property sourcing service tailored to buyers across Edinburgh and Scotland. Founded by Nicky McConnachie, our service is grounded in trust, discretion, and personal attention.
We’re here to help you find more than just a house—we help you find a home that supports your next chapter.
Ready to Make Your Move?
If you’re beginning your property search in Scotland and want expert guidance, personal service, and access to properties you won’t find online, we’d love to help.
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