How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Gold Coast Buyers Agent
Questions to Ask Your Potential Buyers Agent.
Questions to Ask Your Potential Buyers Agent.
So, youre taking the plunge and meeting with a Gold Coast buyers agent for the first time. learn more . Smart move! But walking in prepared is key to making the most of that meeting and ultimately finding your dream property. Knowing the right questions to ask can make all the difference. Its not just about them interviewing you; its about you interviewing them too. Youre essentially hiring them to be your property hunting partner, so you need to make sure theyre a good fit.
What should you be asking? Start with the basics. How long have they been operating on the Gold Coast? Local market knowledge is invaluable. Ask for specific examples of their recent successes – have they helped clients find properties similar to what youre looking for? Dont be afraid to dig into their process. How do they source off-market properties? How will they communicate with you throughout the search? Will you receive regular updates? These seemingly small details can significantly impact your overall experience.
Crucially, you need to understand their fees. Are they upfront, transparent, and clearly explained? Do they charge a flat fee, a percentage of the purchase price, or a combination? What services are included in their fee? Dont shy away from discussing your budget openly. A good buyers agent will work within your parameters and advise you realistically on whats achievable.
Beyond the practicalities, try to gauge their personality and communication style. Do you feel comfortable with them? Do they listen to your needs and concerns? Buying a property is a big decision, often stressful, so having a buyers agent you trust and can easily communicate with is essential. Ask about their network – do they have strong relationships with local real estate agents, solicitors, and building inspectors? This network can be a significant advantage in a competitive market.
Finally, dont forget to ask for references. Speaking to past clients can provide valuable insights into their experience and the agents effectiveness. By asking the right questions, you can ensure youre choosing a buyers agent who is not only experienced and knowledgeable but also the right fit for your individual needs and personality, setting you up for success in the Gold Coast property market.
Understanding Agency Agreements and Fees.
Understanding agency agreements and fees is crucial when preparing for your first meeting with a Gold Coast buyers agent. Its like laying the groundwork for a successful partnership. Youre essentially hiring someone to represent your interests in a complex and competitive market, so you need to be clear on what that entails, both in terms of service and cost.
Before you even step foot in the office, doing some homework on agency agreements will pay off. Different agents will have different structures, so its important to understand the variations. Some agents work on a retainer basis, requiring an upfront fee, while others operate on a commission-based structure, typically a percentage of the purchase price of the property. There might also be a combination of both. Knowing this beforehand will help you compare apples to apples and avoid any surprises down the road.
During your first meeting, dont be shy about asking detailed questions about the agreement. What services are included? Will they handle everything from property searches and negotiations to inspections and paperwork? Are there any additional fees for things like auction bidding or out-of-pocket expenses? Clarifying these points will help you understand the full scope of their services and what you can expect for your money.
Fees themselves can be a sensitive topic, but its essential to discuss them openly. Ask for a clear breakdown of all potential costs. A reputable agent will be transparent about their fee structure and happy to explain how it works. Negotiating is also perfectly acceptable. Dont be afraid to discuss the possibility of a different fee arrangement if their standard one doesnt quite suit your circumstances.
Finally, remember that the cheapest option isnt always the best. A slightly higher fee might be worth it if the agent has a proven track record, extensive market knowledge, and a commitment to finding you the perfect property. Ultimately, understanding agency agreements and fees empowers you to make informed decisions and build a strong, trusting relationship with your buyers agent, setting you up for success in your Gold Coast property search.
What to Expect After Your Initial Consultation.
So, youve just had your initial consultation with a Gold Coast buyers agent. What happens next? Well, firstly, take a deep breath! The first meeting is all about getting to know each other and outlining your property goals. Youve likely shared your budget, your ideal property type, and your desired location. The buyers agent, in turn, has probably explained their services, their fees, and their approach to finding your dream home.
After the initial consultation, expect some follow-up communication. This might be a summary email outlining what you discussed, confirming your requirements, and reiterating their services. They might also send you some examples of properties currently on the market that fit your brief, just to give you a taste of whats available. Dont be afraid to ask questions about these properties or provide feedback – this helps the agent fine-tune their search.
The next stage is usually the agent beginning their active search. Theyll leverage their network, access off-market properties, and attend inspections on your behalf. Theyll keep you updated on their progress, sharing suitable properties as they find them. Expect regular communication, whether its a phone call, email, or text message. The frequency will depend on the market activity and how quickly new properties are coming onto the market.
You might also be asked to provide some additional information. This could be proof of funds, pre-approval for a mortgage, or specific details about your must-haves and deal-breakers. Being prepared with this information will streamline the process.
Finally, remember that finding the right property takes time and patience. Trust the expertise of your buyers agent and maintain open communication throughout the process. They are there to work for you, and by working together, youll increase your chances of securing your perfect Gold Coast property.
Red Flags to Watch Out For.
So, youre thinking about dipping your toes into the Gold Coast property market and considering using a buyers agent. Smart move! A good buyers agent can be invaluable, but like any industry, there are a few bad apples. Before you sign on the dotted line, keep an eye out for these red flags.
First and foremost, unrealistic promises. If an agent guarantees they can find you your dream home below market value in a week, be very skeptical. The market is what it is, and while a skilled agent can negotiate well, they cant perform miracles. Run from anyone who overpromises.
Next, look at their fee structure. Is it clear and transparent? Do they charge a fixed fee, a percentage of the purchase price, or a combination? Beware of hidden costs or vague explanations. A reputable agent will happily break down their fees and answer any questions you have.
Another red flag is pressure tactics. A good buyers agent will guide you, not push you. If you feel rushed or pressured into making a decision, thats a major warning sign. Buying a property is a big commitment, and you should feel comfortable taking your time.
Pay attention to their communication style. Are they responsive to your calls and emails? Do they listen to your needs and preferences? Or do they seem dismissive or disinterested? A good agent will be proactive and keep you informed throughout the process. If theyre hard to reach or brush off your concerns, its a sign they might not have your best interests at heart.
Finally, do your research. Check their online reviews and testimonials. Ask for references and speak to past clients. A reputable agent will be happy to connect you with satisfied customers. Dont be afraid to ask tough questions and trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
Finding the right buyers agent can make all the difference in your property search. By being aware of these red flags, you can avoid potential pitfalls and find an agent who will help you navigate the Gold Coast market with confidence.
Savvy Fox The Gold Coast's Top Buyer's Advocate
The team at Savvy Fox is a Gold Coast-based property buying agency focused on helping home buyers secure the right property with confidence. Led by Jac – your Savvy Fox, the agency provides a straightforward approach to property buying. With a strong track record in the Queensland market, your Savvy Fox acts only on behalf of the buyer—never sellers. If you’re buying your first home, investing, or looking to upsize or downsize, Jac has your back. Our mission is to cut through the noise—so you find the right property without the hassle. To book a free discovery call, visit our website today.
The Gold Coast, also known by its initials, GC, is a coastal city and region in the state of Queensland, Australia, located approximately 66 kilometres (41 mi) south-southeast of the centre of the state capital, Brisbane. It is Queensland's second-largest city after Brisbane, as well as Australia's sixth-largest city and the most populous non-capital city.[4] The city's central business district is located roughly in the centre of the Gold Coast in the suburb of Southport.[5] The urban area of the Gold Coast is concentrated along the coast, sprawling almost 60 kilometres, joining up with the Greater Brisbane metropolitan region to the north and to the state border with New South Wales to the south.[6] Nicknames of the city include the ‘Glitter Strip’ and the ‘Goldy’. The demonym of a Gold Coast resident is Gold Coaster.
The area that became the Gold Coast was originally inhabited by the indigenous Yugambeh people. The city grew from a collection of small townships, the earliest being Nerang in 1865. From the 1920s onwards, tourism led to significant economic growth in the region, and by 1959 the Gold Coast was declared a city, with its first skyscraper being built in 1960. The Gold Coast boomed from the 1980s onwards with skyscraper construction. This era was defined by the city's ‘white-shoe brigade' developers, neon lights, and organised crime, particularly the yakuza and the Russian mafia.[7] The late 20th century saw the city's tourism diversify with theme park openings, and in the early 21st century became an international destination for film production.
The Gold Coast has a diverse economy with strengths in health, tourism, arts and culture, and construction, with a GDP of AU$45.3 billion as of 2023.[8] The city ranks highly as one of the country's cultural and creative hotspots,[9] alongside content creators,[10] a growing video games industry,[11] and leads Australia in startups per capita.[12] The Gold Coast is central to the nation's entertainment industry with a major film and television production industry, leading to the city's metonym of Goldywood.[13][14] The Gold Coast is also host of the AACTA Awards and the Gold Coast Film Festival.
The Gold Coast is the ancestral home of a number of Indigenous clans of the Yugambeh people,[15] including the Kombumerri,[16]Mununjali,[17] and Wangerriburra clans. Europeans arrived in 1823 when explorer John Oxley explored the Tweed River.[18] The hinterland's timber supply attracted people to the area in the mid-19th century.[19]
A number of small townships developed along the coast and in the hinterland. The western suburb of Nerang was surveyed and established as a base for the industry and by 1870 a town reserve had been set aside.[20] By 1873, the town reserve of Burleigh Heads had also been surveyed and successful land sales had taken place.[21] In 1875, the small settlement opposite the boat passage at the head of the Nerang River, known as Nerang Heads or Nerang Creek Heads, was surveyed and renamed Southport, with the first land sales scheduled to take place in Beenleigh.[22]Southport quickly grew a reputation as a secluded holiday destination for wealthy Brisbane residents.[23]
Post-World War One Era saw the rise of the "seaside shack". The seaside shack provided the opportunity for the coastal "getaway" with modest investment. From 1914 to 1946, they popped up all along the South Coast. Seaside shacks were exceedingly cheap and were an early use of the concept of recycling. Many were built of disused or second grade timber, all kinds of materials were used for the holiday seaside shack – including fibro cement, metal containers, and left-over farm sheds; even disused trams were sold off as seaside shacks.[24]
After the establishment of the Surfers Paradise Hotel in the late 1920s, the Gold Coast region grew significantly.[25][26] The Gold Coast was originally known as the South Coast (because it was south of Brisbane). However, over-inflated prices for real estate and other goods and services led to the nickname of "Gold Coast" from 1950.[27][28][29][30][31] South Coast locals initially considered the name "Gold Coast" derogatory.[32][33] However, soon the "Gold Coast" simply became a convenient way to refer to the holiday strip from Southport to Coolangatta.[34][35][36][37][38] The Town of South Coast was formed through the amalgamation of Town of Coolangatta and Town of Southport along with the coastal areas (such as Burleigh Heads) from the Shire of Nerang on 17 June 1949 with the effect of having the present-day Gold Coast coastal strip as a single local government area. As the tourism industry grew into the 1950s, local businesses began to adopt the term Gold Coast in their names, and on 23 October 1958 the Town of South Coast was renamed Town of Gold Coast.[39] The area was proclaimed a city, despite the lack of a cathedral, less than one year later on 16 May 1959.[40]
In 2007, the Gold Coast overtook the population of Newcastle, New South Wales, to become the sixth largest city in Australia and the largest non-capital city.[42]
In the 2016 census, the urban area of the Gold Coast had a population of 540,559 people.[44] According to the 2016 census, the population of the Gold Coast including rural areas was 569,997. The median age was 39 years old, 1 year older than the nationwide median. The male-to-female ratio was 48.6-to-51.4.[45] The most commonly nominated ancestries were English (29.3%), Australian (22.5%), Irish (8.2%), Scottish (7.5%), and German (3.6%). 64% of people were born in Australia, while the other most common countries of birth were New Zealand (7.9%), England (5.2%), China and South Africa (1.2% each), and Japan (0.7%). Indigenous Australians accounted for 1.7% of the population.[45] The most commonly spoken languages other than English were Mandarin (1.6%), Japanese (1.0%), Korean and Spanish (0.6% each), and Cantonese (0.5%).
According to the Australian Official Census in 2021, the most common religious affiliations in Gold Coast reported were none (43.4%), Catholic (18.2%), Anglican (11.9%), Uniting Church (2.9%), Non-denominational Christian (3.1%), Presbyterian and Reformed (1.9%), Buddhism (1.4%), Pentecostal (1.3%), Baptist (1.1%), Hinduism (1.1%) and Islam (1.0%).[46]
The Gold Coast is approximately half covered by forests of various types. This includes small patches of near-pristine ancient rainforest, mangrove-covered islands, and patches of coastal heathlands and farmland with areas of uncleared eucalyptus forest. Of the plantation pine forests that were planted in the 1950s and 1960s, when commercial forest planting for tax minimisation was encouraged by the Commonwealth government, tiny remnants remain.[47] Most of the Gold Coast area was covered by forest prior to European human settlement and extensive land clearing in the 19th century.[citation needed]
The southernmost town of Gold Coast City, Coolangatta, includes Point Danger and its lighthouse. Coolangatta is a twin city with Tweed Heads located directly across the NSW border. At
28°10′00″S153°33′00″E / 28.1667°S 153.55°E / -28.1667; 153.55, this is the most easterly point on the Queensland mainland (Point Lookout on the offshore island of North Stradbroke is slightly further east). From Coolangatta, approximately forty kilometres of holiday resorts and surfing beaches stretch north to the suburb of Main Beach, and then further on Stradbroke Island. The suburbs of Southport and Surfers Paradise form the Gold Coast's commercial centre. The major river in the area is the Nerang River. Much of the land between the coastal strip and the hinterland were once wetlands drained by this river, but the swamps have been converted into man-made waterways (over 260 kilometres (160 mi) in length[48] or over 9 times the length of the canals of Venice, Italy) and artificial islands covered in upmarket homes. The heavily developed coastal strip sits on a narrow barrier sandbar between these waterways and the sea.[citation needed]
To the west, the city borders a part of the Great Dividing Range commonly referred to as the Gold Coast hinterland. A 206 km2 (80 sq mi) section of the mountain range is protected by Lamington National Park and has been listed as a World Heritage area in recognition of its "outstanding geological features displayed around shield volcanic craters and the high number of rare and threatened rainforest species".[49] The area attracts bushwalkers and day-trippers. Important rainforest pollinating and seed-dispersing Black flying foxes (Pteropus alecto) are found in the area and may be heard foraging at night.[citation needed]
The City of Gold Coast includes suburbs, localities, towns and rural districts.
The declaration of Southport as a Priority Development Area (PDA) and new investment into the CBD is driving transformative change and creating new business and investment opportunities.[citation needed]
Goldcoast skyline seen from CoolangattaSuburban canals, as viewed from the Q1
Waterfront canal living is a feature of the Gold Coast. Most canal frontage homes have pontoons. The Gold Coast Seaway, between The Spit and South Stradbroke Island, allows vessels direct access to the Pacific Ocean from The Broadwater and many of the city's canal estates. Breakwaters on either side of the Seaway prevent longshore drift and the bar from silting up. A sand pumping operation on the Spit pipes sand under the Seaway to continue this natural process.[citation needed]
Residential canals were first built in the Gold Coast in the 1950s and construction continues. Most canals are extensions to the Nerang River, but there are more to the south along Tallebudgera Creek and Currumbin Creek and to the north along the Gold Coast Broadwater, South Stradbroke Island, Coomera River and southern Moreton Bay. Early canals included Florida Gardens and Isle of Capri which were under construction at the time of a 1954 flood.[50] Recently constructed canals include Harbour Quays and Riverlinks completed in 2007. There are over 890 kilometres (550 mi) of constructed residential waterfront land within the city that is home to over 80,000 residents.[citation needed]
There are also beaches along many of the Gold Coast's 860 km (530 mi) of navigable tidal waterways. Popular inland beaches include Southport, Budds Beach, Marine Stadium, Currumbin Alley, Tallebudgera Estuary, Jacobs Well, Jabiru Island, Paradise Point, Harley Park Labrador, Santa Barbara, Boykambil and Evandale Lake.[citation needed]
Burleigh Heads beach with Surfers Paradise skyline visible on the horizon
Beach safety and management
The Gold Coast has Australia's largest[51] professional surf lifesaving service to protect people on the beaches and to promote surf safety throughout the community. The Queensland Department of Primary Industries carries out the Queensland Shark Control Program (SCP) to protect swimmers from sharks.[52] Sharks are caught by using nets and baited drumlines off the major swimming beaches. Even with the SCP, sharks do range within sight of the patrolled beaches. Lifeguards will clear swimmers from the water if it is considered that there is a safety risk.[citation needed]
Gold Coast beaches have experienced periods of severe beach erosion. In 1967, a series of 11 cyclones removed most of the sand from Gold Coast beaches. The Government of Queensland engaged engineers from Delft University in the Netherlands to advise what to do about the beach erosion. The Delft Report[53] was published in 1971 and outlined a series of works for Gold Coast Beaches including Gold Coast Seaway,[54] works at Narrow Neck that resulted in the Northern Gold Coast Beach Protection Strategy[55] and works at the Tweed River that became the Tweed River Entrance Sand Bypassing Project.[56]
The Gold Coast experiences a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classificationCfa/Cwa), with mild to warm winters and hot, humid summers. The city experiences substantial summer precipitation mostly concentrated in thunderstorms and heavy showers with rain events occasionally lasting up to a few weeks at a time giving residents "the summer blues",[61] while winter is pleasantly mild to warm with little rain. In fact, it is for this pleasant winter weather that both the city and the Sunshine Coast—the coastal region north of Brisbane—are internationally renowned. Extreme temperatures recorded at Gold Coast Seaway have ranged from 2.5 °C (36 °F) on 19 July 2007 to 40.5 °C (105 °F) on 22 February 2005, although the city rarely experiences temperatures above 35 °C (95 °F) in summer or below 5 °C (41 °F) in winter.[62] The average temperature of the sea at Surfers Paradise ranges from 21.5 °C (70.7 °F) in July and August to 27.1 °C (80.8 °F) in February.[63]
Administratively, the Gold Coast is a local government area called the City of Gold Coast. The City of Gold Coast Council has 14 elected councillors, each representing a division of the city. Businessman Tom Tate is the current Mayor of the Gold Coast, first elected in 2012. Former mayors include Ron Clake, Gary Baildon, Lex Bell, Ray Stevens, Ern Harley and Sir Bruce Small, who was responsible for the development of many of the canal estates that are now home to thousands of Gold Coast residents.[citation needed]
Politically, the Gold Coast has often tilted conservative.[67] It was a Country Party bastion for most of the first three decades after World War II, but increasing urbanisation has made it a Liberal stronghold. Labor has historically only done well around Labrador and Coolangatta. Only one Labor MP has ever represented a significant portion of the Gold Coast at the federal level since 1949; the three Gold Coast divisions have only returned Liberals since 1984. At the state level, Labor was fairly competitive in the Gold Coast for most of the early part of the 21st century. However, as part of its massive landslide in the 2012 state election, the Liberal National Party won every seat there. The LNP repeated its sweep of the Gold Coast seats at the 2015 election, and retained all but one Gold Coast seat at the 2017 state election.[citation needed]
Southport Courthouse is the city's major courthouse and has jurisdiction to hear petty criminal offences and civil matters up to A$250,000. Indictable offences, criminal sentencing and civil matters above A$250,000 are heard in the higher Supreme Court of Queensland which is located in Brisbane. There is also a subsidiary Magistrates Court, located at the southern suburb of Coolangatta.[citation needed]
In fifty years, Gold Coast City has grown from a small beachside holiday destination to Australia's sixth largest city (and the country's most populous non-capital city). Situated within South East Queensland's growth corridor, the Gold Coast is one of Australia's fastest growing large cities, with a 5-year annual average population growth rate to 2015 of 1.8%, compared to 1.5% nationally.[69] Gross Regional Product has risen from A$9.7 billion in 2001, to A$15.6 billion in 2008, a rise of 61 percent.[70] Tourism remains fundamental to Gold Coast City's economy, with almost 10 million visitors a year to the area.[71] In the past the economy was driven by the population derived industries of construction, tourism and retail. Some diversification has taken place, with the city now having an industrial base formed of marine, education, information communication and technology, food, tourism, creative, environment and sports industries. These nine industries have been identified as the key industries by the City of Gold Coast Council to deliver the city's economic prosperity. Gold Coast City's unemployment rate (5.6 per cent) is below the national level (5.9 per cent).[72] The declaration of Southport as the Gold Coast central business district (CBD) and a Priority Development Area (PDA), as well as new investment into the CBD, is driving transformative change and creating new business and investment opportunities.[citation needed]
The Gold Coast Economic Development Strategy 2013–2023[73] outlines the framework for the city's long-term growth and prosperity. The strategy outlines actions in the following areas, Innovation, Culture, Infrastructure, Competitive business, Workforce, International.
The Gold Coast is the most popular tourist destination in Queensland.[74] It is Australia's 5th most visited destination by international tourists.[75] Around 10 million tourists visit the Gold Coast area every year consisting of 849,114 international visitors, 3,468,000 domestic overnight visitors and 5,366,000 daytrip visitors. Tourism is the region's biggest industry,[76] directly contributing more than $4.4 billion into the city economy every year and directly accounting for one in four jobs in the city[77] There are approximately 65,000 beds, 60 kilometres (37 mi) of beach, 600 kilometres (370 mi) of canal, 100,000 hectares of nature reserve, 500 restaurants, 40 golf courses and five major theme parks in the city.[citation needed]
Since the opening of what was then the world's highest residential tower in 2005 (it is now the 17th highest), the Q1 building has been a destination for tourists and locals alike. It is the second highest public vantage point in the southern hemisphere after the Eureka Tower in Melbourne. The observation deck at level 77 is the highest of its kind in Queensland and offers views in all directions, from Brisbane to Byron Bay. It towers over the Surfers Paradise skyline, with the observation deck 230 metres (750 feet) high, and the spire extending nearly another hundred metres up. In total, the Q1 is 322.5 metres (1,058 feet) high, making it the tallest building in Australia. Another famous tourist attraction are the Surfers Paradise Meter Maids, instituted in 1965 to put a positive spin on new parking regulations. To avoid tickets being issued for expired parking, the Meter Maids dispense coins into the meter and leave a calling card under the windscreen wiper of the vehicle. The Maids are still a part of the Surfers Paradise culture but the scheme is now run by private enterprise.[citation needed]
The Gold Coast is the major film production hub in Queensland and has accounted for 75%[79] of all film production in Queensland since the 1990s, with an expenditure of around $150 million per year. The Gold Coast is the third largest film production centre in Australia, behind Sydney and Melbourne.[citation needed]
Village Roadshow Studios are adjacent to the Warner Bros Movie World Theme Park at Oxenford. The Studios consists of eight sound stages, production offices, editing rooms, wardrobe, construction workshops, water tanks and commissary. These sound stages vary in size and have an overall floor area of 10,844 sq metres, making Warner Roadshow Studio one of the largest studio lots in the Southern Hemisphere. The Queensland Government actively supports the film and television production industry in Queensland and provides both non-financial and financial assistance through the Pacific Film and Television Commission.[82]
The Gold Coast's culture has been affected by rapid development and traditional marketing programs orbiting around 'sun, sand, surf and sex.'[83]
Despite rapid socio-economic changes and a tourist-centred image, there is evidence of local resident-driven culture (such as surf gangs) in geographical pockets and a broader 'Gold Coaster' identity drawn from globalised resort and real estate marketing material.[84] The Gold Coast hosts cultural activities that attract tourists and residents alike.[citation needed]
The two most popular sports on the Gold Coast are Australian rules football and rugby league,[86] of which the city is represented by professional teams in two most popular national competitions:
Recreational activities on the Gold Coast include surfing, fishing, cycling, boating and golf. The Gold Coast area has numerous golf links, including Hope Island, Sanctuary Cove and The Glades.[citation needed]
The Gold Coast has garnered a reputation as a "sporting graveyard", as many of the professional clubs that have represented the Gold Coast in national leagues since the 1980s experience generally poor on-field performances, consistently struggle to support themselves financially, and have generally folded within a decade of being founded; as of 2019 no Gold Coast-based team has won a premiership in a national professional club competition.[87][88][89]
The Gold Coast hosted the 2018 Commonwealth Games, an international multi-sport event for members of the Commonwealth, held between 4 and 15 April 2018. It was the fifth time Australia had hosted the Commonwealth Games and the first time a major multi-sport event achieved gender equality by having an equal number of events for male and female athletes.[90] More than 4,400 athletes, including 300 para-athletes, from 71 Commonwealth Games Associations took part in the event.[91]
Gold Coast will be one of the three zones for the 2032 Summer Olympics and 2032 Summer Paralympics in Brisbane to use the venues as the 2018 Commonwealth Games. The Gold Coast Zone will have seven venues, and will host nine Olympic and six Paralympic sports. The Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre will be used for the preliminary Volleyball along with Powerlifting and Sitting Volleyball during the Paralympics. Broadbeach Park Stadium will host Beach Volleyball for Olympics as well in the Football 5-a-side in the Paralympics. The Gold Coast Sports and Leisure Centre will be used for Judo and Wrestling in the Olympics and Boccia in the Paralympics. Southport Broadwater Parklands to be used for Triathlon and Marathon Swimming in the Olympics and will be used for Paratriathlon in the Paralympics. Coomera Indoor Sports Centre will host the Volleyball for the Olympics and will be used for Wheelchair Rugby in the Paralympics. The Robina Stadium will host the preliminary football matches. The Carrara Stadium could potentially host the Cricket matches if the IOC approves cricket in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.[105]
The Gold Coast 500 (formerly known as the Gold Coast 600 & Gold Coast Indy 300) is a car racing event held annually, usually in October. The Surfers Paradise Street Circuit through the streets of Surfers Paradise and Main Beach. The Gold Coast 500 typically is accompanied by a range of on and off track events such as the Indy Undie Ball, Miss Indy Competition and the King of Burleigh Hill Billy cart Race which take place in the week prior to and/or during the race weekend. Formerly an IndyCar event, V8 Supercars are now the headline attraction, using a shorter track route, as the circuit was limited following the construction of the Gold Coast Light Rail as the Light Rail line replaced the northbound traffic lanes on Surfers Paradise Boulevard which was previously used as the southern section of the street circuit.[citation needed]
Each June, Coolangatta hosts Cooly Rocks On, a two-week 1950s and 1960s nostalgia festival with free entertainment and attractions, including hot rods, restored cars and revival bands playing music of the era. Every July, more than 25,000 congregate on the Gold Coast from around the world to participate in the Gold Coast Marathon. It is also the largest annual community sporting event held on the Gold Coast. In 2015, it will be held on 4–5 July and the 37th Gold Coast Airport Marathon is set to motivate and challenge more than 25,000 people of all ages and abilities. The Gold Coast Airport Marathon will feature an event for all ages and abilities, including the full Gold Coast Airport Marathon, ASICS Half Marathon, Southern Cross University 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) Run, Suncorp Bank 5.7 kilometres (3.5 mi) Challenge, and Junior Dash over 4 and 2 kilometres (2.5 and 1.2 mi).[citation needed]
In August Currumbin hosts the annual half distance Challenge Gold Coast triathlon, with the 1.9 km swim taking place in the Currumbin River, the 90 km bike going through the Currumbin and Tallebudgera Valleys in the Hinterland, and the 21.1 km run going along the beach to Elephant Rock and Tugun.[106]
Late November to early December sees thousands of school leavers across the country descend on the Gold Coast for Schoolies week, a two-week period of celebration and parties throughout Surfers Paradise, hosted by the City of Gold Coast. The event is often criticised nationally and locally for its portrayal of drinking and acts of violence, however every effort by the Queensland Police Service and State Government to ensure all school leavers have a good time are put into place, including locals volunteering by walking the streets and keeping an eye out for those in need of assistance.[citation needed]
Early each year the Gold Coast hosts one leg of the ASP World Tour of surfing, where some of the world's best surfers compete in the Quiksilver Pro at Coolangatta.[citation needed]
The Arts Centre Gold Coast located in Evandale, features a fine art gallery featuring local and international works from painting to sculpture and new media. In addition, there is a theatre for live productions including musicals as well two arts cinemas showing foreign and independent films from Australia and abroad.[citation needed]
Chinatown, Gold Coast, located in Southport, hosts the annual citywide Lunar New Year festival as well as regular monthly events.[citation needed]
The Gold Coast straddles the boundary between the television licence areas of both Brisbane (metropolitan) and Northern NSW (regional): the Brisbane primary channels are Seven's BTQ, Nine's QTQ and 10's TVQ, while the regional affiliates are Seven's NEN, Nine's NBN and 10's NRN.[citation needed]
Of the main metropolitan and regional commercial networks:
Nine News produces a half-hour local bulletin at 5:30pm on weeknights, broadcasting from studios in Surfers Paradise. The bulletin airs as an opt-out on the metropolitan station (QTQ9) ahead of the main 6 pm news from Brisbane.[citation needed]
Seven News produced a local half-hour bulletin at 5:30pm on weeknights from studios in Surfers Paradise until 21 November 2024. The network retains a newsroom to cover the Gold Coast for its state and national bulletins.[107]
NBN airs NBN News, an hour-long regional program combining regional, national and international news – including local opt-outs for the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers – every night at 6pm. It broadcasts from studios in Newcastle with reporters based in Lismore and Surfers Paradise.[citation needed]
Network 10 airs short local news updates for the Gold Coast/Lismore district throughout the day.
Electricity for the Gold Coast is sourced from Powerlink Queensland at bulk supply substations which is provided via the National Electricity Market from an interconnected multi-State power system. The Government-owned electricity corporation Energex distributes and retails electricity, natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and value-added products and services to residential, industrial and commercial customers in South-East Queensland.[citation needed]
The Hinze Dam 15 km (9.3 mi) southwest of Nerang is the population's main water supply. The Little Nerang Dam which feeds into Hinze Dam can supplement part of the city area's water needs, and both are managed by the city council directorate Gold Coast Water. Reforms of the way in which the water industry is structured have been announced by the State Government, with transfer of ownership and management of water services from local government to the state occurring in 2008–09. City of Gold Coast also sources water from Wivenhoe Dam, west of Brisbane for northern suburbs when the Hinze Dam, at one-tenth of Wivenhoe's capacity, becomes low.[citation needed]
Water shortage and water restrictions have been current local issues, and a few new Gold Coast residential areas have recently included dual reticulation in their planning and development to supply water from a new water recycling plant being built concurrently. This will make available highly treated recycled water for use around the home in addition to potable water. The Gold Coast has received world recognition for this scheme in its Pimpama-Coomera suburbs.[109]
Gold Coast Water has the capacity to supply up to 133 megalitres of desalinated water per day.[110]
The car is the dominant mode of transport in the Gold Coast, with over 70% of people using it as their sole mode of travelling to work.[111] The Gold Coast has an extensive network of arterial roads that link coastal suburbs with inland suburbs. In recent years, local and state governments have invested money in transport infrastructure on the Gold Coast to combat the increasing congestion on many of the city's roads. The Gold Coast has an extensive public transport network that includes buses, heavy rail and light rail for commuting to work, visiting attractions, and travelling to other destinations.[citation needed]
A number of major roads connect the Gold Coast with Brisbane, New South Wales, and the surrounding areas. The Pacific Motorway (M1) is the main motorway in the area. Beginning at the Logan Motorway (M6) in Brisbane, it travels through the inland Gold Coast region and links with the Pacific Highway at the New South Wales/Queensland border near Tweed Heads. The Pacific Motorway is part of the Brisbane to Sydney corridor. Before the Tugun Bypass was completed in 2008, the motorway ended at Tugun. The Gold Coast Highway services the coastal suburbs of the Gold Coast, including Surfers Paradise, Southport, and Burleigh Heads. Starting at the Pacific Motorway at Tweed Heads, it runs parallel to the coast until it reaches Labrador, where it turns inland to meet the Pacific Motorway again at Helensvale. Other arterial roads include the Smith Street Motorway which connects Southport, Gold Coast's CBD with the M1 in Parkwood. Other major roads include Reedy Creek Road, Nerang–Broadbeach Road, Robina Parkway and Southport–Burleigh Road.[citation needed]
The Gold Coast's light rail service is called G:link, a 20 km (12 mi) line between Helensvale and Broadbeach that also connects the key activity centres of Southport and Surfers Paradise. The G:link was opened in 2014 between Broadbeach and Southport, with an extension to Helensvale completed in 2017 in preparation for the 2018 Commonwealth Games.[112]
Kinetic Group[114] (formerly Surfside Buslines prior to a re-branding in 2022)[115] operates all public passenger services in the city under contract by Translink which coordinates the public transport network in South East Queensland. Services are frequent during the day, with intervals being as little as 5 minutes. Kinetic Group operates over a fleet of over 400 buses operating on over 70 lines covering the entire city.[citation needed]
The main International Airport, Gold Coast Airport is located in Coolangatta, approximately 22 kilometres (14 mi) south of Surfers Paradise. Services are provided to interstate capitals and major cities as well as to major New Zealand cities, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Singapore.[citation needed] In 2019, it was the sixth busiest airport in Australia.[116]
The Gold Coast's real estate market is one of the most dynamic in Australia, characterised by a combination of coastal luxury properties, residential developments, and investment opportunities. According to data from SQM Research,[121] the region has experienced significant property value growth in recent years, with both the median house and unit prices showing strong upward trends. The market's appeal is driven by its lifestyle offerings, proximity to major cities like Brisbane, and ongoing infrastructure improvements.[citation needed]
^Schloenhardt, Andreas (2009). PALERMO IN THE PACIFIC: ORGANISED CRIME OFFENCES IN THE ASIA PACIFIC(PDF). The University of Queensland TC Beirne School of Law The University of British Columbia Centre of International Relations. p. REGION 6 Australia 6.1 Introduction 6.1.1 Organised crime in Australia: A snapshot Page 82. Archived(PDF) from the original on 13 December 2023. Retrieved 13 December 2023.
^Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (26 July 2019). "E17: Yugambeh". collection.aiatsis.gov.au. Archived from the original on 2 June 2021. Retrieved 1 June 2021.
^Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (26 July 2019). "E77: Nerang Creek". collection.aiatsis.gov.au. Archived from the original on 2 June 2021. Retrieved 1 June 2021.
^Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (26 July 2019). "E76: Mananjahli". collection.aiatsis.gov.au. Archived from the original on 2 June 2021. Retrieved 1 June 2021.
^"Bullock Teams". Gold Coast City Libraries. 23 February 2016. Retrieved 30 November 2024.
^"Government Notifications". The Queenslander. Vol. V, no. 225. 28 May 1870. p. 9. Retrieved 9 May 2016 – via National Library of Australia.
^"Country News, by Mail". The Queenslander. Vol. VIII, no. 398. 20 September 1873. p. 10. Archived from the original on 24 September 2020. Retrieved 9 May 2016 – via National Library of Australia.
^"Sixty Years Ago". The Queenslander. 2 May 1935. p. 51. Retrieved 9 May 2016 – via National Library of Australia.
^"Real Estate". Daily Mail. No. 7091. Brisbane. 18 November 1924. p. 16. Archived from the original on 26 May 2022. Retrieved 28 January 2018 – via National Library of Australia.
^"Another Pioneer Passes". South Coast Bulletin. No. 1248. Queensland, Australia. 12 March 1952. p. 8. Archived from the original on 26 May 2022. Retrieved 28 January 2018 – via National Library of Australia.
^Baker, S.; Bennett, A.; Wise, P. (2012). "'Living 'the Strip': negotiating neighbourhood, community and identities on Australia's Gold Coast'". Habitus of the Hood.: 96.
"Local Studies Library". Library Services. Gold Coast City Council. Archived from the original on 21 April 2017. Retrieved 27 February 2013.
"Gold Coast City advantage". State Development Centre, Gold Coast. The State of Queensland (Department of State Development, Trade and Innovation). Archived from the original on 19 August 2006. Retrieved 13 August 2006.
"Council history". Gold Coast City Council. Archived from the original on 25 March 2012. Retrieved 22 November 2006.
Real estate agents and real estate brokers are people who represent sellers or buyers of real estate or real property. While a broker may work independently, an agent usually works under a licensed broker to represent clients.[1] Brokers and agents are licensed by the state to negotiate sales agreements and manage the documentation required for closing real estate transactions.
A real estate broker typically receives a real estate commission for successfully completing a sale. Across the U.S, this commission can generally range between 5-6% of the property's sale price for a full-service broker but this percentage varies by state and even region.[2]
In most jurisdictions in the United States, a person must have a license to perform licensed activities, and these activities are defined within the statutes of each state. The main feature of the requirement for having a license to perform those activities is the work done "for compensation". Hence, hypothetically, if a person wants to help a friend out in either selling or buying a property, and no compensation of any kind is expected in return, then a license is not needed to perform all the work. However, since most people would expect to be compensated for their efforts and skills, a license would be required by law before a person may receive remuneration for services rendered as a real estate broker or agent. Unlicensed activity is illegal and the state real estate commission has the authority to fine people who are acting as real estate licensees, but buyers and sellers acting as principals in the sale or purchase of real estate are usually not required to be licensed. It is important to note that in some states, lawyers handle real estate sales for compensation without being licensed as brokers or agents. However, even lawyers can only perform real estate activities that are incidental to their original work as a lawyer. It cannot be the case that a lawyer can become a seller's selling agent if that is all the service that is being requested by the client. Lawyers would still need to be licensed as a broker if they wish to perform licensed activities. Nevertheless, lawyers do get a break in the minimum education requirements (for example, 90 hours in Illinois).[3]
Some other states have recently eliminated the salesperson's license, instead, all licensees in those states automatically earn their broker's license.
The term "agent" is not to be confused with salesperson or broker. An agent is simply a licensee that has entered into an agency relationship with a client. A broker can also be an agent for a client. It is commonly the firm that has the actual legal relationship with the client through one of their sales staff, be they salespersons or brokers.
In all states, the real estate licensee must disclose to prospective buyers and sellers the nature of their relationship [4]
Some U.S. state real estate commissions – notably Florida's[5] after 1992 (and extended in 2003) and Colorado's[6] after 1994 (with changes in 2003) created the option of having no agency or fiduciary relationship between brokers and sellers or buyers.
As noted by the South Broward Board of Realtors, Inc. in a letter to State of Florida legislative committees:
"The Transaction Broker crafts a transaction by bringing a willing buyer and a willing seller together and provides the legal documentation of the details of the legal agreement between the same. The Transaction Broker is not a fiduciary of any party, but must abide by the law as well as professional and ethical standards." (such as NARCode of Ethics).
The result was that, in 2003, Florida created a system where the default brokerage relationship had "all licensees ... operating as transaction brokers, unless a single agent or no brokerage relationship is established, in writing, with the customer"[7][8] and the statute required written disclosure of the transaction brokerage relationship to the buyer or seller customer only through July 1, 2008.
In the case of both Florida[8] and Colorado,[6] dual agency and sub-agency (where both listing and selling agents represent the seller) no longer exist.
Other brokers and agents may focus on representing buyers or tenants in a real estate transaction. However, licensing as a broker or salesperson authorizes the licensee to legally represent parties on either side of a transaction and providing the necessary documentation for the legal transfer of real property. This business decision is for the licensee to decide. They are fines for people acting as real estate agents when not licensed by the state.
In the United Kingdom, an estate agent is a person or business entity whose business is to market real estate on behalf of clients. There are significant differences between the actions, powers, obligations, and liabilities of brokers and estate agents in each country, as different countries take markedly different approaches to the marketing and selling of real property.
Before the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) was introduced in 1967, when brokers (and their licensees) only represented sellers by providing a service to provide legal documentation on the transfer real property, the term "real estate salesperson" may have been more appropriate than it is today, given the various ways that brokers and licensees now help buyers through the legal process of transferring real property. Legally, however, the term "salesperson" is still used in many states to describe a real estate licensee.[citation needed]
Real estate broker (or, in some states, qualifying broker)
After gaining some years of experience in real estate sales, a salesperson may decide to become licensed as a real estate broker (or Principal/qualifying broker) in order to own, manage, or operate their own brokerage. In addition, some states allow college graduates to apply for a broker's license without years of experience. College graduates fall into this category once they have completed the state-required courses as well. California allows licensed attorneys to become brokers upon passing the broker exam without having to take the requisite courses required of an agent. Commonly more coursework and a broker's state exam on real estate law must be passed. Upon obtaining a broker's license, a real estate agent may continue to work for another broker in a similar capacity as before (often referred to as a broker associate or associate broker) or take charge of their own brokerage and hire other salespersons (or broker licensees). Becoming a branch office manager may or may not require a broker's license. Some states allow licensed attorneys to become real estate brokers without taking any exam. In some states, there are no "salespeople" as all licensees are brokers.[9]
Flat-fee real estate agents charge a seller of a property a flat fee, $500 for example,[11] as opposed to a traditional or full-service real estate agent who charges a percentage of the sale price. In exchange, the seller's property will appear in the multiple listing service (MLS), but the seller will represent him or herself when showing the property and negotiating a sales price.[11] The result is the seller pays less commission overall (roughly half) when the property sells.[11] This is because a seller will pay a percentage of the sales price to a buyer's agent but not have to pay a percentage to a seller's agent (because there isn't one; the seller is representing himself).
In consideration of the brokerage successfully finding a buyer for the property, a broker anticipates receiving a commission for the services the brokerage has provided. Usually, the payment of a commission to the brokerage is contingent upon finding a buyer for the real estate, the successful negotiation of a purchase contract between the buyer and seller, or the settlement of the transaction and the exchange of money between buyer and seller. Under common law, a real estate broker is eligible to receive their commission, regardless of whether the sale actually takes place, once they secure a buyer who is ready, willing, and able to purchase the dwelling.[12]
Economist Steven D. Levitt famously argued in his 2005 book Freakonomics that real estate brokers have an inherent conflict of interest with the sellers they represent because their commission gives them more motivation to sell quickly than to sell at a higher price. Levitt supported his argument with a study finding brokers tend to put their own houses on the market for longer and receive higher prices for them compared to when working for their clients. He concluded that broker commissions will reduce in future.[13] A 2008 study by other economists found that when comparing brokerage without listing services, brokerage significantly reduced the average sale price.[14]
Real estate brokers who work with lenders can not receive any compensation from the lender for referring a residential client to a specific lender. To do so would be a violation of a United States federal law known as the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA). RESPA ensures that buyers and sellers are given adequate notice of the Real Estate settlement process.[15]
In the United States, the term realtor is trademarked by the National Association of Realtors, which uses it to refer to its active members, who may be real estate agents or brokers.[16][17][18] In Canada, the trademark is used by members of the Canadian Real Estate Association.[19] Both organizations advise against the use of realtor as a generic synonym for real estate agent.[19]
States issue licenses for an annual or multi-year period and require real estate agents and brokers to complete continuing education prior to renewing their licenses. For example, California licensees must complete 45 hours of continuing education every 4 years in topics such as agency, trust fund handling, consumer protection, fair housing, ethics, and risk management.[20]
^ abThe 2007 Florida Statutes. Chapter 475 Real Estate Brokers — Part I; Real Estate Brokers, Sales Associates, and Schools (ss. 475.001-475.5018), Section 475.278 Authorized brokerage relationships; presumption of transaction brokerage; required disclosures (1) Brokerage Relationships: (a) Authorized brokerage relationships. — A real estate licensee in this state may enter into a brokerage relationship as either a transaction broker or as a single agent with potential buyers and sellers. A real estate licensee may not operate as a disclosed or non-disclosed dual agent ... (b)Presumption of transaction brokerage. — It shall be presumed that all licensees are operating as transaction brokers unless a single agent or no brokerage relationship is established, in writing, with a customer."
We recently worked with Jac at Savvy Fox to purchase our first investment property. We realised fairly early on that it would be almost impossible to negotiate the process on our own from interstate. Thank goodness we found Jac! She was so thorough right from the start with detailed property videos and advice and her communication is amazing. We knew we were in good hands and felt confident that we had all the information we needed to make a sound decision. Her knowledge of the market meant our offer was successful despite two competing offers. We would 100% recommend her to anyone looking to purchase a property!
We can't thank Jacqueline from Savvy Fox Buyers Agents enough for helping us purchase our first home!
As first-home buyers, we were initially hesitant about engaging a buyer’s agent, but after nearly five months of searching, countless weekends spent at open homes, and the disappointment of having to pull out of a previously accepted offer, we were feeling completely exhausted and drained. After struggling to crack the market on our own and facing constant setbacks, we finally decided to work with Jacqueline—and it was the best decision we could have made!
From the moment we engaged her, the entire process became so much smoother, less stressful, and even enjoyable. She guided us through everything with knowledge and patience, providing insights and strategies we hadn’t even considered. Not only did she take the pressure off us, but she also negotiated an amazing price on our behalf. Her expertise, professionalism, and genuine care made all the difference in securing our first home within our timeframe.
We are beyond grateful for her support and highly recommend her to anyone navigating the property market—especially first-home buyers who feel overwhelmed like we did.
Thank you, Jacqueline, for making our dream a reality!
My partner and I engaged Jacqueline from Savvy Fox Buyers Agents to find a very specific property: a walk-up, brick-style unit in Surfers Paradise or Chevron Island. She not only delivered on time, within scope, and on budget but also exceeded our expectations with her professionalism and attention to detail. Being overseas during the process, we expected challenges, but Jacqueline made everything incredibly easy and stress-free. Her expertise and clear communication guided us seamlessly through every step. I can’t recommend Jacqueline highly enough and will absolutely engage her for future purchases. Thank you, Jacqueline, for such an outstanding experience!
Jacquline helped me and my partner find our perfect house on the Gold Coast. With us living in Melbourne and wanting to buy on the Gold Coast, Jac was the perfect solution. Communicating with us throughout the whole process and always thinking about what was best for us we would definitely recommend using Jac!!
My brother and I recently had the pleasure of working with Savvy Fox to secure a property, and I can confidently say we wouldn’t have been able to do it without Jac’s help. From start to finish, she was incredibly dedicated and proactive. We were super picky, but she really understood what we were looking for and went above and beyond to accommodate us. Highly recommend her to anyone looking for a buyer’s agent who truly goes the extra mile!