In July 2006, my wife and I decided to purchase an investment property in Brisbane as the market was a little too hot for us in Perth.  After a couple of months surfing the Internet and sifting through interstate papers we found a property that looked OK.  Not being familiar with the area and wanting to get some spacial perspective, we had a look on Google Earth and noticed our intended property appeared to line up with the runway at Brisbane airport.  A quick call to a competing Real Estate Agent in the area confirmed our suspicions, advising the planes pass over low and often.  We discussed the difficulty of purchasing an investment property on the other side of the country - time off work, the expense of flights, accommodation, hire car etc. having only a limited time to assess the local market and make a hasty decision on the available stock during that time.  The agent suggested we use a Buyer's Agent.  My initial reaction was, I assume like most people, 'A what?'.  After a brief explanation she gave me Ben's contact details.

From the first contact I was sold, although admittedly I was initially a little shocked at the cost, I soon realised that the service was worth every cent and potentially saved me tens of thousands.  Having purchased a few investment properties in the past, I thought I had a fair idea of what I was after in the area.  Ben soon set me straight on the what, where and why, demonstrating that he knows the area inside and out.  I wasn't in a hurry and my only condition to Ben was that he save me the equivalent of his costs.  It took a couple of months but I was very satisfied with the results, a solid investment property in a good location with plenty of potential for growth.  Ben provided thorough and professional end to end service.  With his contacts in the finance brokerage, conveyancing, building inspection, and property management areas the purchasing experience was virtually hassle free.  The only minor glitch was ironed out very quickly with Ben's assistance. 
 
I would recommend using a Buyers Agent to anyone considering purchasing a property interstate - you simply can't put a price on having someone with your interests (and their reputation) in mind, actively working for you on the ground.  If you're looking in Queensland - I unreservedly recommend using Ben and YPS.