In tightly held coastal towns like Byron Bay, Bangalow, Lennox Head and Kingscliff, many of the best homes are sold before they even appear online.

In this climate, working with a buyers' advocate has become less of a luxury and more of a necessity.

Nick Goldsbrough-Reardon, Director and Buyers Advocate at Compass, says buyers today need more than enthusiasm and a view.com.au alert.

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"In high-demand areas, the best properties are often sold before they're listed," he explains. "A buyers' advocate gives clients access, speed, and strategic advice that helps them avoid costly mistakes and beat the competition."

A common misconception among buyers, Goldsbrough-Reardon notes, is that they can simply watch the major portals and wait for the right property to appear. But the reality is that standout homes are often sold off-market, or snapped up within days.

More critically, many buyers are unaware of zoning risks, flood and bushfire overlays, or planning restrictions, which can turn a dream home into a liability or lemon.

"It's not just about finding a home," he says. "It's about knowing what you're buying, and what you're not."

One of the biggest advantages of working with a buyers' advocate is access to off-market properties. Compass has built long-standing relationships with selling agents, developers and local vendors across the Northern Rivers and Tweed Coast.

"We're often offered properties before they launch publicly," Goldsbrough-Reardon says. "And we proactively approach homeowners whose properties match our clients' briefs."

This behind-the-scenes access can make all the difference, especially when demand outpaces supply.

"Getting A-Grade stock before it is listed online can be the difference between settling for something that is available or securing your 10/10 dream home," he says.

A recent success story illustrates just how effective this can be.

Goldsbrough-Reardon worked with a Sydney-based client seeking a secluded beachfront home in Pottsville. The property was secured 100 percent off-market.

Compass managed all the due diligence, including navigating flood zoning concerns, negotiating favourable terms, and finalising the purchase privately. The entire deal was wrapped up within 72 hours of the initial inspection, well ahead of several other interested buyers.

What sets Compass apart from other agencies is not just its access to listings, but its commitment to full-service representation. The firm has a dedicated team of four agents and two support staff, with deep local knowledge and a full-time office in the region. They work seven days a week, maintain strong trust with local agents, and tailor strategies for each client's unique goals.

"These aren't just transactions, they're long-term investments in lifestyle and wealth," Goldsbrough-Reardon says.

"We act with discretion and integrity, and that earns us the trust of vendors and agents, which in turn benefits our clients."

In today's market, speed, strategy and insight are just as important as budget. With rising competition and a growing number of homes selling off-market, having a buyers' advocate who understands the local dynamics, and can move quickly, is a clear advantage.

Goldsbrough-Reardon puts it plainly: "Time and information are your most powerful tools in this market. A good buyers' advocate makes sure you're the first to know and the best prepared to act."