“Every time it's a non-connect with a property, we get sharper with where we're heading,” says Tonya Davidson, founder of Davidson Property Advocates.
Most buyers don’t have the time, experience or emotional detachment to interpret what their responses actually mean.
“I really try and get feedback - 'Tell me exactly what you didn’t like about this property.' And it always unveils additional information.”
"More light, greater privacy, better flow between rooms, a quieter street."
This process, repeated across multiple properties, gradually uncovers what the buyer values most — often things they hadn’t thought to write down in the original brief.
From ‘Want’ to ‘Need’
Preferences can shift because real-world context forces a re-evaluation.
“We try to align the brief with the market and make sure it’s realistic. And then when a property comes up that ticks those boxes, we’re ready to act.”
This role is especially important in markets like Melbourne’s inner suburbs, where price pressures and limited stock mean buyers can’t afford to waste time chasing ill-fitting properties.
Bridging Emotion with Logic
Tonya doesn’t discount emotion.
“You’re not going to get 100 percent unless you build it yourself.”
Instead, the job is to help clients find the 80 or 90 percent property — the one that fits their life, not just their list.
“Sometimes people will say they want four bedrooms in a certain area, but their budget only supports three.
"We help them see that maybe what they really want is a large third bedroom that can double as a study.”
From Checklists to Clarity
“It’s not about chasing the dream brief," Tonya says.
"It’s about understanding your lifestyle, your budget, and how a property will work for you over time.”
Buyer clarity is a competitive advantage — and a buyer’s advocate is the person who brings it into focus.
