This month we are excited to feature Zoran Solano, Managing Director of Hot Property Buyers Agency. Zoran bought his first property as a teenager and has built his career around helping others take confident steps into the market.
With years of experience and a reputation as one of Queensland’s leading buyer’s agents, Zoran has guided countless clients through the process of finding and securing the right property. He is also Vice President of the Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia and co-author of Hot Property: A Guide for Investors. Known for his down-to-earth approach, Zoran is passionate about guiding buyers through every step of the process and making sure they enter the market with confidence.
1. With Brisbane prices continuing to climb, how are you helping buyers compete without overpaying in this market?
We start by building what I call an A grade buyer profile. That means having finance pre-approval locked in, setting a clear ceiling price and cash position, and lining up the due diligence team early with a solicitor, building and pest, and any other consultants. This allows us to move quickly and write offers that are competitive not only on price but also on clean terms and conditions, which often beat a higher number. The profile and ceiling keep everyone disciplined so we do not overpay.
2. Are you seeing more interstate or local buyers in Brisbane right now and how is that shaping competition?
Locals are leading the charge across south-east Queensland. The busiest groups are first-home buyers, often with early inheritance or parental equity, and downsizers looking for lower-maintenance homes. Interstate enquiry is steady, but most of the competition at open homes and the buyers acting fast are locals.
3. What are your thoughts on the current state of off-market opportunities in Brisbane?
Off-market does not automatically mean better. On-market sellers are often more realistic on price because they get live feedback from buyers. Off-market can mean less competition, but it can also mean vendors who are not in step with the market. When the price, motivation and timing align, off-market deals can be great, but we never treat off-market as a strategy in itself.
4. How has your approach changed in 2025 when it comes to inspections, due diligence or negotiation?
Pace is patchy. In some areas and price points, it is red hot, and inspections, checks and offers need to be lightning fast. In others, agents are taking two or three weeks to surface the right offer. We have formalised a pre-inspection due diligence screening checklist so we only inspect properties with genuine potential. It keeps Saturdays focused and is a great tip for buyers doing it themselves to avoid fatigue in a low-stock market.
5. What common mistakes are you seeing buyers make that could cost them in the long run?
Low-balling. There is a difference between testing the water and wasting time. Early on, some buyers go too conservative, submitting offers well below guidance or shopping beneath their pre-approval to try to save money. In a rising market, that approach pushes them behind the curve. The key is to get market-fit quickly, know your ceiling, use real comparables and leverage clean terms. Working with a professional buyer’s agent delivers instant market knowledge and discipline.
Zoran’s advice is a reminder that in a competitive market, preparation and strategy make all the difference. Having the right team around you and a clear plan can help buyers avoid costly mistakes and secure the right property with confidence.
