This is the person hired to help a buyer find and acquire an aircraft. Think of them like a buyer’s bodyguard—they protect their client’s wallet, time, and sanity. The buyer rep isn’t just out there to find planes. They’re responsible for guiding the entire acquisition process: understanding the mission, budget, ideal specs, aircraft class, and matching it all with real options on (and off) the market.
A good buyer rep:
- Understands market pricing and inventory
- Has access to off-market aircraft
- Helps navigate pre-purchase inspections and maintenance records
- Negotiates like their client’s money depends on it (because it does)
Buyer reps work exclusively for the buyer. They usually charge a flat fee, hourly rate, or percentage commission—but it’s paid by the buyer, not the seller. That distinction matters.