: Expert agents often provide "walkability scores," school ratings, and info on local amenities that aren't always obvious online. The DIY Stories: When Going Alone Paid Off
: Another buyer used their agent to force a seller to pay for roof repairs and credit them for missing curtain rods discovered right before closing. should i use a realtor to buy
: For those who have already found the house and just need a contract, hiring a real estate attorney can sometimes be cheaper than a standard commission-based agent. : Expert agents often provide "walkability scores," school
: A couple purchasing a second home opted not to use an agent and successfully negotiated 3% off the listing price because the seller didn't have to pay a buyer's commission. : A couple purchasing a second home opted
Some buyers prefer to handle the process themselves, often to leverage the commission as a bargaining chip.
: Experienced buyers sometimes find they can move faster by working directly with the listing agent, who may be more motivated to close the deal if they are receiving the "double commission".
The decision to use a realtor often hinges on whether you value over potential commission savings . While roughly 88% of homebuyers use an agent, stories of success and frustration exist on both sides. The Success Stories: When an Agent Saves the Day