DO HOME BUYERS NEED A REALTOR is one of the most asked questions I get from a buyer. Not a difficult question to answer.
Buyers usually do not directly pay the Realtor. When you are buying a home not using a Realtor has so many pitfalls. First, if you are looking at a property listed on the Northern Kentucky or Greater Cincinnati Multiple Listing Services, the seller listed the property building in a fee for the buyer's agent.
Buyers often think they have to pay the Realtor from their own funds. Whereas they CAN do this, it is usually not done that way.
Most homes for sale are listed in the MLS. Another reason buyers need a Realtor, most homes are listed for sale in a multiple listing service, when you are looking for a home, that is where you most likely are going to find it. These homes are sold by Realtors, not often by the listing Realtor, but a co operating Realtor.
You can buy a "for sale by owner" home without a Realtor, that is a whole different topic. Many "for sale by owner" home owners are willing to co operate with your Realtor acting as your agent.
Realtors can help with the decision. Not only do I recommend buyers use a Realtor, but they should select a Realtor as early on as they are comfortable doing so. I'm not saying pick the first one you speak to, however, think about it, when you are working with one Realtor and see 10 homes, that Realtor has seen all 10 homes with you. When it is time to make a decision, he/she will be in a position to actually help you with that process.
A Realtor representing a buyer in a transaction can be priceless. Take your time and select the Realtor you think works the best with and for you. Ask friends and business associates for recommendations. I would highly recommend a buyer pick a Realtor before they make that first phone call on a property. Home buying is a multi step process - arrange your financing, then locate a Realtor who will work for you.
Here is a link that discusses the use of a Realtor as well as some other home buying tips. http://www.dagriffinfinancial.com/hb/understanding.rad
