Cutting out real estate agent

[Donald M.]

Typically how I work with my agent is that I do Internet searches and then e-mail my agent the properties I'm interested in seeing, he sets up appointments, and we see them. That way I pre-screen all properties for my specific requirements. I made a short sale offer with him on one of these properties, but the bank ended up foreclosing.

With some research, I found out the bank involved, called them, and was put in contact with the new listing agent of 1 day. I told him I was interested in placing an offer and he asked me if I would be doing it with him or with an agent. Obviously he stands to gain if I work directly with him. Now I did all of the research on the property, called the bank, found the new agent. By cutting my real estate agent out, couldn't I be making more money since this new agent would typically get double the commission and I could negotiate into this? On the other hand, my agent has been driving me to places the past several months. Would it be unethical for me to leave him and close on the property by myself?

I don't know if I'm being foolish for working with my old agent, but on the other hand, am I like one of those miscreants who only cares for himself/herself if I didn't involve him in the deal?