Should I use a buyer's agent?

[Harry Mishkin]

I've bought homes for myself in the past, so I am not totally clueless.  I am just starting to actively look for my 1st 2-4 unit mf and have found a listing I'd like to pursue.  I know a buyer's agent whom I trust.  But are there advantages to dealing with the selling agent directly?  For example, would the fact that they do not have to split the commission make an agent more likely to encourage an owner to accept a lower offer than if a buyer's agent were involved?

[Aaron Vergason]

@Jeffery Waicak I have noticed that even "my agent" is really just trying to get a deal done. Instead of representing me, they represent the deal. Because of this I don't really mind using the selling agent. If you pay your buyer agent yourself extra for his negotiating skills or their eyes that's one thing, but agents typically get paid by the seller so they are working for their person paying them.