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?

[Harry Mishkin]

Thanks for getting back to me, John. So I really don't need a buyer's agent. I just need to go online and figure FMV from recent sales. I guess that art is figuring an FMV, and -I imagine- that comes from looking at enough recent sales.

[Jeffery Waicak]

it's a tough one. I prefer to have my buyer's agent because she has a good set of eyes. It's not a real house inspection, but she does usually point out stuff I missed.  On the other hand, I know that some seller agents, one in particular that deals in bank owned,  will make it harder to buy when he's not on both sides of the deal. So I guess it's up to you. I think you would  probably do better going straight to the listing agent,  but I personally like someone on my side

[Aaron Vergason]

Originally posted by @Account Closed:

Harry,

A seller's agent will try to get their client top dollar for the property and the chances if you submit a low-ball offer you want get the property. Offer FMV and close the deal.

Hey John,

Why would you offer full market value on a property? 

[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. 

[Harry Mishkin]

Jeffery,

Thanks for mentioning bank-owned deal because that's probably what the first listing I looked at is.  "Cash only, must close in 30 days."  This will be good homework for me as I know that I can find out in public records -Registry of Deeds- but I'd welcome any feedback.

In particular, I would need a partner to come up  with a cash offer.  

As I mentioned, I'm a newbie here on BP, so all advice is welcome.