Using Real Estate Agents?

[Christine M.]

Do most investors use real estate agents when locating property to buy?

(Background: I am planning to buy some properties for lease options - and want to know if I should avoid working w/ agents. I understand that their commission is typically factored into the final sales price.)

** As an investor, do you typically use a real estate agent to help you buy property?

** If I buy a property that's currently listed w/ an agent, will the listing agent receive a commission if I buy the property on my own (i.e. if I am NOT being represented by a buyer's agent)?

[Don Konipol]

Your focus should be on the deal, not on the method of marketing the seller is using. Too many people make a successful purchase using one method, and then work that method to the exclusion of all others.

Good deals can be obtained through brokers, by referral through attorneys, sales by owners, foreclosure sales, probate, auctions or any of a variety of other methods. Why restrict yourself from a large part of the market?