How to compesate realtor buying from owner??

[Lindsey Vargas]

I’ve been using a realtor who has shown me 5 properties and sent my listings for the past month. I might have found a deal where I can buy directly from a seller and not use my agent.

How do I do this professionally and maintain a relationship with my realtor? Would a nice gift card to a restaurant suffice? Should I write him a check? I feel like I wasted his time and don’t know how to tell him if I don’t need him anymore.

Real estate agents or someone who has been in this position.....advice?