Do agents have ANY role in a non-mms purchase?

[Miles Stanley]

If making an offer directly to a homeowner/seller, do realtors have any role in this process if the property is not listed on the MLS? Can they still be retained to assist with the contract, offer, and closing process? Part of my acquisition strategy involves marketing directly to the homeowners and I read everywhere on BP that having a solid agent in your corner is key (for seemingly everything) although not required to transact RE purchases in Texas … I'm just having trouble seeing their role in this particular strategy. I'm interested in SFR buy and hold. Having not purchased my first property yet, I'm getting a little discouraged bc I want to move forward and begin making offers, just not quite sure where an agent fits here. Thanks