Do I still need my realtor?

[Markus Powell]

Good morning,

Earlier this year I decided that I wanted to buy my first place. I met with a family friend who is a realtor and he started to show us homes. For one reason or another, we didn't go with any of the homes he showed us. I have since discovered Redfin and I love that I can browse homes at my own convenience without feeling like I'm wasting my realtors time.  I have already booked a few showings.

Although my realtor has put in some work for me (showing homes, meeting in person) now it seems that I'm doing all the research myself.  

What should I expect from a realtor not that I have been educating myself via BP?

Do I still need a REI? Or should I just use a Redfin agent?

Thanks 

MP