Buying off market without a realtor

[Catherine Dabrowski]

I have an opportunity to buy a single family home in a neighborhood I would love to live in. The sellers would prefer not to involve realtors (to save money). They would like for me to come see the property, make an offer and if accepted have me to the leg work to buy the property. I have an idea of comps for the area and a general range of $/sq ft based on condition. When I meet with them, trying to align myself with them and understand what their motivations are. 
I’ve done some research regarding what presenting an offer and all the steps through closing would entail, but I am curious to know for those of you who have been through this process- what pitfalls to avoid, issues you’ve run into, tips on things to think about that may not be obvious?