Just getting started. Do I honestly need a real estate agent?

[AQui Mizrahi]

I'm just starting out.  I'm considering a local single family home to rent out as an investment.  Do I need a realtor to do this?  Why would I want to sign a buyers agreement and disclosures?

[Mindy Jensen]

@AQui Mizrahi, the way commissions are typically set up, the SELLER pays everything to their agent, and their agent splits it with the buyer's agent. 

You should absolutely have an agent representing your interests in any transaction - especially if you're new to investing. This is an enormous purchase, and the Colorado Contract to Buy and Sell Real Estate is 17 pages long, small type, written completely in legalese. If you aren't fluent, you'll miss things.