Should I use my real estate agent?

[Chelsey Hamill]

My real estate agent has been sending me listings for my first investment property. I haven't been interested in anything she has sent me, but I found an offer on Craigslist outside of town. It's for sale by owner, so do I contact my agent about it? Does the seller still pay the agent, even if they are not using one on their side?

[Steve Vaughan]

I would first contact the owner and see the property.  Get a gauge for how set they are for or against an agent.  Most FSBOs who are willing to work with a buyer's agent will say so in their ad.  

A good agent (especially if you are new and inexperienced) can be well worth the 3%.  A so-so agent that only asks you what you think is worth nothing.  What do you think I should offer?  I don't know, what do you want to offer?  No. You need someone who will pull comps and give you a recommendation.  You will probably be paying them out of your own pocket outright or with less room for price negotiations so make sure they are worth it @Chelsey Hamill!