What's your view on the pros/cons of using real estate agents?

[Kyle Van der Zyden]

Hey everyone, 

I've been following this forum for a little while and doing some research while looking at properties in hopes of starting to build my real estate portfolio. Doing this has got me thinking about how the whole process works, and how little it has changed over time (e.g. commission structure, use of technology, etc.). I was curious to get some input from people that are involved in the industry on both the investor and agent side. What would you say are the pros and cons of using agents to buy or sell? Why do you think the industry hasn't adapted/been disturbed as technology has become more widely used? If you were able to find technological tools to help you buy/sell/search for properties, would this change how you view the services that agents provide? Are there any aspects of the process that you think agents offer particular value in and could not be replaced? I'd be curious to get your opinions.

Much appreciated,

Kyle