When buying a For Sale By Owner, should you still use a Realtor ?

[David R.]

If buying an investment property that is FSBO, is it worth the extra 3% to have a realtor involved as opposed to simply a lawyer ? Likely this depends on the complexity of the property, but this one is a 2 unit 130k not too fancy property is in small town.

[Steve Vaughan]

If I was new I'd definitely obtain a quality buyers agent and compensate them myself. 2% instead of 3% probably unless they want to spend 6 weekends driving me around like a typical buyer.

A lot of FSBOs have blind fear of realtors, so ensure them you are paying for it. 

The agent will have market knowledge and contacts for inspectors, title co, tradesmen, etc.  Also won't hurt having a relationship with a good one that may bring you future deals.