do I need an agent?

[Jarek L.]

Hello

I'm new to this forum. I've reading many post in the last 2 weeks and now have one question.
I'm living in one of the EU Countries and would like to buy some properties in the US especially in Detroit area and have it ready to rent.
I've been researching some properties for sale, most of them are REO . I've chosen one property that looks good and is cheap.
I've enquired at the agency listing it and I've been told I need a buyres agent , I didn't have any, I was given a phone number to one, I called him and when I asked him who pays him for his services , he said the bank that is selling it.
1.Will this make sure that I get a good deal or will he make sure that the bank selling it and paying him a commission will get a good deal?
2. Do I need an agent if I want to buy a property, or can I just place an offer by myself?
3. What's the best way of choosing an agent if I want to make sure that he looks after me not the seller?
4. Who should pay the agents commission a bank selling REO property or a buyer?

I would appreciate if you could answer those questions and help me educate myself so I don't make silly mistakes.

Thank you