Making an offer without a Realtor?

[Paul Stephan]

Is it possible to make an offer on a MLS listed property without using a selling agent? If so, what happens with the selling comm, does the listing agent get 100%?

[Russell Brazil]

@Paul Stephan The listing agent will then keep 100% of the commission.  Also if you are going to do this, you need to be completely sure you know what you are doing and how to comply with the laws of your jurisdiction.

Frankly if it is an MLS listed property, I see zero reason why you wouldn't use an agent. They are going to be a great resource to you.

I have seen many times when a buyer thinks they will be able to get a better deal going straight through the listing agent.  They think oh he is going to be incentived to sell to me at a better price since 100% of the commission is better than 50% .  What happens in reality though is you have no one looking out for your interest.  If the selling agent is someone who thinks like that, and puts their needs in front of their clients needs...then they are also likely to be an accomplished liar, who will steer the deal towards you, but they will also make sure you are doing something stupid in the process like over bidding, or hiding defects in the home from you.