Do I really need a realtor to buy a MFH in DC?

[Quincy Jallah]

I am looking to purchase my third property under the house hacking model. This place is in Washington DC and I've lived in the are for a few years.

I have been slogging through lenders and I have finally found two companies that can cater to the type of mortgage and funding that I need. I am expecting a pre-approval letter today. Luckily there are 3 properties currently available that I would be happy to match the listing price with an offer today.

About me: I own a SFH And (2) multifamily properties that I used realtors to buy. I have the energy to do the legwork on closing this deal and the acumen to at least research things I'm not intimately familiar with (legal training outside of real estate). I'm not an expert but I'm eager to learn and I am capable of actual legal research beyond google. The only reason I am considering this is to save the seller money in the hopes that my offer will be more enticing. I understand I will have to deal with the seller's agent, title company, lender, and district assessor's office (deed work). It's my first post so forgive me if I'm unclear or crass. Posting this in multiple forums.

Question: What am I missing? Given the very brief overview, are you cautious about foregoing a realtor in my buying process? Interested on your thoughts.

[Russell Brazil]

Originally posted by @Account Closed:

Originally posted by @Russell Brazil:

Originally posted by @Manuel Diaz:

@Quincy

I have recently purchased a tri-plex in the NW of DC. Please be aware that TOPA deadlines are paused until the pandemic is over. This means that current tenants can stop any purchase or sale by withholding their consent. I had to purchase their rights in order to purchase my property. I did use an agent but this was my first home purchase. 

 As the buyer, if you paid the tenants to purchase their TOPA rights, you got had sad to say. You either wait out the topa timelines, or you get the seller to pay them off. Optimally, you just wait out the timelines. 

What's TOPA?

 Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act.

Tenants in DC have the right to match offers on a property for sale.