The number one reason to use a realtor is for your protection:  The seller has an attorney to protect their interests and they have a realtor to advise them and work for their interests also.  A buyer needs the same protection.  If someone chooses to use the same realtor as the seller they do not save any money and they have less bargaining power in the transaction.  It is similar to not using your own attorney when purchasing property.

     Other reasons to use a realtor are: Agents can provide information for you to make better purchase decisions. A buyer's agent represents your interests.  The agent can show you all the homes on the market that meet your needs.  They can help you write a purchase contract.  Realtors provide sources of lenders, inspectors, attorneys, insurance agents and other professionals.

     Before you start looking at properties, it's critical to sit down with your agent and discuss your needs and wants, likes and dislikes. You should put all of your thoughts down on paper and create a property wish list. This will help you focus on what's important to you. An experienced agent will use a variety of sources to help you find the right property. Not all properties are going to be found in the newspaper, the Internet, or even the multiple listing services. A good agent will have a peer group of fellow real estate professionals keeping him informed of upcoming properties, communities, etc.

    Pricing is the number one reason for selling property with the assistance of a real estate agent.  They have experience in the field and know what the actual market price should be. 

     Other reasons to enlist an Agents help are that they pay for advertising and know where and when certain ads work and don't work.  Also they work on commission this means you don't have to pay them anything unless they accomplish the sale of your house.    

     What other service puts time and money into helping you accomplish your goal before getting paid?  Many times without payment at all.  There are many more valuable reasons for working with an agent.  The emotional support and the expertise about the market to name a few.

    Most professionals in real estate realize the value of realtors and use them when making transactions because they know the value and necessity of having an agent on their side.