Do I Need a Realtor to Buy a House?
CallARealtor is an independent information site, not a real estate brokerage, and is not affiliated with the National Association of REALTORS®. Guides are general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules vary by state.
Short answer
In most of the U.S. you are not legally required to use a real estate agent to buy a home. Some states require an attorney for parts of the closing process. Many buyers still use an agent because of the work involved.
What you'd handle yourself
- Finding homes and arranging showings with listing agents
- Researching comparable sales to decide what to offer
- Writing an offer and negotiating terms and repairs
- Coordinating inspection, appraisal, lender, title or escrow, and deadlines
Want to talk to a local agent?
Tell us whether you're buying or selling and where, and we'll try to connect you with a local agent. Talk to an agent
Tell us whether you're buying or selling and where, and we'll try to connect you with a local agent. Talk to an agent
Pros and cons
| Using a buyer's agent | Buying without one |
|---|---|
| Guidance on pricing, offers and negotiation | Full control and no buyer-agent fee to negotiate |
| Handles scheduling and deadlines | You manage every step and document |
| Requires a written agreement and fee terms | The listing agent represents the seller, not you |
Middle options
Some buyers hire a real estate attorney to review the contract, or negotiate a limited-service agreement with an agent. Whatever you choose, read every document before you sign it.
Want to talk to a local agent?
Tell us whether you're buying or selling and where, and we'll try to connect you with a local agent. Talk to an agent
Tell us whether you're buying or selling and where, and we'll try to connect you with a local agent. Talk to an agent
More guides
- What Does a Buyer's Agent Do? A Plain-English Guide
- Realtor Commission: How It Works and What's Negotiable
- How to Choose a Real Estate Agent
- Questions to Ask When Buying a House
- Questions to Ask a Realtor Before You Hire Them
Before you make an offer, check current borrowing costs on Pinnacle Lending's rates page.