Buying a home without a real estate agent

Should you use a real estate agent?

For most buyers, the answer is yes. A good buyer's agent brings market knowledge, negotiation experience, and transaction management that's hard to replicate on your own. They've seen hundreds of deals and know what to watch for.

We work closely with real estate agents throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and beyond. We've built relationships with top agents over the years and we're happy to connect you with someone who fits your situation - whether you need a first-time buyer specialist, someone who knows a specific neighborhood, or an agent experienced with investment properties.

If you don't have an agent yet, let us know. We can introduce you to agents we trust.

For what it's worth: We recommend using an agent for most purchases. We work with great ones and are happy to make introductions. This page is really for folks buying from family or in other situations where an agent doesn't make sense.

When buying without an agent makes sense

That said, there are situations where going without an agent is reasonable:

Buying from family. When you're purchasing a home from parents, siblings, or other relatives, the negotiation is usually handled at the kitchen table. An agent isn't adding much value here.

Buying from someone you know. A neighbor's house, a friend who's relocating, a property you've had your eye on for years. When you already know the home and the seller, the agent's role shrinks.

FSBO purchases. Some for-sale-by-owner deals work fine without agents on either side, especially when both parties know what they're doing.

You're an experienced investor. If you've bought multiple properties and understand the process cold, you might not need hand-holding.

If your situation fits one of these, we're here to help with the financing side while you handle the rest.

What changes without an agent

When you're unrepresented, you take on the responsibilities an agent would normally handle:

Making offers. You'll write and submit your own offer. State association forms are available online, or a real estate attorney can draft documents for you.

Negotiating. You'll negotiate directly with the seller or their agent. This covers price, contingencies, repairs, and the closing timeline.

Managing deadlines. Home purchases have lots of moving parts. Without an agent tracking dates, you'll need to stay organized.

Coordinating inspections. You'll schedule the home inspection, review the report, and decide what to negotiate.

The mortgage process stays exactly the same. You still get pre-qualified, still apply for financing, still go through underwriting. We handle all of that whether you have an agent or not.

We can connect you with great agents

If you're on the fence about using an agent, talk to us first. We might know someone perfect for your situation.

Over the years, we've worked with thousands of real estate agents. We know who communicates well, who fights for their clients, and who makes transactions smooth instead of stressful. We can introduce you to agents who specialize in:

• First-time buyers
• Specific towns or neighborhoods
• Investment properties
• New construction
• Relocation

There's no pressure and no cost. We just want to make sure you're set up for a good experience, and a good agent is often the difference between a smooth transaction and a frustrating one.

The real estate attorney option

In situations where you're buying without an agent, hiring a real estate attorney is smart. Attorneys typically charge a flat fee ($500-$1,500 depending on location and complexity) rather than a percentage.

An attorney can:

• Review and draft contracts
• Explain your legal obligations
• Handle closing documents
• Protect your interests throughout the transaction

They won't show you houses or negotiate on your behalf, but they make sure the paperwork is correct and your rights are protected.

How we support unrepresented buyers

When you're buying without an agent, we can help fill some gaps:

• Walk you through the timeline and what to expect
• Coordinate with the title company and seller's agent
• Explain what's normal vs. what should raise concerns
• Answer questions you might otherwise ask a buyer's agent

We can't advise on offer strategy or whether a price is fair - that's outside our role. But we'll make sure the financing side goes smoothly and that you understand the process.

Quick note: If you landed on this page but aren't sure about going without an agent, seriously, just ask us for a referral. We know a lot of great agents and there's no cost or obligation. A good agent makes a real difference.

Ready to get started?

Whether you have an agent, need a recommendation, or are going it alone, the mortgage process starts the same way. Getting pre-qualified tells you what you can afford and shows sellers you're serious.

Get pre-qualified to see your options, or schedule a call to discuss your plans. If you need an agent recommendation, just ask.