buying without agent/broker?

[Zuki Pingui]

Hi all, anyone here buy/sell their own properties with (or without) a license? We are looking to buy 2-3mn in properties over next few months...and recover the 3% buyer commission paid by sellers.  Our options seem to be 1) become licensed or 2) use rebate-type firm (ie Redfin) to recover some of the commission.  On option (1), do we need to have a "sponsoring broker" to become "licensed" as an agent?  Time is of the essence, so looking for fastest way to begin earning that 3%.  Please don't construe this post as meaning buyer agents add no value.  We have a CPA, RE attorney and colleagues to assist if needed.  Not really DIY.  Thanks!

[Jonathan Greene]

You can't get back the buyer's agent cost by not using an agent if you are buying off the MLS. The seller has already signed an agreement to pay both sides with their broker. You will pay the same amount except not be properly represented. You have to hang your license, if you get it, with a brokerage and that brokerage will take a substantial part of your commission as a new agent. Most brokerages have limited options for personal deals where you don't pay them the commission, but some have more than others. The real question is, what do you think you are saving on the buyer's side when you don't pay a buyer's commission when you buy?

Listing your own properties when you are not an experienced listing agent is a disaster. Usually the property is priced too high and you don't have the market and negotiation expertise to deal with the intake on properties now which require strict systems. You wouldn't even know how to upload it into the MLS.

Just find the best agents to do what you want. When you work with the best agents, the top 1%, you will never be losing money, you will be gaining expertise.