If you’ve been considering buying a home without an agent, you may wonder if working with a real estate agent is worth it. After all, you don’t technically need a real estate agent to buy or sell a home. And real estate agents receive a commission between 5% and 6% of the sale price. That means if you sell your home for $250,000, your agent could receive up to $15,000 of the proceeds. However, most people find that real estate agents are well worth the small commission fee. Here are a few of the ways realtors can help you: Research homes and neighborhoods that match your budget and lifestyle. Share inside information about a particular home or neighborhood. If you’re buying, your agent will negotiate an offer with the seller and help you get the best deal possible. If you’re selling, your agent will list your home and market it, so it reaches many potential buyers. Decipher the legal paperwork and help you understand what everything means.