Nothing against RE agents, and I have friends that do that, but I've never had one do what I could not have done myself, usually better.
As a seller, All I ever got was a listing on the MLS.
As a buyer, I was shown a lot of crappy houses that did not meet my clear criteria.
I'm sure I did not get the right agent. I just expect them to earn their commission.
AR, appreciate your candor on the subject.
