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Are real estate agents necessary?

Hey everyone,

I’ve been trying to wrap my head around this: Why is it such a norm in the U.S. to buy and sell homes exclusively through real estate agents – and pay tens of thousands in commissions?

Is it because there’s no real alternative and people just have no choice? Or do agents actually provide some kind of value that’s impossible to get otherwise?

I mean, let’s be honest – realtors aren’t some genius-level experts. So what exactly is the reason this model is so dominant?

Would love to hear your thoughts – especially from people who’ve bought or sold FSBO (For Sale By Owner) vs. through agents.

Thanks!

submitted by /u/ORIC2104
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source https://www.reddit.com/r/RealEstate/comments/1mh7ema/are_real_estate_agents_necessary/
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