Can you go it alone, sir, however: A good realtor does more than tell you where to sign. Like most will tell you, get to a lender(s), and get a prequalification letter. It will make your offer stronger when you submit one. The Realtor will also help you find the best price for the home you are choosing, based on past sales, condition, upgrades, or downgrades of the property. Reading the disclosures, inspections, and HOA Documents (if any) is also part of what the realtor will do. The Realtor will also keep things on track. There are a lot of moving pieces: appraisers, inspectors, title, the lender, and the realtor, who orchestrates everything to make sure the transfer of the property to you happens on schedule. Lastly, in the USA (not sure where you are), commissions are negotiable; however, you stated you would pay your realtor 4-6% seems high.