Some people turn to a real estate agent or broker to help find the right home for them. Finding a broker or agent who is familiar with the areas you're interested in, has access to up-to-the-minute listing and is willing to do a lot of the legwork for you in finding homes that fit your criteria can be a big advantage. Be careful about walking into open houses or contacting listing agents directly since those agents legally represent the seller and it is in their best interest to get you to pay as high a price as possible. Always tell sellers' agents that you have your own realtor representing you.