I think that there’s no need to get too fixated on whether to use a Realtor or not. If you’re an able buyer, just calculate an all inclusive price you’re willing to pay. Let the agents work it out amoung themselves — kinda like negotiating an out-the-door price on the purchase of a car. You don’t care how they work the sales taxes and registration fees so long as you get your out-the-door price.

I know that real estate is more complicated than buying a car but the same principle applies.