Why would a real estate agent help me get the best price?

Why would a real estate agent help me get the pest price on my new home? This is a question I hear often and for the right reasons. I was always skeptical of real estate agents myself and wondered what they could really do for me when purchasing a home. I assumed I could find all of the information I needed online or by walking/driving the neighborhoods I was interested in. I also assumed using one would cost me more money.
First off as a buyer a real estate agent is not likely to cost you any money. Sellers typically pay the commission for both agents (buyer's and seller's agent). So why would you use a real estate agent to purchase a home? More importantly why would they want to negotiate the lowest price for you when it cuts into their commission? As a real estate agent the number one lead source for me is referrals. In order to get referrals as an agent I need to serve my clients well. If I have a client that doesn't feel like I did what was needed or what was right for them to get the best deal I'm confident they won't be referring their friends or family to me. On the other hand, if I keep consistent, honest and open communication with them, work as hard as I can to find them the right home and get them the best deal they will continue to refer me to their friends, family, etc. I could spend $1,000's sending out mailers and be one of the 30 you receive in your mailbox each month or I can be the best real estate agent to my clients and earn my referrals.
Another reason to use an agent when purchasing a home is to have someone on your side. If you purchase a home without an agent, the listing agent who is selling the home will receive the entire commission. As a buyer, you are put in a tough spot because the homeowner selling the home has someone negotiating on their behalf to get them as much money as possible but you don't have an agent on your end to negotiate the best deal. It never hurts to have more people fighting for you, especially during negotiations.
Some believe when they go to purchase a home an agent may try and push them into a more expensive home. To be honest, there is little difference in commission between purchasing a $250k house vs. a $300k house. It's in the agent's best interest to get you in the house you want and the house you can afford so that again, you will be a great source for referrals.
I know the answer seems simple and it may not be true for every agent so always choose a real estate agent you trust and are comfortable with. Keep in mind you can fire your agent at any time as they are the one working for you.
Happy house hunting!