Self service

Real-estate agents suck up a lot of money—thousands of dollars for even the least-expensive homes—but can you find a good deal without one? Only if you’re willing to do a slew of research.

Start at Realtor.com, which lists every property on the market, and narrow your search to, say, a three-bedroom, two-bathroom condo in Lakeview. Head to open houses on your own, and if you like what you see, propose a deal with the listing agent.

Want a deal and thrive on risk? Check out the foreclosures—sadly, there are about 550 properties that foreclose each week in Cook County. Buy a subscription to a foreclosure list (realtytrac.com, 800-306-5997; $50), but keep in mind you may not be able to see the inside of the home before you buy. Often, the bank had to force someone out of their home, so you can understand why you wouldn’t get a private viewing. If you’ve got the cojones, go to the Cook County Courthouse (118 N Clark St, room 120, 312-603-5050) and find the “lis pendens” filings for a list of homes that are in default, then show up at the home. If you time it right—after default, but before the owner is forced out—you can ask the owner for a private viewing and sale (the owner would most likely make more money out of the transaction this way).

For those squeamish about profiting from someone’s misfortune, consider this: If you buy the place at a fair price, you’re really just helping that person out of a jam. There, don’t you feel better now?