It is hard for me to really say yes or no but from experience I say cut the middle man go straight to the financier.  Everyone's situation is different and should consult other friends and family if they have used one and how the dealings went.

I actually recommend consulting your financial institute and educating yourself on ALL the things required to close on a home THEN look at homes that are FSBO.. for sale buy owner as they tend to be CHEAPER and the owner is more likely to tell you the home "defaults" ....

A broker will probably save you time and compare all your options for you.  But I think  with the ease of getting information on online, a DIY comparison is a breeze and thus you can do without a broker and save some money.

Liowkc.. you have a very good point.. A broker probably would do that and if you have the money and do that then ya its good but if you are looking to save money I'd stay far far away! Some brokers charge up to 30% of the sale.. that's 30% you could have in your POCKET!

Not only you save money on the broker fees, I bet the brokers will not have your best interest at heart; he or she will probably recommend a package that yields the biggest comission.  It is worthwhile doing your homework.  Good luck :)

brokers charge 1-5% 30% of a sale would be ridiculously high

I would suggest that a broker is very helpful at times,but do not believe him blindly.Use your own instinct and believe in it.The broker does save lot of time and also saves you from possible fraud.

Sanju you have a very good point. I spoke with a realtor today who was trying to lead me into a big trap of fees. Apparently this company (the real estate company) feels like they should be allowed  to charge not only the SELLER but the BUYER as well. I've NEVER heard of a BUYER having to pay a "service fee" to a realtor .. I told them they were FULL OF IT!