An agent is an individual who has passed both the state and national real estate salesperson licesning exam. They must be affiliated with a real estate broker in order to practice. Their job, for buyers, is to assit buyers in purchasing a home. They will have access to homes listed for sale and will help in the negotiation and contract process.
How can I get an agent?
That's the easy part. Agents will be dying to work with clients as that is how they make money. These days, finding a highly rated agent online is pretty easy. Make sure to spend some time and interview the agent to ensure that you are compatible with them. Have them take you out to see a house and see if this is someone you can sign a buyers agreement with.
Are their any benefits to using an agent?
Yes, most sellers will not let you into their homes without and agent accompanying you. Furthermore, agents have experience navigating the home buying process, which is incredibly time consuming and stressful. You need professional help. Lastly, contract-wise the only other option aside from using agents standard offer contracts is to utilize a lawyer. Lawyers will likely not help in the negotiating process as it is not their area of expertise, or will do so but for way more money than an agent.