Buying a Home in Connecticut Without an Agent
Skip the buyer's agent and save $11,400 on a median Connecticut home ($380,000).
A step-by-step guide for Connecticut buyers who want to keep the commission.
Connecticut Closing Requirements
Attorney Required at Closing
Yes — Attorney Required
Buyer Agent Required by Law
No — Agent Is Optional
Standard Inspection Period
10 Days
Potential Savings
$11,400 at median price
Connecticut law requires an attorney to represent each party at closing. Budget for attorney fees.
Transfer Tax
Connecticut has a real estate conveyance tax split between the state and town. Buyer typically pays the town portion — confirm your specific town rate, as it varies.
8 Steps to Buy Without an Agent in Connecticut
Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Before searching for homes, get a pre-approval letter from a lender. This tells sellers how much you can borrow and shows you're a serious buyer. Compare rates from multiple lenders — even a 0.25% rate difference on a $380,000 Connecticut home saves thousands over the loan term.
Search for Homes
Use Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, and local MLS portals to find listings in Connecticut. Set up alerts for your target criteria. You can also drive neighborhoods and look for FSBO signs — those sellers have no listing agent and may be open to direct offers.
Research Comparable Sales
Before making an offer, research what similar homes have sold for in the last 90 days. Zillow, Redfin, and Connecticut county tax records provide recent sale prices to help you make a fair offer.
Schedule a Showing
Contact the seller's listing agent directly to schedule a showing. The listing agent represents the seller but is legally obligated to treat you fairly. You don't need your own agent to tour homes in Connecticut.
Write and Submit Your Offer
Prepare a written offer including purchase price, contingencies (inspection, financing, appraisal), closing date, and earnest money. In Connecticut, the inspection contingency window is typically 10 days — make sure it's in your offer.
Complete Inspections
You have 10 days to complete inspections in Connecticut. Hire a licensed home inspector to evaluate the property. Your attorney handles the purchase contract, not just the closing in Connecticut. Engage them before you make an offer so they can advise on terms and contingencies.
Secure Final Mortgage Approval
Work with your lender to complete underwriting, appraisal, and final approval. Respond quickly to any document requests and avoid major purchases or new credit during this period.
Close on Your Home (Attorney Required)
Connecticut requires a licensed real estate attorney at closing. The attorney prepares or reviews the deed, handles title examination, and manages the closing process. Budget $600–$1,200 for attorney fees at closing.
Resources for Connecticut Buyers
Partner services to help you buy without a buyer's agent.