Is it worth working with realtors?

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Hi folks,

My current lease runs out in September (I live close to Porter square), and I'm considering moving from a roommate situation to a non-roommate situation. However, I can't afford an expensive place (my limit is about $850), and I'd like to stay in Porter or Davis or Union squares. This combination is pretty unreasonable, but you never know--I might get lucky. I know it's a bit early to look, but was wondering if people thought it was worth working through a realtor or just looking myself on craigslist? And if anyone had a good experience with a realtor, could they recommend them to me?

Also, when looking at craigslist ads, what should I watch out for when considering places offered by realtors for a fee or not? I suspect that the cheap ads I'm looking at now are just bait to get you to come in and get a more expensive place, but I'm not sure. Does anyone have any pointers?

Thank you very much!