Zillow is only good for identifying a house that may fit a buyers need and is only as good as the information that has been loaded to the platform (same for the MLS). Any house can look good on paper or screen. You don't know what you're getting into until you really kick the tires. When you are making the biggest financial decision of your life, you may want a pro to help you avoid making a huge mistake. The good ones are worth every penny.
I'm not sure how much time your related field had you in the field with agents closing transactions on either side. There are a lot steps on the buy (and sell) side of the transaction to get an offer accepted and then through the inspection/escrow period to close.
YMMV on how this will shake out. Based on your negotiate fee comment, if it comes to that, a smart buyers agent will implement an ala carte fee structure and still do all right and maybe better.
If it does come to this, it will most likely split the industry into two classes: high quality high performing broker/agents and Redfin model internet mass marketing corporations. Have a good time when you are buying a house in Scripps Ranch and your "agent" is in Hemet and can't make the inspection, etc.... because some meth head stole their catalytic converter.
You’re overstating the difficulty of a transaction. Locate, offer, counter, agree, inspect, finance and close.
I wouldn’t expect anyone to offer on a house sight unseen. I see 10 homes I like on Zillow, I spend a weekend walking them during the open houses and I make a call. Maybe I offer, maybe I keep looking. It’s not rocket science. An agent need not play any part in that process until it’s time to offer.
And why would my buyer agent need to be a random person in a different city? Buyers agents will still exist and I can meet with as many as I like before I choose one. And then I’ll negotiate a fee with them.
And how does a mass marketing firm even handle a buy side transaction? The whole point of mass marketing is selling lol.
The real value of an agent is on the sell side. They’re great at prepping the property for sale, have great contacts for repairs, painting etc. and can really presenting the property in a good light.