YOU NEED TO BE REPRESENTED!
Once you grasp the meaning of that sentence, you will find Real Estate a lot easier.
Everyone in a Real Estate transaction is looking out for themselves. Whenever possible, always ask advice from someone who's best interest is to look after you!
Never rely on advice from someone across the table from you. Always rely on the person sitting on your side of the table.
When you are purchasing a property, always make sure you have your own Broker. He/She doesn't cost you anything, and they are looking out for you, not the Vendor.
It's also extremely important that you have proper representation at the property inspection. The Seller's team will never find a major problem in a property. You need a Broker who's willing to council you to walk away from a purchase in the presence of major problems.
It's not fun, but sometimes, it needs to be done!