The realtor system was setup to save seller/buyer money. In old time, all real estate transaction are controlled by lawyers. The lawyers charge much more than today's realtors.
Today in Many times, the lawyer in real estate transaction just prepare documents, they never represent buyer/seller, if you ask one represent you(buyer) to guild you from start to end, you go to ask how much you have to pay. Most lawyer charge $150 to $200 p er hour.
The realtor class cost 4 weeks time and about $400. It is a good idea to take all the classes before you buy your 1st house if you do not like to pay an agent.