Go to http://www.forsalebyowner.com (I think that's the website) and look in that area. Hope that helps. Most real estate people EVERYWHERE will take advantage of you...that has been my experience and I won't deal with them.
I've looked up the on line sites, I was just wondering about the local knowledge of the neighborhoods.. like "that's a nice place to live" or ... "everybody just loves that neighborhood" kind of comment. Stuff that isn't on paper.... more like "word of mouth".
Most real estate people everywhere will provide a service to you in exchange for compensation. When you sell, they will represent you as a seller's agent; when you buy they will represent you as a buyer's agent. In some instances they will act as a dual agent, with full disclosure to both parties.
I'm sorry to hear that you have had bad experiences with agents, but you are swinging a broad brush when you say "most". Are there bad apples? You bet! But "taking advantage" of clients (treating them unfairly or dishonestly) is a great way to lose your license.
No one wants the bad guys out of the business more than I do.