Can you?
Yes.
Should you?
Usually not. But, it depends.
There are instances where having an agent can be a deal killer. Principles can sometimes get involved in deals that, while legal, might expose the agent to too much liability - and, therfore, the agent doesn't(or shouldn't) want to be involved.
There is a smalll percentage of sales that go through just fine without agents(or attorneys). However, there are so many federal, state, and local rules and regulations to deal with that it can be a good idea to have a professional experienced in the local real estate market to guide you through the transaction.
Sellers, in particular, expose themselves to many potential liabilities when they sell without representation. In California, where I live, there are numerous mandatory disclosures required from the seller. Many of the transactions that don't have professional guidance are missing most if not all of the required disclosures. I don't think I've ever seen a direct seller to buyer transaction that was in full compliance. Any missing disclosure has the potential to open the door to costly fines or legal action - even if there was no actual harm suffered by any of the parties.
