Buyer-side RE agents

I think you answered your own question, you can do it yourself.

My agent was pretty aggressive when he helped negotiated the price of my coop in 2009 in ues. I did a lot of the research myself (that's just the way I function) but he brings me listings as well as giving me feedbacks on the ones I found. His contact info is below, not sure if he changed company.
Edward Longley, ELongley@ccrny.com, Cell 917-576-8185. Good luck.

noah at urbandigs seems to fit. he helps me all the time on these boards and with direct questions. not had as broker but will next time I buy

I think you should consider the Burkhardt Group. They have a very innovative, buyer friendly business model. If you are willing to do some leg work, you'll get great value. They just assisted my family with the purchase of an UWS coop we are moving into next week. GREAT group of guys to work with.

Use Nan Shipley @ Rand Realty p: (917) 837-6225 e: nshipley@randny.com
I closed in June on my dream UWS 2BR/2BA that I love, in a building I've long lusted after and at a price that I never thought possible. In fact, the apartment directly above mine (with 1 1/5 baths to my 2) sold for $60K MORE just four months later - essentially same condition/same light & views. Yes, I know the market was/is soft, but I got this apartment at this price because my realtor: 1) translated what I wanted into what I saw, 2) knew virtually every building and unit on the market (and about to be on the market) and 3) she has a good rapport with lots of other realtors (a rare thing, I found). In my case, she was able to get me in to see the apartment early, and I believe that my offer came with added credibility because I had worked with Nan. In addition, and this was very cool, Nan's partner is a finance/tech guy and he took my info and put together the most professional Board package and held my hand throughout. Hope this helps. Good luck in your search!