[redwitch]

Unless you specifically get a contract stating that your agent represents you, as the buyer, the agent technically represents the seller. Most buyer agents charge an additional fee above the percentage split to do this. So far as I know, this is pretty universal across the United States.

Another way to get some help is get your own mortgage broker, not one referred by the agent. Many states require that they have their real estate license (I know they do in California). Ask what fees are normally part of the closing, what they would recommend you have done before purchasing. They have a vested interest in your getting a loan and will usually try to help you as much as possible not with just the documentation needed for the loan but in almost any aspect of purchasing if you ask. (If you use the one working with the broker, the odds are they are working together and have less interest in helping you if it might hurt their relationship with "their agent.")

A good agent wants your referrals, your business when you buy/sell again, so will step up and give you good advice no matter which side you are on but is not required to do so.