@Imhotrodcrazy wrote:Welcome to the forum,
IMHO, Never, EVER "just trust a realtor".
(Or an attorney, for that matter...question everything...and everybody...all of the time).
bz03m3, if you plan on having an attorney for the closing, you might just as well have him in on the "opening", too...especially if it makes you feel more comfortable.
For the most part, though, real estate agents have standard, fill-in-the-blank contracts that are fairly straightforward. The agent should be able to thoroughly explain items on the contract to you as you go along. You may want to fill everything in, but then bring it to your lawyer for his review before you sign it.
It's not the usual procedure, but I've seen plenty of folks do that before, and it's no big deal. Whatever you feel comfortable with will work. 