The common practice is to have an attorney in the closing process in New York. While they are not legally required, you don't bring a stick to a gunfight. The seller will absolutely have an attorney, and so should you.
I am a NYC area broker. The buyer almost never pays commission separate from the purchase proceeds- you have it right. They are paid by the seller at closing. Choose you agent widely. Depending on what part of brooklyn you are in, they should be either a REALTOR or REBNY member, full time, and with references and a strong sales record. Good luck. - Sun Mar 15 2009, 21:03