You can search online for years. Some knowledge only comes from experience. My second time was 1000% better because I knew what to expect and roughly knew where I’ll get fucked and how much it will cost me.
Even with the best realtor, the whole experience is still one of “let’s just get this shit over with”. Been at this for likely months at this point. A bunch of people breathing down your neck between realtors, escrow company, loan broker, sellers, other buyers, etc.
What will happen if you discover you’re getting screwed by ~$4-7K in today’s market with properties going well over asking, ~$50k in escrow account and a day left on your fourth extension that seller begrudgingly accepted. Nothing - you’ll sign the paperwork like a good boy and shell out the extra money. No alternatives at this point.