Do I have to sign a contract?
A contract with your Realtor protects you!

Every agent has something called 'Errors and Omissions' insurance. This is insurance that protects them and you from errors or wrong information given to you. In order for this insurance to protect you, there needs to be proof that you are their client. The same thing goes for Car Insurance. If your agent is driving you around and there is an accident, in order for their Car Insurance to cover you, there has to be proof that this was a business related situation.