What does it take to Get a house under contract in NY state?

[Christian I Presant]

What does it take to Get a house under contract in NY state? I'm very new and looking to do my first deal and I'm wondering what it takes to get a deal "under contract" in NY state. Does the lawyer have to write something up for this, how much does that cost? when do you pay that part? what if the inspection reveals new details and you no longer want the property? I'm just wondering if I have to spend a ton of money with lawyers just to get under contract. Is there a down payment (i forget the term used for money you give to get it under contract) before the actual down payment? I was reading other posts, but I was hoping to get NY specific information here. 

[Nicholas L.]

@Christian I Presant

get an agent and they can walk you through everything.