Offer Related Question - Am I being fooled? Or just a newb?

[Jonathan Chai]

Hello folks of BP,

I'm a newbie trying to get my first investment property here in southern California. I have been working with a realtor and for every property that is somewhat promising the realtor is suggesting to put an offer in close to asking to get it accepted. Her goal is to "lock it up" so that the seller can't accept other offers and we can then view the property inside and negotiate for any changes if needed.  Does this sound appropriate?  I asked if there were any penalties or down payment that would be forfeit if the seller and I were unable to successfully negotiate costs for repairs and whatnot after the offer is accepted. The realtor was pretty firm that I wouldn't have to pay anything unless we opened escrow, and that the initial deposit would be refundable 17 days from the opening of escrow. 

It just doesn't seem right because if an offer was made and accepted I feel that both parties are committed or am I just a newbie and these things are normal in which offers which are accepted can be rescinded if needed without issue.

Thanks in advance for the advice!