New Investor in Maryland - Are Exclusive contracts good?

[Dan Collier]

Hi everyone! This is my first post. I just finished reading the beginner Bigger Pockets book and I am excited to get started! I own my home free and clear and am now looking to upgrade to a bigger house, and turn my current home into a rental.  I was referred to an agent that is a friend of a friend.  They have asked me to sign an exclusive buyer's contract.  And my question is: is this necessary?  Is this standard practice for buying?  It seems to have overly burdensome items in it, like if we drive by an open house in a new development, we can't even stick our heads in for a peek.  We have to wait for our broker before we can even do an initial visit.  That doesn't sound right to me.  Can someone please help me understand? 

Thanks!

P.S.  I am looking to learn and network with other investors in the area.  I'm still a newbie, but I am a hard worker and eager to learn.