question regarding no-fee broker

(My Original Blog Post: http://www.lodging-manhattan.com/2009/07/16/question-regarding-no-fee-broker/)
There were probably pages of threads on no-fee broker discussion but I just have to start another to address some of my newbie questions.

I worked with a no-fee broker for the first time yesterday (yes i was baited through craigslist) and was asked to meet at their office and sign a agreement for a 15% commission charge, although I was gauranteed at the spot that the apartments will contain no such fee as advertised. I was still 'forced' to sign off the paper before I was taken to any apartments. Now my questions:

1. is that common procedure? do I really need to sign thoes before he show me anything?

2. the contract i signed stated that in the event that I do sign a lease directly with the management office or through another broker, I am still obligated to pay the 15% to them if they were the first one to show me the place. But since the apartments are no-fee, I dont have to worri about being charged that 15%, even if I sign directly with the management, right?

Lastly any apartment suggestions if I want to live in Long Island City? I only know Avalon Riverview and EastCoast and have read mixed reviews about both.

Thank you for your time.