canuckguy

Well the missus and I are going to buy a new house soon and I am alittle confused on a view points. Now I've already been pre-approved for a mortgage from my bank and have a price range I am interested in..etc. I've been looking on the mls.ca site and I see a couple houses I would like to go see.
Now here are some questions that may or may not be stupid. First off, what is a mortgage broker and why would I want one verus going to the bank directly? any difference either way pro's/con's?

Now if I hire a realestate agent do they get paid by me or by the seller when I find a house to purchase? If there paid by me, why would I not just contact the realtor that is listing the property directly by calling the number on the sign? I don't really need a realator to do any leg work as our town is fairly same and I can cruise any neighourbood for listings that are not on mls site. Any tips or info anyone can add or shoot my way would be great. I am in ontario for the record. cheers.