Hiring a broker

Can anyone share about their experiences hiring a broker to help find an apartment within their price range, particularly in (to use real estate terms) Hudson Heights/Fort George? Apartments in the area tend to be a BIT above the amount I'd be approved for and I'm wondering whether hiring a broker may give me access to additional listings in my price range. I'd rather pay a bit more up front in moving costs than perpetually pay another $200-300/mo, but only if it will actually help.

The question is what the implications of the FARE Act are- once hired do brokers try to give you more for your money in hopes you will use them again/recommend them, or do they want to try to get as large a percentage fee as possible from you so steer you toward more expensive places?

Anyone with any insight (or recommendations for helpful and reputable neighborhood brokers) would be super helpful! This is for medium/long term planning, not a current apartment search.

Thank you!