Online Home Listings Question

Hey so I will be in the market for a house in about 6 months to a years time, and I know that if you find a real estate agent, they can often give you access to some sort of consolidated online database that lists all houses for sale in Winnipeg, along with a few extra features that aren't present on the public databases (i.e. the Winnipeg Free Press' home listings, Comfree's website, MLS listings' website).

Since I will be completely new to this processes and I am currently renting, I won't need a real estate agent to sell my property so my question is, how do I find or connect with a real estate agent when I am looking to buy? And how can I get access to their special online database?

Any information is appreciated. Thanks!