can i just tell a realtor a date and time that work for me and they will show me the house?

Yes, it should.

And a suggestion - might want to contact some other realtor. Not the one that has listed the house. The lister works for the seller.

You might want to call any realty company and talk to a realtor that will show you the house - but would be working for you.

There is no charge to just call any realtor and talk to them.

It's a combination of both. You can give them a time, but understand that they have other clients and commitments. They may not be available at that time. The home may not be available at that time.

I'd also suggest finding your own Realtor and not using the Realtor that has listed the property. Go in to a Realtor and tell them what you want. Have them pull a listing of homes that meet those requirements and your budget. Screen them and pick a few you want to look at. That agent represents you and your interests. The agent that listed the home represent the person selling it and their interests- not you. As a first time home buyer, it's even more important to have someone with experience on your side.

I'd also suggest getting preapproved for a mortgage. That will help you see just how much you qualify for and keep your looking at houses in your budget based on the interest rate your will get, your down payment and income. And don't let them tell you what you can afford. Just because they say you can afford a certain amount per month doesn't mean you can. You have to look at your budget. They can also help explain the closing costs, PMI, escrowing insurance and taxes, etc.

If you deal with a full time realtor, and he wants to sell you a house, it will work that way.