I agree with Mysc hon. A lot of people tend to talk of the differences between D/s and other vanilla relationships. I think they go hand in hand. They are more simialr than they are different, in my humble opinion. A lot of people disagree with me, but my opinion is that looking for a master or a sub is looking for a partner.
And, unfortunately, that means there is no easy answer. I have found the forums freeing becasue I can ask so much more about a woman and share more of myself up front with a woman. But ultimately it comes down to hard work, communication and respect for one another.
I know that is confusing and not very helpful, but it takes trial and error. There is a lot of good info here and you are doing the right thing, just ask we are a pretty open bunch here and most of us are gonna try to be kind and helpful in our help.
You can also feel free to PM me or any other mod with questions, I certainly don;t know everything but I will try to find out for you.
Good luck and I hope you find what you are looking for.
John