French Defence - Exchange Variation - Why Nf3?

I recently tried out the exchange variation at a local tournament this weekend, but played Nc3. I wanted to check the 'book' way of playing the opening as I found the exchange useful to countering the French, which is an opening that I used to detest playing against.

I was quite surprised to find out that Nf3 was the recommended move over Nc3 and was wondering if anyone more experienced could explain to me why?

Nf3 facilitates castling and also of course it defends the d4 square (from c5 or Nc6). better development I think. 

The exchange gives black easy equality and is quite boring.The reason Nf3 is better because in these positions,u usually wanna play c3 or c4 and Nc3 just doesnt let any of these happen,not to mention the knight is useless on c3.

Because the knight on c3 is a bad piece if black play c6.  It's only good there if  black play c5.  Thus, you should delay developing the knight after moving the rest of your minor pieces.

really excellent point made in some of the comments is that Nc3 cramps the mobility of the c pawn which is often used in this formation.

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Yes, Nf3 simply facilitates castling, and keeps developing. Anyway, your are not threatening anything with 4. Nc3, and this move might seem pretty awkward since I think that Black should go on with 4...c5! putting pressure on the center (which is what the French defense is all about), and White might regret to have occupied the c3 square with a knight instead of with the c-pawn.

Regards.

A better plan is Bd3 and Qf3

Man, I think you're a genius. You've discovered an opening that offers almost no losing chances for White. Just like that. Again, you're a genius. I have no words.