How do i fix the recovery error when installing mavericks?

Question

I have a 2012 MacBook Pro running 10.8.5 (tons of space on it) and in trying to install Mavericks, I keep getting an error message about not being unable to create a recovery partition.  Anyone know how to fix this (preferrably, without buying equipment)?

Answer 1

I ended up calling Apple Support because this was a weird issue that evidently, even our top helpers couldn't figure out.  Here's what I had to do:
First... settle in, it's a lonnnnnnnng process with periodic moments of activity, but it's worth it in the end.
Step 1:
Back up to TimeMachine on an external hard drive & set aside (this can take a very long time--sometimes up to 5 hours, but for me it only took about an 1 1/2 hrs.).
Shut down the computer.
Step 2:
Press Command-R and hold it down while starting up the computer.  You will see a spinning globe and at some point you will be asked to select your internet connection.  Do so.
Step 3:
A window will pop up with a selection including: Restore OS X using external source like TimeMachine, Install a new version of OS X, Disc Utility...
Select the Disc Utility
Go to the tab that says ERASE.  I know, I know.... it's scary, but as long as your back up was successful (and you can make 2 to be safe), you'll be fine. 
Select the Drive that says "Macintosh HD" and erase it.  All of your documents, photos, music, settings, apps, etc. are saved to your back up so don't panic.  This step only takes about 10 seconds.
Quit Disc Utility and it will bring you back to the initial window.
Step 4:
NOW select "Install New Version of OS X" (about an hour)
Once installed, go through the set up process like you just bought it new.
Step 5:
Go to the App Store and NOW download (about an hour) and install (another hour+) the upgrade to Mavericks.
Step 6:
Go to Applications/Utilities/Migration Assistant and follow the steps for restoring a back up from TimeMachine (another hour).  This does not do anything to your new OS, it only restores all your documents, photos, music, settings, apps, etc...
Finally,  you will find that many apps like Pages, iPhoto, Numbers (a fair number of applications) will need to be updated.  Just update them from the App Store and be patient. 
Personal Experience:  I didn't lose any apps or documents.  The only thing I had to re-do was re-connect to DropBox (if you have DropBox).
If you are at all concerned about the process, I highly recommend calling Apple Support and having them hold your hand.  It just makes you feel better (sure made me feel better).