If selling, ask the agent how he or she would establish a price. You may request a Comparative Market Analysis, also called a CMA, which shows the actual market value of similar homes in the area.
If selling, ask the agent how he or she would market your property.
Ask the agent how often you should expect to hear from him or her. Know how and when you will communicate to avoid unrealistic expectations. Pay attention to the agent's office hours and whether or not you will be invited to access them via a cell phone, pager or e-mail.
Pay attention to the agent's listening skills. Does he or she cut you off before you've finished a sentence? There's nothing worse than looking at houses you have no interest in because the agent has not listened carefully to your needs or having your home on the market too long because the wrong buyers are being targeted.
Ask the agent what his or her fee structure is. Do they require a percentage of the sales price, do they work for a flat fee, or will they be paid by the seller (if you're the buyer)?
Once you've found the right agent to represent you, hold up your end of the relationship. There are simple things you can do to help your agent get you the best deal.
Helpful tips
The agent's real estate office can say a lot about him or her. Is it organized or cluttered? When is it open? Does the office schedule make it easily accessible? Is the office clean?
Your agent is an authority you hire to help you make the right decisions, but when push comes to shove, you have the final word.
Hiring an expert will give you the best advantage for buyers, sellers and investors.
Buying a home is likely to be the biggest single investment you'll ever make. Invest wisely.
Remember that home values fluctuate with the economy.
