Whether you are a buying or selling a home, a good real estate agent will facilitate the process, saving you both money and time. If you were pleased with an agent you worked with in the past, it's a good idea to go back to him or her. But what if you’ve never worked with a real estate agent? How do you find an agent that is right for you?

You're going to be spending a fair amount of time with your agent so it's important to like and trust him or her. Take the time to interview several agents.  Questions to ask include:

• How long have they been selling/buying houses?
• Can they provide a list of recent references?
• Do they specialize in the areas you’re considering?
• What is their commission, and who will pay it?
• How often will they follow-up with you?
• How much time will they spend with you each week?

It is also important notice if the agents ask questions about what you want and need. Do they listen to you? Do they make suggestions? Do they seem knowledgeable about the community? Do you feel comfortable spending time with them?

A good agent will not only look to learn more about their client but will constantly provide advice. A good agent should be on call 24 hours a day. The very basics of the selection process normally encompass your very own feelings about the REALTOR®. Choose someone you trust, feel comfortable with, is open, honest and a good listener, once the very basics have been met, let the agent know your expectations.

If you are not pleased with an agent, thank them for their time and choose another. You can repeat the process as often as you want to find the agent that’s best for you. Most agents are professional, so you should not encounter too many bad experiences.

If you are pleased with the agent, commit to stay with them. Real estate agents work hardest when they know they have a loyal client. You will not help yourself by going from agent to agent. In some areas, agents will ask you to sign them on as your buying agent. This means that they are legally responsible to work on your behalf instead of the seller's. Once you find an agent you like and with whom you plan to work, you may want to enter into such an agreement.