Finding the right agent to represent you, the buyer

• "Do you have the time to devote to my needs?"
Many real estate agents will promote the number of listings and sales that they've had or how many listings they have now or buyers they are currently working with. While these details can be important to many buyers and sellers, the most important criteria is that the agent has the time to devote to your needs. For example, if the agent has lots of listings, make sure you're comfortable with the time they'll have for you. On the other hand, if they have few listings or sales, ask them how their lack of experience can be overcome. Most agents are willing to do what it takes to get the job done but sometimes don't know what it takes unless you tell them what you need.

• "How often will you communicate with me and how will you do it?"
This is really an important one. Often, the success and overall satisfaction with your transaction will depend on regular communication with your real estate agent. Your agent should be willing to agree to the frequency of contacts with you throughout your relationship and should stick to it. Contact during this important process is vital, whether there is anything happening or not. And, insist on having ongoing communication with the agent, not only with the agent's assistant.

• "How do you decide what price to recommend to me (to sell or to buy)?"
The agent should be able to provide a list of comparable sales to a prospective seller that will help you decide what to list the property for. Remember: the price of the home is probably the most critical factor in determining how quickly it will sell. Other criteria - location, condition, etc., are all important but should be reflected in the price. A home that is priced right will normally sell more quickly.

For buyers, choosing a price range is key to your search and buyers should expect agents to look for homes that are in the range the buyer is comfortable with, not merely what they can qualify for. Good communication about the buyer's overall needs will help insure that this will happen.

• "Explain to me how "real estate" works. What will happen in the process and what is expected of me?"
Buyers need to know how real estate "works" so there won't be any surprises. It is important to know how offers are presented and negotiated, what happens is the escrow process, the kinds of inspections that will be expected, estimated costs, and any potential problems that could come up. If you are aware of what could happen, and most importantly, if your agent is aware, problems will more likely be avoided.