Smart customers always want an agent who will help and guide them in finding a suitable home. One that meets their needs and can get them through a closing without any hassle. A good real estate agent should know how to counsel you and answer tough questions to better serve you. Therefore, interviewing a potential real estate agent is a sensible idea before deciding on him or her.

Here are some questions you should ask your real estate agent before working with them.

1. How much experience do you have in this business?
This does not mean that new agents are not valuable. What matters most is their training. In fact, sometimes freshly licensed agents have more time to concentrate on your needs.

2. What will be your strategy for my needs?
Buyers should expect their agent to have a plan to help them find the right home within a stipulated period. They expect their agent to have good information about each property and everything related to it, just like professionals who will be helpful in inspection and financing. Sellers, on the other hand, expect their agents to sell their home at a good price in a reasonable amount of time.

3. Can you provide any references?
Before deciding on any agent, you should ask for references. Even new agents have references from previous employers.

4. Do you have enough time to devote to me?
If the agent is working with several buyers at a time, it will be difficult for him or her to devote much time to you. The success of your transaction depends on regular communication.

5. Will you be able to refer me to other professionals?
Your agent should be able to refer you to other professionals like mortgage brokers, escrow companies, and home inspectors.

6. What will be your brokerage fee?
It is common for the seller to pay the real estate fee or commission. In some cases, however, real estate agents may charge a percentage to either the seller or buyer according to agreements that are made upfront.

7. What happens if I am not satisfied with your services?
If after a certain period, I realize you are not good enough for my needs, will you cancel the agreement? What is your company's policy about cancelled agreements?

8. Last, but not the least, why would I choose you?
A good agent will not hesitate to answer this. Most customers want their agents to be good communicators, honest, punctual and friendly.