Let's face it, homes are expensive. When looking for a place to live, and a property to own, everyone wants to make a careful decision. Many people choose to hire a real estate agent to work with them in finding the right home for them. Here are some tips that you can use in searching for a good real estate agent.

Make sure that you are dealing with the right type of agent. There are two types of real estate agents: the listing agent and the selling agent. You need the services of a selling agent, because a listing agent is after the interests of the owner of the property. Here are some important questions that the NAR (National Association of Realtors) suggests that you ask a prospective real estate agent:

* How many homes have you sold in the past year?

* Can you provide a list of references?

* Do you have any obligations to the seller?

* Where will you be looking for homes?

* Will you be showing homes that offer lower commission rates?

You should also ask if they will be showing homes that are for sale by owner. Another good question to ask is if they have sold homes in that particular area of your interest. If they are familiar with the area, and have some successful sales there, they might be able to help you.

Make sure they listen to your needs, and don't have an agenda of selling their ?in house? listings before everyone else's. It is very important that you are clear about what you want. Tell them the areas that you are interested in, the style of house and your price range. If they don't seem to understand your needs, or seem to be in the interest of selling more than helping you, move on.

If you sign a contract with your agent (and you should) ask for a satisfaction guarantee. You need to be allowed to terminate the relationship if you are not happy with their services. After all, you are going to be living in the home everyday, not them. They should be in it to help you, and if you feel that they aren't really helping, let them go.

You should take your time and shop around for services, just like with anything else. Buying a home is a huge step. Compare the prices of these agents, and check their references before you hire them. Hiring the right real estate agent is the first step in finding the right home.