If you want to have a better real estate buying or selling experience make sure you get the right real estate agent for the job. You should be asking questions to determine if they are a good fit to work with and if they are competent to sell your home or help you buy your new home.

They should also be asking you questions and to find your motivation for buying or selling.

You wouldn't work with any old real estate agent off the street so use these quick questions to find out whether they are a good fit for your real estate needs.

Question: How long have you been in business?

Just because an agent is new, doesn't necessarily mean they won't do a great job. But you want to find out exactly how much experience they do have. If they are new, check to see who they are working with. Who are their mentors or partners? How much experience do they have? An agent who has 20+ years experience can still do a poor job and someone who is fresh off the block could do a fabulous job. Maybe they have more to prove and are looking for good referrals.

Question: What separates you from the rest of the crowd?

A good agent will know right away what makes them stand out. If they struggle to give an answer, be wary...as a marketer of homes, they should understand unique selling points.

You should look for things like honesty, assertiveness, analytical and good negotiators.

Question: How much do you charge?

All agent fees are negotiable, so don't ask if they are negotiable. Ask what their rate is. Then negotiate. If you are selling and find your own buyer, make sure you understand the charge in that situation. Also, if you are a buyer and find your own house, you should also know if there will be any changes in the fee.