Women at work and their tips, challenges, advice, complaints, and experiences

If you really want to have a good experience, you should conduct interviews to find the right agent for you.  Good agents are also selective about the people they represent, so be leary about an agent who doesn't ask you any questions!  So here are some suggested questions from about.com:

1. How long have you been in business? Newer agents tend to have more time to focus on you, but of course there's nothing better than experienced veterans. 
2. What is your average list-price-to sales-price ratio?  A good buyer's agent should be able to negotiate a sales price that is lower than list price for buyers.  A competent agent should hold a track record for negotiating sales prices that are close to list prices. 
3. What is your best marketing plan or strategy for my need?  Buyer: How will you search for my new home?  How many homes will I see?  Will I be competing against other buyers?  How do you handle multiple offers?   Seller: What is your direct mail campaign?  Where and how do you advertise?  Will I get a sample flyer?  How do you market online?
4. Do you have references?  Ask the relationship to the agent, and request some recent clients.
5. What are the top things that separate you from other agents?  Honest? Trustworthy? Availability? Good sense of humor? Persistent? Friendly?
6. May I review documents before I'm asked to sign them?  Buyer's broker agreement, agency disclosures, purchase agreements, listing agreement, seller disclosures.
7. How will you help me find other professionals needed to close the deal?  People such as mortgage companies, bankers, home inspectors, title companies, and other vendors.  The agent should have a good working relationship with these type of professionals.
8. How much do you charge?  Don't ask if the fee is negotiable, all real estate fees are negotiable.  Agents typically charge anywhere from 1-4% commission. 
9. What kind of guarantee do you offer?  If you sign an agreement but later find out you are unhappy with the agent, can you cancel the agreement?  What is the company policy about agreements and contracts?  Has anyone ever canceled the agreement before and why?
10. What haven't I asked you that I need to know?  Pay attention to the answers because you want them to take time with you and make sure you are comfortable.  The agent should know how to counsel you in a way to put you at ease.

Also ask about the craziest experience the agent has had.  Our house was up for sale and we had a contract drawn up with a buyer.  The house one door down from us caught on fire, and damaged the house directly next to ours.  Luckily, this did not effect us, and our house sold as planned.  But, something strange could happen, and then what? 

Don't be afraid to look at a lot of houses before you make your decision.  I know there are some crazy stories out there about buying/selling homes, what's your story?