Real estate agents typically work with one type of property or another. For example, real estate agents may be residential, commercial or rental agents, so be sure to ask what area of specialization the agent has. In some areas a real estate agent may have experience in several areas.
Know the real estate agents commission before agreeing to the contract. There may be large or small differences in commission between various agents and what duties they will or will not do for that level of commission. It may be possible to negotiate commission, especially if you are willing to take on some responsibility yourself for the sale or purchase.