Interviewing a Realtor to Represent You as a Buyer's Agent
The primary functions of a professional Realtor are to negotiate and protect.

1.  Negotiate the best possible price and terms
2.  Protect you by advising the appropriate property inspections, reviewing tthe results of those inspections with you and, when necessary, submitting a request for repairs to the seller.

Choosing a Realtor to represent you is an important decision.  I have provided this list of questions to help you with your interview process.

How did you hear about this Realtor?  If it was a referral, ask the referrer WHY they thought this Realtor was worthy of referring.

Is the Realtor full-time? Ask them to define full-time.  There is a significant difference between working full-time versus keeping the cell phone on full-time

How long has the Realtor been in the business full-time?  If the Realtor has been in the business a relatively short period of time (3 years or less) you don't want to automatically exclude them from consideration because they might be an up-and-coming go-getter but you do want to ask more detailed questions about their background prior to real estate and consider the strength of the company for whom they work.

What hours/days does the Realtor work?  Does their schedule dovetail with the time you will have to view homes?

What are the Realtor's professional designations?  What do the designations mean and how have they made the Realtor more effective representing buyers?  How will those designations specifically benefit you on the purchase of your home?  (Several of them may, in fact, offer no extra value to you as a buyer)

How many buyers has the Realtor represented in the last year?  Request Testimonials from clients, industry affiliates and peers - with dates so you know they are current.  Request the phone numbers of 3 buyers represented within the last 6 months to check references - and actually all them.

What are the Realtor's top 5 to 8 priorities in representing your interests in a real estate transaction?  What are your top priorities?  Do they match?

What specific negotiating strategies does the Realtor recommend when representing buyers?

Will you be working with the Realtor or another member of their team?  If you will be working with another member of the team, meet and interview that Realtor.

What is the Realtor's time typical time frame for returning phone calls and email?

Specifically ask,

         "Why should I choose you over another Realtor?"

"What are the important points in the Purchase Contract that I should review before making an Offer?"

"How often will you communicate with me/us generally?

Analyze:

Does the Realtor encourage your questions?  Do you feel educated by their answers?