If you're selling a home, a good real-estate agent will help you set the right price, market the home professionally, qualify the buyers and expertly negotiate and finalize the deal.

A great agent has long experience with recent sales and can walk a tightrope, balancing optimism with realism and diplomacy with brutal honesty. You'll pay  for an agent's service but a good one is worth every penny.

Step 1 - Round up good prospects - Ask for referrals from family and friends or search websites to find a realtor that is familiar with your area and type of home

Step 2- Ask tough questions - do they work at Real Estate full time -  You want someone who is passionate about what they do and will work assertively on your behalf but won't come on too aggressively.

Step 3 - Find out who the Agent is working for - Go over your agency relationship in detail and ask questions if you are unsure of anything.

Step 4 - Make sure you can contact your agent quickly and easily - if you have to keep going through the  office paging system or wait for him/her to return calls it is frustrating.

Step 5 - Sign the right Contract - Choose a Realtor who takes the time to go over the contract with you and who explains your choices in detail.