It may surprise you, but when I hire other Realtors for myself, friends, family, and out of area clients, I seriously interview the prospective agents.  Why?  Because after basic competence, an agent's specific experience, communication style, and ethical intent are the most important aspect of real estate representation.  Being in the business myself, I know their Gross Commission Income or yearly sales stats don't automatically translate into being a great agent.

You are hiring an agent to assist you in transacting what is probably your largest asset / liability, so please, interview them seriously.  Even if that agent is your mom's friend, your daughter's coach's wife, your neighbor, or that agent that sends you a "Just Sold" postcard every week of the year, you should still interview them and make an informed choice.  Not all agents are equal in intergrity, skill, or intentions and you don't want to find this out the hard way or when you're half way through your transaction!

You need (and, frankly, deserve) an accomplished, experienced advisor and it is very important you chose someone you respect, trust, and enjoy. 
 
 

How did you get to be in the real estate business and why is this your chosen profession?

What do you consider your main role as an agent when working with a buyer?

How is that different from your role as an agent when working with a seller?

Tell me about your communication style?

What do you think “fiduciary” means in terms of how you will treat me?

What are your views on pure dual agency? What about designated agency?

What are your 3 best skills – the ones that separate you from any other agents I’ll interview?

If you could change one thing about the real estate profession, what would that be and why?

Do you use a showing assistant or are you part of a larger / mega team?

Who will I be advising me and explaining things during our transaction?

What do you expect from your buyer / seller clients?

Have you ever fired a client before and, if so, why?

How many clients do you work with at one time?

Do you charge upfront fees or “paperwork charges” at closing?

What will it be like to have my house listed with you?

How will you help me decide how much to pay for a property?

Would you give me direct access to colleagues as well as current / previous clients so I may contact them and ask about you?