Sound Off: Finding the Realtor with the best availability, time, and resources for you

To find out whether an agent has the necessary time and resources to help, look for an agent who can clearly explain how they will guide you through the labor-intensive process.

Real estate in the Bay Area moves quickly and you’ll want to work with an agent who can bring calm to what can be a stressful experience.

Candidates should be experienced, knowledgeable, intelligent and trustworthy.

Do they have a written daily schedule and business process?

Sellers, ask about the marketing strategy for selling your home.

Buyers should learn the agent’s strategy for landing a home at a good price in this prolonged seller’s market.

Ultimately, the most emotionally and financially satisfying working relationships with Realtors are the result of mutual respect, trust and teamwork.

Whether you are selling your home, buying or both, choosing the right agent is vitally important.

Sellers require an agent with a support team capable of properly preparing a home for marketing — think painting and staging.

If you are buying, ask the Realtor how many other buyers they are working with looking for a similar house in a similar price range.