Working with a real estate agent can provide a buyer with more security and make it easier for a buyer to find the right property quickly. However, there are some things you should know before you start looking at houses with a real estate agent. The following are six things you should know when you work with a real estate agent to find a home.

You shouldn't call listing agents directly.

As a buyer, you should be communicating with listing agents and sellers through your agent. If there is a property that you see advertised that you're interested in, it's better to bring this up with your real estate agent rather than contacting the listing agent yourself.

It's probably in your best interests to request an agency agreement.

You should request an agency agreement and go over this agreement in detail with your agent. This way, you'll have your agreement with your own agent clearly set out in writing and you'll get any questions you have on it answered.

Your agent is going to be paid through a commission arrangement.

Your agent won't make anything through working with you until you buy a property. Then, your agent is probably going to get a portion of the commission on the sale of the property you buy. 

You should express what you're looking for in detail.

Real estate agents are typically showing a lot of different properties. They're only going to be able to pinpoint the right property for you if you're very specific about what you want.

Be clear about what you're looking for in terms of home size, location, and any amenities you'd like. The more information you provide about what you're looking for, the easier it will be for the agent to help you. 

Your agent is going to be working with numerous other clients to help them find a home at the same time.

Agents need to juggle many clients at once to make a living at what they do. This means that you should be courteous and punctual about appointments with real estate agents because they probably have numerous appointments each day.

Things will be easier if you've already been pre-approved for a mortgage loan.

It's frustrating for buyers and real estate agents alike to find a perfect property, but then discover that they can't get the financing for it. You should find out how much you're eligible to borrow for a mortgage loan before you start looking at homes to avoid disappointments and wasted time.