Buying or selling a house is most likely one of the biggest financial transactions you’ll ever make. Buying or selling a home is complicated — which is why it’s important for you to have a great real estate agent by your side to help you out.

However, many first-time homebuyers and first-time home sellers make the mistake of contacting only one real estate agent. Really, you should interview at least three real estate agents before deciding who will represent you.

You should take the time to find the perfect agent for you now, rather than regret that you rushed to start later. With that said, here are 8 questions you should ask your potential real estate agents before you choose one.

1. Can I see your real estate license?

This is arguably the most important question on this list. Before anything else, you need to make sure that you’re working with a trained, accredited professional. Every listing agent should be prepared to deliver proof of their license to sell in your area.

2. How long have you been working as a real estate agent?

A great real estate agent will usually have worked in your market full-time for at least four years. An agent with four years of experience has already learned things that can only be learned on the job as a full-time real estate professional. If you find someone who’s been working in your market for 10 years or more, that’s even better.

The location is also important. No matter how experienced a real estate agent is; if you’re looking to buy a house in Massachusetts, it won’t make sense to hire an agent who specializes in Wisconsin.

3. Can you provide a list of referrals?

If you want to know how good an agent really is, talk to their past clients. Listen to their personal experiences. Get the good, the bad, and the ugly. Similar to a license, every real estate agent should arrive at the first meeting with referrals. If they do not, ask for them. Be wary if an agent can’t offer a handful of client names to call.

4. What are your listings’ average days on the market?

If you’re looking for a listing agent, you should always ask to see how long their listings usually stay on the market. Compare it to other agents interviewed, and if theirs sounds like the houses stay too long on the market, ask for an explanation. If they can’t tell you why, find another agent.

5. How quickly can you help me view a home that I want to see?

If you’re looking for a real estate agent who can also help you buy a home, this is a question you can’t skip. In popular markets, homes can go under contract quickly — sometimes, even on the same day that they are offered for sale.

If you see a new listing that you love, how quickly can your agent arrange a tour for you? How much notice do they need? Do your schedules align? Does your agent work full time, or are they only available to help you part-time? How many other buyers (or sellers) do they represent?

6. What’s your commission fee?

This is a question more important for sellers because the buyer typically doesn’t pay the agent’s commission. The commission fee comes from the final sale price. The standard commission for a real estate transaction is usually 6% of the final sale price — which is due at closing — and split between the seller’s agent and the buyer’s agent.

7. Do I have to sign a contract and can I cancel without a penalty?

It’s typical for an agent to have you sign an exclusive listing or buyer’s agreement which will last for a specified period of time. Always look over the contract carefully, as some agents might want you to sign a contract that you can’t break but allows them to get out of.

Ask the agent if you can cancel the contract without a penalty if you’re not satisfied with their service. Some agents will charge a termination fee to cover their out-of-pocket marketing expenses.

8. How will you communicate with me?

A realtor should never be out of touch, within reason. Ask your realtor what method of communication they prefer — whether it’s talking on the phone, texting, or emailing. No matter which one you prefer, make sure that you and your agent agree on a primary communication method so you’ll know what to expect.

Many agents use a smartphone app to schedule showings and provide important updates. If yours does too, make sure they take the time to teach you how to use it. Additionally, ask them if you’ll be working with them directly or with a team.

Once you’ve interviewed at least three real estate agents, you can now compare each of their answers and decide who can help you the most. After all, only you know what you’ll need from your agent.