Buying or selling a home can be a pretty stressful thing to do.  You really want someone on your side who knows what they're doing.  Consider asking some or all of these questions:

1) What does being an agent mean to you?  You want someone who puts you first and the commission check second.

2) How long have you been in real estate?  Everybody is new at some point and just because a person is doesn't mean they aren't good.  A lot depends on their background.

3) Do you have client references?  This is probably the way to get the clearest picture of who your agent is.

4) How many transactions did you settle last year?  Just because someone has been in the business for 20 years doesn't make them successful.

5) Do you do dual representation?  This means working both sides of the deal.  It's legal in VA, DC, and many other places.  I've only done it once in over 8 years.

6) What's your marketing plan?  If you're looking for a listing agent then you need to know how they're going to sell your house!

7) What are your sales stats?  Again, if you're looking for a listing agent, how long does it take them to sell a house?

8) How do you communicate with your clients?  If the only times you'll hear from them are the initial meeting and at the settlement table, you should probably keep looking.

9) Do you have good connections?  Successful agents have a stable full of lenders, contractors, handymen, etc.

10)  What other designations or certifications do you have?  Agents have the opportunity to expand their area of expertise.  It's not that important unless you are in a specialized situation.