Pay attention to your fee structure early on

Before discussing how much you want to spend, where you want to move, where you live, etc. Negotiate a fixed cost agent fee. Make sure it includes a list of services and such that it covers.

Do not fall for a percentage fee and certainly don't go in expecting the other party to pay your agent fee. This may mean you have to avoid agencies with required high fees(eg L&F, … ). That is fine they don't do anything special to deserve the extra money. Its extra overhead and kick backs to their buddy buddy title companies and so forth.

There are plenty of agents who only do a sale or two per year that are willing to get a bonus extra sale. The amount of skilled work that agents do for either a sale or a purchase is quite small. Figure out their hourly rate. You'll be surprised at how much they can make if you are an easy buyer/seller. Its your money and you can easily end up paying 30, 40, or 50k if you don't pay attention early on before signing anything.