"How can you possibly advise someone on an offer price when you haven't seen many of the homes that sold recently? It makes sense that someone who is doing something full time can offer more than someone who is part time or with a partial commitment to this industry. The top firms offer education and national and international networks to promote a property. There are reasons why agents stay with these firms even when the commission splits with discount firms seem better," says De Groot, who, with her own celebrity-style visage, was recently featured on "Real Estate Confidential," a behind-the-scenes look at the business of buying and selling real estate. The show runs on E.W. Scripps Co.'s Fine Living Network, a sister network to HGTV.

De Groot says a primary concern in today's market is tighter lending requirements. Buyers need to be schooled in their risks and obligations to lenders.

An experienced agent will know the right questions to ask and have strong relationships with lenders they trust.

"The point is to avoid having a client get into trouble. There is a delicate way of speaking about money and it is crucial that a serious talk is had before moving forward," she said.

But money isn't everything.

"Money is not the only solution to every problem. There are many things a seller can offer to make a hesitant buyer reconsider -- time, financing conditions, offering personal property in the deal, making property adjustments that aren't costly but a time saver for the buyer. Each situation is different. A list of motivators can help sort out options that keep the deal together," De Groot advised.

"In this day and age, people expect information the moment that it becomes available. Imagine, for instance, that your dream home comes on the market on a Monday evening. Now imagine that three or four days pass before your agent becomes aware. That gives other buyers just enough time to get their offer in and possibly take away your shot at that perfect home," De Groot said.

Beware.

"Referrals are many times due to conflicts of interest. Get them to disclose, disclose, disclose their relationships," she said.

"A full time agent has more than one client. It is no different than an experienced attorney or doctor. In order to be available for clients every day, an assistant is necessary. For example, a listing appointment could last for three hours and during that time someone could call to discuss an offer on your property. Would you want that call to go unreturned for hours? It is crucial that this kind of call be returned immediately," De Groot said.

"Everyone understands the value of referrals. The MLS details will show what in fact that agent has sold and when those sales occurred.

"It is imperative to select a Realtor who understands you, one that you respect and with whom you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and concerns. Without a level of trust the client will not experience the full benefits of a full-time Realtor," De Groot said.