One way to stay out of trouble when hiring a real estate agent is to take time to consider everything before proceeding. Here's a good example.

Let's say you found an agent you want to work with. The candidate comes to see you, presents you with a 20 page Agency Agreement to sign and waits for your signature on the line that is dotted.

There's no way you can review the terms and conditions of such a document while the agent is in front of you making it clear that they want you to sign right then and there.

Ask the agent if you can study the document for a day or two to familiarize yourself with its contents. If the agent says he or she needs the document signed right away, then its time for you to find yourself another agent.

If the agent says, "by all means. Take all the time you need" and then departs, you know you're off to a good start. The next step is to give the Agreement to your real estate attorney and ask the attorney to explain all the risks you'll be assuming. Ask for the attorney's opinion as to whether to proceeed.

A few simple precautions like these can help you avoid a difficult situation later.