Buying or selling in the DMV is not like other markets. Inventory in Chevy Chase and Potomac moves in days, not weeks. Multiple offers, waived contingencies, and cash buyers are common. You need an agent who actually knows this market - recent sales in the specific neighborhoods you care about, not just a license and a Zillow account.
A good buyer's agent in this market helps you understand what to actually offer, not just what to ask for. They know which sellers' agents are organized and which are chaos, and that affects your experience. For sellers, a good listing agent knows how to price to generate competition, not just list at "what you need to net."
Commission is negotiable and has shifted significantly since the recent NAR settlement - ask explicitly how your agent is compensated and who's paying. Interview at least two agents. Red flag: any agent who can't pull recent comps on the spot during your first meeting, or who tells you what you want to hear on pricing instead of what the data shows.