There are several steps you should take before slecting a real estate agent. A good start is to call several friends and ask them for a recommendation. If you can't get good help from a friend, you can try another idea. Go out to the neighborhood where you are wanting to buy, and write down the names and phone numbers of several real estate agents who are working in the area. Chances are if they are working in the area they will know the area better than agents who have no local experience there.

When you have several names of potential agents, interview them in person and or on the phone. You can ask them for references. Ask them about fees and how knowledgeable they are about the neighborhoods that interest you. If you are a buyer, make sure the agent doesn't represent the seller; if you are a seller, make sure the agent doesn't represent the buyer.Here is a form you can use to conduct your interview. Print it on your printer and fill in the blanks during your interviews.

It is always best to compare several different real estate agents before making your final selection. You'll quickly learn which are the most knowledgeable and able to help.