How to Select a REALTOR®

It's always a good idea to ask friends and co-workers for recommendations. Top agents get most of their new clients from satisfied former clients.

You may wish to interview several agents to learn more about their experience and to see whether you would feel comfortable working with them. Among the questions you might ask a prospective agent are:

* Are you a REALTOR® member of the local association of REALTORS®?
* How long have you been in the business?
* Do you sell real estate full time?
* How many properties did you sell last year?
* What price range do you specialize in?
* What type of property do you specialize in—single-family, condominiums, units, etc.?
* What neighborhoods are you familiar with?

Once you have selected an agent, rely on the agent to represent you in various situations. Since most real property purchase and sale transactions involve two agents (i.e., one representing the seller and the other representing the buyer), misunderstandings can develop when a client of one agent speaks to the agent of the other client. If you are a buyer and find a property which looks interesting, let your agent do the initial follow-up. And when you visit an open house, always remember to hand the agent holding the open house your agent's business card.