Many burrow their way through the Yellow Pages. Some pick up a name at the office water cooler or a health club. It's fine to happen onto names this way, as long as you follow up by screening candidates, said Joan McLellan Tayler, the author of two real estate books. Kenneth Goyeau, a broker-associate for the Referral Realty chain, said marketing expertise is only one key attribute in a good real estate agent.
Agents represent clients in legal transactions involving hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Then perhaps you'd be most comfortable working with an agent who has a similar background. Likewise, a senior might wish to seek an older agent who understands the art of downsizing. One way to locate an agent whose background mirrors your needs is to call the owner, broker or sales manager of a realty office in your area. Be candid about your situation and ask for several names, said Tayler, who operated her own real estate company for 17 years. Find an agent who specializes in your community.