Find an Agent Get referrals from neighbors, friends, and colleagues. If you're a buyer, get names of local agents from For Sale signs in areas where you want to live, and interview agents hosting local open houses. If you're a seller, check For Sale signs in your neighborhood for local agents who regularly and successfully sell in the area. Interview an agent before you choose him or her. If you're relocating to a new city or state, ask a local agent you trust to recommend an agent in the area where you'll be looking.
Returns calls promptly and answers questions readily.
Keep all of your paperwork in one place. For buyers, that includes your priority list, listing notes and loan documents, for easy retrieval when you need them. For sellers, that includes your listing contract, loan documents, inspection reports, and disclosures.