Choosing a Realtor is an important decision and one that shouldn't be entered into lightly. You need a committed professional who will act in your best interest. These points may help you in selecting and working with your Realtor:

Friends and co-workers are excellent sources of information. Ask them who they've dealt with and if they would recommend them.

Attend open houses - if you have time, this is a great way to meet Realtors in person.

Protect yourself by choosing a real estate professional who is a member of your local real estate board. Real estate board members are required to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Business Practice.

When you have identified a Realtor that you would like to work with, ask some questions before you proceed.

Ask about their background and experience (but don't use their experience as your only yardstick). Base your selection more on their skill, knowledge, and your level of comfort in dealing with them.

Find out specifically about what services you can expect; then consider whether what is being offered is realistic or not.

Ask for references.

Now that you've asked your questions and made your choice, we recommend that you be as candid as possible with your Realtor; the better they know you and your circumstances, the better they can serve you.

And finally, after you've chosen your Realtor, provided that they are doing a good job for you, deal only with that Realtor. He or she will appreciate your commitment, and you will benefit from their willingness to "go that extra mile" for you.