Just like finding a contractor to work on your home, finding a good real estate agent requires research. Since the seller pays the commission to the realtors, it costs you nothing to hire your own real estate agent. Here are some tips for finding a good agent.
First, since housing is a local market, you want to find an agent that has a lot of local experience. A local agent will know the home prices in the market and, through their contacts with other agents, know about homes that will be coming on the market soon. This latter information is valuable in a hot real estate market.
Second, it is best to get a referral from friends or acquaintances. A good agent will be loyal and focused on your needs, not just looking to make a commission. A good agent will also know competent home inspection services and mortgage and title insurance companies to help with your purchase.
Finally, you should sit down and interview the referred agent. Ask what they know about the school districts and municipalities in the areas in which you are interested. Ask them to show you recent comparable sales in those areas and ask them what they think you will need to pay. Talk to them about prequalifying for a mortgage so you know if you can afford the houses in that area. You need to spend some time talking to the agent about the school districts and the types of houses you like. A good agent will be patient with you to make sure you get a house you can afford and love.