1) Find an agent who works the area you are interested. (Clairemont)
2) Go to open houses in the area you like, chat with the agent to get a feel for what they are like.
3) Create a list of possible realtors and then call them up, ask to meet with them so you can interview them. A good agent will give you a half hour, or hour of their time to talk to you before you make any commitment.
4) Shy away from any agent who wants you to sign a contract as an exclusive buyers agent.
Lastly, let me suggest that an agent that you think isn’t slimy used car salesman, might be honest and great, but maybe they are just be good at hiding it. How would you know? So… remember at all times in the real estate transaction process that it is your responsibility to watch out for your interests. Your agent will of course be looking out for their commission. When negotiating, tell your agent what they need to know to do their job, but you can keep your top price and other such things to yourself. And always remember to watch out for your interests yourself! (Did I say that already?)
