Check your state’s real estate licensing board for any complaints filed against an agent you are considering working with.
Ask for testimonials to gauge client satisfaction. If you can, ask for the contact information of a past client. This could provide you with a valuable opinion on whether or not this real estate agent is the right fit for you.
Find out if they have a real estate blog or have contributed to any real-estate-related publications. Great realtors have plenty of expertise to share!
Ask the right questions
How long have you handled this area/how many sales have you handled in this area?
How long have you been licensed?
How well would you say you know the local market?
Do you work as a real estate agent full-time?
How will I be represented as a client in relation to you? (Transactional broker, etc)
Do you require buyers to get pre-approved before looking at homes?
What is your fee?
Will you attend inspections?
Do you have an assistant, or is there anyone else who would be working with me?