When you list your home with a real estate agent, you are granting him the authority to act as your agent, and offer your property for sale. This is a binding agreement with that broker firm- so it is important to choose a company and a realtor that you enjoy working with.

One of the first steps you should take to find a really great real estate agent is to talk to your friends and people you know who have recently sold their home. Ask them if they had a good experience, and if they would work with that agent again.

If you can't get a recommendation from people you know, then you'll need to go to a nearby real estate office. An office close to your home is important, as the agents will be familiar with your neighborhood, and all the good selling points they can offer.

When you visit the office, tell them that you are thinking of listing your home. Let them know that you want to list with an office that is active, and would like to meet their best salesperson. Be sure to find out the name of the person with the best sales or closing rate, not the best listing record.

Some offices have the names and pictures of the top agents listed on the walls. This can make it easy for you to decide the agent you want to speak with.

It's a good idea to interview your potential real estate agent. You already know that they have a good sales record, but you also want to know that they are competent, honest and reliable. You want to know how long they have been in the real estate business. It generally takes 4-5 years for an agent to get a well-rounded education. You'll also want to know what professional organizations they belong to.

Here's a checklist you can use to interview your potential real estate agent:

a) How many houses have you listed in the past 6 months?

b) How many houses have you sold in the past 6 months?

c) Can you offer any references from your past clients?

d) How long have you been in the real estate business?

e) What professional organizations do you belong to?

f) What type of plan will you develop to sell my home?

Listing your home with a real estate agent is not a one-way street. You agree to pay a hefty commission to the agent. In return, you get the best price for your home; the paperwork handled competently, full disclosure of facts, and professional skill and service.