As the housing market continues to drop, many agents are leaving the real estate ranks in search of more stable careers. But still there is no shortage of real estate agents. The fittest just survive the challenges faced by the industry. With this scenario, it will be easier to find a good one among the current pool. But still you have to be aware of the of to find a good realtor

In getting a real estate agent, gather the necessary information. Start with a list of possible real estate agents. One way to find candidates is to talk to professionals from real estate related professions and ask their opinion. Don’t hire the first real estate agent you meet without interviewing a least three agents.

If you know someone who is employed or a professional dealing with realtors ask them for a recommendation. They can be an escrow officer, title representative, homeowners insurance salesman, and/or loan officer.

You could also make phone calls to real estate offices and ask questions. Ask the manager and/or a realtor in the office to make a recommendation not involved in their organization. With this, you would know who they respect as a competitor.

A new alternative to finding a Realtor is the internet.

After getting the names of the possible real estate agent, contact them. A good agent will always ask for an appointment to meet you. But you can give him/her the appointment he/she wants after a satisfactory telephone interview or conversation.

During the interview process, find out how much experience the agents have. Whether they worked at a time where the pressure to sell is huge and the housing market is on a downturn.

Buyers will be giving low offers especially this time and you, the sellers, should ask how the agent will market the house. You want someone who will be concerned about you and will take care of your interests.

You want someone who demonstrates ready knowledge of homes available for sale and does not have to call you back after they "check on the computer." This ready knowledge demonstrates they have actually been out previewing homes and don’t just sit around and passively wait for the phone to ring.

Also, aside from knowledge and experience, you should feel comfortable in dealing with them.

You also want someone sharp enough to ask you questions. You want a Realtor who takes that responsibility very seriously. If someone seems too much like simply a salesman, then maybe you should look a little further.