Ask your friends and family about real estate agents with whom they've had favorable dealings, or check online for recommendations.

If you’re a homeowner looking to sell, your first step may be choosing a real estate sales associate.

• Get a referral or surf.
  Referrals are one place to start, but so is surfing online. Select a sales associate who is familiar with your neighborhood and its key selling points.

• Seek experience, compatibility.
  Once you identify a sales associate, check references and look for compatibility, open communication, and honesty ... after all, she will advise you on the worth of your home and how to get it in top selling condition!

• Ask about a customized marketing plan.
  Ask your sales associate how she plans to develop a customized marketing plan for your home. Get answers to questions like: Will the home be placed on the Multiple Listing Service, or MLS? When will she hold open houses? And what are additional advertising opportunities such as website listings?

• Rely on expertise.
  Once you select a sales associate, you should have more peace of mind and can count on her expertise regarding things like market trends, inspection, potential buyer screening and negotiation.

Find more information about choosing a Real Estate Sales Associate at:
www.era.com.