The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics (which in many cases goes beyond state law). In most areas, it is the REALTOR® who shares information on the homes they are marketing, through a Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Working with a REALTOR® who belongs to an MLS will give you access to the greatest number of homes.

Start your search by preparing a list of questions to ask potential REALTORS®. Then choose a comfortable location for the interview. It doesn't matter whether it's over the telephone, over a cup of coffee, or over at the realtor's office. Here are some sample questions you might consider when choosing a realtor for either purchasing or selling your home:

• Do you work on a part-time or full-time basis?
• Are you a subscriber to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)?
• What is your suggested selling price for my home?
• How did you determine that price?
• Do you live in the area where I would like to purchase or sell my home?
• Can you supply me with a list of vendor references?
• How often will you supply me with listings?
• Are you willing to prepare a marketing plan for my home?
• Will you prepare a professional, typeset flyer of my property?
• Will it include interior and exterior photos?
• Will it list the positive features of my home?
• Will it feature information about the neighborhood for prospective buyers?
• Will my property be listed on your website?
• How will you differentiate my property from others in the same area?
• How will you encourage other agents to sell my property?
• Will I receive a marketing update of my property on a weekly basis?