Don't Let the Realtor Choose You, YOU Choose the Realtor

The easiest way to avoid these common mistakes is to research the real estate company before walking in the door. Check out their web site and each realtor's listings.

Call the real estate company and be moderately honest, tell the receptionist you are shopping for a realtor and want to know who their top-selling realtor is or who has the most experience representing buyers.

Do not give your real name; that way you're not tied to the floor realtor. Do not ask about a particular property unless you want to work with the realtor that has that listing. Do not sign up with the realtor who has that listing; dual agency is never a good idea for the first-time buyer.

You have a choice. You can take a chance with the first realtor you meet and hope you get a great one, or you can investigate and learn what you need to know before calling the realtor of your choice.