Reply #10: REFERENCES are the first thing! Then, shmoose with her and find out what you can about her life...

[Radio_Lady]

Of course, then you want to see if you can afford to pay her cut of the pie.

My husband and I are going to try to list the home ourselves, because hubby sold at least one house without a realtor. It's called FSBO (For Sale By Owner) and lots of people have figured out how to help you with this.

Otherwise, interview at least five people and get someone who you feel will earn his/her keep.

On edit: You're hiring a buyer's agent? Someone to help you FIND a place? That's a bit different. I don't have experience with that -- we worked directly through the builder of our home development. The former home was bought by my husband and his first wife, now deceased. My ex-husband and I also bought through a builder in Florida in 1970. However, many of the same things are operative.

How comfortable would you feel looking for a house by yourself with the help of an attorney for closing, etc.?

In peace,

Radio Lady in Oregon