Start by doing a few hours of research. Look in the paper and on the internet. An agent who is willing to spend money on advertising is usually successful and motivated. Ask friends who they would recommend. Compile a list of names and use the following questions to help you determine which agent is right for you.

1.  Could you send me some information about yourself?
You can often get an idea of how professional an agent is by their promotional
materials.  If their own materials are not professional just think how they will market your home.

2.  How many homes have you sold in the last 6 months?
Look for an agent that has a good record of selling homes, not just listing them, since selling is your ultimate goal.

3.  What is your average length of time from list to sold?
Also compare the asking price to the sold price.  An agent who sells quickly and close to the asking price is effective at helping clients determine and get the right price.

4.  What professional designations do you have / what clubs are you a member of?
An agent who is continuously going to classes to learn about real estate will be
better equipped to sell your home in today's market.  Also by being a member of
community clubs it shows that they are motivated and have an interest in their own community.

5.  Do you have an assistant or support staff?
More successful agents will tend to have an assistant.  This will allow the agent more time to spend  working on your listing.

6.  How often will you hold open houses?
A good agent will hold at least 2 brokers open houses about a month apart.  They will also hold at least 1 public open house.  Only 1% of buyers who comes to an open house will buy that house.  The best way to maximize the success of an open house is to
introduce as many agents to a house as possible.  Then they will then call their
interested pre-qualified buyers.

7. What separates you from the competition?
How effectively will they advertise? Will they place your home on multiple websites?