Whether or not you are buying or selling a home, having a great realtor can mean the difference between a stress-free, quick transaction and disaster.  To make sure that you are hiring a good real estate agent, ask for referrals and then check them.  Do not rely on the references given to you by the realtor but get your own too.  Check with the Better Business Bureau, local consumer groups and online groups such as Angie’s List.  Ask potential realtors if they are members of professional associations such as the National Association of Professional Realtors and then double-check.  For more on hiring a realtor read, “How To Find A Real Estate Agent Who Has Your Best Interests At Heart.”