The best agent for you will depend on... you

When you need to hire any professional, you are likely to ask your family, friends and trusted acquaintances for recommendations. To hire a real estate agent, it's also a great idea to start by consulting your inner circle and your neighbors. According to the latest NAR survey, 52% of buyers and 36% of younger clients found their real estate agent through a referral.

And, of course, you can always turn to the Internet.

Each of the major property listing websites (realtor.com®, Zillow, and Redfin) has an agent search tool that allows you to search for agents in your area.

These property sites also collect reviews and ratings from an agent's past clients, giving you information about the agent's reputation. However, keep in mind that site policies on whether agents can edit or delete reviews vary from site to site. (As with Yelp, don't forget to use your own judgment.)

The sites also show an agent's sales history, so you can see how many houses a certain person sold. It's often best to choose an agent who has a lot of sales under his belt (a sign that he's committed to the work he's doing). And perhaps even more important: an agent who has sold homes where you're looking to buy, within your price range, and in the neighborhood you're interested in, is a sign that that professional understands the local market.

Whatever you do, don't just trust sites that list properties online. Interview potential agents in person, and no fewer than three.

A face-to-face meeting will give you the perspective you need on the agent's personality and style. Is this someone you would like to work with? Has sense of humor? Does he respect your point of view? Is it communicating in the way you want communications to take place? Best to find out in person.