If you know your situation, have an idea of what you want for a home, and know what you need, you don't want to be the only one that knows.  Finding the right realtor will help you to improve your chances of getting exactly what you want and finding the best deals that are in the market.  If you aren't sure what to look for, then you can follow a few general guidelines to find the perfect match for your needs. 

If you have never had a realtor before, you will want to know standard procedures for how they are supposed to approach you with the business.  For instance, you shouldn't have to sign a contract at the beginning of the deal.  You also shouldn't have to put any money down until you have found a home and signed a contract with the lender.  More importantly, make sure that the realtor is going to listen to what you want and need and doesn't try to take advantage of what you don't know.  You will usually be able to tell where a realtor stands with your business by how they respond to your questions and needs with the first phone call.  Every realtor has their own personal touch to showing homes.  If you aren't comfortable with how they are proceeding, it is best to not use them.