Real estate agencies in California are the best place to start when you're buying or selling a home or piece of California commercial real estate. Find an agent that's experienced with the type of property you're interested in buying or selling. Look for CA real estate brokers that have offices close to you, but extend your search for an agent beyond the local area if you need help with a specific property in a different area or an expert in commercial or other dealings.

Any California Realtors, appraisers or brokers must have a license. The best way to make sure they're up-to-date with all the real estate training and licensing is to check the state's licensing directory. Another great sign of a qualified realtor is an affiliation with the California Association of Realtors.

1. Use national directories to develop an initial list of Realtors in your area.

2. Hire a Realtor only after making sure he's well-qualified by checking his state license and affiliation with the California Association of Realtors or any other realty organizations.

3. Look for California real estate agents who specialize in the type of property you are buying or selling.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find local options for real estate agents in California

Start your search as close as possible to the property you are selling or you're looking to buy. The best Realtor will be one who already has experience buying and selling in the area. He'll know the market values, be able to more easily help with pricing and can remain objective based on past transactions.

I recommend: Find CA real estate agents through Your Piece of California's realtor directory, or find local options through the associations in the area. Try the Santa Cruz Association of Realtors member' directory to find a commercial Realtor in that area, or the San Diego Association of Realtors for that city. Find other associations at the California Realtor Associations website that lists all local affiliations in the state.

Use online directories for your California real estate agent search

Find a California Realtor for both commercial and personal property by widening your search using an online directory. Find a directory that narrows your options down by state, county or even city. Most directories list contact information available to anyone without having to pay a fee, so don't waste your money on sites that require you to pay to find a Realtor.

I recommend: Search either the Real Estate Directory or US Real Estate Director for listings of California realtors.

Check licensing and affiliations for Realtors in California

Once you narrow your search down to a few good Realtors, check to make sure they are as qualified as they tell you they are. Use state licensing information and local organizations to decide which Realtors are more qualified for your transaction needs.

I recommend: Check the credentials of your Realtor in California through the California Department of Real Estate license directory, or see if your potential agent is affiliated with the California Association of Realtors.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Take advantage of the resources available through the California Association of Realtors. They have many educational tools and tips to help you through the process of finding a California Realtor.