I primarily do International Referrals.

Here is part of the process:

1. Talk to the referring agent and the client to ascertain the needs and personality of the client so that I can find the best match.
2. Then I look at the list of agent that I currently know and from ActiveRain.
3. If I do not find one, I contact friends in the various countries for names of possible agents.  i then try to interview three to find the best match.
4. I then speak to the client to get their input and place the referral.
5. I include a clause in my referral that allows me to pull the referral if I feel the agent it not doing a great job for the client. 

I do not care what the agent has done in the past, I base my decision on what I believe the agent will do for my client and how well I think their personalities will match.  Often top producers are too busy or hand things off to assistants, who may or may not be good for my client.

I first look at the leader board on Active Rain for that County and City.  Then I look at their blog as well as their web site.  Then, I call them to see if I think they are a good fit for my referral.

an agent that will call me back. an agent that will try hard and look forward to finding them the perfect home.

My company has a relo department and contacting them is my first step. I do a lot of referrals so I also use AR and always personally interview agents before referring to them.

I will usually Google the RE/MAX offices in the area and find a member of the Platinum Club (those who earn over $250,000 per year).

I call the REMAX broker in the area and tell HIM/HER what I am looking for. I already know the agents are doing more the 20 transactions a year AND have over ten years experience.

I look for their production....

Ability to get the job done.

Olga - first one goes to the agent who I know well - followed by Brian Buffini White Hat Society, ActiveRain and then KW.

I do look at posts they've written.  If they are sloppy or ranting I'll pass. 

Good morning Olga. I will invite the person to lunch, it would be the way for me to start. Who would pass up a free lunch?

I first check to see if there is a RE/MAX office in the area.  If so, I'll call and ask to speak with the owner or broker.  Then I'll explain that I have a personal referral that needs to be treated with care, knowledge and professionally.  I ask them to handpick the best agent that fits.  I have been very successful doing this over the years.

If there is no RE/MAX office locally I'll find the best local company and do the same.

I start by searching AR. When I narrow down my agent selection, then I start reading blog posts. After that I make a few phone calls. 

I often refer out, and look for agents that post listings, and their solds.  I also look at their bio and web site.   Then I call/email and see how quickly they respond.