[SteveFromNY]

Where I am, any local realtor will be happy to give you a CMA (Comparable or Competitive Market Analysis) of your home, for free. That will get them in your house, and let them give their listing presentation to you - all the advantages you'll have listing your home with them. They won't want to leave until you sign! I understand some places legislate the R/E commission (but I am not sure), but if you can negotiate, go for no more than 3% if you have an "expensive" house. I used the logic with the realtor that he was getting an absolute amount from me, not a percent.
For instance, if your house sells for $100K and you've signed a 6% agreement, he gets $6K. If your house sells for $500K that same 6% translates into $30K, a HUGE difference and the realtor did the same work I'd assume. I told him I'd give him 3% (which is $15K for a $500K house), and no more. He kept at me with all the stuff he could think of to bring that amount up to 4% or 4 1/2%, but I just kept saying "But you'll still get $30,000 from me". And I signed at 3%. If your house is less expensive, the logic really isn't as strong.
Anyway, my advice is use someone local who you are comfortable with. Interview many of them. And as stated in the prior post beware of the high prices, they are likely just a come-on to get you to sign. You really don't need a recommendation from some place far from your house, although it can't hurt to interview them too. Ask around, I'll bet you even know some realtors!