I found one of mine by showing up to an open house (without an agent) where she was the listing agent. We got to talking and I liked that she was blunt, she called out issues to be aware of, and she really knew the area well. She’s just a no BS type and that worked for me. The other I literally found on Redfin as a recommended local agent and interviewed him on the phone. Asked him about how he helps first time buyers, what he offers that other agents don’t. I liked his answers and I liked that he didn’t upsell when he set up tours. He respected the top of the budget and cared about the “must have” list.

All in all, the two of them knew the areas, knew the local players (other agents) and both worked hard for me and my interests. When buying, I’ve never signed a contract with an agent to be exclusive so I could find a new one if I wanted but that might not be a thing in your area.