okies…
my interpretation of Istikhara was that, one can say the dua themselves about 3 times to get a proper anwer
however ive just been told, some people get an imam to do the dua (not themselves) and thats the final word…
what is the correct.. or i guess the more appropriate way of performing the dua?
depends on who you ask :).
i believe you can do it yourself without risking it not reaching Allah.
Allah janay lekin!
I have heard and would prefer to do it my self.. ( its kinda hard ). Did it long time ago, do not remember how to do it now…
But I dont understand it my self… how people can have it done from other people. ? 
I always thought istikhara is something between you and Allah and Allah gives you a direct answer… ( as ravage mentioned)…
-Salman
*potentially off-topic! *
Salman, i notice you attach '-Salman' with each post. Since its not part of your signature, I presume you write it everytime. Since you do have it in your screen name, Im presuming the only reason you do that is that you believe people actually dont look at your screen name. That is a valid concern. Therefore, as someone who does look at your screen name, and thus someone who gains additional information about you that way, perhaps you should write this after each post:
-Salman
(in NY)
(short for New York)
thanks guys :)