- Real estate agents:
- Real estate agents are professionals licensed to help buy and sell properties. They obtain a state license after completing training courses and passing an exam.
- They work under the supervision of a real estate broker and may perform intermediary activities, such as showing properties, negotiating contracts and advising clients.
- REALTORS®:
- REALTORS® are real estate agents who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and are committed to a stricter code of ethics and professional standards.
- The term “REALTOR®” is a registered trademark that may only be used by agents who are members of NAR. REALTORS® adhere to additional principles of ethics and professional conduct.
- Real estate brokers:
- Real estate brokers are real estate agents who have obtained an additional license and have met higher experience and education requirements than agents.
- They have the ability to operate independently and supervise other agents. They can also open their own real estate agencies.
In short, real estate agents and REALTORS® are licensed to buy and sell property, but REALTORS® are subject to a more rigorous code of ethics. Real estate brokers, on the other hand, have an additional license that allows them to work independently and supervise other agents. When seeking real estate services, it is important to understand the differences in order to make informed decisions about who will represent you in your real estate transactions.
