REALTOR® vs. Real Estate Agent, there's a difference!

Often times, many ask, what's the difference between a REALTOR®  and a Real Estate agent? It's important to the understand there is a difference. When a person gets licensed, they are what you call a "salesperson." Everyone is a salesperson starting out however, they must sign up with a licensed Real Estate Broker to begin to work with consumers. Many real estate brokers are members of local, state and national associations of REALTORS®, which in turn, means that any salespersons that works with their company will be required to sign up with the association as well.

One of the major reasons a Brokerage would sign up with the National Association of REALTORS®(NAR), which owns the REALTORS® designation, is because it would hold them to a higher standard as they follow the Code of Ethics that is an ethical guide to ensure REALTORS® are being ethical in their practice. It also means that if a REALTOR® is unethical, they have to go before their peers in professional standards hearing who will then decide if one is in violation of the Code of Ethics. 

On the other hand, a person is a real estate brokerage/agent, without agreeing to the Code of Ethics. This, in my opinion, means a brokerage has decided they do not adhere to the Code of Ethics and if something happens, the public can take them to the Department of Real Estate if there is an issue or possibly sue the brokerage/agent directly. You as a future home owner or seller would make a decision if you want to be represented by someone who wants to ensure they will do all they can to represent you ethically or someone who doesn't see the value of the Code of Ethics.

When choosing an agent, choose wisely! Choose a REALTOR®!