Here’s a question that I get asked pretty often, and one I, myself, did not know the answer to until I became a REALTOR®.
What is the difference between a real estate agent and a realtor?
Before I get into the difference between a real estate agent and a realtor, let’s explain the similarities. In order to legally be able to help people buy, sell, and lease property, both have to take an exam that must be passed with at least a 70% score. The exams vary depending on which state you are trying to be licensed.
The biggest difference between a realtor and a real estate agent is a realtor is a real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors, which is America’s largest trade organization that represents over 1.5 million members, according to their website. In order to gain membership into the organization and become a REALTOR®, the membership requirements are that you pass a background check and that you abide by a code of ethics. To become a realtor, there is an extra two and a half hours of training on the code of ethics that must be taken every three years. Also, depending on the state, being a member of NAR gives access to the local MLS that may not be available to non-NAR real estate agents.
This is very important especially if you are a buyer and you are going into homes with somebody maybe that you do not know, right?
So, a real estate agent is someone who is just licensed by the state. They passed the test.
In conclusion, a real estate agent is someone who is licensed to work with people buying, selling, or leasing property. A realtor is licensed and also a member of the National Association of Realtors, meaning they are background checked and must also follow a code of ethics.
Those are the two most important things when you are choosing somebody to work with. Ask them if not only are they a licensed real estate agent in your state, but are they with the National Association of Realtors. Then you know they are background checked and they have to follow a code of ethics.
My name is Dawn D’Amico. I am a licensed realtor in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. If you guys need help buying, selling, investing, or if you just have burning real estate questions do no hesitate to reach out!
Dawn D’Amico: 215.962.9307
damico.dawn@gmail.com
