What is a Realtor vs. Real Estate Agent?
If you’re getting into buying or selling property, you may have noticed people refer to themselves as either a “real estate agent” or a “Realtor®.” At first glance, it might seem like these titles are the same, but they actually have important differences. Let’s break down what sets a Realtor apart from a real estate agent and why it matters.
Real Estate Agent vs. Realtor: What’s the Difference?
While both Realtors and real estate agents are licensed to help people buy, sell, or rent properties, the main difference lies in membership and standards. Every Realtor is a real estate agent, but not every real estate agent is a Realtor.
What is a Real Estate Agent?
A real estate agent is anyone who’s licensed to help clients with buying, selling, or renting real estate. They’ve completed their state-required training, passed an exam, and are now licensed by the state to work in real estate. Some agents choose to specialize in residential properties, while others focus on commercial real estate.
After obtaining their license, agents typically work under a brokerage. The brokerage supports them with marketing, access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), and training. A real estate agent’s primary responsibility is to represent clients in real estate transactions, helping them find the right property, negotiate the deal, and handle the paperwork.
Personal Anecdote
When I bought my first home, I worked with a fantastic real estate agent who went above and beyond to find properties in my price range. She was new to the field but had a great mentor and was so dedicated that she helped me feel confident every step of the way. It made all the difference to have a committed agent in my corner.
What is a Realtor?
A Realtor is a real estate agent who is also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a nationwide trade organization. Realtors follow a strict Code of Ethics and are committed to standards that go beyond what’s required by state licensing. NAR membership also gives them access to resources and networking opportunities that non-member agents don’t have.
The term “Realtor” is a registered trademark, meaning only agents who are members of the NAR can use it. Realtors also often have specialized certifications through the NAR that show additional expertise in areas like property management, investment, or first-time homebuyers.
Key Differences Between Realtors and Real Estate Agents
1. Ethical Standards
The NAR’s Code of Ethics is one of the most important distinctions between Realtors and other real estate agents. This code includes 17 articles with various guidelines on how to treat clients, manage disclosures, and handle conflicts of interest.
Why It Matters
Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions many people make, and you want someone who’s dedicated to transparency and honesty. The Realtor Code of Ethics holds members to a higher standard, and it can give clients peace of mind knowing that their Realtor has pledged to put their interests first.
2. Access to Specialized Training and Resources
Realtors have access to additional training through the NAR, including certifications and designations in areas like:
- Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR): For Realtors who focus on working with buyers.
- Certified Residential Specialist (CRS): A designation showing additional experience and success in residential sales.
- Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES): For Realtors who specialize in helping older adults with their real estate needs.
This specialized training can be helpful, especially if you’re looking for expertise in a specific area. For example, if you’re selling your home for the first time, a Realtor with a Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) certification may offer more insights and strategies to help you get the best deal.
3. Membership Benefits and Networking
NAR members also gain access to industry events, exclusive market data, and an extensive referral network. This networking can be helpful when a Realtor is looking for buyers or finding the right property for a client.
Example
Imagine you’re selling a home in Philadelphia but want to relocate to another state. If your agent is a Realtor, they have an extensive network of other Realtors across the country who can help you find a reputable agent in your new location, making the transition a bit easier.
Is it Better to Work with a Realtor or a Real Estate Agent?
Whether to work with a Realtor or a real estate agent depends on your personal preferences and the kind of service you’re looking for. Here are some situations where working with a Realtor might offer extra benefits:
If You’re a First-Time Buyer or Seller
Realtors often have additional training in handling first-time buyers and sellers, so they know the questions you may have and how to simplify the process.
If You Value a High Standard of Ethics
While most agents act with integrity, the Realtor Code of Ethics ensures that members are dedicated to honesty and transparency. If you’re particularly concerned about having a trustworthy advocate, choosing a Realtor may give you added reassurance.
If You Need Specialized Knowledge
If your situation requires a particular expertise—like investment property knowledge or experience with historic homes—there’s a good chance a Realtor has pursued a certification or training that aligns with your needs.
Personal Story: My Experience Working with a Realtor
When I sold my first home, I chose a Realtor who was highly recommended in the area. I felt that her background as a Realtor gave her extra insight into market trends and pricing strategies. She was well-connected and helped me price the home competitively but fairly. She even walked me through the ethics of disclosing certain issues, which made me feel confident we were on the same page about transparency.
How to Verify If Your Agent is a Realtor
If you’re unsure whether your agent is a Realtor, you can simply ask them or check the NAR’s online directory. Realtors are proud of their status, so they’re usually open about their membership. You’ll often see the “®” symbol after their name in email signatures or on business cards.
Conclusion: Realtor vs. Real Estate Agent—Which is Right for You?
In the end, whether you choose a Realtor or a real estate agent comes down to personal preference and the level of service you’re looking for. While both can help you navigate the real estate process, Realtors bring the added assurance of ethical standards and access to specialized resources through the NAR.
So, if you’re looking for someone with a commitment to high standards, a Realtor might be the ideal choice. But if you find a fantastic real estate agent who aligns with your needs and has experience in your local market, they could be just as valuable.
