When you’re diving into the world of buying or selling a home, you’ll often hear the terms Realtor and real estate agent used interchangeably. But are they really the same thing? 🤔
The short answer is no—while all Realtors are real estate agents, not all real estate agents are Realtors.
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
👩💼 What Is a Real Estate Agent?
A real estate agent is a licensed professional who helps people buy, sell, or rent properties. They’ve completed state-required coursework and passed a licensing exam to legally represent clients in real estate transactions.
Real estate agents can:
Represent buyers, sellers, or both
Work independently or under a brokerage
Earn commission based on the sale of a property
But being an agent doesn’t automatically make them a Realtor.
®️ What Is a Realtor?
A Realtor is a real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)—the largest trade association in the U.S.
To become a Realtor, an agent must:
Hold a valid real estate license
Join a local NAR-affiliated association
Agree to follow the NAR Code of Ethics, a strict set of professional standards that go above and beyond the law
So when someone calls themselves a Realtor (with a capital “R”), it means they’ve made an ethical commitment and are part of a nationwide network of professionals.
🧭 Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Real Estate Agent | Realtor |
|---|---|---|
| Must be licensed | ✅ | ✅ |
| Can represent buyers/sellers | ✅ | ✅ |
| Member of NAR | ❌ | ✅ |
| Bound by NAR Code of Ethics | ❌ | ✅ |
| Access to additional MLS tools & training | ❌ (varies) | ✅ |
🤝 Does It Matter Who You Work With?
Both agents and Realtors can be highly skilled professionals. However, working with a Realtor often gives you added peace of mind that you’re working with someone held to a higher ethical standard.
If professionalism, transparency, and accountability matter to you during your real estate journey, consider choosing a Realtor.
📚 Trusted Resource
For more detailed information, visit the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) official website:
🔗 https://www.nar.realtor
