People often use “real estate agent” and “Realtor” as if they mean the same thing. They are closely related, but there is a real difference. Knowing what the Realtor title represents can help you understand the standards the professional you hire has agreed to follow.
To help people buy or sell homes for a fee, a real estate agent must hold a state license. That generally means completing required coursework, passing a licensing exam and keeping up with continuing education. Every licensed agent must follow their state’s real estate laws.
A Realtor is a licensed real estate professional who has also chosen to join the National Association of Realtors, often called NAR. “Realtor” is a registered trademark, and only members are allowed to use it. Membership typically happens through a local association, which also connects the member to state and national levels of the organization.
So every Realtor is a real estate licensee, but not every licensee is a Realtor.
The biggest distinction is the Code of Ethics. When professionals join NAR, they agree to follow a set of ethical standards that goes beyond what the law alone requires. In broad terms, the code addresses duties such as:
Members are expected to complete periodic ethics training. Local associations also have processes for handling ethics complaints, which gives consumers another avenue if they believe a member has acted improperly. That accountability is one reason many buyers and sellers look for the Realtor title when choosing someone to represent them.
The association traces its roots back to 1908 and has grown into one of the largest trade organizations in the country, with local associations across the United States. That structure gives members access to:
For you as a client, that network can mean an agent with more resources to draw on, whether they need advice on an unusual situation or a referral for a buyer relocating from another state.
Membership is one factor to consider, but it is not the only one. The right agent for you is someone with strong local knowledge, a clear process, good communication and a track record of helping clients like you. When you interview candidates, consider asking:
You can also verify any agent’s license through your state’s real estate licensing agency, and many states let you see whether there has been any disciplinary action.
A great agent and a responsive lender make a strong team. Get ready for your search with our mortgage calculator or learn about options on our loan comparison page.
When you are ready to get pre-approved, contact FLO Mortgage. Our loan officers work closely with local agents to help buyers reach the closing table smoothly.
A FLO Mortgage loan officer can walk through your options, run real numbers and help you choose a loan that fits.
This article is for general education and is not a commitment to lend. All loans are subject to credit approval, underwriting guidelines and program availability. FLO Mortgage, Company NMLS #1835856. Equal Housing Opportunity.
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