A Realtor is a licensed real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or a similar recognized association in their country. While many people use the terms real estate agent and Realtor interchangeably, not all real estate agents are Realtors. The key difference lies in membership, ethics, and professional standards.
Realtor vs. Real Estate Agent: What’s the Difference?
- A real estate agent is someone who is licensed to help people buy, sell, or rent property.
- A Realtor is a real estate agent (or broker) who is also a member of the NAR, which means they must:
- Abide by the NAR’s strict Code of Ethics
- Stay informed about industry trends
- Maintain higher professional standards
So, all Realtors are agents or brokers, but not all agents or brokers are Realtors.
What Does a Realtor Do?
Realtors help clients with a wide range of real estate needs, including:
- Listing homes and commercial properties for sale
- Helping buyers find and purchase homes
- Negotiating prices and terms on behalf of clients
- Preparing and reviewing contracts and paperwork
- Providing market analysis and pricing strategies
- Coordinating inspections, appraisals, and closings
Some Realtors may specialize in residential real estate, while others focus on commercial, industrial, or land sales.
Types of Realtors
There are different roles within the real estate profession, and each may carry the Realtor title:
- Buyer’s Agent – Represents the interests of the buyer in a transaction
- Seller’s Agent (Listing Agent) – Represents the interests of the property seller
- Dual Agent – Represents both buyer and seller (allowed in some locations with disclosure)
- Real Estate Broker – A higher-level professional who may manage a team of agents and operate their own firm
- Realtor® – Any of the above who is a member of the NAR and follows its ethical standards
Benefits of Working with a Realtor
1. Ethical Standards
Realtors are bound by a strict Code of Ethics, ensuring honesty, transparency, and professionalism in every transaction.
2. Market Expertise
Realtors have access to the latest market data and tools, including Multiple Listing Services (MLS), to help clients make informed decisions.
3. Negotiation Skills
With experience in real estate transactions, Realtors are skilled negotiators who can help get the best deal for buyers or sellers.
4. Transaction Management
Realtors handle paperwork, legal requirements, inspections, and deadlines—ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.
5. Trusted Network
They often have a network of reliable professionals (inspectors, lenders, contractors) to support your real estate needs.
How Realtors Are Paid
Most Realtors earn money through commissions, which are typically a percentage of the sale price of a property. The commission is usually paid by the seller and split between the buyer’s and seller’s agents.
Final Thoughts
A Realtor is more than just a real estate agent—they are a certified professional committed to ethical practices and exceptional service. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or looking for commercial space, working with a Realtor ensures you have an experienced advocate on your side.
