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Real Estate Defined: Differentiating Among an Agent, Broker and Realtor

Posted on January 28, 2019
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differentiating among an agent broker and realtor

The world of real estate is wide! Whether you’re buying or selling, there are an abundance of of terms that you have to remember. Naturally, this can get a bit stressful. If you’re having trouble differentiating among an agent, broker and Realtor, don’t worry—you’re about to learn just how to tell them apart.

What is an agent?

To become a real estate agent, you must first finish your pre-license education, which has different requirements from state to state. After that, you’re eligible to earn your real estate license, which you can obtain after passing the test mandated by the state in which you intend to work. This means that if agents want to work in multiple states, it’s necessary to become licensed for each individual state.

What is a broker?

Once you have your real estate license, you can go a step further: becoming a broker. To earn this title, you must complete further real estate education.

Differentiating among an agent, broker and Realtor is easier than it looks. In fact, you might even be able to tell just by looking at signage. You may have seen real estate teams before: multiple people who work together to sell and buy homes. They’re also known as brokers and they have the ability to add agents to their business. However, they can also do the job on their own. Finally, they can also work directly with money, the estate itself, and relationships between buyers and sellers.

What is a realtor?

Becoming a Realtor means that you are dedicated to following strict, qualified conditions. Not only do you have to earn your real estate license, but you must then also earn a place in the National Association of Realtors.

If you’ve never heard of that organization before, it’s extremely important in the world of real estate. Its members have access to a network of market-based tools and data, making it easier for Realtors to help you. Additionally, all members are required to uphold a code of ethics, as well as give quality job performances, as per the Association’s necessitations.

Conclusion

Deciding to buy or sell your home can be daunting. Luckily, with these new concepts in mind—and the help of Ryan Roberts—the world of real estate is yours to conquer. In fact, now that you know how to succeed in the process of differentiating among an agent, broker and Realtor, you have the tools you need.

For one final touch—and an unparalleled real estate experience—fill out our contact form here to find or sell a home in the Auburn, Opelika, and Lake Martin area.

Interested in learning more facts about real estate? Read our blog here.