Navigating the real estate market can seem daunting and complicated. Knowing the basics brings buyers and sellers one step closer to making informed decisions that are right for them. Before you delve deeper into a potential real estate transaction, it is important that you understand the difference between a Real Estate Agent and a Realtor®. Both titles refer to professionals who assist in buying or selling properties, but they each have specific tasks within the realm of real estate that set them apart from one another. In this blog post, we will explore what distinguishes these two roles as well as how they work together during transactions—equipping you with all of the necessary knowledge to get started on your next major purchase or sale.
Who is Real Estate Agent?
- Real Estate Agents are professionals who help people navigate the complicated process of buying, selling, or renting homes. They can provide valuable advice about the local conditions and trends that might influence the best decision for a buyer or seller.
- Real Estate Agents are responsible for setting up appointments to show houses to clients, helping negotiate offers, and frequently communicating with other Real Estate Agents in order to ensure proper representation of their clients’ needs.
- Additionally, Real Estate Agents often work to promote their services by attending open houses and becoming involved in community events. All Real Estate Agents must be highly organized with good communication skills in order to succeed.
Who is Realtor?
- Realtors are licensed professionals in the real estate industry and are members of the National Association of Realtors. Realtors must adhere to a strict code of ethics when dealing with clients during property sales and purchases.
- Realtors specialize in various aspects of the housing market, such as coordinating open houses and showings, handling bidding wars, giving advice on home values, advertising properties for sale, and more.
- Realtors remain knowledgeable about all these areas in order to provide top-notch service to consumers. Realtor services are invaluable for those looking to buy or sell homes as Realtors can provide clients invaluable insights into local real estate trends and best practices that could help them make the most cost-effective choices.
Difference between Real Estate Agent and Realtor
Real Estate Agents and Realtors are two professional titles that many people tend to confuse.
- Real Estate Agents are licensed professionals who assist in the purchase and sale of properties, while a Realtor is a Real Estate Agent with membership to their local Real Estate Board.
- In order for an individual to become a Realtor, they must first become a Real Estate Agent, pass an ethics class, join their local Real Estate Board, and then they receive the special designation as a Realtor.
- The added benefit of working with a Realtor such as specialized training on Real Estate transactions, continual education upgrades, and more buying/selling tools make them stand apart from Real Estate Agents.
Ultimately, both professionals can help you successfully find and close on your dream home– but it’s always preferable to find someone with the title “Realtor” for the best results!
Conclusion
Now that you know the difference between a real estate agent and a Realtor, which one are you going to work with when buying or selling your home? If you want someone who is a member of the National Association of Realtors, then you will want to look for a Realtor. But if that isn’t a requirement for you, then any licensed real estate agent can help you with your transaction. Just make sure to interview them first to see if they are a good fit for your needs.