The Difference Between a Realtor and A Real Estate Agent

The terms "real estate agent" and "realtor" are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two.

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who helps buyers and sellers navigate the real estate market. They are trained to assist with buying, selling, and renting properties, and they are required to complete a certain number of hours of education and pass a licensing exam in order to practice.

On the other hand, a realtor is a real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a professional organization that represents the interests of real estate agents and promotes ethical and professional standards in the industry. Not all real estate agents are realtors, but all realtors are real estate agents.

To become a realtor, a real estate agent must complete additional education and agree to abide by the NAR's code of ethics and standards of practice. This code of ethics includes obligations to clients, customers, the public, and other realtors, and it covers issues such as honesty, integrity, and fair dealing.

In summary, all realtors are real estate agents, but not all real estate agents are realtors. Realtors are members of the NAR and abide by a strict code of ethics and standards of practice.