Realtor vs Real Estate Agent – what is the Difference?

You’re buying a house. Or maybe selling one.
And then someone drops these two titles: Realtor and real estate agent.

Same thing, right?
Not quite.

Let’s break it down – real quick and real clear – so you know exactly who’s who, and why it matters.

First off – here’s the keyword you’re looking for:

A real estate agent is someone who’s licensed to help you buy, sell, or rent property.

A Realtor® is a real estate agent who’s also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). That’s it.

So technically, every Realtor is a real estate agent, but not every real estate agent is a Realtor.

Why should you care?

Here’s why this small difference can mean big things for your deal:

Realtors follow a strict Code of Ethics.
It’s not just a handshake. They commit to higher standards – transparency, fairness, honesty.

Realtors have more training.
They often go through extra classes, stay sharp with continuing education, and usually have deeper access to tools and networks.

Legal accountability.
If a Realtor messes up, you can go to the local Realtor association. There’s a system in place.

What does a real estate agent actually do?

They help people:

1. Buy homes
2. Sell homes
3. Price homes
4. Negotiate deals
5. Handle paperwork (so you don’t drown in it)

They get a state license to do this.
Each state has its own rules, exams, and renewal process.

So why do some agents skip the Realtor title?

Simple – NAR membership isn’t free.
Some agents don’t join because:

They don’t want to pay annual dues

They work in roles where NAR membership doesn’t give much advantage

Or they just don’t need access to certain MLS systems tied to NAR

But again, it doesn't automatically mean they're less capable. Just less connected to the Realtor brand and its benefits.

Realtor vs Real Estate Agent – in plain terms:

Quick FAQ

Is a Realtor better than a real estate agent?

Not always. But Realtors often bring more training and ethical oversight to the table.

Do I have to use a Realtor?

Nope. You can work with any licensed real estate agent.

Can a Realtor be a broker?

Yes. Realtors can be agents, brokers, or appraisers – as long as they’re NAR members.

Final word: Know who’s working for you.

At the end of the day, you want someone who:

1. Knows the market
2. Has your back
3. Can close deals cleanly

Whether that person is a Realtor or not, make sure you’re asking the right questions.

Because titles matter… but results matter more.