Value of the 'Broker' title in Ontario?

The word "Broker" is kind of been thrown about lately. I don't think consumers are really hip to the difference so I don't really know if the title is beneficial or not.  People need help and if you can help them and be personal with them, then I don't think your title really means that much to them. 

It's the best.  It's what most agents strive for.  It's where potential for the best income is.  It's knowing that once you get there, you earned your way to the top.

It's the best.

Bettianne, unlike Lenn, I don't believe that the average Buyer or Seller in Ontario is educated as to the differences between broker and sales representative. Most are interested in a professional who can provide the best service  while protecting their interests. They don't understand the differences.

Amen to Lenn's comment. It IS the best. The other best is the CRS, but many people like the idea that you have broker after your name. I for sure do............it was something I worked very hard to achieve.

Bettianne, as I read your Ontario Real Estate and Business Brokers Act, the prescribed qualification of a Broker are different than that of a Salesperson and a salesperson must always be under the direct supervision of a Broker. So by legislation, it is more than a mere title.

Does the license have a marketing value? Depends on the person doing the marketing.

Let's try this. Would you like the doctor to conduct the operation or the intern? Would you like the licensed pilot to fly you there or the trainee? Would you like a person with a captain's license to take the oil tanker through the shoals or the first mate? Would you like the Certified Financial Planner to manage your retirement account or the teller?

I'll think of more. 

Bettianne, I think most adults over 30 know that the Broker is the highest level in Real Estate. Don't sell consumers short Wayne. This is the information age and most people go to the internet to educate themselves about Real Estate.

For those who don't know the difference, they likely can tell when someone has 'Sales Rep' after their name, they are not as high up the totem pole as a 'Broker'.

I'm surprised we don't see Brokers marketing themselves as being the experienced/educated choice, the way agents, with a 'team', market themselves as being a better choice over an individual agent.

As a Sales Rep. you have to decide if the Broker title fits with your future goals.

Correct me if I'm wrong...but don't you have to be a Broker to own a Brokerage Firm as well as manage one?