The general public, as a norm, does not see a difference between a REALTOR and a licensee. I have been a member of NAR and I want to know what difference does it REALLY make to you to say you are a REALTOR?
Ventura Property Shoppe - Ventura, CA
Ventura Real Estate
I think even Realtors use this term without much thought. To me, Realtors are held to a higher ethical standard than someone who just has a license.
Jun 10, 2008 02:09 AM
Long & Foster Realtors - Roanoke, VA
Long Foster Roanoke,VA
Licensees are licensed by the state and can sell real estate and only subscribe the state's regulations and laws pertaining to the sale of real estate.
They are not members of MLS or National, State or Local Associations of REALTORS and therefore do not subcribe the the REALTOR Code of Ethics.
One of the most notable Codes of Ethics, with respects to you being paid, is that REALTORS agree to cooperate with other companies, within the member MLS. Licensees are under NO OBLIGATION to cooperate in a sale. In other words, if you want to show a buyer their listing - they are not obligated by the "code" to cooperate and will most likely offer you a referral (maybe-if you're lucky) if you send them the buyer and they show the house.
The value to the public, is the Standard set by the Code of Ethics, goes above and beyond state regulations and laws, at least in Virginia and I would assume everywhere else.
Jun 10, 2008 02:17 AM
Vanguard Commercial, LLC - Jackson, GA
Asst. Living Facilities
I guess I phrased the question incorrectly. I was looking for answers that were less textbook.
In GA one does not have to be a REALTOR to be in the MLS, we just have to agree to co-op (which is not a problem) with MLS members.
When working with someone who is not a part of our MLS we are not obligated to co-op. So I have a co-op signed with the other brokerage before showings begin.
I have met many licensees and have not seen that the REALTORS are any more ethical or upstanding than the non-REALTORS.
So I wonder, what is the advantage for someone to say they are a REALTOR?
Jun 10, 2008 07:18 AM
Long & Foster Realtors - Roanoke, VA
Long Foster Roanoke,VA
Dana,
Every state is apparently different, If GA. associations allow licensees into MLS, other than the ethical standards and Association rules & guidelines (that are supposed to be adhered to) guess there isn't much advantage.
Licensees I've met in VA don't like to co-op, they like to keep their own deal and they ususally operate in small rural areas anyway.
I totally agree with your last statement on not noticing much difference between the two - there are a lot of professional agents out there, but there are some who also need to find another career.
If you know you are doing your job correctly - then that is what is important anyway.
Jun 10, 2008 07:42 AM
Vanguard Commercial, LLC - Jackson, GA
Asst. Living Facilities
I have met many people from varying states and countries during my career and I must say that the REALTOR designation is not what I remember about them. It is that they conducted themselves with integrity and treated others with respect. Kudos to all who carry on in that manner!
Jun 11, 2008 01:04 AM
Rainer
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Dana Gibby
Asst. Living Facilities
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