REALTOR® versus Real Estate Agent...There is a Difference
Have you ever wondered why that symbol appears after the word Realtor®?
Well even if you have not but want to know more, please take a moment to read this article by Debbie Laity who explains it very well.
Thank you Debbie!
REALTOR® versus Real Estate Agent...There is a Difference. Many home buyers and sellers think the terms REALTOR® and real estate agent are interchangeable. This isn't the case. There is a difference and it's a good idea for you to know the difference. Not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. To be a REALTOR® an agent must be a member of the National Association of REALTORS®.
Both REALTORS® and real estate agents go through the same state licensing process. The basic education is the same, but REALTORS® take a code of ethics class.
The term REALTOR® is a trademark and only members of the National Association of REALTORS® can use it. Membership in the a local board will get you membership in NAR. There is a fee that gets paid to the local board each year. To be a member, you must agree to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and NAR's Standards of Practice.
The Code of Ethics is what sets a REALTOR® apart from a real estate agent. A REALTOR® agrees to treat everyone fairly and honestly. This code was designed to protect buyers and sellers by setting ethical and professional standards for members to follow. The code is updated every year.
A real estate agent is licensed in the state where he or she practices. An agent has taken the required classes and passed a test to get a real estate license. Local real estate boards across the country require their members to be a REALTOR®, so a real estate agent isn't a member of a local board and may not have MLS access. That could make it difficult to help you find property.
2013 marks the 100th anniversay of The Code of Ethics. When you work with a REALTOR® you are choosing a professional that cares about their business and helping you through a positive real estate transaction.
I've lived on Colorado's Western Slope for over 22 years. I love this area and all it has to offer, and I enjoy sharing what I know about my home. As a REALTOR®, I also love to share my expertise in this area as well. If you need any real estate information for Montrose County, or Delta County, Colorado...please give me a call.
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