What Is a REALTOR®? Understanding the Difference Between a REALTOR® and a Real Estate Agent

What is a REALTOR®? A REALTOR® is a licensed real estate professional who is also a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Members must follow NAR’s Code of Ethics and meet professional membership requirements. Although every REALTOR® working as an agent must hold an appropriate real estate license, not every licensed real estate agent is a REALTOR®. Understanding this difference can help buyers and sellers choose the right professional for their needs.

What Is a REALTOR®?

REALTOR® is a protected professional designation, not another word for every real estate agent. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, only its members may use the title.

A REALTOR® belongs to local, state, and national professional associations. Members agree to follow NAR’s Code of Ethics, which establishes standards for honesty, fair treatment, and professional conduct.

REALTORS® are association members who follow ethical standards intended to support professionalism and protect the public.

REALTOR® vs. Real Estate Agent: What’s the Difference?

A licensed real estate agent is someone who has completed state licensing requirements and is authorized to assist with property transactions. Becoming a REALTOR® requires an additional professional membership.

The main differences include:

• Licensing: Both must hold the appropriate license when performing licensed real estate services.
• Membership: A REALTOR® must be a member of NAR.
• Ethics: REALTORS® agree to follow NAR’s Code of Ethics.
• Education: Both may have state continuing education requirements, while REALTORS® must also complete required ethics training.
• Professional resources: REALTORS® can access association research, education, networking, and other industry resources.

These differences do not automatically mean one individual is more experienced than another. Buyers and sellers should still evaluate each professional’s knowledge, service, and track record.

Why Does Working with a REALTOR® Matter?

Working with a REALTOR® gives consumers access to a licensed professional who has made an additional commitment to ethical conduct. A knowledgeable REALTOR® may help clients:

• Understand local prices and market conditions
• Find or market suitable properties
• Evaluate offers and property information
• Prepare and negotiate an offer
• Coordinate important transaction steps
• Navigate the process through closing

Members also have access to educational programs, research, legal information, and professional resources. These tools can be helpful when buying a home in Ohio or selling a home in Ohio.

How Do You Choose the Right REALTOR®?

Interview several professionals before making a decision. Ask about their experience in your target area, communication style, availability, marketing approach, references, and familiarity with your type of transaction.

Is every real estate agent a REALTOR®?

No. Only eligible real estate professionals who belong to NAR and follow its Code of Ethics may use the REALTOR® designation.

What does REALTOR® mean?

It identifies a real estate professional who is a NAR member. It is a membership designation, not a type of real estate license.

Why should I hire a REALTOR® instead of any real estate agent?

A REALTOR® follows NAR’s ethical standards and has access to professional education and resources. However, you should still compare individual experience, local knowledge, and service. You can buy a home without a REALTOR®, but professional guidance may make the process easier to manage.

Work with a Trusted Ohio REALTOR®

An experienced Ohio REALTOR® can help you understand local conditions, review your options, and make informed decisions throughout the transaction. The right professional should listen to your goals and clearly explain each step.

Contact Home Connections Group today to connect with a knowledgeable REALTOR® who can help you achieve your real estate goals.