Real Estate Agents, are you a Realtor? Either way, why?

[Russell Holmes]

I've passed my state license exam and am just waiting on the FL DBPR to process my license to make it available to hang my license (Likely by Monday). I've already decided to join eXp for quite a few reasons specific to my situation, but this question doesn't regard brokerage choice. I plan to join the local, state, and national association of Realtors as soon as I've hung my license. I feel the approx $1000/annual cost is well worth it for the representation at a state legislation level, advertising, and use/credibility of the word "Realtor". My liability insurance on my service business costs me more and is basically useless beyond peace of mind since I've never made a claim, I'm sure I'd get more benefit from NAR even if not significant. However, I've noticed quite a few real estate agents that are active on BP, have quite a lot of experience, and don't seem to be hurting for $1000 annually still don't use the term Realtor, which I assume to mean they aren't members of NAR. Are there any negatives, other than cost, to joining NAR and local associations? I figured it was an obvious step, but seeing agents without the designation makes me wonder if I should look into it further before blindly joining. Thoughts?

[Russell Brazil]

I think the majority on here are Realtors.  We simpy just dont add it to our profiles as there is no place that makes much sense to do so.

I dont know any brokerage in my area that does not require being a member of our local board, so in order to do business here it is a must.

On top of my dues, I also donate money to my Realtor board, and Im actively engaged with it. We perform a great number of services for our members, the most important of which is our ability to pool funds and lobby. Many people may be aware of the new 20% pass through deduction. Well real estate agents can thank NAR for making sure agents were able to get this deduction while other professions were excluded.