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

The housing market is tough to navigate whether it is a “buyers market” or a “sellers market.” Some buyers/sellers feel that hiring a professional to help them wade through the process is a waste of time. In most cases, this is probably not true. Trying to handle everything alone can be challenging and time consuming at best. Worst of all it could cost you thousands of dollars. Always ensure you work with a licensed real estate agent that is a REALTOR®. Is there a difference between a real estate agent and a REALTOR®…. Absolutely!

Basically, anyone licensed in your state to assist a client in buying or selling a home is a real estate agent. To acquire a real estate license, a person must be 18 years old, possess a high school diploma, and successfully pass a written exam. To be a REALTOR®, one must be a member of their local board and must adhere to a Code of Ethics which details the duty of responsibility to clients and customers, the general public, and the professional treatment of other REALTORS®.

In addition to the Code of Ethics, here are a few other ways a REALTOR® can assist you:

â–  REALTORS® can suggest ways to accrue the down payment and explain alternative financing methods.*

â–  REALTORS® are already familiar with current real estate values, taxes, utility costs, municipal services and facilities, and may be aware of local zoning changes that could affect your decision to buy.*

â–  REALTORS® can show you only those homes best suited to your needs — size, style, features, location, accessibility to schools, transportation, shopping, and other personal preferences. REALTORS® have access to other REALTOR® member listings through their board’s multiple listing service, and have access to previous sales, allowing one to price a home accordingly.*

Next time you’re in the market to buy or sell, ask your neighborhood real estate agent if they are a member of the National Association of REALTORS®.

* SOURCE: realtor.com

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