What is a Realtor?

Many people use the terms “realtor” and “real estate agent” interchangeably. While these titles sound similar and in fact are similar, they are not the same thing. A person can be a real estate agent but not a realtor while a realtor, usually, is real estate agent as well.

The term “realtor” is applied to a real estate agent who has become a member of the National Association of Realtors. The National Association of Realtors is, in actuality, the world’s largest professional association.

In order to become a realtor, a real estate agent must pledge him or herself to abide by a very strict Code of Ethics as well as Standards of Practice that apply to realtors. Real estate agents who are not also realtors do not have to abide by the Code of Ethics or the Standards of Practice that realtors have pledged to support.

The designation of “realtor” is supposed to inspire confidence in the person that is trusted with selling a person’s home. It is a designation meant to protect consumers.

In addition to the pledge and demands of membership, a realtor has usually undergone some level of training by the National Association of Realtors. This training is usually designed to make the realtor more informed than the average real estate salesperson. It could include advanced training in marketing or a variety of other topics.

While real estate agents are not technically realtors, this does not mean that they are incompetent. Real estate agents must be licensed by the state in which they work and typically have to abide by the standards of whatever company they work for.

Contact an Austin Realtor

If you are considering relocating to or within Austin and are in search of your dream home, contact the Austin realtors of The Carvajal Group at 512-419-7770.