Realtor vs. Real Estate Agent: What's the Difference?
CallARealtor is an independent information site, not a real estate brokerage, and is not affiliated with the National Association of REALTORS®. Guides are general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules vary by state.
People use 'realtor' and 'real estate agent' as if they mean the same thing, but they don't quite.
The short answer
| Title | What it means |
|---|---|
| Real estate agent (salesperson) | Holds a state real estate license and works under a broker |
| Real estate broker | Has a higher-level state license and can run a brokerage and supervise agents |
| REALTOR® | A licensed agent or broker who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and agrees to its Code of Ethics |
REALTOR® is a registered trademark of NAR, so only members may use it. See NAR: About and the NAR Code of Ethics.
Does it matter?
Both REALTORS® and non-member agents must hold a state license and follow state law. Membership adds NAR's Code of Ethics and its complaint process, and members follow NAR's practice rules, such as the 2024 requirement for written buyer agreements (see our buyer's agent guide). Experience, local knowledge and communication usually matter more than the title.
How to check someone
- Verify the license on your state real estate commission's website.
- Ask which brokerage they work under.
- Ask for recent sales in your area. See how to choose a real estate agent.
Tell us whether you're buying or selling and where, and we'll try to connect you with a local agent. Talk to an agent
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