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A REALTOR® is a licensed real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. The Code requires REALTORS® to identify and take steps to eliminate practices which may damage the public or which might discredit or dishonor the real estate profession. REALTORS® must take a refresher training course and pass an examination on the Code of Ethics every four-year cycle.
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The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a licensed real estate professional who is a member of NAR. It is not synonymous with “real estate agent.”
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There are approximately 2.6 million licensed real estate professionals in the United States, but only 1.3 million are REALTORS® who are brokers, salespeople, property managers, appraisers, counselors and others engaged in all aspects of the real estate industry.
1. REALTORS® build communities.
The role of REALTORS® in our communities goes far beyond the real estate transaction process of buying and selling. As local business owners and residents, REALTORS® are vested in building healthy and vibrant communities across the country, neighborhood by neighborhood.
2. REALTORS® add value to the real estate transaction.
REALTORS® handle hundreds, if not thousands, of real estate transactions over the course of their careers, and can counsel and guide sellers through the process. They have the expertise and experience to help sellers protect their investment and help buyers build theirs.
3. REALTORS® are strong advocates for homeowners and homeownership.
Every year, REALTORS® lead the way on Capitol Hill and Beacon Hill to keep homeownership a top national priority. Strong REALTOR® support for the mortgage interest deduction and other federal policies helps keep housing more affordable and makes housing a great investment.
4. REALTORS® have access to specialized training in real estate.
Other licensees are not able to take advantage of specialty courses where REALTORS® learn to develop skills in guiding clients and customers through the complex real estate transaction process.
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Tips on choosing a REALTOR®
Make a thorough search, as you would before hiring a contractor or attorney. Attend real estate open houses to see how agents work and to meet them first-hand. Use directories and the Internet, or use Find a REALTOR®. Ask a prospective agent or broker how long they have been licensed, how long they have been working in this market, or how many sales they have closed in recent months? Always ask if they are a REALTOR® member. Check references, asking friends and family about their experiences with the REALTOR® you are considering. |