If you are planning to purchase or to sell a home, you may be feeling a bit confused by the different types of agents that are available to help you with the process. After all, while some may simply refer to themselves as real estate agents, others may have the title of Realtor. So, what exactly do these titles mean and which type of real estate professional is right for you?
Although the terms “real estate agent” and “Realtor” are often used interchangeably, the reality is that there is a very large difference between the two. While it is true that both are responsible for helping people with the buying and selling of homes, a Realtor has taken extra steps in order to provide his or her clients with the expertise and professionalism they deserve.
When you choose to work with a licensed real estate agent, you can take comfort in knowing that this person is licensed by the state and has been provided legal permission to represent people who are buying or selling a home in the open market. A Realtor who is a real estate agent will also have these credentials, but he or she must also be an active member of the National Association of Realtors in order to obtain this title. The National Association of Realtors provides a number of useful tools to its members, all of which help them work more effectively for their clients. Some of these tools include:
* Opportunities for ongoing education
* Legal information
* Updates regarding contractual information
* Information regarding government regulations that affect the real estate industry
In order to become a Realtor, an agent must also pledge to adhere to certain professional standards, all of which are put in place in an effort to protect the client the Realtor is representing.
Interestingly, it is important to note that all Realtors are not real estate agents. In fact, appraisers, loan officers, property managers and brokers may also become Realtors. Therefore, you shouldn’t automatically assume that a Realtor is also an agent, though most who use this title are indeed agents.
When choosing someone to represent you in the purchase or sale of your home, you should realize that hiring a Realtor does not guarantee a great experience. After all, there are successful and competent Realtors as well as agents who do not choose to become Realtors. For the most part, however, you are more likely to have a positive experience if you hire a Realtor, as you can be more certain that a person who takes the time to become a Realtor is dedicated to the business as well as to the clients he or she represents.
Jim Olenbush is the owner of an Austin real estate brokerage. http://www.jimolenbush.com/ He manages a team of experienced Austin Realtors and they specialize in luxury real estate sales.
|
|