How is a Realtor different from a real estate agent?
Realtor is the symbol of a professional in the real estate business. Many people use the term Realtor synonymously with real estate agent or salesperson. This assumption is incorrect. Not every real estate agent is a Realtor. Realtor is a designation that applies to one who pursues continuing education, abides by a strict Code of Ethics, stands for private property rights, and opposes discrimination in housing. You may be aware that Realtors are required to hold a state real estate license, but there are many other designations that a well-educated Realtor can hold. To become a licensed real estate agent, one must meet minimum requirements outlined by state statutes. To renew a real estate license, the states real estate commission requires that an active agent take a required number of continuing education courses every three years. A Realtor organization is based upon a Code of Ethics to which each member agrees to adhere. Within the Code are provisions that govern fair housing, prof
