Is a broker different from a realtor, or real estate agent?
Yes. To become a broker, a person must first obtain a basic real estate license. In Virginia, to obtain a broker’s license, a person must have worked at least 3 of the last 4 years as a full-time licensed realtor, taken and passed 4 courses on aspects of brokerage, and passed the state licensing exam. A broker can take a higher level of responsibility. Every real estate firm must be directed by at least one broker, either an owner or someone hired by the owners. These are called “principal brokers.” Every branch office of a firm must be directed by a “supervising broker.” Many people obtain the broker’s license but continue working for a firm in the usual capacity of realtor, listing and selling property. People who hold a broker’s license but are not directors of the firm in some way are usually referred to as “associate brokers.
