What is the difference between a Real Estate Agent and a Realtor?

The distinction between a real estate agent and a Realtor lies primarily in their professional affiliations and qualifications. A real estate agent is a licensed professional who assists clients in buying, selling, or renting properties. In contrast, a Realtor is a real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and adheres to its strict code of ethics. This membership often signifies a higher level of professionalism and commitment to ethical practices in the real estate industry. To summarize, while all Realtors are real estate agents, not all real estate agents are Realtors. The key difference is that Realtors are part of a professional organization that upholds specific ethical standards, which can enhance their credibility and the level of service they provide to clients.