Why is a REALTOR® Worth It??

The general public seems to believe that real estate agents are all equal. On the contrary, all real estate agents are not the same. This article focuses on the distinction between a REALTOR® and a real estate agent, as well as the advantages you can gain by using a REALTOR® rather than trying to sell your house on your own.

So, what is so special about the title of REALTOR®? In order to be designated as a REALTOR®, a real estate agent must belong to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. As a member of this organization, REALTORS® must abide by a written code of ethics, with consequences similar to disbarment in law and losing a medical license as a doctor. Having been in place nearly 100 years, the code of ethics is annually revisited and updated to meet the needs of our changing society and to ensure REALTORS® follow behavior fitting a professional. So, the main aspect that sets a real estate agent apart from a REALTOR® is this code of ethics.

As a home buyer or seller, working with a REALTOR® should give you peace of mind that you will receive fair and ethical treatment in each instance. As opposed to a behavior code that is simply "understood," REALTORS® promise to follow this code of ethics, and are held responsible for their actions. In fact, the governing body can subject REALTORS® to punishment if they are lax in following the code.

Although the knowledge that a REALTOR® must adhere to a higher authority is reassuring, there are a number of other advantages to using a REALTOR® in your real estate transaction.

REALTORS have experience: