Nerd Alert: If you’re interested in details, like I am, then you may be wondering what is the difference between Real Estate Agent, Realtor, and Broker. While commonly interchanged in conversation, they each serve different legal roles in the Real Estate field. Here’s a brief breakdown between the three…

Real Estate Agent

Real Estate Agents refer to the people who have been awarded a Real Estate license by the State. Rules vary by state, but in Hawaii, you’re required to take a State-administered exam, pay a licensing fee, and continue your education each year.

Realtor®

Going a step further, most Real Estate Agents join the National Association of Realtors and become “Realtors.” Members must adhere to a “Code of Ethics,” governing their practice and upholding industry standards.

Real Estate Broker

Brokers are Real Estate Agents that have taken their education further and passed additional State licensing exams. This allows them the legal ability to hire other Agents to work for them or work alone.

The Realtor® Difference