Realtor® vs Real Estate Agent: By the Numbers

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Let’s start by breaking down what it means to be a Realtor® versus a licensed agent (and why it matters to you as a consumer).

Beginning with the technical definitions, a real estate agent is any professional with a license to sell real estate. A Realtor® is a real estate agent who maintains membership with the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) and adheres to their code of ethics – more on that in a later blog post. Being a member of NAR is an important indicator that your agent is serious about their profession.

But don’t take our word for it! Trust the numbers:

• 98% of top producers are Realtors®

• Realtors® list and sell twice as many properties as other licensees

• Realtors® make up about half of all real estate agents, yet make 90% of the earnings

• The average dollar volume for Realtors® is three times higher than that of other agents

• Homes sold by Realtors® consistently have higher closing prices

• Realtors® offer fewer concessions

• Realtors® are required to take an ethics course every two years

• Real estate agents are more likely to act in a conflict of interest than Realtors®

And let’s not forget the power of numbers. NAR is the largest trade association in the country and when it comes to selling real estate, connections matter quite a bit! You can expect a Realtor® to be extremely well-connected in the industry. This translates to more opportunities to connect you with a fitting home or homebuyer, as well as better connections with trustworthy support professionals you’ll need through the process.

However you do the math, Realtors® come out on top. So look for that little blue "R" before moving forward with any agent. You’ll be glad you did.

#ExperienceTheRealtorDifference