To become a realtor or real estate broker, you first need to become a real estate agent. Agents, realtors, and brokers all share similar tasks: reviewing homes for sale, assisting clients with preparations, conducting showings, drafting contracts, providing market analysis, negotiating deals, and marketing.
How to Become a Realtor
To become a realtor, you must be a licensed real estate agent and an active member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Membership is what gives someone the “realtor” title.
How Are Realtors Different from Agents?
Realtors have pledged to abide by NAR’s code of conduct, operating with full transparency, honesty, and integrity. This means realtors are committed to putting your interests above their own when dealing with you.
Benefits of Being a Realtor:
- Access to Multiple Listing Service (MLS)
- Latest updates on industry policies and training
- High-quality educational resources and programs
- Updates on industry trends and best practices
- Wider networking opportunities through conferences
How to Become a Real Estate Broker
To become a broker, you must:
- Have two years of experience as a real estate agent
- Complete additional education and training
- Pass the broker licensing exam
Being a broker allows you to open and operate your own real estate business and keep 100% of your commissions.
Independent Broker vs. Regular Broker
An independent broker operates their own brokerage firm, while a regular broker works for an existing firm. As an independent broker, you can run your business without hiring agents — handling marketing, negotiations, and financial management yourself. You don’t even need a physical office — a home workspace with the necessary equipment works.
Understanding these roles helps whether you’re becoming a real estate professional yourself or building a team for your wholesaling or house flipping business. Pair your agents with a strong lead manager and acquisitions manager for a complete team.
