REALTORS® and Real Estate Agents - What's the difference?

Real estate agents are licensed by the state by passing a course and state exam, proving they have certain knowledge of the laws regarding real estate sales in Florida.

Real estate agents who are licensed with the state often choose to join a professional association in an effort to improve their ability to effectively market and negotiate on behalf of a seller and have access to listings for buyers. The largest and most notable state association is the FAR (Florida Association of Realtors). Agents who are members of this association are called REALTORS®, they vow to uphold a strict code of ethics.

The Multiple Listing Service

The great majority of sellers whether a private homeowner or developer will contact a REALTOR® to market and sell their property. REALTORS® offer the properties for sale on an online MLS(Multiple Listing Service) that is shared with other over 1 million REALTORS®. With thousands of homes for sale locally, the MLS provides one place for all buyers to view every property for sale.

The MLS helps our clients who are selling to get the best exposure for their properties. By placing the property on the MLS system the seller enlists every associated REALTOR® to market the property.

Have Your Own REALTOR®

Your REALTOR® has pledged to protect and promote the interests of you the client. This obligation to the client is primary, but it does not relieve REALTORS® of their obligation to treat all parties honestly. When serving a buyer or seller REALTORS® remain obligated to treat all parties honestly.

If Buying Your REALTORS® Compensation is Paid by the Sellers Agent

To list property for sale on the MLS you must have a written agreement from the seller outlining the asking price, agents obligations, total commissions paid, etc. The "listing contract" is a binding contract and commissions are not negotiable. By placing the property on the MLS, the REALTOR® who is representing the seller agrees to share their commission with the REALTOR® representing the buyer.

If you choose not to be represented by your own REALTOR®, the sellers agent will simply keep 100% of the commission the seller is already under contract to pay he or she.