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The difference between a real estate agent and a REALTOR® | Scottsdale

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Have you ever wondered what is the difference between a real estate agent and a REALTOR®?  The term realtor, Realtor®, REALTOR®, real estate agent, agent, licensed agent, real estate professional all seem to be used interchangeably, and on the surface it’s confusing to the layman.
There have been a lot of changes in the real estate industry in the last decade, but one exception is the use of the term, REALTOR®.  Did you know that not every real estate agent is a REALTOR®?
Only real estate agents who are a member of the National Association of Realtors may call themselves REALTORS®.  To be a REALTOR®, a real estate agent has committed to abide by a strict code of ethics to their clients, customers, fellow realtors and the public.
It’s important to know that if a REALTOR® is representing you in the sale or purchase of real estate, you have extra consumer protections.  A REALTOR® is required to:

  1. Protect and promote their clients’ interests while treating all parties honestly.
  2. Refrain from exaggeration, misrepresentation, or concealment of pertinent facts related to property or transactions.
  3. Cooperate with other real estate professionals to advance their clients’ best interests.
  4. Make their true position or interest known when buying or selling on their own account or for their families or firms.
  5. Disclose any present or contemplated interest in a property to all affected parties when providing professional services related to that property.
  6. Disclose any fee or financial benefit they may receive from recommending related real estate products or services.
  7. Receive compensation from only one party, except where they make full disclosure and receive informed consent from their client.
  8. Keep entrusted funds of clients and customers in a separate escrow account.
  9. Make sure that contract details are spelled out in writing and that parties receive copies.

So if you’re looking for a real estate agent to help you buy or sell a home, look for this designation, for the highest level of consumer protection in the industry and know that REALTORS® are subject to disciplinary action and sanctions if they violate the duties imposed by the Code of Ethics.
All members of The Matheson Team carry the designation of REALTOR® and are committed to assuring their clients the highest level of expertise in the industry.
Reach out to us if we can help you buy or sell a home in the Scottsdale area.  
Don Matheson
Realtor | Founder
The Matheson Team – RE/MAX Fine Properties
21000 N. Pima Rd., #100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480-405-4228 
[email protected]
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