You can do nearly everything on the internet these days, even search for a real estate agent who can help you buy and sell a home. Before you jump online, understand the difference between a real estate agent and a REALTOR®, and decide who it is you want helping you buy the home of your dreams.
The main difference between real estate agents and members of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) are that REALTORS® conduct business by a strictly enforced code of ethics, meaning consumers know that they can expect quality and fair services.
REALTORS® pledge to be honest with all parties involved as they help consumers buy and sell a home. They also promise to put your interests ahead of theirs at all times, to disclose all pertinent facts regarding a property and to be truthful in all publicized press and advertisements.
You can rest easy knowing that your REALTOR® is an expert in the home buying field. You may be new to the game, but a REALTOR® has been involved in virtually every aspect of the business and knows his way around. In fact, 85 percent of home sellers get assistance from a real estate agent when selling their home, and 79 percent of buyers purchase a home through a real estate agent or broker (NAR, 2011).
As you search real estate listings, you should also be considering what to look for in a REALTOR®. When you search online, find out if the agent has an active real estate license and is in good standing. You should also inquire if real estate is her full-time career and if she belongs to the Multiple Listing Service or another reliable online search service.
Remember that not all real estate agents and brokers are REALTORS®. Agents must be licensed by the state in which they work, meaning they have completed the minimum standards for education and experience, but an agent must join the NAR and commit to upholding the organization's quality standards before they are considered a true REALTOR®.
For most people, it is hard to know exactly what to do before starting a home search. Finding a REALTOR® is an integral step that can save you a lot of grief. She can help you narrow down your wants and needs as well as focus on a budget that's feasible for you.