Why choose a REALTOR®?

Why choose a REALTOR?

It is a common myth that if a person is a practices real estate agent they must also be a REALTOR®. Real estate agent and REALTOR® have different meanings while most probably do not realize there is even a difference.

Being a real estate agent means a person has completed the required course work and all necessary exams to become licensed real estate agent. This means they can now become affiliated with a Broker and conduct real estate business within the state of Washington. A REALTOR® is person who goes above and beyond the basic requirements and voluntarily registers as a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. The membership means these agents adhere to a higher Code of Ethics and now have the legal right to use the term REALTOR® after their name (ex: John Doe, REALTOR).

REALTORS® are real estate professionals who have chosen to join the National Association and abide by a strict Code of Ethics based on professionalism and protection of the public.

A real estate transaction is one of the most important and sometimes the biggest financial investment a family will ever make. Being such an important investment is imperative that you have an expert in your corner that will look out for your best interest as well as guide you through the sometimes stressful process.

The expertise that comes with being a REALTOR® is a valuable asset to buyers and sellers in terms of marketing, negotiations, professional affiliations, access to information and the ins-and-outs of the real estate process. The real estate buying and selling process is more complex process than posting a home on the internet hoping it will sell for top dollar. Also, an expert will be able to advise a reputable mortgage company that will do an excellent job and get you a quality home loan.

There are so many reasons to choose a REALTOR® over a real estate agent so ask your agent if they are a member of the National Association of REALTORS® because at Barnett Associates Real Estate, LLC we are, verify our membership.