Industry Terminology
Real Estate Salesperson vs Realtor: What's the Difference?
All Realtors are real estate licensees, but not all licensees are Realtors. 'Realtor' is a registered trademark of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) — a private trade association. NAR members can use the Realtor title; non-members cannot.
Realtor Is a Trademark, Not a License
Anyone can become a real estate salesperson by passing their state's licensing exam. Becoming a 'Realtor' requires joining the National Association of Realtors (NAR), paying annual dues, and agreeing to NAR's Code of Ethics.
NAR is a private trade association — not a regulator. The Realtor designation is a private trademark with specific rules about how and when it can be used.
What NAR Membership Provides
Right to use the 'Realtor' title and trademark
Access to NAR research, market data, and continuing education
MLS access in many markets (some MLSs are NAR-affiliated)
Local and state association membership (typically bundled)
Access to NAR-negotiated benefits (insurance, technology discounts, vendor partnerships)
Code of Ethics enforcement (members can be sanctioned by NAR for violations)
Costs and Tradeoffs
Annual NAR dues run roughly $150–$250 for the national fee, plus state and local dues (often $100–$500 combined). Total annual cost of NAR membership is typically $300–$800.
NAR membership is optional. Some agents opt out to save costs and rely on non-NAR-affiliated MLSs or alternative trade associations.
First, Get Licensed
Realtor membership comes after licensure. Start with the exam.
Related Pages
Realtor FAQ
Do I need to be a Realtor to sell real estate?
No. You need a real estate license. NAR membership (which grants the Realtor title) is optional.
What's the Code of Ethics?
NAR's standards of professional conduct. Realtors agree to follow it as a condition of membership. Violations can result in sanctions or expulsion from NAR.
Are most agents Realtors?
A majority of U.S. real estate licensees are NAR members. NAR claims about 1.5 million members nationally.