What is a Realtor? Exploring Their Importance in the Home Buying Process 

If you are currently thinking about buying or selling your home, then in that case, you have probably heard of the term: realtor. 

But what is a realtor exactly? And why do people make such a bigger deal out of this? 

Don’t worry! I am here to help you understand what exactly a realtor does, how they can help you in the home buying/renting/selling process, why they matter so much, and lastly, how exactly they make your real estate much smoother and stress-free. 

So, What Is A Realtor? 

In simpler terms, a realtor is a specific person who helps you buy or sell homes, apartments, condos, and other real estate properties. 

But? There’s a little trick that people often miss out. Not every real estate agent can be a good realtor! 

Yes, a realtor is a trademarked term, as designated by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in the US. 

So, next time you meet a realtor, it means the person is a licensed real estate professional who has agreed to follow a strict code of ethics. 

This makes them a trusted guide in the vast world of real estate. 

You think of your realtor as your friendly neighborhood guide. But instead of showing you the park, they put effort into helping you find a perfect home for yourself. 

What’s The Difference Between A Realtor And A Real Estate Agent? 

It is okay if you are wondering “what the difference is between a realtor and a real estate agent. Aren’t they supposed to be the same thing?” 

Well, not exactly. Here’s how I put it: all realtors are real estate agents, but? Not all real estate agents are realtors. 

Yes! Now let’s take a look at the common differences: 

Real estate agent	Realtors
1. They have a proper license to assist you in buying or selling property.   2. Secondly, they have passed exams and are now legally allowed to work as real estate agents.	1. They are licensed real estate agents and members of the National Association of Realtors.   2. They have agreed to follow strict ethical guidelines.   3. Moreover, they often have more access to the resources. Additionally, their strong networking opportunities benefit their clients.

If you are looking for a real estate agent who is bound by high standards of professionalism, you should look for a realtor. 

What Does A Realtor Actually Do? 

A realtor’s job is just showing homes and negotiating prices! Not at all! There is so much more on their plates.  

I see them like the Swiss Army Knife for your real estate needs. Here’s what they typically do: 

1. Help You Buy a Home 

If you’re a homebuyer, a realtor can make your life so much easier. They’ll: 

• Understand your needs and budget 

• Search for homes that match your criteria 

• Schedule and guide you through home tours 

• Explain tricky real estate terms 

• Help you make offers and negotiate with sellers 

• Coordinate inspections, appraisals, and paperwork 

2. Help You Sell a Home 

Selling a home can be stressful, but a realtor can take most of that stress off your shoulders. They will: 

• Help you price your home correctly 

• Market your home to the right audience 

• Stage your home to make it look amazing 

• Handle inquiries  

• Schedule showings 

• Negotiate with buyers for the best deal 

• Guide you through closing and legal paperwork 

3. Offer Expert Advice 

Real estate agents have all sorts of tips and insider knowledge. They know  

• The local market,  

• Trends, and  

• Even hidden gems you might not find online.  

They can advise on everything from neighborhood safety and school districts to future property value. 

4. Handle the Paperwork 

Now, real estate transactions come with a lot of paperwork. This includes offers, contracts, and disclosures —literally everything. Trust me when I say this: it can be overwhelming.  

But? All thanks to the realtors, they ensure that all the documents are correct. You have signed on time and submitted properly. This helps you avoid legal issues later. 

5. Negotiate Like a Pro 

Negotiation is another big hassle. Not everyone is very good at it (I personally messed it up big time, thanks to my realtor, John, who saved the deal with his incredible negotiation skills) 

Buying or selling a home usually involves negotiation. Realtors are trained negotiators. They know: 

• When to push,  

• When to compromise, and  

• How to get you the best deal without stressing you out. 

How To Find A Good Realtor? 

When you are looking for a good realtor, here are some of the factors that you must keep in mind: 

1. Always seek recommendations. It can be from your friends, family, or coworkers. They can suggest the realtors they have worked with or have liked.  

2. Never forget to check reviews. Online reviews can be a huge insight into a realtor’s reputation.  

3. You can always have a one-on-one interview with your realtor. Also, I recommend that you not pick the very first one you meet. Talk to them first, ask them questions, and see who can be the best fit for the role.  

4. When you are looking for a realtor, try to find one who has a lot of experience working in the local market.  

5. Lastly, check the credentials to make sure they are a member of NAR. 

What Are The Questions You Can Ask A Realtor? 

Whenever you decide to meet a realtor, here are the top 10 questions that you can always ask:  

• “How long have you been doing this?” 

• “Do you mostly help people buy homes, sell homes, or both?” 

• “Can I talk to someone you’ve worked with before?” 

• “How will you help me find the right place (or the right buyer)?” 

• “What do you do if more than one person wants the same house?” 

• “Do you know this neighborhood well?” 

• “How do you figure out what a home is really worth?” 

• “What’s your plan if things don’t go smoothly?” 

• “How do you usually keep in touch—calls, texts, or email?” 

• “What’s the one thing you think makes you different from other realtors?” 

Why Having A Realtor Is Worth It? 

People often think that it is not always necessary to find a realtor; they can always buy or sell a property all by themselves. Sure! It is possible! However, having a realtor can definitely save you a lot of time and money.  

So, you can be just stress-free! Here’s why:

1. The realtors always have better access to more homes than you can find online. 

2. Secondly, the realtors can help you to get the best process. This is why you can easily dodge the costly mistakes. 

3. Thirdly, the experienced realtors can handle the legal parts so well that you don’t even have to worry about it! 

4. Fourth, the local expertise. This comes as a special boon for you. 

5. Lastly, while buying or selling your home, it is obvious that you might go through some emotional turmoil. Thanks to the realtors, they can easily turn your experience much more stress-free. 

What Are The Common Misconceptions About Realtors? 

Before we close this guide, let me clear up a few common myths: 

First: “Realtors are just salespeople.” 

Nope. They’re trained professionals. The realtors follow a strict code of ethics. Moreover, they are focused on helping you. 

Second: “They’re expensive.” 

Realtors usually earn a commission from the sale. They are often paid by the seller, not the buyer. Many clients find that the value a realtor brings far outweighs the cost. 

Third: “I can do it all online.” 

Technology helps! But buying or selling a home involves negotiations, paperwork, and legal requirements. These are easier and safer with a realtor’s guidance.