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In the realm of real estate, the terms “real estate agent” and “Realtor” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same. And while the distinction may seem minor, it makes a significant difference in training, ethics, accountability and service, especially in today’s evolving marketplace.
The basics: license vs. membership
Let’s start with the basics. A real estate agent is an individual who holds a state-issued license to assist clients in buying, selling or renting property. A Realtor, on the other hand, is a licensed real estate professional who is also a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). This membership is offered through a local Realtor association and includes automatic membership in both the state and national associations.
All Realtors are real estate agents, but not all real estate agents are Realtors.
A higher standard: The Code of Ethics
What truly sets Realtors apart is their commitment to a strict Code of Ethics — one that exceeds the requirements of state law. Established by NAR, the Code promotes honesty, integrity, fairness and putting the client’s interests above all else. It’s not just lip service — local associations enforce this code and include consequences such as mandatory education, suspension or fines of up to $15,000.
This ethical foundation is more than just paperwork. Article 10-5 of the Code, for example, prohibits hate speech and discriminatory language based on race, religion, gender identity or other protected characteristics — an obligation that exceeds state law in many markets. Recently, NAR approved changes to Article 10-5 of the Code, intending to strengthen the Code’s anti-discrimination focus.
These changes clarify how the Code applies specifically to real estate-related activities and define “harassment” more clearly in a business context. While the core principle — prohibiting hate speech and discrimination based on race, religion, gender identity and other protected characteristics — remains unchanged, these refinements ensure fair, consistent enforcement tied directly to a Realtor’s professional conduct. NAR asserts that the updates help protect against ambiguity while reinforcing the industry’s commitment to equity and inclusion.
When you work with a Realtor, you’re choosing someone who upholds the highest professional standards — on paper and in practice.
Training that goes the extra mile
Realtors are also committed to continual growth. They must complete ethics training every three years, and many go further by earning specialized designations, such as ABR (Accredited Buyer Representative), SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) and C2EX (Commitment to Excellence). These aren’t just initials — they represent hours of study, testing and real-world application.
Local Realtor associations offer added support. At LIBOR, for example, members also benefit from monthly legal updates, risk management training, live and on-demand continuing education, and tools to navigate today’s fast-changing real estate landscape. Our Legal Support Center, for instance, gives members direct access to attorneys who help them protect their businesses and clients.
More than sales: Advocacy and community impact
Realtors do more than open doors — they open opportunities. Through the Realtor Political Action Committee (RPAC), members support policies that protect homeownership, preserve property rights and promote access to housing. Whether it’s fighting excessive transfer taxes or lobbying for down payment assistance programs, Realtor is the voice of both the profession and the consumer.
Realtors are also deeply involved in their communities. They support Habitat for Humanity builds, food drives, literacy programs and housing fairs. At LIBOR, we take this commitment further with our “Home for All of Us” campaign — a public-facing initiative that promotes fair housing awareness across our region and reinforces the belief that housing should be inclusive, equitable and safe for everyone.
In 2019, Newsday’s “Long Island Divided” investigative series brought painful truths to light about unequal treatment in real estate. It was challenging and deeply disappointing to read — but it also became a turning point. LIBOR responded swiftly and decisively, recognizing that change starts with accountability.
In the months that followed, among many other initiatives, LIBOR launched “Home for All of Us” to educate both Realtors and consumers about fair housing, implicit bias and equitable service. This transformative initiative continues today, raising awareness and reinforcing the profession’s responsibility to ensure every person receives fair and respectful treatment, regardless of who they are or where they come from.
The value to consumers
For buyers and sellers, choosing a Realtor over a non-member agent means selecting someone who is held to higher ethical standards, has access to more effective tools and training and is part of a robust professional network. Real estate agents are trained not just in contracts and pricing strategy but also in managing risk, avoiding bias, negotiating deals and complying with evolving laws and regulations.
In an era of shifting commission structures, iBuyer platforms and AI-generated home valuations, the human side of real estate matters more than ever. A Realtor provides local insight, conflict resolution, nuanced communication and trusted relationships that no algorithm can replicate.
Why join as a Realtor?
If you’re a licensed agent who isn’t yet a Realtor, there’s never been a more critical time to consider taking that next step. Being a Realtor isn’t just a title — it’s a professional edge. Take a look at your local real estate association and see what tools and solutions are offered. Consider some of these benefits provided by LIBOR, for example: ethical credibility, legal protection, advocacy power, exclusive training, broker and business support, and local service with national strength.
Why work with a Realtor?
Real estate is more than a transaction — it’s a life decision. Whether you’re a consumer navigating a home sale or a professional building a career, it’s essential to understand who’s representing your interests. Ask the question: Are you a Realtor?
The answer can make all the difference.
Doreen Spagnuolo is the CEO of Long Island Board of Realtors. You can connect with Doreen on Instagram and LinkedIn.
