Whether you are looking to join the real estate profession in Ontario or just want to buy, sell or invest in real estate you have likely heard terms like Real Estate Agent, Real Estate Broker, REALTOR®, and Real Estate Salesperson. Do these all mean the same thing? If not, what’s the difference between them?
The Difference between Real Estate Broker and a Real Estate Salesperson
Education is a key factor in distinguishing a real estate salesperson from a real estate broker. A salesperson can achieve the broker designation by completing additional courses and exams. This additional education allows the individual to own or manage a brokerage. In Ontario, real estate professionals start their careers as a salesperson and then have the option to become a broker.
Whether someone is a salesperson or broker, they are still subject to the regulations outlined in the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act, 2002. They must be employed by a real estate brokerage and must be registered with the Real Estate Council of Ontario in order to trade in real estate in the province.
What is a Real Estate Agent?
According to REBBA, real estate agent is a term that can be used by both real estate salespeople and real estate brokers.
What is a REALTOR®?
Written in all caps, REALTOR®, is a registered trademark of the Canadian Real Estate Association or CREA. To call themselves a REALTOR®, a RECO registered salesperson or broker must be a member in good standing of the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA).
While there are distinctions between the terms often used to describe real estate professionals, it is important to remember that they can all represent buyers and sellers and are subject to the regulations outlined in the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act, 2002.
Ready to get started?
Choosing to become a real estate professional in Ontario can be a meaningful career choice within an industry with many opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Whether you are looking to start a career in real estate or ready to take the next step as an existing real estate professional, the Real Estate Education Programs will help you take control of your career while you help people achieve their real estate goals.
Learn More About the Real Estate Salesperson Program
Learn More About the Real Estate Broker Program
Click here to learn more about joining the real estate profession in Ontario.