The REALTOR® Difference

What is a REALTOR®?

All real estate licensees are not the same. Only real estate licensees who are members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® are properly called REALTORS®. They proudly display the REALTOR "®" logo on their business cards or other marketing and sales literature. REALTORS® are committed to treat all parties to a transaction honestly. REALTORS® subscribe to a strict code of ethics and are expected to maintain a higher level of knowledge of the process of buying and selling real estate.

The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR), based in the United States, is comprised of over one million members, including International REALTORS®, in over 50 countries around the world. In order to join NAR as an International REALTOR®, a practitioner must also belong to one of the 80 organized real estate associations worldwide, in which NAR maintains a formal relationship. NAR only maintains relationships with organizations that abide by a similar code of ethics. These bilateral partnerships exist to help consumers find trusted real estate professionals around the globe.

Why use a REALTOR®?

Real estate transactions involve one of the biggest financial investments most people experience in their lifetime. Accordingly, it is essential to work with a knowledgeable and trusted

professional. There are many factors to consider when buying or selling a home and a REALTOR® can offer invaluable insight-- insight that may save you a great deal of money - or save you from a terrible mistake. Real estate transactions can be complex; a REALTOR® can make a difference.

Thinking about buying or renting property in another country?

Renting, buying or selling a home abroad can be complicated- very few countries have similar rules and regulations. Depending on where you decide to invest, a global transaction is likely to be different from any experience in your home country. It's important to find a qualified real estate professional in the local market. A REALTOR® will guide you through local laws, processes and paperwork. He or she can expose you to areas, home styles and options that otherwise, you might not have known about or considered.