The terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same.
Real estate agent: A person who is licensed by their state to help people buy, sell, or rent real estate. They must meet licensing requirements and follow state real estate laws.
REALTOR®: A real estate agent (or broker) who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. REALTORS® agree to follow the association's Code of Ethics, which sets standards that go beyond the minimum legal requirements in many situations.
Here's a simple way to think about it:
Real Estate Agent
Real estate agent: A person who is licensed by their state to help people buy, sell, or rent real estate. They must meet licensing requirements and follow state real estate laws.
REALTOR®
Must have a real estate license
Must have a real estate license (or be a broker) and be a member of the National Association of REALTORS®
Follows state licensing laws
Follows state laws plus the REALTOR® Code of Ethics
May or may not be a REALTOR®
Is always a licensed real estate professional (or broker)
Does it matter which one you choose?
Not necessarily. Many excellent agents are REALTORS®, and many excellent licensed agents are not. When choosing someone to represent you, it's often more important to consider:
Their experience in your local market.
Their communication style and responsiveness.
Client reviews and references.
Their track record with homes like yours.
Their negotiation skills.