When Is a Real Estate Agent a REALTOR®?
A real estate agent is a REALTOR® when he or she becomes a member of the National Association of REALTORS®.
LꙬk for the REALTOR® Mark 
The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.
NAR Facts:
What: Founded in 1908, the National Association of REALTORS®, “The Voice for Real Estate,” is America’s largest trade association, representing 1.4 million members, including NAR’s institutes, societies, and councils, involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries.
Who: Our membership is composed of residential and commercial REALTORS®, who are brokers, salespeople, property managers, appraisers, counselors, and others engaged in all aspects of the real estate industry. Members belong to one or more of some 1,300 local associations/boards and 54 state and territory associations of REALTORS®. They are pledged to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
Why: Working for America's property owners, the National Association provides a facility for professional development, research and exchange of information among its members and to the public and government for the purpose of preserving the free enterprise system and the right to own real property.
Many consumers consider selling their home directly but eventually turn to REALTORS®. Smart home sellers realize they need the expertise in pricing their home, making connections with REALTORS® working with buyers, arranging safe showings, and coordinating with other professionals in the sales process.
Only about half of all real estate agents are REALTORS® - the top half, in our not-so-humble opinion. They help people buy and sell residential or commercial properties, vacation homes, and land; they conduct appraisals; they operate in the United States and in other countries; some specialize in auctions; and others are buyer's representatives.
Why Use a REALTOR®?
Real estate transactions involve one of the biggest financial investments most people experience in their lifetime.
REALTORS® Are Experts
Eighty-five percent of sellers were assisted by a real estate agent when selling their home, according to NAR Research, and 79 percent of buyers purchased their home through a real estate agent or broker.
REALTORS® Are Part of the Community
REALTORS® Work to End Housing Discrimination - during April, which is Fair Housing Month, and all year long. REALTORS® are active members of their communities.
REALTORS® Protect You
Only REALTORS® Follow a Code of Ethics. To be a member of NAR and a REALTOR®, a real estate agent must abide by a set of professional principles and serve clients fairly.