Realtor and Broker are used interchangeably. Are they the same? Yes and no.
Broker is a licensed designation awarded by the department of business and professional regulation (DBPR) once all educational requirements are met.
Realtor designation means the licensed Broker has joined one of the real estate professional organizations. There are local, state and federal organizations. Each county has its professional organization. As a member of the local Board of Realtors, one becomes a member of the Florida Association of Realtors (FAR), and the National Association of Realtors (NAR). In order to perform the seven services of real estate, one must be a licensed broker. One is not required to be a realtor, however highly recommended. The associations offer many continuing education courses needed to become the true, knowledgeable agent in a fast pace industry.
The designation sales person means one has completed the state’s education requirements but must work for a licensed broker for at least two years. If one joins the Board of Realtors, he/she is known as a Realtor Associate.
The differences are minor in the larger scheme of things, but it is important to understand the difference.
A bit of current news:
The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 included a Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF).
Florida received $676,102,379. The department of economic opportunity will oversee the distribution of these funds to assist homeowners affected by covid with mortgage payments, insurance, utility payments, etc. The maximum mortgage assistance per household is $50,000.
For additional information, visit florida Department of Economic Development (DOE)
Patricia C Mellerson, Realtor/Instructor (305) 338-3653 Pat4141@att.net
