Buyer Resource Center › Choosing the Right Representation › 3 Key Differences Between Real Estate Agents
Not every real estate professional is the same. Titles like agent, broker, principal broker, and REALTOR® mean different things, and specialty training can make a big difference for veteran and military buyers. Here are the three differences worth understanding before you choose who represents you.
The 3 Key Differences
License Level
In Oregon, every licensee is a broker, and a principal broker has additional experience and training and can manage other brokers. In Washington, licensees are brokers, managing brokers, or designated brokers. Higher license levels require more experience and education.
REALTOR® Membership
Only licensees who join the National Association of REALTORS® can call themselves REALTORS®. Members agree to follow the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, which sets standards for honesty, fair dealing, and putting clients first.
Specialty Training and Designations
Designations show an agent has completed extra training in a specific area. For veterans, the most relevant include the Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®), Military Relocation Professional (MRP), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®), and Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS™).
The bottom line: The right agent is licensed, experienced, bound by a code of ethics, and trained in the kind of purchase you're making. For veteran and military buyers, that means looking for someone who understands VA loans and military moves firsthand. Ask about license level, membership, and designations before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a real estate agent and a broker?
It depends on the state. In Oregon, every licensee is called a broker, and principal brokers have additional experience and can manage other brokers. In Washington, licensees are brokers, managing brokers, or designated brokers.
What is a REALTOR®?
A REALTOR® is a licensed real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and agrees to follow its Code of Ethics.
Are all real estate agents REALTORS®?
No. Membership is optional. Only licensees who join the National Association of REALTORS® can use the term.
What designations should a veteran look for in an agent?
The Military Relocation Professional (MRP) and Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®) are especially relevant. Senior veterans may also look for the SRES®, and veterans interested in multi unit properties may value the CIAS™.
How can I check an agent's license?
Oregon licenses can be verified through the Oregon Real Estate Agency, and Washington licenses through the Washington Department of Licensing.
Does an agent need to be licensed in both Oregon and Washington?
Only if they're helping you buy in both states. If you're considering homes on both sides of the Columbia River, an agent licensed in both states can help with either.
Keep Reading
Why Veterans Hire an ABR® Buyer's Agent
How an Accredited Buyer's Representative helps you win with a VA offer and protects your interests.
Read more ›Questions to Ask When Selecting a Buyer's Rep
Interview questions to find the right agent for you.
Read more ›What Your Buyer's Agent Does for You
Everything a buyer's agent handles, and how to choose the level of service you want.
Read more ›
Meet Your Veteran Realtor
Troy Doty, Principal Broker
Troy Doty is a Principal Broker with Northwest Realty Source in Portland, with 25 years in real estate and over 1,000 homes sold across the Portland metro and SW Washington. As a Marine Corps veteran, Troy has a true passion for helping Portland veterans and active duty military families buy and sell homes, whether you're PCSing in, transitioning out, buying your first home, investing in a duplex, triplex, or fourplex, or right sizing later in life.
Schedule a Call or Video Meeting ➜ More About Troy ➜ Free Veteran Buyer E-BookPrefer to call or email? 503.997.4169 · troy@nwrealtysource.com
Troy Doty, Principal Broker, Northwest Realty Source. Licensed in Oregon and Washington. ABR®, MRP, and SRES® are credentials of the National Association of REALTORS® and its affiliates. CIAS™ is a designation of U.S. Realty Training. Content adapted in part from ABR® consumer resources. This page is general information, not legal, tax, or lending advice.
