Differences between an agent and broker

[homealone]

My curosity got the best of me and I just had to find out what the difference between a realtor and a broker was. Honestly there isnt a whole lot.
I mean from what I read either a realtor or a broker can help in the purchase or sale of a home. Though an agent is mostly likely a person who works below a broker who is registered. Either this or the agent is actually a broker who does not have anyone working below him/her, and takes the on the role of both broker and agent.
Real estate agents are usally the ones who deal with the finalizing of real estate deals.

A broker is a person with a great deal of experience and knowledge and is usally very good at finding buyers who are wanting to buy as well as sellers wishing to sell.

Now when it comes to the credentials the differences are, the realtor/broker of course has more credentials. In order to become a broker a person must have more training and the experience than that of an agent. There is also a strict code of ethics which are followed, these codes are a way to prove that this profession holds a great deal of dedication and integrity to the public. Of course agents also have certain credentials needed to obtain a license.

Whether you choose an agent or a broker, your going to most likely get the best possible professional. I say most likely because we all know that in any profession there are a few bad apples.

[JaredfromIndiana]

A Broker and a real estate agent (salesperson) are both Realtors actually. Here is how our office breaks down.

M is the owner of the business and the Principal Broker aka THE BOSS. She has her salesperson's license AND her Broker's license. She is responsible for all of the people under her which consist of both salespeople (like me!) and other Brokers (like T). T has his Broker's license but is a Broker/Agent, meaning he works under the Principal Broker.

In Indiana you have to hold your salesperson's license for a year before you can take the Broker's test.

The bottom line is this: M or myself or T can give you the same service as a buyer or seller. We can all do the same things to help you buy or sell a home.

I think you need to really feel comfortable with the Realtor you choose. Some people like to deal with the experienced Realtor's like my Broker M, or some like to deal with young and hungry agents like myself.

Whew, long winded on that one!