If you're thinking about buying or selling a home, you've probably heard the terms "real estate agent" and "broker" thrown around. But what exactly is the difference between these two professions, and how do you know which one you need?

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who helps buyers and sellers with the process of buying or selling a property. They are often the first point of contact for a homebuyer or seller and can provide valuable advice and guidance throughout the transaction. Some of the services that real estate agents provide include:

A real estate broker is a licensed professional who has completed additional education and training beyond that required for a real estate agent. Brokers can work independently or own their own brokerage firm, and they are responsible for managing other real estate agents.

In addition to the services provided by real estate agents, brokers may also:

One key difference between brokers and agents is that brokers have the ability to work independently and are not required to be affiliated with a brokerage firm.

Whether you need a real estate agent or a broker depends on your specific situation. If you're a homebuyer or seller looking to buy or sell a property, a real estate agent can provide the services you need. If you're interested in additional services such as property management or real estate investing, or if you're a real estate agent looking for mentorship or training, a broker may be the right choice.

If you're considering selling your own home, our team of real estate industry experts has put together a free special report entitled "Sell Your Own Home" that can help guide you through the process. This report covers topics such as:

To get your free copy of "Sell Your Own Home," simply fill out the form on our website. Our team is here to help you make the most of your real estate transaction, whether you're buying, selling, or looking for additional guidance along the way.