The Differences Between Realtors and Real Estate Agents What are the main differences between realtors and real estate agents? Definition 1. Real estate agents represent both buyers in sellers’ transactions. They are responsible to help clients buy, sell or rent property and must adhere strictly to ethical and legal guidelines established by their state’s real estate commission. 2. A realtor, on the other hand is a real estate broker who is also an active member of the National Association of Realtors. To become a Realtor, an agent must be a member of the NAR. They also have to agree to