Understanding the Difference between a Realtor and Real Estate Agent Definition of a realtor and real estate agent What is a Realtor, exactly? A licensed realtor acts as an agent between buyers and seller of real estate. They are members of National Association of Realtors and must adhere to strict codes of ethics. Real estate agents on the other hand are licensed professionals that are not necessarily NAR members. Both realtors and agents are licensed professionals who help clients to buy, sell or rent property. But realtors have additional resources and networking options. A realtor is different from a real