The Differences between Real Estate Agents & Realtors The Differences between Real Estate Agents & Realtors 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 is an agent of real estate who is a member of National Association of Realtors. To become a Realtor, an agent must be a member of the NAR. They also have to agree to adhere to the strict code of ethics of the