The Differences between Real Estate Agents & Realtors What are the main differences between realtors and real estate agents? Definition 1. A real estate agent is an individual who is licensed to represent buyers and sellers in real estate 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 real estate agent, one must join