What’s the Difference Between a Broker, Agent, and REALTOR?

If you’re buying or selling a home, you’ve probably come across the terms real estate agent, real estate Broker, and REALTOR. While these titles are often used interchangeably, they each have a different meaning. Understanding the differences can help you choose the real estate professional that’s right for you.

What Is a Real Estate Agent?

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who helps buyers and sellers navigate the real estate process. Agents assist with finding homes, marketing properties, negotiating contracts, coordinating inspections and disclosures, and guiding clients from the initial consultation through the close of escrow.

In California, every real estate agent must work under the supervision of a licensed real estate Broker.

What Is a Real Estate Broker?

A real estate broker is also licensed to represent buyers and sellers but has completed additional education, met higher experience requirements, and passed California’s broker licensing examination. Brokers may own or operate their own brokerage, supervise other agents, and assume additional legal and regulatory responsibilities.

While some brokers focus primarily on managing offices and overseeing agents, others continue working directly with buyers and sellers every day. At Leonardi Real Estate, that’s exactly what you’ll find.

Both John Leonardi and Frank Leonardi are licensed California Real Estate Brokers who personally guide clients through every step of the buying and selling process. Their decades of combined experience provide clients with knowledgeable advice, skilled negotiation, and responsive service from the first conversation through closing day.

What Is a REALTOR?

A REALTOR is not a separate type of real estate license. Instead, REALTOR is a professional designation reserved for licensed real estate professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS and who agree to follow its Code of Ethics in addition to state licensing laws.

A REALTOR may be a real estate agent, a real estate Broker, or an Associate Broker. Not every licensed real estate professional chooses to become a REALTOR, but those who do commit to meeting additional ethical and professional standards.

Why Does It Matter?

For most people, buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial decisions they’ll ever make. While every licensed real estate professional is qualified to assist with a transaction, experience, education, and local market knowledge can make a meaningful difference.

Working directly with licensed Brokers means you’re partnering with professionals who have achieved California’s highest level of real estate licensing and who bring years of experience in negotiations, contracts, marketing, and problem-solving. Throughout your transaction, you’ll receive personalized guidance, clear communication, and experienced representation focused on protecting your interests.

Experience You Can Count On

At Leonardi Real Estate^®, clients work directly with John Leonardi and Frank Leonardi, two experienced California Real Estate Brokers dedicated to providing exceptional service throughout the Greater Sacramento region. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, selling a luxury property, relocating, or investing, you’ll have knowledgeable professionals by your side from beginning to end.

If you’re considering buying or selling a home, we’d be honored to help you achieve your real estate goals with confidence.