Whether you're buying or selling a home, you should consider hiring a real estate professional to help facilitate the process. They have the experience and skills needed to ensure a smooth, hassle-free transaction between you and the other party. But, there are a few different real estate professionals, and it's important to understand the differences between them.

For instance, some people assume that real estate agents and real estate brokers are the same, when in actuality they are two different types of real estate professionals. While we discussed the basics of real estate agents in a previous blog post, today we're going to take a closer look at what is a real estate broker.

 

What is a Real Estate Broker?

 

Real Estate Broker vs Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent is a licensed salesperson of real estate that workers under a broker (a legal requirement). A real estate broker, however, is a step up, as this profession requires additional education and training. Unlike their agent counterparts, real estate brokers can work either for themselves or under the guidance of another broker. In the United States, real estate brokers and agents are licensed by the respective state in which they practice. All agent and broker legal requirements are done on a state level. For instance, Premier Island Properties is a licensed real estate broker in South Carolina.

 

Benefits of Hiring Real Estate Broker

There are several benefits to hiring a real estate broker, one of which is the knowledge they bring to the table. Because of the stricter licensing requirements, you can rest assured knowing that brokers have gone through additional training and education. Furthermore, many real estate agents work under brokers -- and they too offer similar knowledge as the broker for whom they work.

 

What About a Real Estate Broker Associate?

Additionally, there are real estate broker associates, who work under the guidance of a licensed broker. Real estate broker associates still have their own broker license. Instead of working for themselves, however, they work under a separate, licensed broker. Newcomers to the profession often choose this route because it provides first-hand guidance and training. As the broker associate becomes familiar with the process, however, he or she may leave and work on their own.

This article was brought to you by Premier Island Properties - A full service real estate firm serving Hilton Head Island and Bluffton, South Carolina. For more real estate news, information, and interesting facts about the Lowcountry, please visit our website.