What are the main differences between an agent and a broker if I am trying to sell my home and does it make a difference or is it better if I use one or the other?

There tends to be some confusion for homebuyers and sellers when it comes to things like real estate agents and brokers. Are they the same? What makes them different? Is one better than the other to use? Well, leave it to me to break down the mystery for you.

An agent is a licensed individual who can help complete the purchase and sale of real estate. Usually the agent is the one you are dealing with when you look at homes, make offers and list your homes for sale. They are all individuals working underneath and with the sponsorship of a broker. The broker must be present in all transaction with the real estate agents.

The broker is best described as the person running the real estate office while the agents work with customers. The broker can also make sales and do the same functions that agents can but typically they will be responsible for running the office and managing the agents. Agents can eventually go to school to get a broker’s license if they choose however some experienced agents prefer to work with a brokerage and never go after additional licensing. Only an agent with a broker’s license could work on their own as an individual. That is why most real estate companies you see have multiple agents all under one location.

Most people will see signs with the agents name when a home is for sale but they will have information to contact the brokerage. Some people will receive business cards or referrals for the brokerage and then find a specific agent they want to work with. In our case the brokerage you are fortunately working with is The Bishop Group-RE/MAX and we have many talented agents waiting to learn about your needs in order to find your perfect home, so get in touch today!

Carl Bishop
210-309-6244
www.mysatxhomes.com