The Difference Between a Real Estate Agent and a Broker—Explained Simply

From the experts at Sold Realty Group

Whether you're a first-time buyer or selling your third property, you’ve probably heard both the terms real estate agent and broker. They’re often used interchangeably—but they actually have different roles, responsibilities, and levels of training.

Understanding who does what in a real estate transaction can give you more confidence, clarity, and control. So let’s break it down.

🧑‍💼 What Is a Real Estate Agent?

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who helps people buy, sell, and rent properties. They’ve completed the required coursework and passed a state licensing exam.

Agents are the ones you’ll interact with most often during a transaction. Think of them as your guide through the home buying or selling process.

📋 What Agents Can Do:

• List your home on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service)

• Market your property and host open houses

• Help buyers search for homes that meet their criteria

• Schedule showings and gather details

• Submit and negotiate offers

• Coordinate inspections, appraisals, and paperwork

• Assist you all the way through closing day

⚠️ Important: Real estate agents must work under a licensed broker. They cannot operate independently or open their own firm without becoming a broker themselves.

🧠 What Is a Real Estate Broker?

A real estate broker has gone beyond the basic licensing requirements and completed more advanced training. They’ve passed a higher-level licensing exam and often have years of experience in the field.

Brokers are held to a higher standard and are legally allowed to supervise agents, manage real estate offices, and take on more complex or high-risk transactions.

🏢 What Brokers Can Do (in addition to everything agents do):

• Open and run their own brokerage

• Hire, train, and oversee real estate agents

• Handle legal and ethical issues in real estate deals

• Review contracts for accuracy and compliance

• Take full responsibility for all deals conducted under their brokerage

Some brokers still work with clients just like agents, while others focus solely on management and oversight.

🏷️ Types of Brokers

There are actually a few types of real estate brokers:

1. Designated Broker (aka Principal Broker)

   • The top authority at a real estate firm

   • Legally responsible for all transactions under the company name

2. Managing Broker

   • Oversees the day-to-day work of agents

   • Provides support, coaching, and conflict resolution

   • Ensures ethical and legal standards are being met

3. Associate Broker

   • A licensed broker who chooses to work under another broker rather than run their own firm

   • May still represent buyers or sellers like an agent

💡 At Sold Realty Group, we work with experienced agents and broker-level professionals—so you always have the highest level of expertise backing your transaction.

🏡 Who Should You Work With?

Most buyers and sellers work directly with a real estate agent, and that’s usually all you need for a smooth transaction. However, what’s more important than the title is the support system behind them.

When your agent works under a strong, trustworthy broker (like we have at Sold Realty Group), you get:

✅ Expert guidance
✅ Legal protection
✅ Ethical standards
✅ Ongoing accountability
✅ Extra oversight for complex deals

So it’s not just about choosing between an agent or a broker—it’s about choosing a real estate team that gives you both.

🔍 The Real Value: Experience + Oversight

When you work with Sold Realty Group, you’re not just hiring one person—you’re gaining access to an entire network of skilled agents and broker leadership who work together to protect your interests, maximize your investment, and simplify your experience.

Whether it’s:

• Navigating tricky negotiations

• Troubleshooting appraisal issues

• Managing back-to-back closings

• Or just helping you stay calm through the process

…you’ve got licensed professionals and experienced brokers working hand-in-hand to support you.

✅ Final Thoughts: Agent vs. Broker, Explained Simply

👋 Thinking of Buying or Selling Soon?

Whether you’re ready to make a move or just exploring your options, we’re here to guide you.

At Sold Realty Group, our agents are backed by experienced brokers who ensure your transaction is smooth, legal, and fully supported. We’re not just here to “open doors”—we’re here to protect what’s behind them.

📲 Let’s talk!
Reach out today and let’s make your next real estate move smart, stress-free, and successful.