While the terms Realtor, Real Estate Agent and Real Estate Broker are often used interchangeably, in fact each one is unique. In the state of Colorado, anyone who sells real estate for another person must hold a valid state-issued real estate license to ensure compliance with state standards regarding education, training and experience. Many professional agents choose to advance their careers and training by joining the National Association of Realtors, the largest and most-respected real estate trade association in the United States.
Real estate agents can only call themselves Realtors once they have passed the stringent entry standards of the Realtor Association, which includes ongoing training and an adherence to a strict professional code of ethics. All Realtors agree to openly share information regarding homes for sale by listing those homes on MLS, the Multiple Listing Service. The allows all buyers and their agents equal access to home listings throughout the state, promoting fairness and equality in real estate transactions.