Broker vs. Associate Broker
vs. Salesperson
A short
guide for the Internet consumer
What Are The Differences
Between A Licensed Real Estate Broker and A Licensed Real Estate Agent?
The terminology used to identify real estate professionals differs a little from
state to state. Brokers are usually required to have more
education and experience than Salespersons, commonly called real estate agents. The real estate person you normally deal with is a real
estate Salesperson. The real estate Salesperson
is licensed by the state, but must work for a state licensed real estate Broker. All
listings are placed in the Broker's name, not the real estate
agent's.
A Salesperson license allows you to perform all the functions
of a real estate professional while working under the sponsorship and direction
of a Broker.
The Broker license allows you to work independently,
representing others as well as yourself. It will also allow you to sponsor other
licensees and act as manager (Broker of Record) or owner (Broker-Owner) of a real estate firm.
An Associate Broker, the official designation in
Pennsylvania (in New Jersey called a Broker/Salesperson with some
variations or sometimes a
Broker
Associate), has fulfilled all the requirements of a
Broker, but has has chosen to work under and for another
Broker (similar to a regular Salesperson).
In Pennsylvania, in order to qualify to be a Broker, one must complete a
state-licensed 240 hour Broker course (or equivalent)
of broker education. In addition they must have at least 3 years of full-time
employment (with total experience calculated by a points system with a minimum
requirement) as a licensed PA Salesperson and pass the Pennsylvania Real Estate
Broker License examination. Finally, they must submit to a state police criminal
history check and receive a clearance from the PA Real Estate Commission.
Buyers and sellers should be aware of the difference in levels of
qualification and experience for each license.
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