6 min read

Do you know the difference between a real estate agent and a REALTOR?

Once you get your Real Estate License, you become a salesperson, but unless you join NAR, you don’t get to call yourself a REALTOR.

What is NAR, and why should you join?

As a real estate agent, you know that success in this industry depends on many factors. From staying up-to-date with the latest trends to building strong relationships with clients and colleagues, it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to thrive in this field. But did you know that joining the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and your local realtor association can help you excel in your career and make a positive impact on your community?

Is it free?

One of the first things you may be wondering about NAR membership is the cost. Yes, membership does come at a cost, but the benefits far outweigh the price tag. With membership, you gain access to a wealth of resources, including educational opportunities, networking events, legal and regulatory support, and more.

In addition to becoming a member at the national level, you will also be a part of your state and local association

Plus, the cost of membership is often tax-deductible*, so it’s an investment in your career that can pay off in the long run.

What’s RPAC?

One of the most important benefits of NAR membership is the opportunity to support the Realtors Political Action Committee (RPAC). RPAC is a bipartisan organization that advocates for public policies that support real estate professionals and homeowners. By contributing to RPAC, you can help fund campaigns and support candidates who share your values and priorities. You can also help shape the policies that affect your business and your community. Supporting RPAC not only promotes property rights, it helps protect our entire industry.

Data, stats and economic experts.

In addition to supporting RPAC, NAR membership offers many other benefits. For example, you can gain access to exclusive market data and research, which can help you make informed decisions about your business. You can also take advantage of discounts on products and services, such as insurance, travel, and technology.

No matter what part of the country you are in, NAR’s website is loaded with resources to help you in building and conducting your business.

REALTORS are ethical.

So are most real estate agents, but REALTORS adhere to a strict code of ethics. Not only is this good for the consumer, it is good for us. It reminds us to hold ourselves to a higher standard and keeps us accountable. By setting the bar so high, we are working together to raise the standards of the industry.

REALTORs are top notch professionals.

Being involved in your local realtor association also has many benefits. By attending networking events and participating in committees and task forces, you can build meaningful relationships with other agents and brokers in your community. You can also gain access to educational opportunities that can help you improve your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends.

But perhaps the most important benefit of being involved in NAR and your local realtor association is the sense of community and connection that it provides. As a real estate agent, it can be easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed by the demands of your job. But by joining a community of supportive and inspiring professionals, you can find the motivation and encouragement you need to succeed. You can also help promote the value of real estate agents and brokers and demonstrate the positive impact that they have on their communities.

Joining NAR and your local realtor association is an investment in your career and your community. While there is a cost associated with membership, the benefits are significant and long-lasting. By supporting RPAC and participating in educational and networking opportunities, you can develop your skills, build your business, and make a positive impact on your community.

Conferences

These annual events can be an absolute game-changer for your career.

First of all, attending a national conference like the NAR Annual Conference and Expo is a great way to meet and network with other real estate professionals from all over the country. You never know who you might bump into – maybe a top-producing agent from New York City or a broker from California with a fresh perspective on the industry. These connections can be invaluable for expanding your business and staying on top of the latest trends.

But it’s not just about who you meet – it’s also about what you learn. These conferences are jam-packed with educational sessions and keynote speakers who are experts in their field. You can learn about everything from social media marketing to negotiating tactics to the latest technologies that are revolutionizing the industry. And let’s be real, as a real estate agent, you never stop learning. Attending a conference like this can help you stay ahead of the curve and stand out in a crowded field.

And don’t forget about state conferences! These events offer a more localized focus, which can be especially valuable if you’re looking to connect with other professionals in your area. You can learn about the latest regulations and trends that are specific to your state, as well as make valuable connections with other agents and brokers in your area.

Our local conference, Triple Play is a NY/NJ/PA combo event held every December in Atlantic City, and it is my favorite time of year! There are speakers, an expo, and classes, some of which count toward CE! And don’t forget the parties!
But let’s be real, attending these conferences isn’t exactly cheap. Between registration fees, travel expenses, and hotel costs, it can add up quickly. So is it really worth it?

Absolutely. Think of it as an investment in your career. By attending these conferences, you’re gaining knowledge and insights that can help you grow your business and make more money in the long run. Plus, you’re investing in yourself – by taking the time to learn and connect with other professionals, you’re showing yourself that you’re committed to your career and always looking for ways to improve.

If you are in the process of looking for a Broker to hang your license with, one of the factors to consider is if the office is a member of NAR, so that you will be too! And if you are already a member but didn’t even realize it, you are missing out.

It is so easy to get involved and take advantage of the many benefits they have to offer. Simply log onto your local association website and get familiar with them. Then give them a call and ask how you can get involved. I promise you won’t regret it.

You can be, do or have anything you desire. If real estate is part of your plan, JBREA was made for you.

*Make sure to check with your accountant.