Is there a difference between a Real Estate Agent and a REALTOR®?

Many people are surprised to learn that not all real estate licensees are REALTORS®.  REALTORS® are members of the National Association of REALTORS® and are pledged to abide by the 17 Articles of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. 

The Code came out in 1912 and predates many licenses laws issued by real estate licensing boards.  Typically, REALTORS® spend many extra hours continuing their real estate education.