What is the difference between a real estate broker and a real estate agent?
Written and reviewed by Andrew Ragusa, Licensed Real Estate Broker and Broker of Record, REMI Realty LLC — 11+ years of transactions across Long Island, Brooklyn and Queens.
The short answer
In New York State, “real estate agent” is a broad term that covers both license types. There are two main licenses: real estate salesperson — the entry-level license — and real estate broker, which is the advanced license. To earn a broker's license, you need significantly more hours of training and education, plus a verified track record of successful transactions. You cannot apply for a broker's license without demonstrated performance. When you work with a licensed real estate broker, you're working with someone the state has verified as experienced and successful.