Professional Organizations

There are a variety of professional organizations in existence that support the real estate industry. One of the most important ones is National Association of REALTORS (NAR), which is also the largest trade organization in the world. It promotes high standards of practice and ethics.Florida REALTORS is the state-level professional trade association for real estate licensees who are members of the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) in Florida. It represents the interests of real estate professionals across the state, providing education, resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities.Local Board (Association) of REALTORS: This local level often provides access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Licensee vs. Realtor: Real Estate Licensee: An individual who has met the requirements of the DBPR/FREC to practice real estate. Realtor: A real estate licensee who is a member of a local board of REALTORS and is affiliated with the Florida Realtors and the NAR. The Florida Realtors and NAR are privately run professional organizations. The DBPR does not set the rules, fees, or membership requirements of NAR. Therefore, the terms REALTOR and real estate licensee are not synonymous. Not all real estate licensees are REALTORS but all REALTORS are real estate licensees.