There are more than 3 million licensed real estate professionals in the United States, but only members of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), Ohio REALTORS® (OR), and the Lorain County Association of REALTORS® (LoCAR) may use the title REALTOR®.
More than 1 million real estate professionals nationwide have taken the additional step to join NAR—The Voice for Real Estate. In Ohio alone, there are more than 30,000 REALTORS® (pronounced REAL-tor). When choosing a real estate professional, always look for the registered trademark, REALTOR®, which identifies a higher standard of professionalism.
Unlike individuals who are simply licensed to sell real estate in Ohio, REALTORS® are members who subscribe to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. The term REALTOR® represents competency, fairness, integrity, and ethical conduct in business relationships.
REALTORS® pledge to adhere to NAR’s Code of Ethics, which requires honesty and fairness in all transactions—whether representing buyers, sellers, or cooperating agents. The Code also obligates REALTORS® to identify and eliminate practices that may harm the public or discredit the real estate profession.
All new REALTORS® must complete a minimum of two and a half hours of Code of Ethics orientation, and existing members are required to complete refresher training every three years to maintain membership.
REALTORS® also have access to advanced education and professional training not available to non-member licensees. Because real estate transactions are often complex, REALTORS® may pursue specialized education to better serve clients with specific needs.
Through NAR, members may earn respected professional designations such as Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS®), or e-PRO®, demonstrating advanced knowledge and expertise. NAR’s affiliated institutes, societies, and councils promote continuous education and award specialty designations that reflect a REALTOR®’s commitment to excellence and professionalism.
Beyond individual transactions, REALTORS® are strong advocates for homeowners and homeownership at the national, state, and local levels. The REALTOR® organization is the only national trade group dedicated exclusively to protecting the interests of homeowners. Each year, REALTORS® work on Capitol Hill, at statehouses, and in local governments to keep homeownership a top public policy priority.
REALTOR® advocacy supports critical housing policies, such as the mortgage interest deduction, helping to keep housing affordable and strengthening real estate as a sound investment. These efforts enable more individuals and families to achieve the dream of homeownership.
When buying or selling a home, consider working with a REALTOR® member of the Lorain County Association of REALTORS®. A REALTOR®’s knowledge of the local housing market, combined with professional training and ethical standards, provides invaluable guidance through every step of the process.
Using a professional REALTOR® is an important investment decision. With countless details and nuances involved, your REALTOR® can help you navigate the buying and/or selling process and work toward achieving your real estate goals.
If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, contact a REALTOR® today. Members of the Lorain County Association of REALTORS® (LoCAR) care deeply about the communities where they live, work, and serve.
Lorain County offers a wide variety of housing choices. Do your research and explore the many opportunities available right here at home. Whether you’re looking for big or small, city or country, Lorain County has it all. With convenient highway access, commuting east or west is easy and efficient.
Contact your LoCAR REALTOR® today to get started! The Lorain County Association of REALTORS® (LoCAR) is a professional trade association representing licensed real estate agents in Lorain County who are members of the:
- National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)
- Ohio REALTORS® (OR)
LoCAR is one of more than 1,200 local associations that together make up NAR—“The Voice for Real Estate.” NAR is America’s largest trade association, representing over 1 million members involved in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate.
Ohio REALTORS®, with more than 35,000 members, is the largest professional trade association in the state. Leading with expertise, professionalism, and an entrepreneurial spirit, REALTORS® in Ohio are committed to serving their clients and strengthening their communities.
REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark which may be used only by real estate professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribe to its strict Code of Ethics. Not all real estate sales agents are REALTORS®. All REALTORS® are members of NAR along with their State and Local Associations.
