In the state of Washington, real estate agents are technically known as Real Estate Brokers. And there is a perception that “broker” sounds more prestigious than “agent.” But I personally disagree and prefer to be called Agent over Broker. Why?
To me, “broker” is transactional. It’s about getting the transaction done, as in “Their representative brokered the sale of their home.” In fact, it’s defined as “someone who buys and sells goods or assets for others.”
But “agent” is a broader term. It’s about looking out for a client’s better best interests. And it’s defined as, “A person who acts on behalf of another person or group.”
Selling or buying a home shouldn’t be about brokering a deal. It’s not about selling the house or buying the house. It’s about representing the buyer or seller on a broader level, and having their overall best interests at heart. Sometimes that might mean coaching a client against buying a particular house, or selling their home at a particular time, even though that potentially costs the agent money.
Although I’ve only been a licensed agent for the past year, I’ve worked closely with my Lead for five years as an assistant. I’ve seen and heard her in action a LOT, and although selling the home is part of what she is focused on, it’s also the big picture and involves a lot of moving pieces that she has to keep an eye on. More than a few times I’ve heard her encouraging her seller or buyer to decline a counteroffer, even though it puts here commission at risk. Because it’s not about forging the deal at all costs. It’s about doing what’s best for the client. Representing them on a holistic level.
In the state of Washington, we’re called brokers. I wish they’d call us agents. For me, that’s what I prefer to be called. Real Estate agent.
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