Real Estate Jobs Descriptions

There are basically three opportunities in the field of real estate: real estate agent or Realtor, real estate broker and real estate appraiser. Each performs various functions in the real estate industry, although it is possible to do more than one or even all three with the proper education and licenses. 

Real Estate Agent or Realtor

The real estate agent, or Realtor if they are a member of the National Association of Realtors, functions include prospecting, answering questions from and meeting with potential buyers and sellers, listing and photographing properties for sale, advertising, doing comparative market analyses and advertising.  

When a potential seller contacts the agent, the agent helps the seller choose a selling price by doing a market analysis. This involves getting information on three similar properties that have sold in the same area recently, making adjustments for variances and coming up with a selling price. Sellers still retain the right to set their own price.

Real Estate Appraiser

The appraiser does something similar to the real estate agent's comparative market analysis in determining the current value of a property and reporting that information to whomever requested it in standard documentation and photos. This can be for insurance or loan purposes, so the results vary depending upon that factor. The real estate appraiser collects information about the property to use in the analysis.

Real Estate Broker

The broker maintains an office for the purpose of performing real estate transactions and ensuring that everything is completed. He or she has a staff to assist in all processes, maintain records, pay half of the advertising fees and oversee agents. The broker may also list and sell homes and businesses and employ real estate agents and appraisers.