As far as real estate professionals go, there are many different titles and responsibilities. A person just starting a career will likely be an insurance agent, whereas those who have years of experience under their belt might be interested in taking Utah real estate broker classes so that they can become brokers. Agents and brokers often operate according to an employee-manager type of relationship. Here are some similarities and differences between the two jobs.
In order to become a real estate agent, candidates must take 120 hours of pre-licensing courses, obtain their real estate license, and find a broker to work with. Real estate agents work as the salespeople within the brokerage firm. They can show properties and help clients buy or sell their homes, and they can give real estate advice. Rather than work independently, they are part of a team and are the responsibility of a broker at their firm.
Real estate brokers, on the other hand, can choose to work alone as independent agents or work as part of a brokerage firm. In order to become a broker, candidates must take an additional 120 hours of Utah real estate broker classes, pass the state broker exam and apply for a broker license. They must also have accrued three years of real estate experience within the five years preceding their application. Because they have more education and experience than real estate agents, brokers are qualified to be responsible for the agents under their charge. If for example, a client is dissatisfied with an agent’s service, he or she would take the complaint to the broker, who would then attempt to resolve the issue.
Real estate agents can assist clients with the purchase or sale of property, but it is often the brokers who handle the deposit and escrow accounts. Those who want to advance their careers in real estate often become brokers to enjoy the freedoms that come with the added responsibility.