Let’s take a moment to revisit how the word REALTOR® should be used! While the term REALTOR® has been around for over 100 years, it’s frequently been confused with “real estate agent.” It’s a common mix-up, but an important one to clarify: REALTOR® refers specifically to members of the National Association of REALTORS®, not just anyone working in real estate.

To help keep the brand strong and consistent, it’s important to follow the correct formatting, avoid descriptive misuse, and ensure the term is used in the proper context.

Formatting Matters

The preferred formatting is REALTOR®; however, Realtor® and REALTOR (without the ® symbol) are also permitted. Using 'realtor' in all lowercase and without the registration symbol isn't allowed.

Avoid Descriptive Modifiers

Phrases like “Top REALTOR®,” “Your Neighborhood REALTOR®,” or “Commercial REALTOR®” are incorrect. The term REALTOR® should not be paired with a descriptive word, since it refers to membership, not a job type. If referring to real estate professionals, use “real estate agent” or “agent.”

A quick way to check if you are using REALTOR® correctly is to replace the usage with “agent” or “member.” Depending on the context, that can help you determine whether you need to use "real estate agent" or "REALTOR®."

Context Is Key

To maintain clarity, the term REALTOR® should always appear in a sentence that makes the NAR membership connection clear. For example, correct usage would be “A St. Louis REALTORS® member who is a residential real estate agent asked about joining a committee.”

An incorrect usage like “I love being a REALTOR®” could be corrected like this: “I love being a member of St. Louis REALTORS®,” or “I love being a real estate professional.”

If you’re ever unsure about proper usage, please refer to NAR’s helpful Membership Marks Manual for full guidelines on trademark use or contact Dan Wunder, Director of Marketing and Communications.

Let’s continue to protect and elevate the REALTOR® brand together!