Investor · Lynn, MA · Member since 2014 · 60 posts · 23 votes
Hello,
What is the difference between real estate broker and real estate salesperson certification? What investing strategies benefit from each certification?
It depends on the state. In North Carolina, the first license you obtain is "Provisional Broker". A PB must be directly supervised by a Broker in Charge. With additional edu the licensee can get a "Brokers License". A broker is really someone who can operate with less supervision and more independance. This is not to be confused with a "Salesperson" who is employed by a home builder. As long as they are salaried employees they have no licensing requirements.
In Massachusetts a salesperson must apprentice with a broker for 3 years as a salesperson before they can seek a broker's license on their own. Legally, a salesperson represents the broker in any deals the salesperson is involved with and the broker has primary responsibility and liability. Working for a broker is commonly referred to as "hanging your license with the broker". People with a brokers license can also work for another broker as if they were a salesperson.
In this state, as well, a broker has additional training & licensing. A salesperson/agent must work under the supervision of a broker, even if they are not directly involved with selling to the public (i.e., an investor who has their license to use the MLS - they still have to be affiliated with a broker). Both can write offers, etc. In day-to-day dealings, either would be fine - I'd be more interested in their experience & willingness to work with an investor rather than a private home buyer.
In Florida only a Broker has Fiduciary responsibility. A salesperson must work under the supervision of a Broker and can only receive commissions from the Broker. Brokers sign and hold listings as well.
In Florida only a Broker has Fiduciary responsibility. A salesperson must work under the supervision of a Broker and can only receive commissions from the Broker. Brokers sign and hold listings as well.
Is there a waiting period under supervision in order to become a broker in Florida?
In TN, every brokerage firm/office has to have a "principle broker" who supervises all of the other brokers and affiliate brokers at the firm. An affiliate broker must have 3 years of experience under the supervision of a principle broker before they can sit for the broker exam. Interestingly, the owner of the firm does not have to be broker.