When you become a real estate agent, it's important to know about the many groups and associations working in your interest. The National Association of REALTORS (NAR) is the most important organization fulfilling that role.
Once you pass the real estate agent exam for your state, you can become a member of the NAR. Let's have a closer look at the purpose of the NAR and how to become a member.
What Is the National Association of REALTORS?
The National Association of REALTORS is an organization of real estate professionals. Founded in 1908, the National Association of Realtors is the biggest trade association in the United States, with over 1.4 million members. In 1913, the NAR adopted one of the first business Codes of Ethics in the country. Adhering to this Code of Ethics is still a condition for membership today.
Some of the people who can join the National Association of REALTORS include:
Residential and commercial real estate agents
Brokers
Property managers
Appraisal professionals
Others who work in the real estate industry
There are 1,200 local associations and boards and 54 state/territory associations across the United States. To use the REALTOR designation, you must be a member.
The mission of the NAR is "to empower REALTORS® as they preserve, protect and advance the right to real property for all." Its vision is "to be a trusted ally, guiding our members and those they serve through the ever-evolving real estate landscape."
What Does the National Association of REALTORS Do?
The primary purpose of the NAR is to make its members more profitable and successful. But the NAR also provides other services, such as:
Maintaining statistics related to real estate. The NAR publishes research for its members and the public. Journalists, real estate professionals, and government officials use this data to understand the real estate market, plan business decisions, and help sellers and buyers.
Advocating for political change. Through its lobbying efforts, the NAR advocates for the interests of its members and all property owners. Real estate political advocacy is done by members at all government levels.
Offering continuing education and professional development opportunities. From Code of Ethics training to specific designations and certifications, NAR members have access to a wide variety of courses. The National Association of REALTORS also collaborates with Columbia College to offer college degrees in the real estate field.
How Do I Become a Member of the NAR?
Becoming a member of the National Association of REALTORS is simple. The first step is to become a member of your local chapter of the NAR. If you work for a real estate brokerage, the principals must be members before non-principal agents can join. You can join any chapter in your state or a contiguous state.
Being a member has many benefits. First, you have access to a 1.4-million-strong network of real estate professionals to help you grow your real estate business. The NAR also partners with many businesses to help realtors in their personal and professional lives.
Once you obtain your real estate license, your next step should be to join your local real estate professional association. With its educational, political, and networking benefits, being a member of the NAR is a good business move for any new agent.