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Real Estate Agent vs. Realtor: What’s the Difference?
Dated: January 23 2026
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Real Estate Agent vs. Realtor: What’s the Real Difference?
If you are looking at homes in Redlands, you’ve probably heard people use the terms "Real Estate Agent" and "Realtor" as if they are the same thing.
While they seem similar, there is a big difference. Understanding this difference can help you choose the right person to protect your biggest investment.
The Simple Breakdown
- Real Estate Agent: This is someone who has a license from the state to help people buy or sell property. They have passed a test and follow state laws.
- REALTOR®: This is a licensed agent who is also a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).
Being a Realtor means more than just a title. It means I have sworn to follow a strict Code of Ethics. This code ensures that I always put your interests above my own commission.
The Power of Advocacy: Why It Matters to You
One of the biggest differences is the work we do behind the scenes. As Realtors, we don't just open doors for showings; we fight for your rights as a homeowner. We work with local and state associations to make sure owning a home stays affordable and fair.
I have spent a large part of my career dedicated to this advocacy work because I believe our community deserves a seat at the table. Here is how I have served:
- Local Leadership: Patrick served on the Board of Directors for the Inland Gateway Association of Realtors (TIGAR) for two years. At the local level, we work to protect property rights right here in our own neighborhoods.
- State Leadership: Patrick also served on the Board of Directors for the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.). This organization represents over 200,000 members and is the leading voice for real estate in California.
- Protecting Your Investment: Patrick Edgett served as a trustee for the California Real Estate PAC (CREPAC). In this role, I helped oversee how we support laws and leaders who protect homeownership and private property rights.
Why This Should Matter to a Redlands Homeowner
When you hire a Realtor who has served in these roles, you aren't just getting a "girl dad" who knows the best golf courses in town—you’re getting someone who understands the laws that affect your taxes, your property value, and your rights.
Whether it’s fighting against rent cap laws or pushing for better homeownership opportunities, I take my role as an advocate seriously.
The Bottom Line Any agent can show you a house. A Realtor—especially one with a background in state and local leadership—is there to protect your future.
Have questions about how current laws might affect your home value?
Contact Patrick Edgett today. He can share his experience from the board room to help you in your living room.
Patrick Edgett
Hi I'm Patrick Edgett, I live in Southern California, I am a realtor. I am a #girldad to four amazing humans!In my past life I have worked on marketing campaigns for the governor, prod....
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Based on information from California Regional Multiple Listing Service, Inc. as of September 23, 2026 1:00 PM UTC This information is for your personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties you may be interested in purchasing. Display of MLS data is usually deemed reliable but is NOT guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyers are responsible for verifying the accuracy of all information and should investigate the data themselves or retain appropriate professionals. Information from sources other than the Listing Agent may have been included in the MLS data. Unless otherwise specified in writing, Broker/Agent has not and will not verify any information obtained from other sources. The Broker/Agent providing the information contained herein may or may not have been the Listing and/or Selling Agent.
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The information being provided by Conejo Simi Moorpark Association of REALTORS ® ("CSMAR") is for the visitor's personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties visitor may be interested in purchasing. Any information relating to a property referenced on this web site comes from the Internet Data Exchange ("IDX") program of CSMAR. This web site may reference real estate listing(s) held by a brokerage firm other than the broker and/or
