Real Estate Agents, Brokers, Realtors: Differences Between the U.S. and Thailand

When navigating the real estate market—whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or exploring new opportunities abroad—you’ll likely come across three key professional titles: real estate agent, broker, and Realtor. These terms are commonly used in the United States, but they may not carry the same meaning—or even exist in the same way—in countries like Thailand.

Understanding these differences is especially important if you’re investing internationally or relocating between the U.S. and Thailand. This article breaks down the distinctions in simple terms, offering a clear, side-by-side comparison to help you make informed decisions no matter where you’re buying or selling property.

What Is a Real Estate Agent?

When looking at the real estate agent vs. broker vs. Realtor structure, it’s helpful to first understand the role of a real estate agent—one of the most commonly used titles in the property world. While the term is widely recognized in both the United States and Thailand, the expectations, qualifications, and legal requirements associated with being a real estate agent or broker differ significantly between the two countries.

• In the United States

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who assists clients in buying, selling, or renting residential or commercial properties. Agents are often the most visible part of any real estate transaction—conducting open houses, submitting offers, and negotiating terms on behalf of their clients.

To become an agent in the U.S., individuals must complete a pre-licensing course, pass a state licensing exam, and register with the appropriate real estate authority. However, they cannot work independently; they must operate under a licensed broker, who supervises their work and ensures compliance with state laws.

• In Thailand

In contrast, Thailand does not currently have a national licensing system for real estate agents. That means no formal qualifications are legally required to call oneself an agent. While many professionals in Thailand’s real estate market do have experience or training, the quality and expertise can vary widely from person to person.

Some agencies provide internal training or prefer to hire agents with a sales or property-related background. There are also optional training programs and certifications offered by organizations such as the Thai Real Estate Business School (TREBS) or REBA, but these are not mandatory.

Key Takeaway

In the U.S., real estate agents are licensed and regulated by law. In Thailand, the role is largely unregulated, so it’s essential to do your research and work with established agencies that emphasize professionalism and transparency.

What Is a Real Estate Broker?

Understanding the real estate broker vs. real estate agent difference is essential when navigating property transactions, especially if you’re buying or selling in a new country. Let’s explore how the role of a real estate broker compares in both countries.

• In the United States

A real estate broker is a licensed professional who has completed additional education and passed a more advanced exam than a real estate agent. While both agents and brokers assist clients with buying, selling, and renting property, brokers have greater legal authority and can work independently.

There are three main types of brokers in the U.S.:

• Principal or Managing Brokers: They run real estate offices and are legally responsible for the actions of the real estate agents under their supervision.
• Associate Brokers: These are licensed brokers who choose to work under another broker rather than manage their own firm.
• Independent Brokers: They operate their own real estate businesses and may employ other agents.

The real estate broker and real estate agent difference in the U.S. is primarily about legal responsibility, independence, and qualifications. Brokers are considered the most senior due to their advanced licensing.

• In Thailand

Thailand does not have a formal licensing system to distinguish between a real estate agent or broker. The title “broker” is often used informally to describe someone with more experience, someone running their own agency, or someone who oversees multiple agents. However, there is no official broker license or legal designation that separates a broker from an agent under Thai law.

Instead, the difference between a real estate agent and a broker in Thailand is usually based on role and reputation, not regulatory status. Some “brokers” may have taken courses from organizations like the Thai Real Estate Business School (TREBS), but this is not required by law.

Key Takeaway

In the U.S., the real estate broker vs. real estate agent distinction is clearly defined by education, licensing, and legal authority. In Thailand, the line between agent, broker, and realtor is far more blurred, with titles often used interchangeably. If you’re working with a broker in Thailand, it’s important to assess their experience and track record rather than rely on job titles alone.

What Is a Realtor?

When exploring the real estate agent vs. Realtor vs. broker comparison, the title “Realtor” often causes the most confusion—especially for international buyers. To better understand the difference between Realtor and real estate agent and how the concept applies (or doesn’t apply) in both countries, let’s break it down.

• In the United States

The term “Realtor” is often misunderstood. Unlike real estate agent or broker, “Realtor” is not a job title or a license—it’s a professional designation. A Realtor is a licensed real estate agent or broker who is an active member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a respected U.S. trade organization known for its strict code of ethics.

So, what is a Realtor vs. real estate agent? While both assist clients with buying and selling property, a Realtor pledges to follow higher standards of honesty, transparency, and client care. These ethical rules go beyond what is legally required by state laws.

• In Thailand

In Thailand, the term “Realtor” is not officially used or recognized. There is no equivalent to the National Association of Realtors and therefore no formal code of ethics tied to such a membership.

Although some real estate agents or brokers in Thailand may highlight their ethics and transparency, these claims are typically based on individual or company values—not an industry-wide standard like the NAR. As a result, there is no formal difference between Realtor and real estate agent in Thailand.

Key Takeaway

In the U.S., what is the difference between a broker and a Realtor is a meaningful question—with membership in the NAR signaling a deeper ethical commitment. In Thailand, however, the term “Realtor” is not used, and real estate professionals are not bound by a national code of conduct unless they choose to follow international standards.

Real Estate Agent vs. Broker vs. Realtor: Breaking It Down

To better understand the distinction between a real estate agent, broker, and Realtor in the U.S. and Thailand, refer to the comparison table below.

Why Do These Differences Matter?

Understanding the difference between real estate agent and broker, as well as the role of a Realtor, becomes especially important when you’re deciding whom to trust with one of your most valuable investments—whether you’re buying property in the United States or in Thailand.

• In the United States

If you’re involved in a complex transaction or high-value deal, working with a real estate broker may give you peace of mind, as brokers typically have more experience and can operate independently. The real estate broker vs. agent distinction is critical here—brokers are held to a higher standard and can manage other agents, while agents must work under broker supervision.

That said, a real estate agent who is well-trained and part of a reputable brokerage can still provide outstanding service. In fact, when comparing real estate agents, Realtors, and brokers, professionalism, communication skills, and local expertise often matter more than the title itself.

If ethical standards are a top priority for you, working with a Realtor offers added assurance. If you value accountability and client-first service, this distinction may guide your decision.

• In Thailand

The situation is different in Thailand, where the real estate broker and real estate agent difference is often informal and not regulated by law. Since there’s no national licensing system, anyone can technically call themselves an agent or broker. This makes it harder for clients—especially foreigners—to distinguish between professionals based on titles alone.

That’s why, in Thailand, the real focus should be on experience, transparency, and reputation. Whether someone calls themselves a real estate agent or broker, the key is how well they understand the local market and how committed they are to acting in your best interest. The best way to protect yourself is by working with established agencies that operate with international standards.

Who Should You Work With? Agent vs. Broker vs. Realtor

Whether you’re buying or selling property in the United States or Thailand, choosing the right real estate professional can make your experience smoother, faster, and far less stressful. 

• In the United States

In most cases, a skilled real estate agent is fully capable of guiding you through a transaction—especially if they work for a reputable brokerage. Agents are trained to walk first-time buyers through every step of the process, from the initial search to closing day. If the agent is also a Realtor, you’ll benefit from added peace of mind thanks to their commitment to the NAR’s code of ethics.

If you’re dealing with more complex scenarios—like selling a high-value investment property—you might prefer working with a real estate broker. The real estate broker vs. agent difference is especially relevant here, as brokers can work independently, supervise other agents, and often have broader experience.

Still, many top-performing agents handle high-end properties daily, and the choice often comes down to the individual’s expertise, not just their title. That’s why understanding the real estate agent vs. Realtor vs. broker breakdown matters when choosing who to work with.

• In Thailand

Because the industry in Thailand is less regulated, the difference between real estate agent and a broker is less about formal licensing and more about experience. Titles like real estate broker are used informally, and there’s no local equivalent of a Realtor as defined by U.S. standards.

So how do you decide? Focus on working with professionals who demonstrate a strong understanding of the local market, have clear communication skills, and come from a well-established agency. Whether someone calls themselves a real estate agent or broker in Thailand, what truly matters is their ability to represent your interests and navigate the buying or selling process with integrity.

If you’re considering buying or selling property in Thailand, especially in popular areas like Hua Hin, the lack of formal regulation around job titles such as real estate agent or broker means that working with a trusted and transparent agency is even more essential.

That’s where Location Real Estate Hua Hin comes in. Established by Jon Martin, Location Real Estate is an independent agency committed to providing exceptional service to both local residents and international clients. Our offerings include a wide range of properties for purchase, sale and rent, such as houses, villas, condos, and new developments. 

What sets Location Real Estate apart is our deep local knowledge and unwavering commitment to honesty and professionalism. Our team possesses a vast understanding of the Hua Hin property market, providing clients with current and accurate market valuations. Whether you’re seeking investment opportunities or exploring the best places to buy property in Hua Hin, we offer insights grounded in experience—not influenced by high commission incentives. We prioritize ethical practices and remain independent, ensuring that the properties we showcase align with your requirements. By choosing Location Real Estate, you are assured of receiving the best independent and honest advice, guiding you towards making informed decisions in your real estate endeavors.