Planning to buy or sell land, property, house, or apartment in 2026?
Well, there is a high chance you’ll work with a real estate broker or agent for good deals. Many people assume that real estate agents and brokers do the same job, but that is not true.
In reality, both are different. Knowing the difference can help you make a better decision for buying and selling a property. In this blog, we’ll explain the unique responsibilities and expertise of each profession. This will help you understand the roles and services provided by real estate agents and brokers.
What is a Real Estate Agent?
A real estate agent is a professional who helps you buy, sell, or rent property, including residential or commercial spaces. These skilled professionals guide you through the entire property buying or selling process, including securing funds, setting the right price, negotiating deals, and handling paperwork.
For instance, if you want to buy a property in Australia, a real estate agent will show you suitable options as per your requirements. Also, they will arrange property visits, negotiate the price, and help you complete the legal formalities.
What are the Duties of a Real Estate Agent?
Roles and duties of real estate agents extend far beyond simple intermediation. Besides showing properties and writing contracts, agents also focus on operating and marketing their business. Here are the main jobs of property agents in Australia and other parts of the globe:
- Finding the right property or buyer based on your needs and budget
- Gather vital information about the property, including the age, size, and other details
- Write and update property listings through online platforms, ads, and site visits
- Arranging property showings and answering your questions
- Negotiating prices and terms to get you the best deal
- Draft and file documents, including property agreements and contracts
- Guiding you through legal and financial steps, such as registration and closing
- Keeping you informed about market trends and property values
- Discuss the pros and cons of each property
- Help buyers and sellers understand how market conditions will affect transactions
What Are the Different Types of Real Estate Agents?
Here are different categories of real estate agents that can help you in selling or buying land:
Buyer’s agent: The real estate agent that falls under this category works in the interest of the buyer. They assist you in finding the best properties of your interest. In addition, they assist you in negotiation and recommend a fair price for the land, house, or apartment.
Seller’s agent: A seller’s agent is also known as a listing agent, and they help you in selling the property. These property agents have complete knowledge of local housing markets and are excellent at negotiating.
Dual agent: A professional who helps you in both buying and selling property falls under the category of a dual agent. They are trained to represent both the buyer and the seller.
Letting agent: Letting agents specialize in the property leasing market. Not only do they assist you with property rental, but they also help you find rental houses.
Who is a Real Estate Broker?
A real estate broker is a professional who acts as a trusted intermediary between property buyers and sellers. They manage the entire process from start to finish and ensure everything is done legally and professionally.
For instance, if you live in Australia, a real estate broker can be your local guide who is an expert in Australian property markets, legal procedures, suburbs, and pricing trends. They help you make the right decision while complying with Australian property regulations.
What are the Duties of a Real Estate Broker
Here are the key roles of a real estate broker:
- Perform all duties of a real estate agent
- Work independently and manage full property transactions
- Takes full legal responsibility for each deal
- Supervises and supports real estate agents
- Legally responsible for the property agents working under them
- Handles important legal and financial steps, including escrow
- Ensures contracts, paperwork, and payments are correct and lawful
- Own or manage a real estate brokerage
- Hire agents and other brokers to run a successful business and to help you with right deal
What are the Different Types of Real Estate Brokers?
Here are different types of real estate brokers. Understanding each one of them can assist your agents in finding which category of broker will suit you best.
Associate broker: This type of broker is similar to an agent who works under a sponsoring broker. They have little experience, but they gain more expertise by working under established brokers.
Managing broker: This is the one who supervises agents working in a real estate firm. They also supervise and enforce rules and regulations on the daily activities of agents.
Principal broker: This is a professional who is responsible for all brokers and legal matters of a brokerage house. These types of real estate brokers have many years of experience and are capable of fully managing the entire brokerage strategy themselves.
Difference Between a Real Estate Agent and Broker
Let’s understand the difference between a real estate agent and a broker in a tabular form:
| Feature | Real Estate Agent | Real Estate Broker |
| Licensing | Licensed professional with basic real estate licensing requirements. | Must complete required education and pass a more advanced licensing exam. |
| Work independence | Need to work under a real estate broker. | Can work independently or own/manage a real estate firm. |
| Supervision | Works for a broker and follows their supervision. | Can supervise and train agents. |
| Responsibilities | Helps clients buy, sell, or rent property and negotiates deals. | Does everything an agent does, plus oversees transactions, compliance, and brokerage operations. |
| Managing Others | Cannot hire or manage property agents. | Can hire and manage other agents. |
| Legal & Financial Responsibility | Acts on behalf of the broker. | Responsible for transactions and agents. |
How Real Estate Brokers and Agents Work Together
Real estate agents and realtors work together to make a perfect deal for you as per your budget, location , or investments. Agents often need the support of brokers during that process. Real estate brokers support agents with marketing materials, training, and industry insight.
This partnership paves the way for real estate agents to succeed while taking advantage of expert brokers. Good brokers are always willing to pass on great information to their agents. By collaborating, the two can provide a complete end-to-end experience for their clients and succeed in Australia’s fiercely competitive real estate market.
Final Words
Real estate agents and brokers play unique roles in assisting you with your property needs. The real estate agent focuses more on representing buyers and sellers in property transactions, while property brokers specialise in helping you with every step of the process from start to finish, including securing loans. By understanding the differences between these professions, you can appreciate the right expertise as per your needs.
Need Help?
Whether you need a broker or a property agent in Australia, Property Buyers Australia can help you with all. Our collaborative Australian property forum gives you a platform that brings buyers and licensed independent property professionals (mortgage brokers, conveyancers, and licensed real estate people) closer to each other in a highly engaging manner.
