There are many different people that work in the real estate world, and determining the roles of each person is sometimes difficult.  The difference between a commercial real estate broker and a commercial real estate agent can be confusing.  It can be made even more confusing by the fact that what each one does can vary depending on what state you live in.  Sometimes we use the words “agent” and “broker” interchangeably.  In many ways, what they do can overlap.  But there are some distinguishing factors that set a commercial real estate broker apart from a commercial real estate agent.

Commercial Real Estate Agent

One stand apart difference between a real estate broker and a real estate agent is that a real estate agent is licensed to facilitate real estate transactions.  They, in turn, work for brokerages and are paid a commission for their sales. Their ultimate job is to bring together the sellers and buyers and act as the facilitator of a real estate transaction for which they receive a percentage of the property’s sale price.  They are responsible for taking offers back and forth between parties and answering any questions that buyers or sellers may have.  Real estate agents also guide their clients through the paperwork and make their clients aware of all important parts of the sale such as inspections, closing costs, and closing date.

Commercial Real Estate Brokers

Real estate brokers have a little more training and experience that qualifies them to work independently or have other real estate agents working under them.  They own the brokerage that other real estate agents work for.  More training hours are required to become a real estate broker.  Real estate brokers also handle more complicated and technical parts of the real estate transaction.  Brokers will often look for properties that meet the requirements of the interest parties.  They can also conduct negotiations and prepare offers.  Sellers brokers will list and show specific properties or help determine the value of commercial properties to assist in the selling process. For all your commercial real estate needs, Greenberg Company is here to help.