If you have considered buying or selling a home, you may have talked to a real estate professional about how they can help you with the process. A real estate agent is the most common term for professionals who represent buyers or sellers during this transaction. Real estate agents are required to be licensed in their state and complete education as well as an exam.
Some real estate agents take a further step to join the National Association of Realtors. These individuals are able to advertise themselves as Realtors, not just real estate agents. Realtors must agree to follow the guidelines of the National Association of Realtors.
A Brief History: National Association of Realtors
Founded in 1908, the National Association of Realtors now exists in all 50 states and 4 U.S. territories. There are around 1,200 local chapters. Membership comes with access to training events, mentors, and other professional resources.
Why NAR?
One of the biggest benefits of working with a Realtor is that they must agree to follow the National Association of Realtors’ Code of Ethics. While all real estate agents must follow local, state, and national laws regarding their work, the National Association of Realtors is even more strict with its members. When you work with a Realtor, you can be assured that they are representing your interests. They go through additional training to ensure that they understand the intricacies of real estate transactions and how to best work with and for their clients.
The Reach of NAR
Realtors also have access to a vast network of other professionals that other agents may not be able to tap into when they have questions or need extra guidance. Newer agents can benefit by learning from a more experienced agent, either in their local area and chapter of the National Association of Realtors or in their broader network.
For current guidelines and terms, see Lendmire’s DSCR loan programs page.
About Lendmire
Lendmire — NMLS# 2371349 — is a DSCR and non-QM mortgage brokerage with investor loan programs in 41 markets, including Washington, D.C. DSCR eligibility is commonly reviewed by the lender on property-level rent rather than personal income documentation, subject to lender guidelines, and the brokerage helps arrange financing for LLC-owned portfolios beyond conventional financed-property limits. Scotsman Guide named Lendmire a Top Mortgage Workplace in both 2025 and 2026.
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This article is part of Lendmire’s First Time Home Buyer series — every loan program’s qualification details, guidelines, and scenarios live on the loan options page.
Related reading: 5 Questions For Interviewing Real Estate Agents · Choosing the Right Real Estate Agent · The Importance of Building Equity in Your Home
References
1. National Association of Realtors
Brandon Miller
Founder & CEO, Mortgage Loan Originator, Lendmire LLC
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Legal disclosures. Lendmire (NMLS# 2371349) is a state-licensed mortgage brokerage that arranges financing through wholesale lender relationships. Lendmire is not a direct lender, depository institution, or registered financial advisor. The discussion above is general informational content about real estate financing — it is not financial, legal, or tax advice, and readers should consult licensed professionals for guidance on their individual circumstances. Loan inquiries are subject to lender underwriting; this article does not represent a commitment to lend. Loan terms, rates, and qualification standards vary by borrower, property, and state, and are subject to change at any time. Equal Housing Opportunity. NMLS Consumer Access: nmlsconsumeraccess.org.