Bonnie Miller

Licensed Realtor 1996, Licensed Broker Realtor 2004, Member of the Indiana and National Association of Realtors, Elkhart MLS, and IRMLS.

What is a Realtor?

“Real Estate Agent” is a term that can be used by anyone who has a real estate license; however, not everyone who has a license is a REALTOR®. REALTORS® are real estate professionals who are members of the National, state, and local association of REALTORS® and agree to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics that goes beyond what is required by state licensing regulations. REALTORS® are required to take ongoing Code of Ethics training to maintain their REALTOR® membership. The Code of Ethics is the single most important difference between a REALTOR® and a real estate agent. The Code of Ethics was adopted by the National Association of REALTORS® in 1913 and is a “living” document that has been changed many times through the years to reflect changes to the law and the real estate industry. The term REALTOR® represents Brokers who are competent, fair and demonstrate a high level of integrity in the real estate business. When a licensee joins the Association of REALTORS® they take an oath to abide by the Code of Ethics and to protect the individual rights of real estate ownership; to be honorable and honest in all dealings; to better represent clients by building knowledge and competence; to act fairly towards all in the spirit of the Golden Rule; and to serve the community.

REALTORS® have access to on-going educational opportunities and can obtain professional designations that focus on real estate in general or specific areas like commercial real estate, property management or residential. Educational opportunities for REALTORS® are extensive and offered by their local, state and national associations both online and at conferences. This ensures REALTORS® will provide care to their clients and customers in all areas of the industry.

REALTORS®also have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) that allows organized sharing of information and cooperation among members. MLS members include REALTORS® who list, sell or lease property as well as auction and appraise. MLS members have access to many different types of listings such as residential, investment, commercial, farm and land listings that are available for sale, lease or auction. This organized sharing of information allows participating REALTOR® members to better serve their customers and clients who want to buy, sell, lease, auction or appraise their property. See MLS Page for more information

A REALTOR® will:
Help you find the properties that are affordable and suit your needs.
Provide detailed information about these properties through the Multiple Listing Service.
Negotiate on your behalf; Your REALTOR® will help you write up your offer and get the offer to the Seller
Get the right price: REALTORS® know the market and can help you get the best price possible, whether you are buying or selling.
Protect your rights: Buying & Selling real estate has become increasingly complicated. Your REALTOR® is specially trained to help you navigate the process.
Offer tools to help you manage the process; Realtors have access to many tools designed to support the client
Allow you to make your own decision: A professional works for YOU and provides support and access to information.