When you start looking for help buying or selling a home in Ontario, you’ll encounter three terms that are often used interchangeably: real estate agent, Realtor, and brokerage. But they aren’t the same thing. Each label carries different legal obligations, professional standards, and practical implications. Understanding the distinctions can help you decide who to work with and what to expect from the process.
The legal distinctions in Ontario
In Ontario, anyone who trades in real estate for compensation must hold a licence under the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act (REBBA). That licence is issued to an individual as a “real estate agent” (also called a salesperson) or as a “broker”. The difference comes down to education and experience: a broker has completed additional courses and can operate independently, while an agent must work under the supervision of a brokerage. Both agents and brokers are legally able to represent you in a transaction, but their scope of authority differs slightly.
The term “Realtor” is not a legal designation. It is a trademark owned by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and can only be used by licensed agents and brokers who are members of CREA. Membership is voluntary, but it comes with a commitment to a strict code of ethics and access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). So while every Realtor is either a licensed agent or broker, not every agent or broker is a Realtor. If you see the Realtor trademark, you know that person has agreed to additional professional standards beyond what the law requires.
What each title means for your transaction
From a consumer’s perspective, the most important distinction is between a Realtor and a non-Realtor agent. A Realtor must follow CREA’s code of ethics, which includes duties of confidentiality, full disclosure, and fair treatment. If you work with a licensed agent who is not a Realtor, they are still bound by REBBA regulations, but they are not subject to CREA’s additional rules. In practice, this can affect how disputes are handled and what recourse you have if something goes wrong. For most people, the difference is subtle but worth knowing.
The brokerage is the company that employs the agent or broker. In Ontario, every real estate transaction must be conducted through a brokerage. The brokerage holds the trust accounts, carries errors and omissions insurance, and is ultimately responsible for the actions of its agents. When you sign a representation agreement, you are actually contracting with the brokerage, not the individual agent. That means the brokerage’s reputation, financial stability, and internal policies matter. If you’re considering a specific agent, it’s wise to also look into the brokerage they work for.
How to interpret these roles when you’re looking for help
When you meet a real estate professional, start by asking whether they are a licensed agent or a broker, and whether they are a member of CREA (i.e., a Realtor). These are factual questions, not sales pitches. A straightforward answer tells you their level of training and their commitment to the CREA code. If someone hesitates or gives a vague answer, that may be a red flag. Also ask which brokerage they are with and how long that brokerage has been operating. You can verify a licence through the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) website.
Ultimately, the title matters less than the individual’s competence and integrity. A Realtor who is experienced and communicative can serve you well, just as a non-Realtor agent who is diligent and transparent can. But knowing the legal framework helps you ask better questions. For example, if you’re working with a Realtor in London, Ontario, the same provincial rules apply as anywhere else in the province. Focus on the person’s track record, their knowledge of the local market, and whether they explain these roles clearly. That transparency is a good sign of how they will handle your transaction.
For additional context, review a scored directory of London, Ontario brokerages.
Frequently asked questions
Can a real estate agent also be a Realtor?
Yes, if the agent is a member of the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). Membership is optional, but many agents choose to join because it gives them access to the MLS system and the ability to use the Realtor trademark. When you see someone call themselves a Realtor, it means they are a licensed agent or broker who has agreed to follow CREA’s code of ethics.
What is a broker in Ontario, and how is that different from an agent?
A broker has completed additional education beyond the agent level and can operate their own brokerage or manage one. In a transaction, a broker has the same duties as an agent but has more authority within the brokerage. For a consumer, the practical difference is small: both can represent you, but a broker may have more experience and a deeper understanding of complex deals.
Do I need to work with a brokerage directly, or can I hire an agent independently?
In Ontario, every real estate transaction must be conducted through a registered brokerage. You cannot hire an agent or broker directly as an individual; they must be sponsored by a brokerage. That means your representation agreement is with the brokerage, not just the person. The brokerage is legally responsible for the agent’s conduct and holds your deposit in trust.