Real Estate Agent vs Broker vs Realtor: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever searched for a home or listed one for sale, you’ve likely seen the titles real estate agent, broker, and Realtor used interchangeably. While they’re all professionals in the real estate industry, there are key differences between each role—and when you're making one of the largest financial decisions of your life, it’s worth knowing who you're working with.

Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who helps buyers and sellers with property transactions. Agents must complete state-approved coursework and pass a licensing exam. They work under a licensed broker and can represent either buyers, sellers, or both in a transaction.

Real Estate Broker

A broker is a real estate professional who has gone a step further. Brokers complete additional education and testing, allowing them to manage transactions independently and even oversee other agents. Brokers can open their own offices, supervise sales activity, and ensure that all transactions comply with real estate laws and regulations.

Realtor®

The term Realtor refers to a real estate agent or broker who is an active member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Realtors must adhere to a strict Code of Ethics that emphasizes professionalism, fairness, and honesty. Not all agents or brokers are Realtors—but those who are hold themselves to the highest standard in the industry.

So, Who Is Jonathan Baer?

I’m proud to say that I am all three:

  • A licensed real estate agent in the state of Arizona
  • A real estate broker and the owner of Dominion Group Properties
  • A committed Realtor®, upholding the ethical standards set by the National Association of Realtors

With over 30 years of real estate experience, I’ve helped buyers, sellers, and investors throughout Phoenix, Cave Creek, Anthem, and the North Valley navigate the market with confidence. Whether you're purchasing your first home, selling a luxury estate, or investing in income-producing properties, you deserve guidance from someone who wears all three hats—and wears them well.

Why It Matters

Working with someone who is a real estate agent, broker, and Realtor ensures you're getting:

  • The education and licensing of an agent
  • The expertise and oversight of a broker
  • The ethics and accountability of a Realtor®

And with Jonathan Baer, Realtor, you’re also getting a local expert who knows the Arizona market inside and out, manages over 50 properties, and provides personalized solutions that go beyond the transaction.

Ready to Make a Move?

 

If you’re looking for a trusted real estate professional who brings all three qualifications to the table, I’d love to help. Reach out today to learn more about how Jonathan Baer, Realtor, can help you reach your real estate goals in Phoenix and beyond

$695,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7078227 MLS ⋅ 2,132 SqFt.
Welcome to this bright, airy home featuring soaring ceilings and natural light throughout. The modern kitchen shines with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a pot-filler, farmhouse sink, walk-in pantry, and a large window overlooking the patio. Unwind in the primary suite with vaulted ceilings, a walk-in shower, and a soaking tub. Three guest bedrooms--including one downstairs--and an extended 2-car garage with built-in storage offer versatile living options and storage. Smart tech includes Nest thermostats and a SimpliSafe security system, paired with a recently serviced HVAC and roof. Step outside to a low-maintenance backyard oasis featuring a PebbleTec pool, heated spa, water feature, and view fencing with desert views. Nestled in the gated Dove Valley Ranch community.

4465 E Coyote Wash Drive, Cave Creek
$449,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7078173 MLS ⋅ 1,662 SqFt.
Discover all the charm of this lovely 2-bedroom plus a Den in Desert Village at Sonoran Foothills! Inside, you'll find bright and inviting living areas ready to bring you joy, showcasing a harmonious blend of carpet and wood-look flooring, stylish plantation shutters, abundant natural light, fire sprinklers for added peace of mind, and neutral paint throughout. The impeccable kitchen boasts espresso cabinets, a tile backsplash, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Enjoy a good night's rest in the main retreat, offering a bathroom with double sinks and a practical walk-in closet. The den is perfect for a cozy TV area or an office. Spacious laundry room with a sink and attached cabinets. The balcony is the perfect spot for relaxing with your favorite drink! Truly a must-see.

2425 W Bronco Butte Trail Unit 2059, Phoenix
$1,699,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7077968 MLS ⋅ 2,929 SqFt.
Experience refined desert living in this completely remodeled luxury horse property on over an acre with stunning Black Mountain views, desirable north/south exposure, and NO HOA. This single-level, fully remodeled, modern Santa Fe style house features 4 spacious bedrooms, 3 full baths, a split-bedroom floor plan, custom granite countertops, modern finishes, new septic and smart home technology. The oversized 3-car garage offers extended length/height and built-in cabinetry. Outside, enjoy an entertainer's paradise with an extended patio, new sparkling pool, built-in Viking BBQ, sitting area, natural desertscape, and horse enclosure. A rare blend of luxury, privacy, space, and breathtaking desert views! Listing Agent is related to Owner.

6019 E Wildcat Drive, Cave Creek
$925,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7077964 MLS ⋅ 3,905 SqFt.
Sweeping mountain views and a true resort-style backyard set this Tramonto residence apart. The private pebble-finish pool features an oversized beach step, swim-up bar and copper water features, framed by 6-ft stacked-stone pillars, fire bowls and Autumn Blend flagstone paving. Entertain under the gazebo, cook at the outdoor kitchen with built-in BBQ and fireplace, or gather at the raised patio's second fireplace. Inside, 3,905 SF across two levels offers 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a separate office/den, loft and bonus/game room, seven flexible spaces in all. The kitchen anchors the main level with quartz countertops, center island, pantry and built-in appliances, opening to the family room, formal dining and breakfast room. Upstairs, the primary suite includes a private sitting room, walk-in closet, double vanity and separate shower and tub. Three-car tandem garage, solar screens, multi-zone HVAC and 9+ ft flat ceilings on a 10,828 SF lot. Tramonto's master-planned amenities include a heated community pool and spa, tennis, clubhouse and miles of multi-use pathways. Deer Valley Unified schools, Boulder Creek High. Minutes to I-17, Carefree Highway and North Valley shopping and dining.

2539 W Cavalry Drive, Phoenix
$559,000
5 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7077950 MLS ⋅ 2,628 SqFt.
LOCATION!!!! EAST OF THE I-17 OFF OF CAREFREE HIGHWAY. HAS ACCEPTIONAL ACCESS TO THE TSMC PLANT ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE FREEWAY...IT'S A SPLIT FLOOR PLAN WITH 5 BEDROOMS, FORMAL DINING, LARGE MASTER WITH BAY WINDOW, SEPARATE SHOWER/TUB, DOUBLE SINKS, LARGE WALK-IN CLOSETS.LARGE OPEN KITCHEN FEATURES 42in CABINETS, KITCHEN ISLAND, GAS STOVE, PANTRY AND BREAKFAST AREA. LARGE FAMILY ROOM WITH BUILT-IN ENTERTAINMENT CENTER AND FIREPLACE. CLOSE TO SCHOOLS, SHOPPING & FREEWAY. ENJOY COMMUNITY POOL, SPA, TENNIS, BASKETBALL COURTS AND MORE! pool playground, grassy play area, sand volley ball court, tennis courts and a full court basketball area. NEW RANGE, MICROWAVE, WATER SOFTENER, SOME CARPET

3222 W Rapalo Road, Phoenix
$285,000
7077792 MLS
EXCELENT BUILDING LOT WITH SHARED WELL. ELECTRIC ON PROPERTY VERY FLAT LOT SUROUNDED BY BLOCK WALLS. READY FOR NEW CUSTOM HOME.

2615 W Fernwood Drive Unit 1, Phoenix
$479,000
2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7077592 MLS ⋅ 2,039 SqFt.
Elegant Anthem Country Club Retreat - 2927 W Plum Hollow Dr Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious guard-gated Anthem Country Club, where luxury living meets comfort and convenience. This thoughtfully designed residence has been beautifully updated in 2025 with a brand-new roof, fresh interior paint, new skylights, and custom blinds throughout, ensuring peace of mind and a move-in-ready experience. Step inside and be greeted by a light-filled floorplan designed for both everyday living and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's delight, showcasing staggered maple cabinetry, stone countertops, stainless steel appliances, and plenty of workspace for hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet meals at home. The inviting living room features a custom gas fireplace MORE

2927 W Plum Hollow Drive, Anthem
$525,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7077587 MLS ⋅ 2,233 SqFt.
Beautifully updated 2-story home in Dynamite Mountain Ranch/Norterra featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a versatile loft. Stylish upgrades throughout include custom accent walls with wood trim, updated lighting, custom doors, barn doors, and designer window treatments with Zebra shades. Newer paint, new baseboards, updated LVP flooring and carpet create a fresh, move-in-ready feel. The customized kitchen features quartz countertops and updated hardware, while new door hardware, switches and faucets add a polished touch. Enjoy an updated owner's bath, bath 2 and designer powder room. 2 car garage and a fully landscaped rear yard offer style, comfort and functionality in a desirable North Phoenix location.

2524 W Hedgehog Place, Phoenix
$825,000
2 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 7077586 MLS ⋅ 2,649 SqFt.
Beautiful Catalina model with 2 EN SUITE BEDROOMS, Den with French doors + built-in bookshelves & 3 baths. (Hall bath has shower.) 2026 UPGRADES: NEW TRANE HVAC SYSTEM & NEW EXTERIOR PAINT! DRAMATIC 12-FOOT CEILINGS with wood beams. Great Room floor plan with gas fireplace. Updated kitchen with granite counters, stainless appliances, painted raised panel cabinets with new brass hardware and custom-built dining table designed specifically for the space. RESORT BACKYARD to OPEN SPACE VIEWS, extended patio, PERGOLA, gas fireplace, above ground & submerged SPA, soothing water feature & built-in BBQ! 3-car garage with epoxy floor, built-in cabinets, central vacuum, newer water heater, filtered drinking water & water softener! Closet may be added to den to make a 3rd bedroom. Close to Clubhouse

42001 N Bridlewood Way, Anthem
$629,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7077466 MLS ⋅ 1,674 SqFt.
Fully remodeled! Check out this beautiful 3 bed, 2 bath residence now for sale in Tatum Ranch! Great curb appeal, an easy-care landscape, and a 2 car garage. Inside you will find a spacious living area & family room w/vaulted ceilings, a 3-way fireplace, durable tile flooring, and neutral palette throughout. The fabulous kitchen is comprised of ample cabinetry w/crown molding, granite counters, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and a peninsula w/a breakfast bar. End your busy day in the primary suite, showcasing soft carpet, direct balcony access, a pristine ensuite w/dual sinks, and a walk-in closet for all your belongings. Also including a large backyard w/a covered patio and a sparkling blue pool, this home is a dream come true! Act now before it's gone!

4945 E Roberta Drive, Cave Creek
$175,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 7077436 MLS ⋅ 1,104 SqFt.
This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers a functional floor plan with a spacious living area, built-in shelving and an eat-in kitchen with ample cabinet and counter space. Each bedroom provides natural light, while the full bathroom features a convenient walk-in shower. Outside, the fully fenced property includes covered front and rear porches, driveway parking and a generous backyard with room for a variety of outdoor uses. Additional structures provide extra storage space. Conveniently located near everyday shopping, dining and community services, this property offers an opportunity to personalize and make it your own.

505 W Norma Street, Gila Bend
$639,900
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 7077360 MLS ⋅ 3,200 SqFt.
Impressive two-story home featuring 4 bedrooms plus a private office, 3.5 baths, and a 3-car garage -- perfect for both work and family life. The gourmet kitchen shines with granite countertops, tile backsplash, stainless steel appliances, and an oversized island that opens to the breakfast nook and family room with a cozy fireplace. A formal dining room, built-in shelving, and abundant natural light add character throughout. Upstairs offers generous bedroom sizes and a spacious primary suite with a spa-like bath and walk-in shower. Outside, enjoy a beautifully landscaped backyard with a covered patio, built-in BBQ, and stunning mountain views -- ideal for entertaining or unwinding at the end of the day. This home offers space, style, and function in one exceptional package!

43813 N Ericson Lane, New River
Start Your Search

Copyright 2026 Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service, All rights reserved. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service. All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) nor Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless.