The difference between a Transaction Coordinator (TC) and a Real Estate Agent is important to understand, especially if you’re buying, selling, or working in the real estate industry.
Here’s a clear breakdown:
🏡 Real Estate Agent
Role: A real estate agent (also called a Realtor® if they’re a member of the National Association of Realtors) is a licensed professional who represents buyers or sellers in real estate transactions.
Main responsibilities:
Client representation: Works directly with clients to buy or sell homes.
Negotiation: Negotiates offers, counteroffers, and terms between buyers and sellers.
Market expertise: Advises clients on pricing, market conditions, and property values.
Marketing & showings: Lists properties, arranges showings, and markets homes (photos, MLS listings, open houses, etc.).
Contracts: Drafts and reviews purchase agreements and other legally binding documents.
Commission-based: Usually earns a commission (a percentage of the sale price) at closing.
Licensing: Must hold an active real estate license to legally represent clients in transactions.
🗂️ Transaction Coordinator (TC)
Role: A transaction coordinator handles the administrative side of a real estate transaction after a property goes under contract. Their job is to keep the deal organized and ensure everything stays on track through closing.
Main responsibilities:
Paperwork management: Tracks deadlines and documents (e.g., disclosures, inspection reports, contingencies).
Communication hub: Coordinates between agents, clients, escrow, lenders, and title companies.
Compliance: Ensures all required forms and signatures are completed for legal and brokerage compliance.
Timeline tracking: Keeps everyone on schedule for key dates (inspections, appraisals, closing).
Administrative support: Frees up agents’ time so they can focus on lead generation and client relations.
Licensing: Usually does not need a real estate license, since they don’t negotiate or advise clients. (However, some are licensed agents who simply choose to specialize in transaction coordination.)
Payment: Typically paid a flat fee per transaction (e.g., $300–$600), rather than commission.
⚖️ In summary:
| Aspect | Real Estate Agent | Transaction Coordinator |
|---|---|---|
| License Required? | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Usually No |
| Client Interaction | Directly represents clients | Handles paperwork & communication behind the scenes |
| Main Focus | Selling, negotiating, advising | Managing deadlines, paperwork, compliance |
| Compensation | Commission (%) of sale | Flat fee per transaction |
| Stage of Involvement | Entire process (from listing/search to close) | After contract to close |