Licensed vs. Unlicensed

Which is better?

Generally speaking, transaction assistants can do most everything while under the supervision of a licensed real estate agent. Except for actual sales, showings, and negotiations, they are able to greatly assist the agent during the duration of the file from start to finish. Sometimes different states will specify the parameters of tasks or duties that are not allowed. It’s best to do your research for the state you are licensed in for more information. 

Although having a licensed assistant may appear to allow much more freedom for an assistant to perform agent duties when the agent is unable; it’s uncommon and unlikely they will need to do so. Regardless of being licensed or unlicensed, both kinds of assistants are working beneath the licensed agent who has hired them to assist on the transaction. The agent is always the lead of both their transaction and representing their clients. They always remain the first point of contact with their clients throughout the transaction. It’s unlikely that an assistant would need to step in for tasks requiring a license, such as repair negotiations or showings as this is where much of the personal interaction occurs between the agent and the client. Due to this fact, the licensed factor becomes almost moot. 

Furthermore, upon being hired, many licensed assistants must accept both liability and accountability for any errors or mistakes that are potentially made within a file. This often limits their capacity, because even though they are licensed, they are unwilling to assume the risk and liability involved by performing tasks that their license may allow. However, an unlicensed assistant is protected beneath the licensed agent and therefore can perform more duties while assuming little risk. As long as the assistant takes instruction from the licensed agent, and the agent is committed to reviewing work completed by the assistant, there is little issue having an unlicensed assistant. The reality is that an unlicensed assistant can take over the mundane, cumbersome, administrative, and time-consuming tasks for the agent. Having more flexibility allows the agent to dedicate more time and availability directly to their clients, making them the superstar of their transaction.