Different Types of Real Estate Agents and Their Specializations

Partnering up with an expert real estate agent who knows the local housing market is vital whether you’re selling a loft in a downtown neighborhood, a condo or townhouse in a retirement community, or a single-family home in the suburbs. But sometimes, sellers need to go a step further and hire a particular type of real estate agent who knows specific kinds of properties, housing laws, and how to market to niche buyers such as a luxury market.

We’ve talked to a top agent and dug into the research to introduce you with 13 different types of real estate agents.

What is a real estate agent?

A real estate agent is a licensed professional who represents buyers and sellers throughout the entire real estate transaction process. Agents gather market data, manage legal documents, negotiate, and facilitate real estate deals so a sale can take place. In return for their services, real estate agents receive commissions from the proceeds of the sale at closing. The work agents do can add significant value to a home sale. According to data from the National Association of Realtors, agent-assisted sales in 2023 sold for a median price of $405,000, compared to only $310,000 for homes sold by owner.