The National Association of Realtors is the largest trade association in the United States, representing roughly 1.5 million members engaged in residential and commercial real estate, including brokers, salespeople, property managers, appraisers, and counselors. Founded in 1908 in Chicago as the National Association of Real Estate Exchanges, the organization owns the federally registered "Realtor" collective membership mark, which identifies a real estate professional who belongs to the association. Its membership is organized through approximately 1,200 local associations and boards and 54 state and territory associations.
The association sets professional standards through its Code of Ethics and is widely regarded as one of the most influential advocacy organizations in the country, maintaining a presence near Capitol Hill and operating the Realtors Political Action Committee. In March 2024, it agreed to a $418 million settlement resolving antitrust litigation brought by home sellers over broker commission practices, a settlement that introduced new rules around how broker compensation is offered and negotiated on multiple listing services. Its leadership is headed by chief executive officer 📝Nykia Wright, who was named permanent CEO in 2024.