The Difference Between an Assistant Broker (A-RMT), Candidate Broker (K-RMT), and Registered Broker (RM)
There are different types of real estate agents: Assistant Broker (Assistent Makelaar or ‘A-RMT’), Candidate Broker (Kandidaat Makelaar of ‘K-RMT’) and Registered Broker, each with different levels of authority. However, as previously mentioned, the real estate profession in the Netherlands is largely unregulated. Anyone can call themselves a real estate agent.
The only exception is the appraiser, who must hold a certification to use this title. So, how is it that some brokers have more or fewer rights?
Real Estate Agent Associations
If you want to work as a broker within an association like NVM or VBO, different rules apply. These associations uphold a certain quality standard, and you often need your broker certification to meet this. The associations decide what type of broker can handle the buying and selling of properties, and which brokers are authorized to sign purchase agreements.
Differences Between NVM and VBO Brokers
There are also differences between NVM and VBO brokers. NVM, the largest association for brokers, has stricter rules about what you can do based on your certification.
For VBO, the main rule is that you can only start a real estate office if you are a Registered Broker, or if you are a Candidate Broker and become a Registered Broker within two years. Additionally, VBO does not strictly enforce regulations on brokers already working at a VBO office who do not (yet) have their broker certifications. VBO is therefore more flexible regarding what each type of broker is allowed to do.
For a more detailed explanation, including differences between NVM and VBO brokers, we refer you to the next blog.
The authority structure for NVM brokers is as follows:
| Description: | Estimate market value/rental value | SELLING RENTING OUT RENTING | PURCHASE | SIGNING PURCHASE DEED or LEASE AGREEMENT | START YOUR OWN NVM or VBO office | VALUATION OF HOMES |
| Assistant Real Estate Agent | X | |||||
| Candidate Real Estate Agent | X | X | X | X | ||
| Registered Broker | X | X | X | X | X | |
| Registered Valuer | X | X |
Overview of which broker is allowed to do what
