Q: I am a new real estate agent serving Maryland. Is the use of the word “Realty” prohibited in my business name?
I am a new real estate agent. Got my license back in March 2022 but am just now actively pursuing real estate. Currently a solo agent at Samson Properties serving Maryland only but would like to get licensed in DC and VA as well.
As advised I’ve created an LLC (Carla Clemente Realty) and wanted to know: is the use of the word “Realty” prohibited in my business name? I’ve tried to google this but have not received any clear answers as some say there’s no issues whereas others say only brokerages can use that term.
A:
Welcome to the Club! I am also a licensed Maryland Broker, and our Law Firm owns a separate brokerage.
You may use the word "Realty" in your entity name. Review the ethics rules of your local, State and National associations for how you may portray yourself. For instance, you mut belong to the National Association to be a "Realtor."
Any other restrictions on your name depend on whether the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation say there is a similar conflicting name already registered.
Good luck!
Peter J. Weinman agrees with this answer
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