In Quebec, “real estate agent” and the French expressions “agent d’immeuble” and “agent immobilier” are former names for today’s real estate broker. Residential, commercial, chartered and agency executive officer qualifications describe different things. Choosing someone means distinguishing their authorized activities, qualifications and actual position. These explanations concern Quebec; titles differ elsewhere.
Key takeaways
- Terminology : “agent d’immeuble” is an older term still understood in everyday language.
- Authorized activities : residential and commercial identify the scope of practice.
- Qualification : being qualified as an agency executive officer does not automatically mean holding that position.
Why do people still say “real estate agent”?
The OACIQ acknowledges these former terms in its public FAQ. The current framework follows the reform that took effect on May 1, 2010. Searching for an “agent d’immeuble in Brossard” or a “real estate agent on the South Shore” generally means looking for a broker to buy or sell. That wording does not identify a separate licence today.
The titles at a glance
This table separates everyday terminology, authorized activities and management functions. It does not rank brokers from worst to best.
| Term | What it indicates |
|---|---|
| Real estate agent | Former terms for a broker. |
| Residential real estate broker | Authorization for residential brokerage. |
| Commercial real estate broker | Authorization for commercial brokerage. |
| Residential and commercial broker | Both authorizations. |
| Chartered real estate broker | A management-related designation; not sufficient to confirm current executive officer qualification. |
| Chartered broker qualified as agency executive officer | Maintained qualification to act as an agency executive officer. |
| Agency executive officer | A position actually held within an agency. |
The OACIQ register allows you to check the current situation.
Residential or commercial: which broker fits your project?
Residential practice includes primarily residential buildings with fewer than five dwellings, land intended for residential use and residential co-ownership fractions. Commercial practice includes commercial buildings and land. A broker may hold both authorizations. The licence must match the proposed transaction, and the required expertise must also be available.
Is a plex always residential brokerage?
No. For a building sale, the OACIQ distinguishes, among other things, fewer than five dwellings from five or more. A duplex and a six-unit building therefore require different authorization checks. Calling a property an “investment” does not settle the question. For a mixed-use building or an unusual situation, confirm the transaction’s classification before assigning the mandate.
Do not automatically apply that distinction to renting an individual dwelling: the OACIQ states that residential authorization permits this activity regardless of the building’s unit count.
What does “agréé DA” mean?
DA stands for “dirigeant d’agence,” or agency executive officer. “Agréé DA” indicates a maintained qualification for that function. It does not prove that the person currently heads an agency. The officer in office oversees and supervises the agency’s brokers; their identity can be checked in the register.
“Agréé” without DA: what is different?
This designation relates to management competencies and the former licensing framework. It is not equivalent to a maintained “agréé DA” qualification. Experience and training conditions apply to becoming an executive officer. For consumers, the relevant check is the current licence and registered position, rather than the word “chartered” alone.
How should you check a broker before choosing?
Look up the person in the OACIQ Register of licence holders. Check identity, licence validity, authorized activities and agency information. Also consult the available file information. A title on a business card does not replace this check.
- Your property : have you handled comparable projects?
- Your process : how will you explain comparables and issues to check?
- Your follow-up : who will answer my questions and how often?
- Your mandate : what services, fees and conditions are included?
Do you need an agency executive officer to sell your home?
It is not a requirement to impose on your search. First look for someone authorized for your transaction who understands your property type and clearly explains their approach. Ask about preparation, pricing, communications and coordination. A management qualification and a good fit for your project answer two different questions.
Your residential project in Montréal and on the South Shore
Alexis Marcoux is a residential real estate broker. For your purchase or sale, the discussion can start with property type, area, budget and timeline. Below are the proposed processes and a glossary explaining other terms encountered during a transaction.