Real Estate Designations. What real estate designations do you need to be successful? Over the years there are many new real estate designations that have been introduced, and I personally think a lot of them were overkill. Some aren't. For one thing if you are licensed to sell real estate by the state there are no higher levels of recognition under state law than being actively licensed. I do make exceptions for several NAR designations such as the Certified Residential Specialist CRS, because performance is built into the designation. I really prefer to give out referrals only to agents that have a CRS designation. I also feel that an Accredited Buyers Representative ABR is most helpful in that it focuses on performance and responsibilities in working and representing our buyer clients. E-Pros raised the level of expected technological proficiency of agents in best representing their clients in a growing technology laden age. It does help us do our jobs better. So what about the newer designations? Are they necessary, or just a ploy to create other streams of income? Do I really need a designation to work with seniors? Do I have to be a specialist to work with a senior? What about resort properties, and second homes? Do you really need a designation to be considered capable and proficient? If so where will it end? Will we need designations for staging, minorities, listing properties, doing CMA's, and selling or listing luxury homes? Will other areas at sometime require you have to have a designation to offer your services? Would it suffice that past experiences on closed homes and sales works, or is it a must that you possess a certificate that gives you that ability based upon a certificate? I am a big believer in doers! Those that can, do! What are your thoughts? What REALTOR designations do you possess?
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Jim, thus far I have none, but I have been trying to get my ABR. Every class I register for gets cancelled. I definitely want to work on my CRS, and I know I will love the E-Pro. Since I'm having trouble getting my ABR, I may sign up for the E-Pro next.
Bottom line, those are the only ones I personally feel are necessary. Since I believe all of them require an annual fee, I also have to wonder if it's all fluff.
Rosalinda Morgan, "The Rose Lady", Broker-Brookville, New York Real Estate I think a lot of the designations is a great self esteem thing! We are investing in oursleves so others may benefit !
It is interesting that the issue of designations is popping up time from time on AR. Recently Eric Kodner discussed it in his blog...
Jim, you certainly don't need any of these designations to be successful. I've always found with each designation that the process of getting it and attending the classes and learning is more beneficial than the act of having the designation itself. I've always come away from each designation course learning something (at least one thing) that can help me in my business better serve my clients and make more money for myself.
I personally have the ABR, CRS, ePRO, GRI, and SRES designations. More importantly, I recently obtained my Broker's License which in my opinion trumps all of that.
Jim,
Great post...well deserving the feature...how about title insurance designations such as Fran Gaspari, N.A.S.T.I....Non Affiliated Servicer of Title Insurance!!! :) Thanks, Fran
Jim, I agree with several others, that most consumers have no clue what any of them mean.
I do have my ABR, and found it very educational. I was a newer agent, I think less than 2 years, when I got that. I have my CRS, and LOVED each and every class I took. I learned so much. I can't imagine any other designation holding my interest, class wise. I would like to get the E PRO and the SRES. I am working on my GRI now, but have a hard time staying awake through some of the course material. Several of the courses have been great, but the last one was awful. I'm sure some depends on the instructor, but as you know, each CRS instructor is truly gifted, I think. Great post!
How about becoming a CHRS? Certified Home Redemption Specialist- helping distressed homeowners with their foreclosure and credit issues? This is unique in the field and a GREAT way to EXPAND your business and position yourself as the #1 Real Estate Professional in your marketplace! Do Good by Doing Good!
http://www.homeredemptioninstitute.com
Jim:
I've obtained my GRI, and I recently read that there is something like only 2% of either Georgia REALTORS or Atlanta REALTORS have that designation, can't remember which. It was alot of work (as many hours as getting your license) and I really learned techniques that have moved my business forward. I think the GRI program in Georgia is awesome!
And, to keep on track, I have obtained my Broker's License. Next, I would like to get the CRS to help me in my work with Sellers. And I think the ePro would help me in my business. I don't really "quote" the designations....I look at them on some agent cards, and even I don't know what they all mean, so what is the consumer thinking?
Dave "Utah Dave" Robison - Utah Real Estate You are so right! I recently finished all my CE classes fo brokers license renewal both in GA and VA, and have just completed a series on Foreclosures. Knowledge is so beneficial.
Thanks, Jim! I hope you'll check it out! There is no "standard" in the "foreclosure rescue" industry. Yes, I "invented" it! Someone had to to help separate out the "good guys" from the "bad guys"! To learn more, including a HUGE article that was written about the topic and clients I've helped, please visit my "About Us" page at:
http://homeredemptioninstitute.com/about.html
Laura
I have recently gotten my e pro designation. Instead of pursuing another designation right now I have decided to get my Tennessee broker's license then I will get my CRS. I believe in the importance of continuing education. If my am learning, I will be earning!
Jim,
It took me a while because I was busy but I'm glad to have gotten one of the hardest distinction CRS and look forward to getting a few others in the future.
I agree designations are important but why did you only list the 17 NAR designations. I heard there are over 70 designations in total. Most comprehensive list I have seen is posted at http://REDesignations.com
Aren't many of the designations you have not listed such as Home Staging, Luxury Homes, EcoBrokers, Negotiations, Quality Services, etc. also good one to help you gain skills.
Has anyone taken any of the other designations?
Jim, Thanks for posting this topic . The average person really doesn't know what all those letters mean. I have heard the expression alphabet soup many times. It's great to have some designations, but when it gets to be 10 added behind the name, it looks ridiculous to the average person.
It seems to mean more in terms of investors and other REALTORS®.
Jim,
I noticed that you site only NAR designations and have made a statement about other designations that may or may not have a practicum portion to earn their designation. Simple truth is several designations require that agents complete a certain level of sales or other real estate practical criteria; ASR (Accredited Seller Representative), CNS (Certified Neighborhood Specialist), ALHS (Accredited Luxury Home Specialist) QSC (Quality Service Certification) to name a few.
Finally, NAR code of ethics section 12:13 under Standards of Practice: The obligation to present a true picture in advertising, marketing, and representation allows REALTORS to use and display only professional designations, certifications, and other credentials to which they are legitimately entitled.
Nowhere above does it say NAR only designations ... in fact this has been changed from the past which did have such wording, but since NAR has a financial position in each of these it was too self-serving.
Jim - I have an ABR & GRI both of which I earned my first year in the business because my Broker advised this was the best way to "learn" how to build a career in Real Estate. He was correct. I found that the ABR was very helpful but the GRI really was the best for learning the ropes! I always advise new agents to get their GRI immediately.
I love your blogs.
Kathy Carson - RE/MAX 1st Olympic, Lynchburg, VA
I just wanted to bump an old blog that I thought was useful. It helped answer one of my questions on which designations would be more beneficial. Thanks!