Is Pursuing a Certification Worth It?
If you’re relatively new to the world of real estate, passing all your exams and receiving your real estate license was obviously a huge step toward your goal of having a successful, long-term career as a REALTOR®. But now, with your career beginning and as you attempt to build a client base, what should you do next?
Consider Getting Certified!
Your more experienced colleagues have many designations and initials after their names, but what do they mean? And how do they help?
There are several useful certifications that you can pursue through the National Association of REALTORS®. Here are some you may want to consider adding to your resume:
- Certified Residential Specialist (CRS). This is a big one and one that you should definitely have on your “to do” list moving forward. Over time, CRS designees earn nearly three times more in income, transactions and gross sales that non-designee REALTORS®. This course is offered by the Council of Residential Specialists. Visit www.crs.com for more information.
- Resort & Second Home Property Specialist (RSPS). RSPS allows others to have confidence in the ability of a REALTOR® who specializes in dealing with properties in a resort, recreational or vacation destination. Did you know SCAOR is offering the required classes for this designation? Click here to find out more about RSPS.
- Green Designation (GREEN). Here’s one that’s definitely become more popular in recent years. In this certification course, the Green Resource Council, in coordination with NAR, provides ongoing education, resources and tools to help REALTORS® find, understand and market properties with GREEN features. Visit greendesignation@realtors.org for more information.
- Military Relocation Professional (MRP). With Dover Air Force Base nearby and with the large number of veterans in the area, this one might be worth looking into as well. Presented by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council, this certification focuses on working with current and former members of the military who are seeking housing solutions that best suit their needs, as well as a way to use their earned military benefits. Contact MRP@realtors.org for more information.
- Seller Representative Specialist (SRS). This is another one to have on your future calendar. Awarded to participants by the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI), this designation is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance and is the premier credential in seller representation. Visit SRSCouncil.com for more information.
- Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES). With the growing number of senior citizens in southern Delaware these days, this is a designation you may want to consider. Presented by the SRES Council, this certification will allow you to profitably and ethically serve the real estate needs of clients age 50 and above. Email sres@realtors.org for more information on this program.
So, Are They Worth The Effort?
Of course! Certifications give a REALTOR® instant credibility in the area of designation. Plus, there are many, many more certifications and designations you may want to consider, and all are outlined at www.realtor.org.
But whatever you decide is best for your career, we certainly wish you nothing but good will as you continue on your path to become the best REALTOR® you can be.
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