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Designations & Certifications Information

What is the difference between a NAR Designation and Certification?

The biggest difference is in dues.  In order to obtain a designation, you need to take the required coursework (generally a 2-Day course) and fulfill specific requirements (some have electives that must also be taken.)  After approval, you will pay annual dues on a recurring time frame in order to keep the credential active.  There are several added benefits included with the yearly dues such as free education webinars, networking and referral opportunities, promotional materials, CE credits or other discounts toward other education and credentials. 

Certifications are also specialized credentials for Realtors. However, after completing the required coursework (usually a 1-day course), there is a one-time application fee and no annual dues.  In order to use the credentials, you must have an active NAR membership. 

 

Click the link below to learn more about NAR's REALTOR Designations & Certifications.

https://www.nar.realtor/education/designations-and-certifications

 

Click to check out the virtual Designation/Certification Brochure

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Designations 

 

Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®)abr

What Is an ABR® Designation, and Who Is It For?

The Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®) designation is for real estate buyer's agents who focus on working directly with buyer-clients at every stage of the home-buying process.

Benefits of Becoming an ABR®

  • Valuable real estate education that elevates your skills and knowledge in the eyes of home buyers.
  • Ongoing specialized information, programs, and updates that keep you knowledgeable on the issues and trends facing home buyers.
  • Access to members-only publications, marketing tools and resources.
  • Networking and referral opportunities

How to Earn the ABR® Designation

How REALTORS® in the U.S. Earn the ABR® Designation

Education

  • Complete the two-day core designation course.
  • Complete one of the ABR® elective courses.

Take the course and choose your elective.*

Work Experience

  • Documentation of five completed transactions in which you acted solely as a buyer representative.

Professional Affiliation

  • Membership in good standing in REBAC
  • Membership in good standing in the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).
    • Exception: International members of REBAC do not have to be members of NAR.

Exam

  • For the online course only, pass the ABR® core designation exam with an 80% or better score. The exam is also required by some states for continuing education (CE credit).
  • For the online course only, pass the exam for the ABR® elective of your choice with an 80% or better score. The exam is also required by some states for continuing education (CE) credit.

Application

  • Submit the designation application along with documentation of five completed transactions.

Cost

  • Cost of the course. Note: The online version of the course will be free through December 31, 2024.
  • REBAC Dues
    • First year of REBAC membership is free
    • Second year is $110, but prorated based on the month you joined REBAC
    • $110 per year thereafter

How International REALTOR® Members Earn the ABR® Designation

Education

  • Complete the Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®) 2-Day course online or in the classroom.

Professional Affiliation

  • Membership in good standing in a cooperating association outside the U.S. which is party to a Bilateral Cooperation Agreement with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

Application

  • No application form is required.

Cost/Maintaining Your ABR® Designation

  • One-time application fee of USD $185 via our payment portal.
  • Cost of the course. Note: The online version of the course will be free through December 31, 2024.
  • Once you've earned the ABR® designation, you will also be an International REALTOR® Member of NAR for the balance of that calendar year.
  • Maintaining your NAR International REALTOR® membership with one yearly fee of USD $75 will keep all of your NAR designations and certifications active.
  • Please note that if your International REALTOR® membership goes inactive, so will your ABR® designation.

Questions? Email us at NARcredentials@nar.realtor

For more information, email rebac@nar.realtor or visit the ABR® website.

*Course discount available through REALTOR Benefits®.

Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) alc

What Is an ALC Designation, and Who Is It For?

ALCAccredited Land Consultants (ALCs) are land professionals who are the most accomplished, most experienced, highest-performing land experts. Becoming an ALC requires successful completion of a rigorous education program, a proven track record of transaction performance, and a commitment to professional growth.

Benefits of Becoming an ALC

  • Access to the network of ALC designees, who work together to build and share knowledge, develop trusted relationships, and expand business opportunities.

How to Earn the ALC Designation*

Education

The ALC requires a total of 104 course hours through the REALTORS® Land Institute's LAND University (LANDU) program.

  • Three required courses (56 hours):
    • Land 101: Fundamentals of Land Brokerage (16 hours)
    • Land Investment Analysis (24 hours)
    • Transitional Land Real Estate (16 hours)
  • Electives adding up to 48 course hours

See course descriptions and calendar.

Exam

  • All ALC designation applicants must successfully complete a comprehensive online exam that covers the core components of the Land University curriculum.
  • Applicants must score 70% or better to pass the exam.

Learn more about the exam.

Work Experience

Applicants must:

  • hold a current real estate license
  • have a minimum of two years of experience in land sales or brokerage

OR

  • have a minimum of three years of comparable real estate experience in auction, leasing, development, farm management, consulting, brokerage management, or related services in land

Learn more about these requirements.

Volume Requirements

  • Applicants must submit a portfolio that substantiates specific levels of volume achieved in land sales or in providing real estate services related to land.
  • The value of the land must account for at least 51% of the total sale of the transaction in order for the transaction to be eligible.

Learn more about these requirements.

Professional Affiliation

  • REALTOR® Membership or Institute Affiliate Membership in good standing with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)

Letters of Recommendation

  • Provide two letters of recommendation:
    • Two letters from Accredited Land Consultants (ALCs), one of which should be from the applicant's local market

Portfolio

  • A formal portfolio must be submitted, along with a resume, essay, volume requirements spreadsheet, a transaction narrative form for each transaction in the portfolio, along with two supporting documents for each transaction.

Learn more about the portfolio.

Application

  • The application is peer-reviewed by a member accreditation committee and the REALTORS® Land Institute Board of Directors.

Cost

  • Exam
    • The fee is $100 and covers two attempts.
  • Courses
    • 16-hour courses cost members $535 each, with the exception of the Land Investment Analysis course, which costs $750.
  • Designation
    • The initial cost of the designation is $350, to be submitted with the ALC designation application.
  • Dues
    • Annual ALC dues are $445.
  • Reinstatement fee for lapsed designation
    • A reinstatement fee is charged if membership with the Institute lapses.

*Fast Track Program

Individuals holding the CCIM, CRE, SIOR, AFM, ARA, RPRA, AAC, MAI, CAI or who hold a B.S. or M.S. with a major in real estate or a program related specifically to land, may receive their ALC designations through an accelerated

 

"Fast Track" program.

  • Fast Track candidates only need to complete the three required courses: Land 101, Land Investment Analysis, and Transitional Land Real Estate.
  • Fast Track candidates must still meet all other requirements listed above.

For more information, visit the REALTORS® Land Institute website, or contact the Institute at 800-441-5263 or rli@nar.realtor.

Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) ccim

What Is a CCIM Designation, and Who Is It For?

A CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) is a recognized expert in the commercial and investment real estate industry. This commercial real estate designation process ensures that CCIMs are proficient not only in theory, but also in practice. This elite corps of CCIMs includes brokers, leasing professionals, investment counselors, asset managers, appraisers, corporate real estate executives, property managers, developers, institutional investors, commercial lenders, attorneys, bankers, and other allied professionals.

Benefits of Becoming a CCIM

  • Recognition of your expertise in the commercial and investment real estate industry
  • Access to a network of CCIM members across the U.S. and around the globe
  • Exclusive discounts on CCIM education, benefits, and business tools, including:
    • Access to Site to Do Business for Real Estate Professionals tools 
    • Access to ArcGIS Business Analyst
    • Search and export business lists
    • Access to detailed flood maps
    • Access to Pictometry
    • Subscription to CCIM's award-winning Commercial Connections magazine
    • Tuition discounts
    • CCIM.net email with Google Workspace
    • Access to CCIM Connect, CCIM's online designee network
    • Inclusion in the Find a CCIM directory
    • Access to CCIM Selected Real Estate Research
    • Pre-designed Excel® templates for discounted cash flow analysis
    • Access to the Excel® CCIM Financial Calculator
    • Access to the Member Advantage Program, offering significant discounts on travel, printing, CRE technology, and more
    • Access to the CCIM Tech Helpline
    • Access to the SelectLeaders CCIM Career Center
    • NAR's REALTOR Benefits®

How to Earn the CCIM Designation

Education

  • Core courses:
    • Financial Analysis for Commercial Investment Real Estate - CI 101
    • Market Analysis for Commercial Investment Real Estate – CI 102
    • Negotiations training – 8 hours
    • User Decision Analysis for Commercial Investment Real Estate – CI 103
    • Investment Analysis for Commercial Investment Real Estate – CI 104
    • Ethics – online course
  • Two elective credits
    • Elective courses
    • NOTE: Elective credits can be earned through non-Designation courses, eligible transfer credits, and continuous candidacy.

Read more about the core courses.
Find out how to earn elective credits.

Work Experience

  • You have to have worked in the commercial real estate industry for at least two years
  • You must submit a Portfolio of Qualifying Experience to demonstrate that you have commercial real estate experience and that you have fulfilled the volume requirements for the designation.

Submit your Portfolio of Qualifying Experience (requires CCIM Institute member login).

Exam

  • Two-day Course Concepts Review (CCR)
  • Six-hour Comprehensive Exam
  • Applicants must score 70% or better to pass the exam.
  • Your Portfolio of Qualifying Experience must be submitted before taking the exam.

Read more about the Comprehensive Exam and Course Concepts Review (CCR).
See upcoming exam dates and locations.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the CCIM Institute
  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Cost

  • Annual dues for CCIM Institute membership
    • $695 for U.S. professionals
    • $420 for Canadian professionals
    • $195 International (non-U.S. and non-Canadian) professionals
  • Cost of required courses
  • Portfolio of Qualifying Experience
    • $175 submission fee
  • Comprehensive Exam and Two-Day Review (CCR)
    • $1,220

For more information, visit the CCIM website.

Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS)cips

What Is a CIPS Designation, and Who Is It For?

The Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation is for REALTORS® from the United States and abroad, as well as association staff and volunteer leaders who wish to develop or grow their international real estate business. It will provide you with the knowledge, research, network, and tools to globalize your business.

Benefits of Becoming a CIPS

Marketing Tools:

  • Listing in the “Find a CIPS” online directory
  • Customizable print postcards
  • Customizable web banner ads
  • Customizable press release

Tips and Techniques:

  • Global Perspectives print newsletter

Networking:

  • Access to CIPS member-only online communities
  • Invitations to exclusive events at NAR meetings
  • Referral contract form

 

How to Earn the CIPS Designation: For REALTORS® in the U.S.

Checklist for CIPS designation - REALTORS® in the U.S. pdf (PDF: 496 KB)

Education

  • Complete two core courses:
    • Global Real Estate: Local Markets
    • Global Real Estate: Transaction Tools
  • Complete three electives – choose from:
    • The Americas and International Real Estate
    • Europe and International Real Estate
    • Asia/Pacific and International Real Estate
    • Africa & International Real Estate
    • At Home With Diversity

See the CIPS course schedule.

Take the courses online.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Exam

  • For online courses only, pass the exam at the end of the each course with an 80% or better score. The exams are also required by some states for continuing education (CE) credit.

Application

  • After completion of your core and elective courses, submit the U.S. CIPS application form.

Submit your U.S. CIPS application form pdf (PDF: 658 KB)

Cost

  • Online courses:
    • $149 each
  • Classroom courses:
  • Application fee:
    • $75
  • Annual dues:
    • $220

 

How to Earn the CIPS Designation: For International REALTOR® Members

Checklist for CIPS designation - REALTORS® outside of the U.S. and Canada pdf (PDF: 498 KB)

Checklist for CIPS designation - REALTORS® in Canada pdf (PDF: 496 KB)

Education

  • Complete two core courses:
    • Local Markets
    • The Business of U.S. Real Estate
  • Complete three electives:
    • Americas
    • Europe
    • Asia/Pacific

See the CIPS course schedule.

Take the courses online.

Professional Affiliation

  • If you reside in a country where NAR has a Cooperating Association, you must be a member of that Association in order to join the CIPS Network/NAR and earn the designation.

Exam

  • There will be an exam at the end of each class.
  • You must pass each exam with a 70% or better score.

Application

After completion of your core and elective courses, submit the appropriate Non-U.S. CIPS application form:

Cost

  • Online courses:
    • $149 each
  • Classroom courses:
  • Application fee:
    • $75
  • Annual dues:
    • $220

How to Earn the CIPS Designation: NAR Association Executives

Education

  • Complete the one-day Global Programs for Associations course
  • Complete two core courses
  • Complete three electives

See the CIPS course schedule.

Take the courses online.

Professional Affiliation

  • You must be the association executive of a state or local association affiliated with the National Association of REALTORS®.

Exam

  • There will be an exam at the end of each class.
  • You must pass each exam with a 70% or better score.

Application

  • After completion of your core and elective courses, submit the Association Executives CIPS application form.

Submit your Association Executives CIPs application form

Cost

  • Online courses
    • $149 each
  • Classroom courses
  • Application fee
    • $75
  • Annual dues
    • $95

Reactivation Policy for CIPS Designees

If you earned the CIPS Designation and you haven’t paid membership in over 5 years you must:

  • Take Global Real Estate: Transaction Tools
  • One additional CIPS course (no substitutions of CRS, AHWD or CCIM course allowed)
  • Resubmit the CIPS Designation Application
  • Submit payment for the current quarter’s dues and the $75 application fee

If you earned the CIPS Designation and your membership has been inactive for a period of 1-4 years you must:

  • Pay the current quarter’s dues
  • Pay a $50 reactivation fee


See a list of frequently asked questions about the CIPS designation.

Certified Property Manager® (CPM®) cpm

What Is a CPM® Designation, and Who Is It For?

  • Experienced property managers* who manage any asset class and want to learn how to maximize the value of their properties.
  • Those who want to add advanced financial and asset management capabilities to their day-to-day operational abilities.
  • Those who need knowledge that transcends asset class and serves their entire portfolio – whether commercial, residential, and/or mixed-use.
  • Those needing to learn how to speak the languages of owners, tenants, residents, and investors.
  • Real estate managers from anywhere, including those outside the U.S. Learn more about IREM international membership and education.

* A total of three years (36 months) of experience is needed to earn the CPM®. Your experience for any given month qualifies if, during that month, you were in a real estate management position, managed a minimum portfolio, and performed a minimum number of functions.

Benefits of Becoming a CPM®

The CPM® will enable you to

  • Make more money. The average base property manager salary in the U.S. is $48,340.2 For CPMs, the average is $118,383.1
  • Go farther in your career. Over half of CPMs hold senior-level management positions.3
  • Expand your network. Generate business referrals. Meet future employees or employers. And consult with other experts.
  • Your annual IREM membership and all the benefits that come with it are included when you enroll.
  • Showcase your credibility with a digital badge to add to your email, social media profiles, website, and more.

1IREM Profile and Compensation Study – CPM Edition 2019
2U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics
3IREM Profile and Compensation Study – CPM® edition: a self-reported 53% of CPMs hold Officer/Director/VP, Regional/District Manager, Owner/Partner, President/CEO/COO positions.

What you learn with CPM®

  • Ethics
  • Asset analysis
  • Accounting
  • Marketing and leasing
  • Leading a team
  • Maintenance and operations
  • Property financing
  • Property valuation and cash flow

Learn about the CPM® certification courses

How to Earn the CPM® Designation

Becoming a CPM® takes a minimum of 12 months to complete, however on average individuals spend 18-24 months preparing for the certification.

Enrollment

  • To start the process of earning the CPM®, become a member of IREM and a CPM® candidate. You will need to be a candidate for 12 months.

Education

Complete 8 CPM® certification courses; the sequence below is highly recommended.

Exam

You must pass the CPM® Capstone, a two-part final assessment:

Part I: Management Plan Skills Assessment (MPSA)

  • MPSA Prep: a two-day (virtual or in-person) intensive review led by an IREM instructor.
  • MPSA Exam: a four-hour exam, taken within seven days after the MPSA Prep. You must score 70% or better to pass the exam.

 

Part II: CPM® Certification Exam (CPMEXM)

  • This is a four-hour, 150-question, multiple choice, open-book exam. It must be taken within 30 days after the MPSA Prep, and you must score 70% or better to pass the exam.

Learn more about the assessment.

Other requirements

All CPM® candidates must meet the following requirements before graduating:

  • Have 36 months of qualifying real estate management experience, including appropriate portfolio requirements
  • Attend at least two events with your local IREM chapter
  • Become an Institute Affiliate Member of the National Association of REALTORS® if you are not currently an NAR member

Alternate ways to earn the CPM® Designation

Fast Track options are available for CPM® candidates who meet certain qualifications. You’re eligible for the CPM® Fast Track, if:

  • You hold a CCIM, CFM, CSM, PCAM, RPA, CRRP, or SIOR designation, OR
  • You have a bachelors or graduate degree with a major, minor, or concentration in real estate or property management, OR
  • You have 20 years of qualifying real estate management experience as verified by the CPM® Experience Form
  • If you qualify for the Fast Track, you can waive 7 of the 8 CPM® courses.

Learn more about the CPM® Fast Track

Costs

The average total cost to earn the CPM® is between $7,600 and 8,600.

  • $6,200 for course and exam tuition for the 8 CPM® courses and the CPM® Capstone
  • $870 annually including CPM® candidate, chapter, and NAR Institute Affiliate dues (chapter dues vary based on location)
  • $695 in enrollment, graduation, and other fees

For more information, visit IREM.org/CPM.

Download IREM's CPM Fast Track Approval Form

Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB)crb

What Is a CRB Designation, and Who Is It For?

The Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB) designation is designed for experienced owners, brokers, managers, and supervisors to raise professional standards, strengthen individual and office performance, and sharpen expertise in brokerage management. Since 1968, CRB has represented the highest level of professional achievement in real estate brokerage management. You do not need a broker's license to earn the CRB designation.

Benefits of Becoming a CRB

  • Increased profitability, productivity, and performance – the median gross income of a CRB is 146% higher than that of a non-CRB designee
  • Placement ahead of the information and knowledge curve
  • Strengthened ability to sustain your business and remain competitive
  • Recognition as a member of an elite, worldwide community of industry leaders – only 3% of REALTORS® have met the designation’s advanced eligibility and training requirements
  • Access to a wealth of members-only resources, tools and benefits

How to Earn the CRB Designation

Education

Work Experience

Exam

  • Exam is required for online/self-paced courses. No exam required for most classroom or live virtual courses.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

Cost

  • Annual dues
    • Waived for the first 12 months
    • $210 each subsequent year

For more information, go to www.rebinstitute.com/crb.

Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)crs

What Is a CRS Designation, and Who Is It For?

Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is the highest credential awarded to residential sales agents, managers and brokers.

Benefits of Becoming a CRS

  • Discounts of up to 50% on most education offered by the Residential Real Estate Council (RRC)

  • Access to the Council’s referral network

  • Listing in the Council’s online and print directories

  • Eligibility to join the Qualified Consumer Leads program

  • Attend RRC events at preferred member pricing

  • Free subscription to Inman Select News

  • Subscription to the Council’s magazine, the The Residential Specialist

  • Professionally branded materials like customizable sign riders, fact sheets, business cards, and the bi-monthly Your Home newsletter

  • Local Networking through your state RRC organization

  • Recognition of your expertise—the CRS designation is the highest credential awarded to residential sales agents, managers, and brokers

  • Discounts on insurance coverage through USI Affinity

How to Earn the CRS Designation

Education

There are two paths to the CRS designation:

60/30/30 Program

  • 30 hours of RRC education

Pro Program

  • 16 hours of RRC education

>Learn more about CRS course credits.

Volume Requirements

  • U.S. CRS Designees

    • 60/30/30 Program

      • 60 transactions or $30 million in volume in the past five years

    • Pro Program

      • 10+ years as a licensed real estate agent

      • 150 transactions total, or an average of $1 million per year with at least 40 transactions

  • Non-U.S. Designees

Exam

  • There is no exam for this designation, however individual courses may require an exam for credit.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the Residential Real Estate Council

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

Cost

  • Application fee

    • $99

  • Annual Dues

    • $195

How to Maintain the CRS Designation

  • Complete two hours of continued education every calendar year via any of the following options:

    • RRC classroom course

    • eLearning course

    • Elective course

    • Live or recorded RRC webinar

    • Attending an approved State RRC or Local Network event

    • Attending RRC's annual Sell-a-bration

    • Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for RRC

    • Write an article for The Residential Specialist (TRS)

    • Author a RRC course or being a course content contributor

    • Be a speaker or instructor for a RRC webinar, or at Sell-a-bration or any pre-approved RRC state or local networking group (LNG) event

  • Annual dues payment

For more information, visit the RRC website.

Counselor of Real Estate® / CRE® cre

The Counselors of Real Estate® is an organization of commercial property experts worldwide who provide seasoned, objective advice on real property and land-related matters. Only 1,100 professionals from all disciplines of real estate, academia and government hold the CRE credential. Membership is selective and extended by invitation, although commercial real estate practitioners with 10 years of proven experience may apply. Find out more information here.

General Accredited Appraiser (GAA)gaa

What Is a GAA Designation, and Who Is It For?

The General Accredited Appraiser (GAA) designation is for State General Appraisers. Earning it shows that you have completed appraisal education above and beyond that required for qualification as a general appraiser.

Benefits of Becoming a GAA

  • Earning the designation lets your clients know that you are committed to excellence in your field

How to Earn the GAA Designation

Education

  • Complete 60 hours of tested course work in addition to the Appraiser Qualification Board's education requirement at the time of certification.

Work Experience

  • You must have a minimum of 1000 hours of appraisal work experience beyond state certification requirements.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS® or one of its Affiliates:
    • Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)
    • Commercial Real Estate Institute (CCIM)
    • REALTORS® Land Institute (RLI)
    • Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS® (SIOR)
    • Counselors of Real Estate (CRE)
  • Hold a current state general appraiser license

Interested in becoming a licensed appraiser? Become an appraiser.

Already a member of an appraisal group? You may be qualified for the Fast Track Option to earning this designation.

Application

Cost

  • Application fee
    • $100
  • Annual dues
    • $125

GREEN green

What Is a GREEN Designation, and Who Is It For?

NAR's GREEN Designation is designed for agents looking to learn about issues of energy efficiency and sustainability in real estate.

Benefits of Becoming a GREEN

  • Access to members-only marketing tools to help you build your business and gain a competitive edge
  • Comprehensive understanding of how homes with green features should be marketed differently than traditional homes
  • Market research about communicating with clients interested in different facets of green
  • Improved visibility as a trusted advisor and source of information on green homes
  • Listing in the online GREEN directory
  • Exclusive industry webinars
  • Pre-written green content for your social media channels
  • The GREEN REsource Council’s monthly newsletter
  • Promotional tools including:
    • Customizable GREEN client handouts on a variety of green topics
    • Social media headers and images
    • Professionally designed banner ads for designee use
    • Logos for print media and member Web sites
    • Customizable postcard options
    • Marketing brochures for consumers and builders
    • Personalized press releases
    • Access to the GRC Facebook group
  • Toolkits, guides, and other resources available through the members-only section of the GREEN REsource Council web site.

How to Earn the Green Designation in the U.S

Education

Complete the course, available in classroom or online:

Exam

  • For the online course only, you must pass an exam with a score of 80% or better. The exam is also required by some states for continuing education (CE) credit.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®
  • Maintain active membership in NAR's GREEN REsource Council

Application

  • No application is required for this designation.

Cost

  • Application fee
    • None
  • Dues
    • First year free, $98.50 per year after that

For more information, email green@nar.realtor or visit the GREEN REsource Council website.

*Course discount available through the REALTOR Benefits®.

Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) gri

What Is a GRI Designation, and Who Is It For?

Earning the Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) designation is a way to stand out to prospective home buyers and sellers as a REALTOR® who has gained in-depth market knowledge, increased proficiency in a broad array of subjects to enhance professionalism and business success.

Benefits of Becoming a GRI

  • Be better able to serve and protect your increasingly sophisticated clients through an understanding of new technology, laws, and procedures
  • Use of GRI logos
  • Marketing materials
    • Customizable flyer
    • Banner ad
    • Postcard
  • GRI referral form
  • Network with other GRI designees

How to Earn the GRI Designation

Education

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®
  • GRI does not require annual renewal as long as you remain an active member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®.

Cost

Performance Management Network (PMN) pmn

 

 

What Is the PMN Designation, and Who Is It For?

The Performance Management Network (PMN) designation focuses on business leadership. It is designed to give REALTORS® practical skills in leadership, negotiation, networking, and business planning.

Benefits of Becoming a PMN

  • Show your clients that you’re an industry leader committed to continuing education
  • Access to a nationwide peer network of real estate business leaders
  • Discounts on online education
  • Exclusive access to PMN-only events during national meetings

How to Earn the PMN Designation

Education

NOTE: Graduates of REALTOR® University’s Masters of Real Estate Program have satisfied the Education Requirements to obtain the PMN Designation. Those who are enrolled in the program but have not yet completed their MRE degree can satisfy the PMN Designation by completing any one of the courses from the PMN.

Exam

There is no exam requirement for this designation.

Professional Affiliation

Be a member in good standing of:

  • National Women's Council of REALTORS® and
  • National Association of REALTORS® as a REALTOR®, REALTOR®-Affiliate, or REALTOR® Association Executive

Application

Cost

  • Application fee
    • $125
  • Annual dues
    • $50
  • Cost of courses
    • $150-$199

For more information, visit the Women's Council of REALTORS® website

 

Residential Accredited Appraiser (RAA) raa

What Is an RAA Designation, and Who Is It For?

The Residential Accredited Appraiser (RAA) designation is for State Certified Residential or General Appraisers. Earning it shows that you have completed appraisal education above and beyond that required for qualification as a residential appraiser.

Benefits of Becoming an RAA

  • Earning the designation lets your clients know that you are committed to excellence in your field

How to Earn the RAA Designation

Education

  • Complete 45 hours of tested course work in addition to the Appraiser Qualification Board's education requirement at the time of certification.

Work Experience

  • You must have a minimum of 1000 hours of appraisal work experience beyond state certification requirements.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS® or one of its Affiliates:
    • Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)
    • Commercial Real Estate Institute (CCIM)
    • REALTORS® Land Institute (RLI)
    • Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS® (SIOR)
    • Counselors of Real Estate (CRE)
  • Hold a current state residential appraiser license

Interested in becoming a licensed appraiser? Become an appraiser.

Already a member of an appraisal group? You may be qualified for the Fast Track Option to earning this designation.

Application

  • Complete and submit the application
  • Submit a copy of  your state appraisal certificate with your application.

Cost

  • Application fee
    • $100
  • Annual Dues
    • $125

Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) srs

What Is an SRS Designation, and Who Is It For?

The Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation is the premier credential in seller representation.  It is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance.  The designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI) who meet specific educational criteria.

Benefits of Becoming an SRS

The foundation of the SRS course covers the core competencies of seller representation according to office policies, license law, and the Code of Ethics. You will have a comprehensive foundation of skill development, training, and resources to help you represent the interests of sellers in today's marketplace.

Students learn to:

  • Increase listings and grow their business
  • Demonstrate and communicate their value package to seller clients
  • Understand and apply the Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice
  • Understand and comply with state license laws when representing sellers
  • Understand and apply methods, tools, and techniques to provide support and services that sellers want and need Additional Member Benefits

 

Include:

  • Access to a wealth of member-only education, resources and services including customizable pre-listing checklists, email marketing guides and social media tools
  • "Find An SRS" online directory for the public to access and for direct member to member referral opportunities
  • The Source – a private online referral and networking group for SRS designees
  • Subscription to the bi-monthly digital Real Estate Business Magazine
  • Exclusive monthly webinars for designees, as well as on-demand access to the full library of past webinars
  • Discounts on select REBI products

How to Earn the SRS Designation

Education

Exam

  • An exam is required for online courses. No exam is required for most classroom or live virtual courses.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing with the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

Cost

  • No application fee
  • Annual dues
    • Waived for the first 12 months
    • $99 each subsequent year

For more information, visit the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI) web site.

Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS® (SIOR)sior

What Is an SIOR Designation, and Who Is It For?

Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS® (SIOR) designees are commercial specialists in industrial and office markets. They are top-producing professionals and respected industry leaders.

The designation is granted in one of six specialist categories:

  • Industrial (transaction specialist)
  • Office (transaction specialist)
  • Industrial & Office (dual transaction specialist)
  • Sales Management (manages at least 10 sales or leasing agents)
  • Executive Management (manages 100+ agents in three or more offices)
  • Advisory Services (consultant or advisory practitioner)

Benefits of Becoming an SIOR

  • Prestige - Gain respect from your colleagues and clients by earning the highest achievement in your field.
  • Exclusivity - Put yourself in exclusive company with the SIOR designation – held by 3,000 practitioners worldwide.
  • Credibility - The most trusted and sought-after designation in the industry, providing instant recognition to help you win business.
  • Visibility - The SIOR designation distinguishes you within your firm or network, placing you above the rest.
  • Deal Generation - Network with the industry’s best, create long-lasting relationships, and generate more transactions.
  • Professional Development - Relevant, timely education, and best-practice sharing for your competitive edge.
  • Connectivity - A global referral network across 38 countries with online platforms to keep you constantly connected to the best of the best.

How to Earn the SIOR Designation

First Step: Join SIOR

Brokers may select from the two designation categories below to learn more about the stringent requirements and application process for membership.

Brokers who do not yet meet the designation requirements can join as an SIOR Member Associate. Intended for those early in their career with at least one year of experience. Member Associates benefit from professional development, early career resources, mentorship, networking with industry leaders, and opportunities to build business. Learn more about the Member Associate program.

Cost of Candidate Membership

  • Non-refundable Application Fee
    • $175
  • Annual Dues
    • $450

Second Step: Earning the SIOR Designation in North America

Education

Complete one of the following two paths:

1. Complete the Core Components of Commercial Brokerage Coursework through the SIOR Center for Carreer Advancement (CCA):

  • Complete the three core courses:
    • Ethics & Professional Standards
    • Construction & Development
    • Understanding the Lease Agreement
  • Complete three of the following elective courses:
    • Advanced Sales Skills
    • Build-to-Suit Development
    • Consolidating a Business Strategy
    • Introduction to Real Estate Investment and Finance
    • Negotiation Skills
    • Tenant and Landlord Representation
  • Elective credit can also be earned in the following ways:
    • CCIM designation fulfills the elective requirement
    • Completion of up to two CCIM courses: 101, 102, 103, or 104 (each course counts as one elective)
    • Graduate degree in Real Estate, Business or Law from an accredited college or university counts as two electives
    • CPM designation counts as two electives
    • RPA designation counts as two electives
    • FRI designation counts as two electives

Work Experience

  • Industrial, Office, or Industrial/Office (dual) specialists
    • Minimum of five years of documented industrial and/or office real estate brokerage experience
    • Actively engaged as an industrial and/or office real estate broker or salesperson
  • Sales Management specialists
    • Minimum of five years of documented industrial and/or office real estate brokerage experience
    • Active management of 10 or more brokers or salespersons
  • Executive Management specialists
    • Minimum of 10 years of management experience
    • Manage 100+ brokers in three or more locations or have oversight responsibility of commercial real estate network

Volume Requirements

  • Industrial or Office specialists
    • Maintain the minimum production level per year as measured by Gross Fee Income (GFI) and the minimum number of transactions set by your local SIOR chapter.
      • Meet the required GFI amount for three out of the five most recent 12-month periods.
      • Close a minimum of five transactions per year.
      • At least 70% of your GFI must be comprised of industrial and/or office transactions.
  • Industrial & Office (dual) specialists
    • Maintain the minimum production level per year as measured by Gross Fee Income (GFI) and the minimum number of transactions set by your local SIOR chapter.
    • Meet two times the GFI requirement for three out of the five most recent 12-month periods. One half measures industrial GFI; one half measures office GFI.
    • Close a minimum of 10 transactions per year.
  • Sales Management specialists
    • To calculate your GFI requirement, multiply your local chapter’s Gross Fee Income (GFI) by 10 and take 75% of the resulting figure.
    • In three of the past five most recent 12-month periods, the sum of the top 10 industrial and/or office brokers you supervise must meet the annual GFI requirement.
    • At least 70% of the GFI requirement must be comprised of industrial and/or office transactions.

Exam

  • Pass SIOR’s Comprehensive Membership Entrance Exam
  • Pass SIOR’s online ethics course

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®
  • Member in good standing of the Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS®

Letters of Recommendation

  • Submit formal endorsements from two active members of your SIOR chapter who are not members of your firm.

Application

Cost

  • Cost of courses
  • Application fee
    • $175
  • Initiation fee
    • $725
  • Annual Dues
    • $1,280

Second Step: Earning the SIOR Designation Outside of North America

Education

  • Complete SIOR’s online ethics course or hold the RICS designation for five or more years.

Work Experience

  • Have a minimum of five years of documented industrial and/or office real estate brokerage experience
  •  Be actively engaged as an industrial and/or office real estate broker or salesperson.

Volume Requirements

Exam

  • There is no exam requirement for earning the SIOR designation outside North America.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member or Associate Member in good standing of the Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS®

Letters of Recommendation

  • Submit formal endorsements from two active members. If you don’t know two SIOR members, one endorsement can be from a senior executive within your firm.

Application

  • Submit membership application
  • Provide a current copy of your CV or resume that includes information on your education and coursework, past employment, real estate experience, professional accreditation, and client names.

Cost

  • Cost of courses
  • Non-refundable Application Fee
    • $175
  • Annual dues
    • $610

For more information, visit the SIOR website.

Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) sres

What Is an SRES® Designation, and Who Is It For?

The Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation is for REALTORS® who want to be able to meet the special needs of maturing Americans when selling, buying, relocating, or refinancing residential or investment properties. By earning the SRES® designation, REALTORS® are prepared to approach mature clients with the best options and information for them to make life-changing decisions.

Benefits of Becoming an SRES®

  • Access to the online SRES® member database
  • Access to the members-only section of the SRES® web site
  • Consumer marketing materials
  • Quarterly newsletter
  • Marketing letters
  • Scripts and concepts for contacting clients age 50+

How to Earn the SRES® Designation

Education

Exam

  • For the online course only, pass the exam at the end of the course with an 80% or better score. The exam is also required by some states for continuing education (CE) credit

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of NAR or cooperating association
  • Member in good standing in the SRES® Council

Application

  • None

Cost

  • Online version of the course*
    • $295
  • Classroom version of the course
    • Varies by provider
  • SRES® Council annual dues
    • First full year is free
    • $99 per year thereafter

For more information, email sres@nar.realtor or visit the SRES® website.

*Course discount available through the REALTOR Benefits® Program.

 

Certifications

At Home with Diversity® (AHWD) ahwd

What Is the AHWD Certification, and Who Is It For?

The course work for the At Home with Diversity® certification is designed to enable you to work successfully with and within a rapidly changing multicultural market. It will help you to learn diversity sensitivity, how it applies to U.S. fair housing laws in your business, and ways to develop professional guidelines for working with people in the increasingly multicultural real estate market.

Benefits of Becoming an AHWD

  • Knowledge of the subtleties of U.S. fair housing laws
  • Ability to assess and understand attributes of diversity in local markets and their impact on the real estate industry
  • An understanding of the basic competencies to earn the confidence of potential buyers and sellers, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, handicaps, familial status, or national origin
  • Knowledge of how to build a business plan that minimizes risk and successfully services all types of clients
  • Business etiquette for specific cultures
  • An edge in expanding your business to include international clientele
  • Elective credit towards the ABR®, CIPS, and (depending on your state) GRI designations, and as a task in the C2EX program
  • Some states also give continuing education (CE) credit and GRI credit for this course
  • At Home With Diversity® certification certificate of achievement
  • Updated education records on nar.realtor and M1 directory listings
  • Congratulatory letter from the National Association of REALTORS®
  • Exclusive access to At Home With Diversity® marketing tools and resources
  • Networking and referral opportunities in the official At Home With Diversity® Certification Holders Facebook group

See the course goals and objectives.

How to Earn the AHWD Certification

How REALTORS® in the U.S. Earn the AHWD Certification

Education

  • Complete the At Home With Diversity® 1-Day certification course online or in the classroom.

Exam

  • The exam is required for the online course, and a few states require it for continuing education (CE) credit.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

  • No application form is required.

Cost

  • Course
    • Online version of the course: $99.00
    • Classroom version of the course varies by course provider
  • One-time Application Fee
  • The AHWD application fee, normally priced at $75 has been discounted to $40 to REALTORS® as a part of the Right Tools, Right Now Program. Take advantage now through December 31, 2024.

How International REALTOR® Members Earn the AHWD Certification

Education

  • Complete the At Home With Diversity® 1-Day certification course online or in the classroom.

Professional Affiliation

  • Membership in good standing in a cooperating association outside the U.S. which is party to a Bilateral Cooperation Agreement with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

Application

  • No application form is required.

Cost

  • Course
    • Online version of the course: $99.00
    • Classroom version of the course varies by course provider
  • Application
    • The AHWD application fee, normally priced at $75 has been discounted to $40 to REALTORS® as a part of the Right Tools, Right Now Program. Take advantage now through December 31, 2024.

Maintaining Your AHWD Certification

  • Once you've earned the AHWD certification, you will also be an International REALTOR® Member of NAR for the balance of that calendar year.
  • Maintaining your NAR International REALTOR® Member membership with one yearly fee of USD $75 will keep all of your NAR designations and certifications active.
  • Please note that if your International REALTOR® Member membership goes inactive, so will your AHWD certification.
  • Questions? Email us at NARcredentials@nar.realtor.
  • For more information, email ahwd@nar.realtor or 312-329-8393

Certified Real Estate Team Specialist (C-RETS) crets

What Is the C-RETS Certification, and Who Is It For?

The Certified Real Estate Team Specialist (C-RETS) certification is designed to improve team development, individual leadership skills, and financial performance. The courses provide the tools, strategies, and knowledge that are required of today’s real estate professionals who are either considering or currently operating in a team environment. It is for team leaders, team members, those looking to start a team, and those who simply want to sharpen their management skills.

Benefits of Becoming a C-RETS

• Better team management skills
• The C-RETS certification counts towards the CRB designation

How to Earn the C-RETS Certification

Education

Exam

  • An exam is required for online/self-paced courses. No exam is required for most classroom or live virtual courses.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Cost

  • One-time application fee
    • $159
  • There are no annual dues

For more information, visit the C-RETS website.

Digital Marketing: Social Media sm

What Is the Digital Marketing: Social Media Certification, and Who Is It For?

The RRC Digital Marketing: Social Media certification is for real estate professionals who want to develop expertise with social media resources and the sites that are an essential part of today's digital marketing mix, whether you are promoting your business or the properties you represent.

Benefits of Becoming Digital Marketing: Social Media Certified

  • Distinguish yourself as an expert with your clients and team members
  • Practical plans for implementing and managing your business's social media strategy
  • Guides for interpreting analytics and engagement to help reassess and revise strategies routinely
  • Risk management recommendations to incorporate into your social media strategy
  • Earn credit toward the Certified Residential Specialist designation

How to Earn the Digital Marketing: Social Media Certification

Education

Complete the following programs, for a total of 12 credit hours:

Exam

  • Pass the exam at the end of each course with a 70% or better score.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

There is no application form to submit for this certification. Once you have completed all of the necessary course requirements, please email CRSHelp@crs.com so that we can review your Education History and process your certification.

Cost

Live Classroom and Online Self Study Component

  • Live and Virtual 2-day course registration costs vary by host.
  • 4-Credit Hours Online bundle
    • $60 for members of the Residential Resource Council (RRC)
    • $100 for RRC non-members

Annual Dues

  • None

For more information, visit the Residential Resource Council website.

e-PRO® epro

What Is an e-PRO® Certification, and Who Is it For?

NAR's e-PRO® certification program helps REALTORS® master the advanced digital marketing techniques of today. With the e-PRO® certification, REALTORS® increase their ability to reach customers, expand their capabilities, and build trust by safeguarding client information. 

Benefits of Becoming an e-PRO®

  • Consumers find you first through a search on our e-PRO® website
  • Your name stands out at nar.realtor and White Pages at realtor.com®
  • You customize all e-PRO® marketing materials to work best for you
  • You gain new networking opportunities with tech-savvy REALTORS®
  • Networking through the private e-PRO® certificate holders' Facebook group

How to Earn the e-PRO® Certification

Education

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of NAR

OR

  • Member in good standing of an NAR cooperating international association

Exam

  • A final exam may be required for online courses.

Cost

For more information, email epro@nar.realtor or visit ePRO.realtor

 

Home Finance Resource Certification (HFR) hfr

What Is a Home Finance Resource Certification, and Who Is It For?

The Home Finance Resource Certification course is designed to teach REALTORS® how to explain key pieces of the loan origination process to clients and confidently answer questions about mortgage options.

Benefits of Becoming a Home Finance Resource

With the skills you learn by earning this certification, you will be equipped to provide guidance on navigating mortgage applications and alternative financing options for all types of buyers. Other benefits include:

  • Access to the HFR logo
  • Personalized certificate
  • Marketing materials
  • Credit toward the ABR® designation

How to Earn the Home Finance Resource Certification

Education

  • The course is currently available in two formats: classroom (in-person or live virtual) or with the self-paced online course.

Exam

  • For the online course, you must pass a closed-book exam consisting of 30 multiple-choice questions and score 75% or above correct.
  • For the classroom version (in-person or live virtual), there is no exam requirement.

Professional Affiliation

  • Membership in good standing in the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

Cost

  • Course
    • The online course costs $115 for NAR members, $230 for non-members
    • The classroom (in-person or live virtual) course cost varies; providers set their own course cost
  • Application fee
  • Annual dues
    • There are no annual dues.

For more information, email hfr@nar.realtor or visit https://crd.realtor/hfr/

 

Inside Sales Agent (ISA)isa

What Is an ISA Certification, and Who Is It For?

The Inside Sales Agent certification program teaches REALTORS® the art of cultivating leads and adding qualified customers to the office's sales funnel. The certification provides opportunities to learn and practice the skills and techniques top agents use to turn leads to clients and existing customers into repeat business while helping you build your lucrative career.

Benefits of Becoming an ISA

  • Scripts and dialogues that help you get valuable information from potential clients to build your team’s pipeline
  • Customer service strategies and techniques to help generate more referrals and leads
  • Guides on how to build professional relationships and tools to strength interpersonal communications
  • Tools to help close higher number of sales
  • Earn credit toward the Certified Residential Specialist designation

How to Earn the ISA Certification

Education

Complete the following programs, for a total of 3 credit hours:

Exam

  • Pass the exam at the end of the course with a 70% or better score

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

There is no application form to submit for this certification. Once you have completed all of the necessary course requirements, you will automatically receive the certification.

Cost

  • 4-Credit Hour Online course bundle
    • $60 for members of the Residential Real Estate Council (RRC)
    • $75 for non-members
  • Annual Dues
    • None

For more information, visit the Residential Real Estate Council website.

Luxury Homes Certification (LHC) lhc

What Is an LHC Certification, and Who Is It For?

Luxury Homes Certification is for agents looking to hone their skills in the ever-growing luxury home market. The courses included will give REALTORS® the knowledge they need to approach the luxury niche, including pricing strategies, negotiation tactics, and how to stand out from the crowd.

Benefits of Becoming an LHC

  • Distinguish yourself as an expert in the luxury market with your clients and team members
  • Steps on how to break into the luxury real estate business
  • Effective luxury market research techniques
  • Outline of the seven steps to fairly valuing luxury home pricing
  • An understanding of the critical components of luxury home presentations to those of other home market segments
  • Advanced negotiation tactics essential to serving the luxury market
  • Earn credit toward the Certified Residential Specialist designation

How to Earn the LHC Certification

Education

Complete the following courses:

Exam

  • Pass the exam at the end of the course with a 70% or better score.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

  • There is no application form to submit for this certification. Once you have completed all of the necessary course requirements, please email CRSHelp@crs.com so that we can review your education history and process your certification.

Cost

Option A: Live Classroom and Webinar

  • Live and virtual 2-day course registration fee varies by host
  • On-demand webinar pack:
    • $99 for members of the Residential Resource Council (RRC)
    • $120 for RRC non-members

Option B: Online Self-Study

  • Online course bundle
    • $229 for members of the Residential Resource Council (RRC)
    • $259 for RRC non-members

Annual Dues

  • None

For more information, visit the Residential Resource Council website

 

Military Relocation Professional (MRP) mrp

What Is and MRP Certification, and Who Is It For?

The Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification is for real estate professionals who want to work with current and former military service members. The MRP certification program educates REALTORS® about working with U.S. servicemembers and their families and veterans to find the housing solutions that best suit their needs and to take full advantage of available benefits and support.

Benefits of Becoming an MRP

  • Understanding of the processes and procedures involved in a military relocation and how these impact service members’ relocation and housing choices
  • Ability to provide information to help members through a rent or buy, sell or rent decision-making process
  • Ability to identify and provide services that help service members sell or find and purchase suitable homes
  • The knowledge of the military relocation process you need to guide service members through the real estate transaction
  • Ability to explain the basics of VA financing
  • Access to the members-only marketing tools and resources
  • The Military Relocation Professional Certification Core course is an approved elective for the Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®) designation.

How to Earn the MRP Certification

How REALTORS® in the U.S. Earn the MRP Certification

Education

  • Complete the six-hour Military Relocation Professional (MRP) Certification core course either online* or in a classroom setting.

Exam

  • Pass the exam at the end of the core course with an 80% or better score (for the online course only).

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

Cost

  • Cost of course
    • Varies, depending on format and sponsor
  • Application fee
    • $195

Questions? Email us at NARcredentials@nar.realtor.

For more information, email mrp@nar.realtor or visit the MRP website.

*Course discount available through REALTOR Benefits®.

Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) psa

What Is the PSA Certification, and Who Is It For?

The Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) certification is specifically designed to enhance your skills in pricing properties, creating CMAs, working with appraisers, and guiding clients through the anxieties and misperceptions they often have about home values.

Benefits of Becoming a PSA

Knowledge:

  • The purpose and benefits of CMAs, and how to guide clients through them
  • Terminology of pricing and valuation
  • The Code of Ethics as it relates to pricing
  • How to identify appropriate comparables, and where to find information about them
  • The role of supply and demand in pricing
  • How to adjust comparables
  • Specific challenges and special situations in making adjustments
  • How to work with appraisers
  • How to hone your pricing skills and practices

Benefits:

  • Use of PSA logo and name
  • Downloadable PSA Certificate
  • Customizable Press Release
  • PSA Customizable Marketing Materials
  • Monthly e-newsletter
  • Facebook private networking group

How to Earn the PSA Certification

How REALTORS® in the U.S. Earn the PSA Certification

Education

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

Cost

  • Online course: $130.00
  • One-time application fee: $179.00

Questions? Email us at NARcredentials@nar.realtor.

*Get a 10% discount off the price of the online course.

For more information about the certification, email psa@nar.realtor or visit the PSA website.

Real Estate Investing (REI)rei

What Is and REI Certification, and Who Is It For?

The Real Estate Investing certification program is for REALTORS® who want to master the ins and outs of working with investors and those who are establishing themselves as real estate investors. The courses provide insight into 1031 exchanges, REITS, NOI models, tools, and more.

Benefits of Becoming an REI

  • Distinguish yourself as an expert to your clients and team members
  • Guides identifying types of residential investors and ways to meet their unique needs
  • Understanding of the pros and cons of different investment opportunities
  • Tools to help you calculate the return on investment and perform income analysis
  • Practical insight into professional property management, cash flow, operating income, and more
  • Earn credit toward the Certified Residential Specialist designation

How to Earn the REI Certification

Education

Complete the following courses:

Exam

  • Pass the exam at the end of each course with a 70% or better score.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

There is no application form to submit for this certification. Once you have completed all of the necessary course requirements, please email CRSHelp@crs.com so that we can review your education history and process your certification.

Cost

  • Live and virtual 1-day course registration fee varies per host.
  • 6-credit hours online bundle
    • $126 for members of the Residential Real Estate Council (RRC)
    • $187 for non-members of RRC
  • Annual Dues
    • None

For more information, visit the Residential Real Estate Council website.

Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE)rene

What Is a RENE Certification, and Who Is It For?

The Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) certification is for real estate professionals who want to sharpen their negotiation skills. The RENE certification program gives REALTORS® the tips and tools they need to be skillful advocates for their clients.

Benefits of Becoming a RENE

  • Improve your negotiating skills
  • Learn about behind-the-scenes issues and how to deal with them
  • Learn how to handle a wide range of personalities and situations
  • Learn to sort out the competing objectives of the parties involved in a transaction

How to Earn the RENE Certification

Education

Exam

  • An exam is required for online/self-paced courses. No exam is required for most classroom or live virtual courses.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

  • The application will be sent to you after you’ve completed the required courses.

Cost

  • The course price varies by provider. Please contact your state or local association for pricing.
  • One-time application fee of $159

For more information, visit the REBI website

 

Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS)rsps

What Is an RSPS Certification, and Who Is it For?

The Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) certification is for REALTORS® who specialize in buying, selling, or management of properties for investment, development, retirement, or second homes in resort, recreational, and/or vacation destinations.

Benefits of Becoming an RSPS

  • Differentiate yourself on nar.realtor and realtor.com®
  • Receive monthly e-newsletters
  • Participate in quarterly webinars on investment, second-home, and vacation property issues
  • Gain the right to use RSPS logos and marketing materials
  • Be eligible to join the private RSPS Facebook group for networking*
  • Access to
    • Logos
    • Referral form
    • RSPS customizable press release
    • Marketing materials
    • RSPS certificate

How to Earn the RSPS Certification

Education

  • Successfully complete the Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) certification course online or in a classroom.

Exam

  • For the online Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist certification course only, pass the exam at the end of the course with an 80% or better score. The exam is also required by some states for continuing education (CE) credit.

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

  • No application form is required.

Cost

For more information, email resort@nar.realtor or visit nar.realtor/resort

 

Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR®)sfr

What Is an SFR® Certification, and Who Is It For?

The Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR®) certification is for REALTORS® who want to hone the skills that will allow them to help buyers and sellers of distressed properties.

Benefits of Becoming an SFR®

  • A framework for understanding how to
    • Direct distressed sellers to finance, tax, and legal professionals
    • Qualify sellers for short sales
    • Develop a short-sale package
    • Negotiate with lenders
    • Tap into buyer demand
    • Safeguard your commission
    • Limit risk
    • Protect buyers
  • Customizable marketing materials and press release
  • Quarterly eNewsletter
  • Members-only closed Facebook group
  • Differentiation at nar.realtor and REALTOR.com®
  • Usage of SFR® logo and name

How to Earn the SFR® Certification

Education

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application fee

Cost

  • Courses
  • Application fee
    • $175
  • Annual Dues
    • None

For more information, visit the SFR® website

 

Smart Home smart

What Is a Smart Home Certification, and Who Is It For?

The Smart Home certification is for real estate professionals who want to develop expertise in the technology, privacy issues, and best transition tactics involved in selling smart homes.

Benefits of Becoming Smart Home Certified

  • Distinguish yourself as an expert in a growing real estate niche.
  • Plug into the Smart Home technology community.
  • Use pre-made toolkits available to you once you’re certified.
  • Earn credit toward the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) designation.

How to Earn the Smart Home Certification

Education

Complete the following programs, for a total of 12 credit hours:

Exam

  • Pass the exam at the end of each course with a 70% or better score

Professional Affiliation

  • Member in good standing of the National Association of REALTORS®

Application

There is no application form to submit for this certification. Once you have completed all of the necessary course requirements, please email CRSHelp@crs.com so that we can review your Education History and process your certification. 

Cost

  • Online course
    • $40 for members of the Residential Resource Council (RRC)
    • $50 for RRC non-members
  • Classroom course
  • Webinars
    • $0 - $40 for RRC members
    • $60 for RRC non-members
  • Annual Dues
    • None

For more information, visit the Residential Resource Council website