Ensuring that local buyers and sellers receive a superior standard of support and service has been a focus of the National Association of REALTORS® for many years. Knowledge is the key, as they say, and this is partially why all REALTORS® who want to claim this title are required to complete at least eight hours of continuing education every year.

As an aspect of fulfilling this requirement, existing REALTOR® members must complete comprehensive ethics training meeting specific learning objectives and criteria. With case studies, updates and tried-and-true principles, this training aligns with the goal of providing consumers with exceptional service. It is important to note that all real estate professionals are not alike; those who wish to earn the title of REALTOR® must complete the required ethics courses and follow stringent guidelines.

Buyers and sellers want to know their interests will be protected, and most real estate industry professionals want to sleep well at night. With that in mind, many REALTORS® view continuous improvement as a surefire means of increasing their credibility and confidence.

In addition to the training that is required every year, there are many options available for REALTORS® who want to expand their knowledge base and further their education. The following designations can be obtained by completing advanced curriculums of coursework:

• Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) - As the name implies, this designation includes specialized information, programs, and updates to keep real estate buyer agents knowledgeable on the issues and trends facing home buyers.
   
• Certified Property Managers® (CPM®) - CPM® designated professionals are recognized as experts in real estate management, who demonstrate expertise and integrity to employers, owners, and investors.
   
• Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) - CRS designees have to have 60 transactions or $30 million in volume over the past five years. It is the highest credential awarded to residential sales agents, managers and brokers.
   
• Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) - This designation requires in-depth training in legal and regulatory issues, technology, professional standards, and the sales process.
   
• Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation - Designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance, this designation is awarded to real estate professionals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills essential for seller advocacy.
   
• Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) - This designation educates REALTORS® on how to reliably and ethically serve the real estate needs of the senior population.

There are many other designations and certifications available to REALTORS® who want to set themselves apart by refining their skills. For consumers who are interviewing prospective real estate professionals and wondering what the sometimes cryptic acronyms following their titles actually mean, learning more about these designations can be a valuable means of comparison.

To learn more, visit the Cape Fear REALTORS® designations and certifications page, by clicking here.

---

Tom Gale is the 2021 president of Cape Fear REALTORS®, an organization with nearly 3,300 members who serve as the region’s Voice of Real Estate. Cape Fear REALTORS®, through advocacy, education, and community involvement, support efforts to protect the rights of property owners, promote the availability of housing, and provide resources to guarantee every individual has the right to share in the “American Dream.”  For further information on this topic and the association, please visit www.capefear.realtor or contact the Cape Fear REALTORS® at 910-762-7400.