Every profession today embraces the concept of “lifelong learning,” but none more so than the real estate industry, and for good reason. Changes in regulations, technology, best practices, markets and so much more require successful REALTORS® to be always on top of their games.
Top producing REALTORS® recognize that earning certifications from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) increases their skills, proficiency, and knowledge and marks them as experts in various real estate sectors. Certifications also impact the bottom line. A survey of REALTORS® conducted by NAR found that members with just one designation increased their income by more $27,000 (NAR Member Profile).
For these reasons, every November, NAR focuses on designations and certifications as a way for REALTORS® to position themselves for success.
This year, as we emerge from the pandemic-driven economy and respond to unprecedented industry disruption all while maintaining a focus on profitability and a commitment to serving the needs clients, obtaining a designation or a certification is paramount.
Why Professional Development is Paramount by Greater Tampa REALTORS® Positioned for Success with NAR Certifications & Designations tamparealtors.org 17 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Each of these professional courses focus on key elements of the business no matter which market REALTORS® represent. There are robust topics that address everything from technology to working with buyer and seller types.
For those newly licensed and looking to jump start their careers, a good start is the Graduate REALTOR® Institute, or as commonly referred to as the GRI, designation. The materials developed in this sevenmodule designation are thoughtfully designed to help sharpen skills and reinforce the fundamentals of a solid real estate business. There also is the added benefit of post licensing education credits.
Pricing Strategy Advisor: The PSA Certification course is currently the most popular course being taken. Its performance is directly related to the changing market and being able to discuss valuation and pricing matters with your clients.
e-PRO Certification: This course focuses on popular technology tools, tricks and trends including the ever important need to secure your data and your client’s personal information.
At Home with Diversity (AHWD) provides a better understanding of Fair Housing laws but also strengthens REALTORS® understanding of working with multi-cultural clients. Since the Tampa Bay market also is affected by secondhome and international clients, the Resort and SecondHome Property Specialist (RSPS) Certification course or become a Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designee provide helpful support in working with these specialized clients. The CIPS designation provides access to a vast network of other professionals making your listings and marketability global. These courses will improve the ability to share market information of our area to outsiders.
Of course, there are professional designations available that focus on the needs of a buyers, sellers and even specialized market as working senior clients. This designation is important in today’s market where seniors outpace millennials in home purchases.
It is important to note when budgeting for professional development that a certification will incur a one-time application fee while a designation will require an annual fee to receive benefits. Just one successful real estate transaction could pay that back many times over!
When reviewing the list of options available, REALTORS® should focus on which courses will position them to conduct business more efficiently and assist clients in a smooth real estate transaction. Gaining access to business building skills and being introduced to a network of other career minded professionals, means extending market reach.
Continuing education may be available as well. Greater Tampa REALTORS® wants to be your business partner and go to place for personal development. For information, visit tamparealtors.org/education-2/ designations/.
