Realtor Designations and What They Mean

Why does this agent have all these letters after his name? What are these crazy letters? What do they mean to me?

In previous articles I have talked about the difference between a Realtor and a real estate sales person. Realtors follow a strict code of ethics. This will dictate how they treat the public and fellow Realtors.

As a Realtor there are certain designations you are allowed to achieve and agents are not allowed to use these designations. These designations require the Realtor to pursue higher education. Any professional who is dedicated to their career will tell you the importance of continuing education.

As the market changes, one must stay in tune to these changes to provide the highest level of service to buyers and sellers. Technology also requires additional education and is necessary to reach the next generation of buyers and sellers. In order to be an expert in your market,  attending classes which award these designations are critical.

The letters after an agent's name reflect the fact that an agent has invested time and money in improving his or her skills. I will define the more common designations. If you see no letters after a name then do not assume the agent does not have these, sometimes it is just a matter of keeping things simple. Ask them? They will be proud to share their designations with you.

GRI Graduate Reators Institute: A minimum of 90 hours of coursework is required, and subjects covered generally include:
Sales process: Business development, sales and marketing, customer and client services, and cultural diversity
Legal and regulatory: Fair housing, brokerage relationships, contracts, and environmental issues
Technology: Communications, general technology, and real estate business technology
Professional standards: NAR Code of Ethics and Standards, arbitration, and mediation.

ABR Accredited Buyers Representative: This is a designation for helping agents who are working with buyers.  From website, Realtor.org, successful completion of the two-day Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®) Designation Course, including an 80 percent passing grade on the exam. After you complete this course you will have three (3) years in which to complete the other ABR® designation requirements.

CRS Certified Residential Specialist: Many consider this the masters degree of real estate. It does require a considerable investment in time and money.
The Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is the highest Designation awarded to sales associates in the residential sales field. The CRS Designation recognizes professional accomplishments in both experience and education. Less than 4 percent of the Realtors have this designation.  For extensive requirements and production level visit their site. http://www.crs.com/Designation/60

There are many more so I suggest you ask your Realtor. Remember dedicated professionals invest in their future.

If you are hiring a Realtor or interested in becoming one, give me a call and I’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have. I can be reached at 404-955-7653 or nancy@minor.net Nancy Minor GRI, ABR, CRS

Open House Sunday (2/12/12) hours are 2-5 pm at 3865 Spalding Bluff Drive in Peachtree Corners. This home is listed at $369,900.