Realtors® Reveal: Favorite Designations for Professional Growth

November is Realtor® Designation Awareness Month. Designations and certifications are more than just pieces of paper; they demonstrate Realtors®’ commitment to learn, grow and better understand their clients and the real estate industry.  

Why earn designations?  

“I’m a big believer in designations and certifications for several reasons,” says PAR President-elect Bill Lublin. “First and foremost, obtaining one requires you to learn more about the industry, increases the depth of your knowledge as a practitioner and teaches you specific specialties.” 

“Secondly, they provide a point of differentiation between an agent with the designation or certification and one without. As professionals, we compete based on the skills we have learned and the services we provide. A designation or certification is tangible proof of your commitment and skills.” 

“Finally,” Lublin shares, “Practitioners with designations prefer to make referrals to other practitioners who have the same skillsets, so there are additional business opportunities to you.” 

Carey Smith, a member of the Central Susquehanna Valley Board of Realtors®, agrees on the importance of continuing education. 

“Designations can be highly beneficial for Realtors®, as they offer specialized knowledge, increase credibility and can make a Realtor® more competitive in the market,” she says. “I believe designations help by showing that Realtors® have undergone additional training in a specific area, giving them specialized expertise. This expertise can help Realtors® better serve niche markets.” 

“It also increases credibility by showing commitment to professional development and industry standards,” Smith adds. “Having designations gives Realtors® a competitive edge and sets them apart in a crowded market. These credentials can be a distinguishing factor when a client is deciding between multiple agents. This, along with a specific niche, can also translate into increased earning potential for Realtors®.” 

Which designations and certifications do you recommend? 

Lublin holds many various designations and certifications, including At Home with Diversity, Commitment to Excellence, Real Estate Negotiation Expert, Certified Real Estate Team Specialist, e-PRO®, Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager and Certified Residential Specialist.  

“I would suggest that every agent in Pennsylvania take advantage of the free Accredited Buyer’s Representative course offered by the National Association of Realtors® until the end of this year,” he encourages, adding that he is currently working on completing the course himself. “It’s relevant to their work with buyers, helps them understand and articulate their value proposition when meeting with consumers and, best of all, it’s free!”  

“Besides that, I love the CRS, SRS and CRB courses for agents and brokers to build their businesses intentionally,” Lublin shares. “And the RENE course is a must!”  

“By far, I recommend the CRS,” Smith says, agreeing with Lublin that it’s a top designation. She currently has her CRS, ABR, AHWD, Pricing Strategy Advisor, Smart Home Certification, Social Media Certification and C2EX. 

“Less than 4% of all Realtors® have earned the Certified Residential Specialist designation,” Smith adds. “This is one of the most prestigious and sought-after credentials in the residential real estate industry. This designation is awarded to Realtors® who demonstrate exceptional expertise through experience, advanced education and high sales production levels. It’s the PhD of real estate!”