Realtor ABCs
Professional designations indicate that real estate pro has specialized training, skill sets
Whether you are buying or selling a home, it can be quite an adventurous and emotional process.
If you’ve decided to hire a Realtor to assist you with your endeavor, you’ve made a wise decision. Having a real estate professional in your corner is definitely the way to go to ensure that you get the best deal with the least amount of hassle.
What you may not realize, however, is that Realtors can have specific credentials in a variety of specialized training areas, indicating that they have spent time and money to further their education in order to better serve their clients. These Realtors are better prepared to assist you with your specific real estate needs.
When you’re comparing agents, you may see several acronyms next to their names. To help you find a Realtor that is right for your specific needs, we’ve compiled a list of some common real estate certifications and designations, and what they mean.
• ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative):
A designation for real estate buyer agents who focus on working directly with buyer-clients at every stage of the homebuying process.
• ALC (Accredited Land Consultant):
A designation for land professionals who are the most accomplished, most experienced and highest-performing land experts.
• CRS (Certified Residential Specialist):
This designation is awarded to experienced Realtors who complete advanced training in listing and selling.
• GREEN:
A designation providing advanced training in green building and sustainable business practices so that you can seek out, understand and market properties with green features.
• ePRO:
A technology certification specializing in the latest tech-savvy initiatives.
• GRI (Graduate, Realtor Institute):
A designation with in-depth training in legal and regulatory issues, technology, professional standards and the sales process. This designation is state-specific, too, so you can be assured that your GRI agent is up on all the local issues that may affect your real estate transaction.
• MRP (Military Relocation Professional):
A certification focusing on educating real estate professionals about working with current and former military service members to find housing solutions that best suit their needs and take full advantage of military benefits and support.
• RENE (Real Estate Negotiation Expert):
This certification is for real estate professionals who want to sharpen their negotiation skills. • SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist):
A designation for agents to address the needs of home buyers and sellers ages 50 and older.
• SRS (Seller Representative Specialist):
A designation for the premier credential in seller representation.
When purchasing and/or selling your property, it is important that you not only trust your Realtor, but that you also trust that this professional is knowledgeable and dedicated to providing you with the best experience possible.
Visit www.realtor.com/realestateagents to visit with a Realtor and get information and advice about buying or selling a home.
House to House is distributed by the Arkansas Realtors Association. For more information about homeownership in Arkansas, visit www.ArkansasRealtors.com.