Designations

Experience does not just consist of how long an agent has been in the industry. The value of experience is greatly enhanced through continuing education. Designations further demonstrate an agent's commitment to achieve a higher level of understanding in certain areas of the profession. Dave has earned all four designations described below. Beth is working on her ABR.

Certified Residential Specialist (CRS): Held by less than 5% of all Realtors. CRS designees have achieved a consistently high level of sales production, and have received advanced training in Marketing, Technology, Investment Property, and Buyer Representation.

Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI): The GRI designation is currently held by only 16% of all Realtors. It provides advanced traning in a broad array of technical subjects and in the fundimentals of real estate. Typically, agents who have earned their GRI are at the top of their profession in terms of earnings.

Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR): The ABR designation is the benchmark for excellence in buyer representation. This training was developed by The Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council (REBAC) and has been successfully completed by only 4% of all Realtors. Agents who have earned this designation are typically best suited to represent buyers, not only because of the training this coursework provides, but because ABR designees dedicate a large part of their practice to effectively representing buyer clients.

Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES): This important designation prepares an agent to counsel mature adults on the issues that face Seniors with regard to their real estate assets. One of the most important concerns that Seniors face is "what are my options, and if I do move, where do I go now?" SRES designees can match Seniors with the local resources to help them remain in their home, or assist them in finding suitable housing in their retirement years. SRES training includes coursework on Capital Gains tax issues, Reverse Mortgages, and 1031 Exchanges. Most importantly, SRES designees can help Seniors make informed decisions and properly plan their estate.