Just the other day I was asked why I have so many “initials” behind my name.  I first answered that it was for the additional training that I have taken to help my buyers and sellers involved in real estate transactions.  I later began thinking why do real estate practitioners go out and obtain the additional training (and expertise) for the consumers?  Why do they often times pay the annual renewal fees associated with many of the designations to stay part of that organization?

I am happy to say that I have earned the following designations: ABR, ABRM, CRB, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR as well as being a REALTOR(r) and holding a BROKERS license in Idaho.

ABR stands for Accredited Buyer Representative.  This extensive education process proves that I have knowledge to work (and represent) buyers in a real estate transaction.  The courses taken help develop a better understanding to help specialize in the representation of buyers in a transaction.

ABRM stands for Accredited Buyer Representative Manager.  This designation is for real estate brokers and managers wishing to incorporate buyer representation into their company.

CRB stands for Certified Real estate Brokerage manager.  These courses are designed for managing a real estate office and assisting the real estate practitioners to help their customers and clients.

CRS stands for Certified Residential Specialist.  The courses taken help develop marketing and technological skills to help sellers sell their properties in todays market.

e-PRO stands for Electronic Professional Certification.  This is a course that helps train the real estate agent on the technological tools that are available to him or her and their use in real estate.

GRI stands for Graduate of REALTORS(r) Institute.  Each state sets their own criteria for this course.  In Idaho it is several lengthy classes to chose from that teach the agent better skills for the consumer.

SFR stands for Short Sales & Forclosure Resource certification.  This training aids the practitioner in understanding the process and the players involved in a short sale or a forclosure.

A REALTOR(r) is a member of the National Association of REALTORS(r).  Many real estate agents are just that, an agent.  A REALTOR(r) is a real estate agent that subscribes to a “code of ethics” and holds themselves to a much highr standard than the average real estate agent.

A BROKER is a license status in Idaho.  A Managing Designated  broker runs a real estate office and has real estate agents working for him or her.  Agents work for a broker and the broker is the individual responsible for the affairs involved in each transaction.

There are lots of additional designations and certifications.  Some additional ones include:

ABR – Accredited Buyer Representative
ABRM – Accredited Buyer Representative Manager
ALC – Accredited Land Consultant
AHWD – At Home With Diversity Certification
CAE – Certified Association Executive
CCIM – Certified Commercial Investment Member
CIPS – Certified International Property Specialist
CPM – Certified Property Manager
CRB – Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager
CRE – Counselor of Real Estate
CRS – Certified Residential Specialist
e-PRO – Electronic Professional Certification
GAA – General Accredited Appraiser
GREEN – Green Designation
GRI – Graduate REALTOR® Institute
PMN -Performance Management Network
RAA – Residential Accredited Appraiser
RCE – REALTOR® Association Executive
REPA – Real Estate Professional Assistant Certification
RSPS – Resort & Second Home Markets Certification
SIOR – Society of Industrial & Office REALTORS®
SRES – Senior Real Estate Specialist
TRC – Transnational Referral Certified

Bottom line….  When looking to use a Real Estate Professional you might consider looking for someone that has taken the time to get the additional education to help you with your real estate needs.

You can always work with an ameteur, or you can work with a specialist.  I always like working with a specialist!