Top 10 Real Estate Salesperson Certifications

Certifications are extremely important for real estate salespersons in the job market, as they provide evidence of credibility, knowledge and experience. In some states, certifications are also required to become a licensed real estate salesperson. Having a certification can help you stand out from other candidates and show potential employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to work in the field. Certifications also demonstrate your commitment to learning and staying up-to-date on industry trends. Having a certification may give you an advantage when applying for jobs or negotiating salary.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Real Estate Salespersons and explains how they can help to enhance a real estate salesperson's career.

What are Real Estate Salesperson Certifications?

Real estate salesperson certification is a process that requires an individual to complete a program of education and pass an examination in order to become licensed to practice real estate. This certification is a way for the consumer to know that the salesperson they are dealing with is knowledgeable in the field of real estate, has been trained properly, and has met certain standards set forth by the state in which they practice.

Having this certification can be beneficial for both the consumer and the salesperson alike. It provides assurance to the consumer that their agent is competent and qualified to handle their transaction. It also gives the salesperson a competitive edge over those who do not have it, as it shows clients that they have taken extra steps to ensure they are knowledgeable in their industry. Additionally, having this certification allows salespeople access to more listings, as many brokers prefer agents who hold this certification.

Overall, real estate salesperson certification is a valuable asset for anyone looking to get into or already practicing in this industry. It can help them gain trust from consumers and give them an advantage over other agents who may not have taken the necessary steps to obtain such credentials.

Pro Tip: It is important for real estate salespeople to stay up-to-date on the latest changes in regulations and laws regarding real estate transactions. To ensure you are well informed, look into obtaining a certification from a reputable organization that will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in real estate sales.

Related: What does a Real Estate Salesperson do?

Top 10 Real Estate Salesperson Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Real Estate Salespersons today.

1. Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)

Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is a professional designation given to real estate agents who have completed advanced training and demonstrated their expertise in residential real estate. CRS designees are recognized as having the highest level of knowledge, experience, and commitment to their clients.

In order to become a CRS, you must meet certain requirements, including having at least three years of full-time real estate experience within the past five years, completing the CRS Designation Course, and passing the CRS Designation Exam. The course consists of eight core courses that cover topics such as marketing, technology, finance, risk management and customer service. The exam tests your knowledge on these topics.

The entire process typically takes between three to six months to complete depending on how quickly you can complete the coursework and pass the exam.

The cost for becoming a CRS varies depending on where you live but typically ranges from $1,200 - $2,000 USD for all required materials and fees associated with taking the course and exam.

2. Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)

Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) is a designation offered by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC), an affiliate of the National Association of Realtors. It is a specialized certification that recognizes real estate professionals who have completed advanced training in representing buyers in real estate transactions. The ABR designation helps buyers find agents with the knowledge and experience to represent them effectively in their home purchase.

To get the ABR designation, you must first complete REBAC’s Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) Designation Course. This course teaches agents how to provide buyer representation services, including understanding legal aspects of buyer representation, working with buyers in today's market, and marketing to buyers. After completing the course, you must pass the ABR exam to receive your designation.

The cost of the ABR Designation Course is $495 for NAR members and $595 for non-members. The exam fee is an additional $75 for both members and non-members. The entire process typically takes 4-6 weeks from start to finish.

3. Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS)

Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) is a professional designation offered by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). It is designed to recognize real estate professionals who specialize in international real estate transactions and have an in-depth knowledge of global markets. The CIPS program consists of five courses and a comprehensive exam, which must be completed within two years.

To become a CIPS designee, applicants must first become members of NAR and then submit an application for the CIPS program. Applicants are required to provide proof of their experience in international transactions, such as sales contracts or letters from clients. Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete five courses: Global Real Estate: Local Markets; Global Real Estate: Transaction Tools; Global Demographics & Economics; Cross-Cultural Relationships; and Negotiating International Real Estate Transactions. Each course costs $295 and can be taken online or in person at a local NAR chapter.

Once all five courses have been completed, applicants must take the CIPS Comprehensive Exam. This exam covers all aspects of international real estate transactions and costs $395. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CIPS designation. The total cost for the CIPS program is approximately $2,000 including application fees, course fees, and exam fees.

4. Graduate, Realtor Institute (GRI)

Graduate, Realtor Institute (GRI) is a professional designation awarded by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). It is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of real estate professionals. The GRI program consists of four core courses, as well as electives that cover topics such as ethics and law, finance and investment, marketing, technology, and customer service.

The GRI designation requires completion of 90 hours of coursework and it typically takes 6-12 months to complete. To get the GRI designation, you must first become a member of NAR and then enroll in the GRI program through your local Realtor association or online.

The cost to obtain the GRI designation varies depending on where you take the courses. Most local associations charge between $500-$1,000 for all four core courses. Additionally, some states may require additional fees for licensing or certification exams.

5. Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES)

Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) is a designation given to real estate professionals who have completed additional training in the area of working with senior clients. SRES designees are knowledgeable about the needs and concerns of senior clients, and are able to provide specialized advice on topics such as reverse mortgages, long-term care insurance, and other financial issues that may affect seniors.

The SRES designation is offered through the National Association of Realtors (NAR). To get the SRES designation, you must complete a two-day course offered by NAR or an approved provider. The course covers topics such as legal issues related to aging, housing options for seniors, financial considerations for seniors, and marketing strategies for working with senior clients. After completing the course, you must pass a written exam in order to receive your SRES designation.

The cost of the SRES program varies depending on where you take it and whether you are a member of NAR or not. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 to take the two-day course plus any associated fees. There may also be additional costs associated with taking the exam and becoming certified as an SRES designee.

6. Accredited Luxury Home Specialist (ALHS)

Accredited Luxury Home Specialist (ALHS) is a designation offered by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC) of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). It is designed to recognize real estate professionals who have completed specialized training and demonstrated their expertise in the luxury home market.

The ALHS program includes two courses: Luxury Home Marketing for Real Estate Professionals and Luxury Home Negotiations for Real Estate Professionals. The courses are available online and take approximately 8 hours to complete. After completing both courses, participants must pass an exam to receive the ALHS designation.

The cost of the ALHS program varies depending on whether you are a NAR member or not. For non-members, the cost is $299 plus applicable taxes; for NAR members, the cost is $199 plus applicable taxes.

7. Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE)

Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) is a certification program offered by the Real Estate Negotiation Institute (RENI). It is designed to help real estate professionals become better negotiators and improve their success in closing deals. The program includes an intensive two-day course, as well as an online component that can be completed at your own pace.

The two-day course consists of lectures, role playing, and interactive activities to help you understand the negotiation process and develop your skills. At the end of the course, you will take a written exam to earn your RENE certification.

To get your RENE certification, you must first complete the two-day course and pass the exam. The cost of the two-day course varies depending on location but generally ranges from $400-$600. After completing the course and passing the exam, you will receive your RENE certificate within 2-4 weeks.

Overall, getting your RENE certification requires an investment of both time and money but can be well worth it for those looking to become more successful in real estate negotiations.

8. At Home With Diversity (AHWD)

At Home With Diversity (AHWD) is a training program offered by the National Association of REALTORS®. It is designed to promote diversity and inclusion in the real estate industry, as well as to help participants understand how to work with and within a diverse range of clients, customers, colleagues, and communities. The program consists of an 8-hour classroom course that covers topics such as cultural competency, fair housing law, understanding generational differences, and leveraging diversity in marketing and business planning.

The cost for the course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $99-$149 USD. The course can be taken online or in person at a local real estate school or association office. To get certified in AHWD, participants must complete the 8-hour course and pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, participants will receive their AHWD certification which is valid for two years from the date it was issued.

9. E-PRO Certification

E-PRO Certification is a professional certification program available to real estate professionals who want to increase their knowledge and skills in the use of technology in the real estate industry. It is offered by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and is designed to help agents and brokers stay up-to-date on the latest technologies, trends, and strategies for using technology to better serve their clients.

The E-PRO Certification program consists of two courses: E-PRO 1: Technology & Social Media Basics and E-PRO 2: Advanced Strategies & Best Practices. Both courses must be completed within one year of each other in order to receive the certification. The courses are self-paced, but typically take about 30 hours total to complete.

In order to get certified as an E-PRO, you must first become a member of NAR. Once you have joined, you can register for the courses through NAR’s Learning Management System (LMS). The cost for both courses is $159 for members ($199 for non-members). Upon completion of both courses, you will receive your official E-PRO Certification from NAR.

10. Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)

Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) is a professional designation given by the CCIM Institute, an affiliate of the National Association of Realtors. The CCIM designation is earned after successfully completing a designation process that includes education, experience, and examination.

It typically takes three to five years to complete the requirements for the CCIM designation. To become a CCIM, you must first complete an approved core curriculum which consists of four courses: Financial Analysis; Market Analysis; User Decision Analysis; and Investment Analysis. After completing this core curriculum, you must also have at least two years of documented commercial real estate experience and pass the comprehensive exam.

The cost to obtain a CCIM designation varies depending on your location and other factors such as membership in local or state associations. Generally, it costs between $3,000 and $5,000 to become a CCIM. This cost includes fees for course materials, textbooks, exams, study aids, and other related expenses.

Do You Really Need a Real Estate Salesperson Certificate?

Whether you need a real estate salesperson certificate depends on your individual goals and the regulations in your area. In some areas, you may be able to practice real estate without a certificate. However, having a certificate can help you to gain credibility with potential buyers and sellers, as well as demonstrate your knowledge of the industry.

In order to obtain a real estate salesperson certificate, you must typically complete a certain number of hours of approved pre-licensing education and pass an exam. The pre-licensing course covers topics such as real estate laws, ethical practices, contracts, and other related topics. Additionally, many states also require periodic continuing education courses in order to maintain the license.

Having a real estate salesperson certificate can be beneficial for many reasons. It can provide you with the necessary knowledge to better serve clients and customers. It can also give you access to more resources for marketing yourself as a real estate agent or broker. Additionally, it may open up opportunities for higher salaries or advancements in the field. Finally, having a real estate salesperson certificate shows that you have taken initiative and are committed to providing quality services to clients and customers alike.

Ultimately, whether or not you should pursue a real estate salesperson certificate depends on your individual goals and situation. If you plan on actively practicing real estate in your area then it is likely worth obtaining one if possible.

Related: Real Estate Salesperson Resume Examples

FAQs About Real Estate Salesperson Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a real estate salesperson?

Answer: To become a real estate salesperson, you must be at least 18 years of age, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass the state-specific real estate licensing exam.

2. How long does it take to get my real estate certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to obtain your certification will vary depending on the requirements of your state's licensing board. Generally, the process can take anywhere from 2-6 months.

3. What is the cost associated with getting my real estate certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining your certification varies by state and can range from $100-$500 for application fees and coursework required for licensure.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements after obtaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require that licensed real estate salespeople complete a certain number of hours of continuing education courses each year in order to maintain licensure.

5. How do I renew my real estate salesperson certification?

Answer: Your state's licensing board will provide information regarding the renewal process for your real estate salesperson certifications prior to its expiration date.