Top 11 Transaction Coordinator Certifications
Updated 19 min read
Certifications for a transaction coordinator are important in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the role. Certifications also provide assurance to employers that a transaction coordinator is up-to-date on industry standards, best practices, and regulations. Furthermore, certifications can help transaction coordinators stand out from other job candidates by demonstrating their commitment to professional development. Lastly, certifications can open up new opportunities for career advancement or higher pay.
This article reviews the top certifications for Transaction Coordinators, and explains how they can help to advance a Transaction Coordinator's career.
What are Transaction Coordinator Certifications?
Transaction coordinator certification is a professional designation that recognizes real estate professionals who specialize in guiding clients through the entire transaction process from start to finish. This includes working with buyers, sellers, lenders, title companies, and others involved in the transaction. Transaction coordinators are responsible for ensuring that all paperwork is completed correctly and on time. They also work with clients to ensure that all necessary documents are collected and submitted for closing. By being certified, transaction coordinators demonstrate their commitment to providing quality service to their clients and a high level of professionalism in the industry.
Having a transaction coordinator certification can help real estate agents stand out among their peers by demonstrating their knowledge of the industry and dedication to excellence in customer service. It also gives them an edge when it comes to gaining new business as they can show potential customers that they have taken the steps necessary to be certified by an accredited organization. Additionally, having this certification may also lead to higher pay or more opportunities within the industry due to the fact that employers may view it as a sign of commitment and expertise. Ultimately, having this certification can help real estate agents become more successful in their field by providing them with skills and knowledge needed for success.
Pro Tip: Consider getting certified as a Transaction Coordinator from a nationally recognized organization. Certification can give you greater credibility in the real estate industry and can help you stand out from the competition. Additionally, it can provide you with valuable knowledge and insight into the transaction process, making it easier for you to successfully complete transactions.
Related: What does a Transaction Coordinator do?
Top 11 Transaction Coordinator Certifications
Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Transaction Coordinators today.
1. Certified Transaction Coordinator (CTC)
A Certified Transaction Coordinator (CTC) is a professional who has been trained and certified to help real estate professionals manage the paperwork of transactions. They are responsible for ensuring that all documents related to the transaction are accurate, complete, and compliant with applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards.
It typically takes between 6-12 months to become a CTC. To get certified, you must first complete an approved course or program in real estate transaction coordination. You can find these courses online or through local colleges and universities. Once you have completed the coursework, you will need to pass an exam administered by the National Association of Real Estate Transaction Coordinators (NARETC).
The cost of becoming a CTC varies depending on the course or program chosen. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 for the required coursework and exam fee.
2. Certified Real Estate Transaction Coordinator (CRTC)
A Certified Real Estate Transaction Coordinator (CRTC) is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the coordination of real estate transactions. The CRTC certification is offered through the Real Estate Negotiation Institute (RENI), which is a recognized leader in real estate education and training.
The CRTC certification program consists of three courses, each of which must be completed within a 12-month period. The courses cover topics such as contract law, negotiation strategies, marketing, communication skills, and technology. Upon completion of the courses, students must pass a comprehensive exam to earn their CRTC designation.
The cost for the CRTC certification program varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs between $1,500 and $2,000 to complete the program.
To get started on your path to becoming a Certified Real Estate Transaction Coordinator (CRTC), you will first need to find an accredited provider who offers the coursework and exam necessary to earn your designation. You can find providers by searching online or by contacting RENI directly for more information.
3. Certified Real Estate Closing Professional (CRCP)
Certified Real Estate Closing Professional (CRCP) is a certification program offered by the American Land Title Association (ALTA) for real estate closing professionals. The CRCP program is designed to recognize and reward those who demonstrate expertise in the field of real estate closings.
The certification process requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as title insurance, escrow, closing documents, settlement services, and more. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in the real estate closing industry before they can apply for the certification.
To get certified as a CRCP, applicants must first register with ALTA and pay an application fee of $150. Once registered, applicants will be provided with access to online study materials and practice exams to help them prepare for the exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will receive their official certificate from ALTA.
The cost of becoming a Certified Real Estate Closing Professional (CRCP) includes the application fee ($150), study materials ($50-$100), and exam fee ($250).
4. National Association of Realtors Transaction Coordinator Certification (NAR-TCC)
The National Association of Realtors Transaction Coordinator Certification (NAR-TCC) is a certification program that provides real estate professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively coordinate the transaction process from start to finish. It is designed to help ensure that transactions are handled in an organized, efficient, and compliant manner. The NAR-TCC certification requires completion of an online course and passing a final exam.
The online course takes approximately 8 hours to complete and can be completed at your own pace. The cost for the course is $99 for members of the National Association of Realtors, or $149 for non-members. Upon successful completion of the course, participants must pass a final exam which consists of 50 multiple choice questions. Participants must score 80% or higher on the final exam in order to receive their certification.
Once certified, individuals will have access to exclusive resources such as transaction forms, checklists, and other tools designed to help streamline their workflow and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Additionally, certified individuals will be recognized as experts in their field by clients and colleagues alike.
5. Certified Residential Real Estate Transaction Coordinator (CRRETC)
A Certified Residential Real Estate Transaction Coordinator (CRRETC) is a professional who specializes in the coordination of real estate transactions. This includes everything from the initial offer to the closing of the sale. The CRRETC is responsible for managing all aspects of a transaction, including paperwork, communication with all parties involved, and ensuring that deadlines are met.
It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process. To become certified as a CRRETC, you must first complete an approved course program and pass an exam. The course program covers topics such as contract law, real estate finance and appraisal, and real estate marketing. After completing the course program, applicants must pass an exam administered by the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
The cost of becoming a CRRETC varies depending on which course program you choose to take. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500 and $1,000 to become certified. Additionally, some states may require additional fees or exams in order to obtain licensure in their jurisdiction.
Once certified as a CRRETC, you will be able to provide valuable services to buyers and sellers throughout the entire process of buying or selling a home. You will be able to help ensure that all documents are properly prepared and filed; coordinate inspections; negotiate contracts; manage timelines; and provide support throughout each step of the transaction process.
6. Certified Home Closing Professional (CHCP)
A Certified Home Closing Professional (CHCP) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have successfully completed an approved course of study and passed the CHCP exam. The CHCP designation is awarded by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and signifies a high level of knowledge and expertise in the real estate closing process.
The CHCP program consists of three courses: Introduction to Real Estate Closings, Real Estate Closings Processes, and Real Estate Closings Procedures. Each course must be completed within six months of enrollment and includes both online instruction and in-person training. Upon successful completion of all three courses, you will be eligible to take the CHCP exam.
To become a Certified Home Closing Professional, you must first complete the required coursework and pass the CHCP exam with a score of at least 80%. The cost for the entire program is approximately $1,000 USD, which covers tuition fees for all three courses as well as the cost of taking the exam. Once you have successfully completed all requirements, you will receive your official CHCP certification from NAR.
The benefits of becoming a Certified Home Closing Professional include increased credibility among clients and colleagues, access to exclusive resources from NAR, discounts on continuing education courses, and recognition as an expert in real estate closings.
7. American Escrow Association Certified Transaction Coordinator (AEACTCC)
The American Escrow Association Certified Transaction Coordinator (AEACTCC) is a certification program for professionals in the escrow and title industry. It is designed to ensure that transaction coordinators have the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively coordinate real estate transactions. The certification is awarded by the American Escrow Association (AEA), an organization dedicated to providing education and resources to escrow and title professionals.
To obtain this certification, applicants must complete a comprehensive training course offered by the AEA. This course covers topics such as contract law, title insurance, escrow procedures, real estate finance, closing documents, ethics, and more. Upon completion of the coursework, applicants must pass an exam administered by the AEA to receive their certification.
The cost of obtaining the AEACTCC certification varies depending on whether you are a member of the AEA or not. For non-members, the cost is $395; for members, it is $295. It typically takes about 4 weeks from start to finish to complete all requirements for obtaining this certification.
8. National Notary Association Certified Transaction Coordinator (NNACTCC)
The National Notary Association Certified Transaction Coordinator (NNACTCC) is a certification program that provides notaries with the knowledge and skills necessary to become certified transaction coordinators. The NNACTCC certification is designed to help notaries provide professional, efficient, and accurate services for real estate transactions.
To obtain the NNACTCC certification, applicants must complete an online course that covers topics such as working with buyers and sellers, understanding legal documents, preparing contracts and closing documents, managing timelines and deadlines, and more. Once the course is completed, applicants must pass a final exam in order to receive their certification.
The cost of the NNACTCC certification varies depending on the provider; however, it typically ranges from $200-$300. The entire process usually takes between two to three weeks to complete.
In order to maintain their NNACTCC certification status, notaries must renew their certifications every two years by completing continuing education courses or taking additional exams.
9. International Association of Professional Transaction Coordinators Certification (IAPTC-TCC)
The International Association of Professional Transaction Coordinators (IAPTC) is a professional organization that provides certification for those who wish to become certified transaction coordinators. The IAPTC-TCC certification is a comprehensive program designed to recognize the highest standards of professionalism in the real estate transaction coordination industry.
The IAPTC-TCC certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience as a transaction coordinator, and they must complete an approved course that covers topics such as contract law, title insurance, escrow procedures, and other related topics. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass an exam administered by the IAPTC.
It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all requirements necessary for IAPTC-TCC certification. Applicants can find courses offered through accredited real estate schools or online providers. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider but usually ranges from $400-$600 USD. After completing the course and passing the exam, applicants must pay an annual fee of $100 USD in order to maintain their certification status.
In summary, obtaining IAPTC-TCC certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience as a transaction coordinator; complete an approved course; pass an exam administered by the IAPTC; and pay an annual fee of $100 USD in order to maintain their certification status.
10. Institute of Real Estate Management's Certified Transaction Coordinator Program (IREM-CTC)
The Institute of Real Estate Management's Certified Transaction Coordinator Program (IREM-CTC) is a comprehensive program designed to help real estate professionals become more knowledgeable and efficient transaction coordinators. The program consists of three courses: the IREM Transaction Coordinator Certification Course, the IREM Advanced Transaction Coordinator Certification Course, and the IREM Certified Transaction Coordinator Exam.
The IREM Transaction Coordinator Certification Course is an online course that provides an introduction to the role of a transaction coordinator in real estate transactions. It covers topics such as contract law, title insurance, escrow procedures, and other related topics. This course takes approximately 10 hours to complete.
The IREM Advanced Transaction Coordinator Certification Course is a more advanced course that covers topics such as negotiation strategies, financial analysis, risk management, and other related topics. This course takes approximately 20 hours to complete.
The IREM Certified Transaction Coordinator Exam is an online exam that tests your knowledge of the material covered in both courses. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.
To get certified as an IREM-CTC you must first take both courses and pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once you have completed all three requirements you will receive your certification from the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM).
The cost for the entire program is $299 USD which includes access to both courses and the exam fee.
11. National Homebuyers Alliance Certified Transaction Coordinator Program (NHACTCP).
The National Homebuyers Alliance Certified Transaction Coordinator Program (NHACTCP) is a comprehensive program designed to help real estate professionals become certified transaction coordinators. The program is designed to provide real estate professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and coordinate the purchase and sale of residential real estate transactions.
The program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on certification exam. The online course covers topics such as contract law, title insurance, escrow procedures, closing documents, loan processing, marketing strategies, and more. It takes approximately 8 hours to complete the course. After completing the course, students must pass a certification exam in order to receive their NHACTCP certification.
The cost of the program depends on whether you choose to take the online course or attend an in-person class. The online course costs $299 while attending an in-person class costs $399. Both options include access to the certification exam which costs an additional $99 if taken separately from either option.
Once certified, transaction coordinators are eligible for discounts on products and services related to their profession through NHACTCP’s partner network. They also have access to exclusive job postings from employers seeking qualified transaction coordinators as well as ongoing training opportunities throughout the year.
Do You Really Need a Transaction Coordinator Certificate?
No, you do not need a transaction coordinator certificate in order to become a transaction coordinator. However, it is highly recommended that anyone interested in this field pursue additional education and training in order to become more knowledgeable and competent in the job. Transaction coordinators are responsible for managing the details of real estate transactions from contract to closing. This requires knowledge of real estate laws and regulations, as well as an understanding of contracts and other legal documents. A transaction coordinator certificate can help provide this knowledge, as well as increase your chances of being hired for a position.
The courses offered by many certification programs cover topics such as real estate law, contract negotiations, mortgage financing, title searches and closings. These courses can give you an edge over other candidates when applying for a job. Additionally, some certification programs may offer continuing education credits that can be used to maintain your license or obtain additional certifications in the future.
Having a transaction coordinator certificate can also help you stand out from other applicants when looking for work. Employers often prefer to hire individuals who have taken the time to get certified because it shows that they have gone above and beyond what is required of them. With this certification, you will also have access to industry-specific resources such as publications and conferences that can help you stay up-to-date on changes in the real estate industry.
In conclusion, while it is not necessary to have a transaction coordinator certificate in order to become a successful transaction coordinator, it is highly recommended if you want to be competitive in the job market and gain access to valuable resources that will help you stay informed about changes in the industry.
Related: Transaction Coordinator Resume Examples
FAQs About Transaction Coordinator Certifications
1. What is a Transaction Coordinator Certification?
Answer: A Transaction Coordinator Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge of real estate transaction processes and procedures. The certification is offered by the Real Estate Transaction Coordinators Association (RETCA) and provides individuals with the necessary skills to coordinate successful real estate transactions.
2. What are the benefits of having a Transaction Coordinator Certification?
Answer: Having a Transaction Coordinator Certification can help you stand out from other candidates for job opportunities in the real estate industry. It also indicates to potential clients that you are well-versed in all aspects of real estate transactions, which can give them confidence in your ability to handle their transactions successfully. Additionally, it may lead to increased pay and better job opportunities.
3. How do I obtain a Transaction Coordinator Certification?
Answer: To obtain a Transaction Coordinator Certification, you must first complete an application with RETCA and pass an exam covering topics such as contract law, title insurance, escrow services, closing documents and more. After passing the exam, you will receive your certification and be able to use it on your resume or business cards to demonstrate your expertise in the field of real estate transaction coordination.
4. How long does it take to become certified as a Transaction Coordinator?
Answer: The time required to become certified as a Transaction Coordinator varies depending on how quickly you can complete the application process and study for the exam. However, most people who put forth effort into studying for the exam can expect to receive their certification within two months of applying for it.
5. Is there any continuing education required after becoming certified as a Transaction Coordinator?
Answer: Yes, after becoming certified as a Transaction Coordinator, you must complete at least four hours of continuing education each year in order to maintain your certification status with RETCA. Continuing education courses cover topics such as legal updates, best practices for transaction coordination and more.