Take advantage of Realtor® Designation Awareness Month

Increasing your education as a Realtor® will make you more successful, and November is the month to commit to it.

November is Realtor® Designation Awareness Month, and it’s time to keep abreast of new issues and technology, and be up-to-date about our changing industry.

Designations will enhance your career as a Realtor®, and sharpen your skills even more. Did you know designations can increase your salary? According to the 2013 National Association of Realtors® (NAR) Member Profile, the difference in the median salaries of Realtors® with at least one designation and those without is $27,000. The median income of Realtors® with at least one designation was $61,100, while Realtors® without a designation brought in a median income of $33,500.

Along with affiliated institutes, NAR offers a variety of designations and certifications for Realtors®. These courses are a way to distinguish yourself from your competition with the knowledge you gained. The industry is always changing, and by educating yourself, you can continue to impress your clients with your up-to-date knowledge.

Personally, I am a firm believer in the importance in designations for Realtors®. Currently, I hold certifications for Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB) and am a graduate of the Realtor® Institute (GRI). These designations have impacted my real estate career in a most positive way.

This is the month to take the plunge and sign up to expand your career. You won’t regret it. I am looking forward to Triple Play in December, there are CRS and CRB courses being offered there.

For a complete list of the official NAR family designations and certifications, visit Realtor.org.