How do I choose a REALTOR®?
Choosing a REALTOR® that's right for you is something you'll want to take seriously and spend a little time on. One of the best ways to find a REALTOR® is to ask trusted friends and family for recommendations. You may want to interview two or three REALTORS® before selecting one, and pay special attention to a few key points:
- Expertise and experience in the area you want to invest in
- The ability to navigate the transaction process and avoid pitfalls
- Negotiation skills
- Communication style
- References
We've prepared a sample interview with many of the questions you'll want to ask, so just
click here to download our recommendations for interviewing
REALTORS® for your project!
Most people don't realize that REALTORS® are not only licensed by the state licensing board, they're also required to complete extensive, ongoing education courses to maintain their license. Many REALTORS® earn advanced certifications or "designations" in specific areas such as residential real estate, buyer representation, international real estate, and commercial real estate. So, if you want a professional with an education edge, just look for one of the following designations when interviewing a REALTOR® to represent you!
GRI - Graduate, REALTOR® Institute
The GRI symbol is the mark of a real estate professional who has made the commitment to provide a high level of professional services by securing a strong educational foundation. REALTORS® with the GRI designation are highly trained in many areas of real estate to better serve and protect their clients.
ABR - Accredited Buyer's Representative
The ABR designation is geared towards agents who wish to enhance their buyer representation skills, and provides proof to prospective buyer-clients of their proficiency at servicing the special needs of buyers.
CRS - Certified Residential Specialist
CRS is the highest designation awarded to sales associates in the residential sales field. The CRS designation recognizes professional accomplishments in both experience and education.
CRB - Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager
The CRB designation is one of the most respected and relevant designations offered in real estate business management. Through the Council's leading-edge education and resources, members are among the most efficient, effective and profitable managers in the country.
CIPS - Certified International Property Specialist
The CIPS designation prepares REALTORS® to service the growing international market in their local community by focusing on culture, exchange rates, investment trends, and legal issues. They can help foreign investors buy in the U.S., help Americans invest abroad, or serve an immigrant niche in local markets.
CCIM - Certified Commercial Investment Member
A CCIM is a recognized expert in the disciplines of commercial and investment real estate and is an invaluable resource to the commercial real estate owner, investor, and user.
Accredited Land Consultant
This is the only branch of the REALTOR® family focused on land brokerage transactions such as: farms and ranches, undeveloped tracts of land, transitional and development land, subdivision and wholesaling of lots, site selection and assemblage of land parcels.
Powerful professional training that combines today's real world skills with the Women's Council of REALTORS® powerful national referral network.
REALTOR e-PRO®
e-PRO is the only National Association of REALTORS® approved Internet Certification Program that teaches about internet and technology in the online real estate community.
Resort & Second Home Markets
Essential education for agents serving second home, resort area and recreation destination markets.