5 Popular Realtor Certifications and Designations

Key takeaways

Realtor certifications and designations help Realtors gain the right credentials to specialize in key markets and grow a robust real estate career.

• Realtor certifications and designations from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) help agents demonstrate specialized expertise in niche markets like luxury homes, international sales, and property management.

• Popular realtor certifications include ABR (buyer representation), CCIM (commercial investment), CIPS (international property), CLHMS (luxury home marketing), and CPM (property management).

• You can earn Realtor certifications and designations and build your real estate agent skills by enrolling in an online course through NAR or NAR affiliates. 

Compare NAR Realtor certification programs to find the options that best align with your interests and target market. If you're ready to take the next step toward credentials now, consider enrolling in the Keller Williams Real Estate Agent Professional Certificate program. 

What is a Realtor?

A Realtor is a licensed real estate professional who belongs to the National Association of Realtors (NAR). To use this title, you must first be a licensed real estate agent and then join a local NAR chapter, which grants membership at the local, state, and national levels. Requirements for joining a local chapter may vary, typically including an application and annual dues.

What certifications do you need to be a realtor? 5 popular choices 

To help increase your knowledge, earning power, and credentials as a Realtor, consider the following certifications and designations offered by or approved by the NAR. As you contemplate which is best for you, look for the credentials that can add value to the area of real estate you are pursuing and help you meet your professional goals.

1. Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR) 

The Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) designation, offered by the Center for REALTOR Development (CRD), helps enhance your skills in advocating for home buyers. Tailored for agents who want to specialize in representing buyers, the ABR credential provides valuable tools and resources to improve the client experience throughout the home-buying process. 

Benefits of earning the ABR include:

• Access to an online referral database

• Customizable postcards, advertisements, and handouts to use in marketing

• Industry insights via newsletters and webinars 

• Access to a private network of ABR network of Realtors 

• Use of the ABR logo 

Requirements

To earn the ABR credential, you have to complete the official ABR course offered through CRD, complete an elective course, and show proof that you've successfully closed at least five property sales, serving in the role of a buyer's agent. In addition, you must be a member of both the CRD and NAR to apply for this designation. 

Cost (US)

The ABR designation course costs $310 for members, and non-members pay $620 for an online course through CRD [1]. The cost of taking a course in person varies depending on the facilitator and venue. You'll pay $110 per year from your third year onward to maintain your ABR designation and must keep your NAR membership active [1].

2. Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)

The CCIM Institute offers the prestigious Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation for real estate professionals with at least two years of experience who want to specialize in commercial and investment real estate. This designation sets you apart as a highly qualified expert in your field.

As a CCIM member, you can access a global network of professionals and valuable resources, including maps, templates, and the CCIM financial calculator. Additional benefits include discounts on CCIM educational training, resources, and materials, further enhancing your expertise and success in the industry. 

Requirements

To earn the CCIM designation, you must complete the required education courses, submit a portfolio demonstrating at least two years of experience in commercial real estate, and pass an exam.

Cost (US)

Earning the CCIM designation costs $8,286 for members and $11,810 for non-members [2].

3. Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS)

The Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) is one of the NAR certifications designed for Realtors who work with buyers. Specifically, consider earning this certification if you want to specialize in international real estate transactions. It provides essential knowledge on tax laws, currency, exchange rates, and cross-cultural relations, helping you navigate the complexities of global deals. To earn the CIPS designation, you must have an active NAR membership and accumulate at least 100 points through relevant experience, as outlined on the CIPS application.

Requirements

To become a CIPS, you must be a National Association of Realtors member. You must complete five CIPS courses, including the two required courses on global real estate markets and transaction tools. Record on the CIPS application the activities you've participated in to earn the 100 experience points, pay the application fee, and make sure your dues are current.

Cost (US)

The cost to earn the CIPS varies depending on the country you're in and the course delivery method you choose. Online courses are $150 for NAR members and $302 for non-members [3]. The application fee to receive the certification is $75 for Realtors in the US and Canada and $300 for Realtors in all other countries [4]. You must also pay your CIPS annual membership dues of $220 to keep your designation active [4].

4. Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS)

The Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) designation, offered by the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing (The Institute), is ideal for Realtors looking to excel in luxury markets worldwide. This prestigious certification helps Realtors access more high-end markets and meet clients' unique demands when purchasing luxury homes. 

Earning the CLHMS designation has many advantages, including the potential for higher earnings, business growth, a stronger reputation in the luxury home market, and sharpened negotiation skills. It's an exceptional way to elevate your career and stand out in the competitive luxury real estate industry.

Requirements

To qualify for the CLHMS designation, you must have a valid real estate license, complete the required courses, meet minimum sales requirements, and have a current membership with The Institute. You must submit proof that you have sold at least three single-family homes, townhomes, condos, or cooperatives that qualify as luxury homes in your area.

Cost (US)

Earning the CLHMS costs $545 for members (nonmembers are not eligible for the designation), and is renewable annually for $295 [5]. If you are an agent performing at or above the $3 million level, you may get increased visibility and access for a fee of $795 initially and upon annual renewal [5]. 

5. Certified Property Manager (CPM)

The Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) offers the Certified Property Manager (CPM) to Realtors with property management experience who want to advance their careers and move into higher-level positions. This designation provides valuable knowledge and skills, empowering you to confidently engage with investors, tenants, owners, and residents while enhancing your expertise in property management. Earning the CPM can create opportunities and potential for increased earnings in the industry. 

Requirements

To qualify for the CPM, you must enroll in the program, pay an enrollment fee, complete certification courses, and pass a test. Before earning the designation, you will need a valid real estate license and at least 36 months of qualifying real estate property management experience by graduation. You must pay your IREM dues each year to maintain the credential.

Cost (US)

The total average cost of earning the CPM designation is about $7,700 to $10,000, which includes all tuition, fees, and membership dues (nonmembers not eligible for designation) [6]. 

Which certification is best for real estate? 

The best certification for real estate depends on your career goals and desired area of specialization. While there isn’t necessarily one single “best” certification, a variety of certifications focus on different specializations and can help you build expertise and develop specific skills in certain areas of real estate. Choosing the right certification depends on factors such as whether you want to work with buyers, sellers, investors, or specific property types. 

Can you get a Realtor certification online?

Yes, you can get a Realtor certification through the many online courses NAR and NAR affiliates offer. Work at your own pace to earn certifications, designations, and certification courses with the multiple online offerings. If you're already a member of NAR, you can view a list of courses on the Center for Realtor Development's website.

Read more: Real Estate Agent Salary Guide: What to Expect

Explore free resources for real estate professionals from Coursera

Visit Coursera’s interactive Career Resource Hub, designed to provide you with timely updates on popular skills, tools, and certifications. From basic industry knowledge to practical tools, these resources support you at every stage of your real estate journey. Check out these other free resources for more guidance:

• Watch on YouTube: How to Become a Real Estate Agent: Steps to Success

• Discover helpful skills: How to Put Certifications on your Resume

• Set your career goals: Setting your Professional Development Goals

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