Designations & Certifications
Jump to: NAR designations | NAR certifications | PRO/CPRO | Other third-party
Importance of designations
REALTORS® who hold a designation are not only perceived as more credible, but on average they earn more annually.
Professional development is essential to continually improving the knowledge and performance of those real estate professionals engaged in the transaction. In addition to the state requirements for continuing education, REALTORS® demonstrate they are dedicated to their profession and to the ongoing improvement of their skills through a significant number of hours devoted to more education and training. Realtors® should also attain higher level certifications offered by the National Association of REALTORS® and its various institutes, societies and councils. According to NAR, designations show consumers your commitment to the industry and can provide a number of career benefits.
Adding a NAR designation to your account
If you would like to update your member profile with information regarding designations you have earned, please email education@pinellasrealtor.org a copy of your certificate.
This information will be added to our searchable membership directory.
Ready to get started?
We offer many designation and certification classes every month! Visit our Education & Events Calendar page to see what’s available.
National Association of REALTORS® designations
“Designations are specialized credentials for REALTORS®. Designations offer extensive benefits that are continually improved upon and expanded. For this reason, maintaining a designation requires annual dues and continued membership in NAR.” -National Association of REALTORS®
Accredited Buyer's RepresentativeVisit NAR to learn more
Designed for real estate buyer agents who focus on working directly with buyer-clients at every stage of the home buying process. Presented by REBAC (Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council)
Accredited Land ConsultantVisit NAR to learn more
Become the most trusted, knowledgeable, experienced, and highest-producing experts in all segments of land. The designation requires successful completion of a rigorous LANDU education program, a specific, high-volume and experience level, and adherence to an honorable Code of Conduct. Presented by the REALTORS® Land Institute (RLI)
Certified Commercial Investment MemberVisit NAR to learn more
The commercial real estate’s global standard for professional achievement, earned through an extensive curriculum of 200 classroom hours and professional experiential requirements. Presented by the CCIM Institute
Certified International Property SpecialistVisit NAR to learn more
CIPS designees are connected to an influential network of over 3,500 professionals who turn to each other first when looking for referral partners. Presented by the National Association of REALTORS®
CERTIFIED PROPERTY MANAGER®Visit NAR to learn more
CPM® designees are recognized as experts in real estate management. Holding this designation demonstrates expertise and integrity to employers, owners, and investors. Presented by Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)
Certified Real Estate Brokerage ManagerVisit NAR to learn more
One of the most respected and relevant designations offered in real estate business management and is awarded to REALTORS® who have completed advanced educational and professional requirements. By the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI)
Certified Residential SpecialistVisit NAR to learn more
The highest credential awarded to residential sales agents, managers, and brokers. On average, CRS designees earn nearly three times more in income, transactions, and gross sales than non-designee REALTORS®. Presented by Residential Real Estate Council
Counselor of Real Estate®Visit NAR to learn more
Only 1,100 professionals from all disciplines of real estate, academia and government hold the CRE credential. Membership is selective and extended by invitation, although commercial real estate practitioners with 10 years of proven experience may apply. Presented by The Counselors of Real Estate®
General Accredited AppraiserVisit NAR to learn more
For general appraisers, this designation is awarded to those whose education and experience exceed state appraisal certification requirements and is supported by the National Association of REALTORS®. Presented by National Association of REALTORS®
NAR's Green DesignationVisit NAR to learn more
Through NAR's Green Designation, the Green REsource Council provides ongoing education, resources and tools to help real estate practitioners find, understand, and market properties with green features. Presented by The Green REsource Council.
Graduate, REALTOR® InstituteVisit NAR to learn more
Gain in-depth training in legal and regulatory issues, technology, professional standards, and the sales process. Earning the designation is a way to stand out to prospective buyers and sellers as a professional with expertise in these areas. Presented by National Association of REALTORS®.
Performance Management NetworkVisit NAR to learn more
Focuses on negotiating strategies and tactics, networking and referrals, business planning and systems, personal performance management and leadership development. Presented by Women's Council of REALTORS®
REALTOR® Association Certified ExecutiveVisit NAR to learn more
The only professional designation designed specifically for REALTOR® association executives. RCE designees exemplify goal-oriented AEs with drive, experience and commitment to professional growth.. Presented by National Association of REALTORS®
Residential Accredited AppraiserVisit NAR to learn more
For residential appraisers, this designation is awarded to those whose education and experience exceed state appraisal certification requirements. Presented by National Association of REALTORS®.
Seller Representative SpecialistVisit NAR to learn more
the premier credential in seller representation. It is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance. The designation is awarded to real estate professionals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills essential for seller advocacy. By the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI).
Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS®Visit NAR to learn more
Held by only the most knowledgeable, experienced, and successful commercial real estate brokerage specialists. Designees must meet standards of experience, production, education, ethics, and provide recommendations. Presented by Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS®.
Seniors Real Estate Specialist®Visit NAR to learn more
Serve the real estate needs of the fastest growing market in real estate, clients age 50+. Gain access to valuable member benefits, useful resources, and networking opportunities across the U.S. and Canada to help you in your business. Presented by SRES® Council
National Association of REALTORS® certifications
“Like designations, certifications are also specialized credentials for REALTORS®. Maintaining a certification requires only an application fee and continued membership in NAR, but no annual dues.” -National Association of REALTORS®
At Home With Diversity®Visit NAR to learn more
Learn to work effectively with – and within – today’s diverse real estate market. Learn how to conduct your business with sensitivity to all client profiles and build a business plan to successfully serve them. Presented by the National Association of REALTORS®.
Certified Real Estate Team SpecialistVisit NAR to learn more
Improve team development, individual leadership skills, and financial performance with the tools, strategies, and knowledge that are required of today’s real estate professionals who are either considering or currently operating in a team environment. By the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI)
Digital Marketing: Social MediaVisit NAR to learn more
For real estate professionals who want to develop expertise with social media resources and the sites that are an essential part of today's digital marketing mix, whether you are promoting your business or the properties you represent. Presented by Residential Real Estate Council.
e-PRO®Visit NAR to learn more
Master the advanced digital marketing techniques of today. REALTORS® increase their ability to reach customers, expand their capabilities, and build trust by safeguarding client information. Presented by the National Association of REALTORS®
Military Relocation ProfessionalVisit NAR to learn more
Learn about working with current and former military service members to find housing solutions that best suit their needs and take full advantage of military benefits and support. Presented by REBAC (Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council)
Pricing Strategy AdvisorVisit NAR to learn more
Enhance your skills in pricing properties, creating CMAs, working with appraisers, and guiding clients through the anxieties and misperceptions they often have about home values. Presented by the National Association of REALTORS®
Real Estate Negotiation ExpertVisit NAR to learn more
For real estate professionals who want to sharpen their negotiation and client advocacy skills. Presented by the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI).
Resort & Second-Home Property SpecialistVisit NAR to learn more
Designed for REALTORS® who facilitate the buying, selling, or management of properties for investment, development, retirement, or second homes in a resort, recreational and/or vacation destination are involved in this market niche. Presented by the National Association of REALTORS®.
Short Sales & Foreclosure ResourceVisit NAR to learn more
Work with distressed sellers and the finance, tax, and legal professionals who can help them, qualify sellers for short sales, develop a short sale package, negotiate with lenders, safeguard your commission, limit risk, and protect buyers. Presented by the National Association of REALTORS®.
Smart HomeVisit NAR to learn more
For real estate professionals who want to develop expertise in the technology, privacy issues, and best transition tactics involved in selling smart homes. Presented by Residential Real Estate Council.
PRO/CRO certifications
Global Real Estate Specialist Learn more on SGC's page
Demonstrates an exceptionally high standard of dedication and training in regards to the business of international real estate. A points-based open-ended program, earned through class participation, SGC events, and REALTOR® involvement.
Commercial PRO Certification
Master the commercial real estate field. Each session is dedicated to the different property types - retail space, multifamily units, office space, industrial space, and vacant land. Earned by completing a set of classes offered by PRO/CPRO.
Property Management Certification
Earning this certification is a sure fire way to gain the skills and know-how to build a property management career, or add it as a service to a current brokerage. Earned by completing a set of classes offered by PRO/CPRO.
Other third-party certifications
In the ongoing pursuit of expanding professional development options to our members, PRO/CPRO teams up with instructors and even other associations to offer additional certifications. Please note, these are not NAR certifications.
Gold KeyVisit ORRA to learn more
Establishing relationships with fellow REALTORS®, affiliated business partners, and customers that will last a lifetime. Presented by Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association (ORRA).
Platinum KeyVisit ORRA to learn more
For brokers only. Show consumers and real estate practitioners that you're dedicated to practicing the utmost in customer service and brokerage management. Presented by Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association (ORRA).
Global Real Estate Practitioner Visit GREP's website to learn more
Awarded to those who have taken additional global initiative. They are ready to serve their global clients at the highest level of client service. Presented by Center for Real Education and Distinction.
Technology & Marketing Real Estate CertificationVisit craiggrant.info to learn more
Be aware of important resources and develop a better understanding of the tools, regulations, etc and how to leverage the advantages of using technology to help them excel in today's real estate world. Presented by Craig Grant "The Real Estate Tech Guru".