Professional Designations
They look like alphabet soup... ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES, e-PRO. But to knowledgeable professionals, these designation letters mean a stockpot brimming with experience, know-how and commitment. Mike & Ernie view professional designations and continuing education as being one and the same. Education is key to mastering the complexities of the business.
"The more educated we are, the better our ability to represent the best interests of our clients. Buyers may not care a whole lot about our alphabet soup, but they do care about a successful and rewarding outcome to their purchase. Each of the designations we have earned has contributed to us becoming a leader in the industry and two of the best Realtors in our marketplace. We hope you will allow us to demonstrate the true meaning of our alphabet soup."
ABR, Accredited Buyer Representative – awarded to Mike in 2000
This designation is conferred by the Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council (REBAC) and is the only Buyers certification recognized by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). It confirms an agent's mastery of the relatively new practice of buyer representation. Today most consumers prefer working with an agent who is contractually bound to represents their interests as buyers, particularly in identifying potential probelms with a property and how to negotiate the best price on their behalf. If you prefer to be presented exclusively, choose to work with an ABR... an agent with the training and skills to look after your best interests. Learn more at www.rebac.net.
CRS, Certified Residential Specialist – awarded in 1992 to Mike, certificate no. 16918 & in 2007 to Ernie
This designation is the highest professional award in the residential real estate industry. Completion of advanced training and attaining rigorous production requirements make it the most coveted award amongst Realtor peers. Fewer than 5 percent of REALTORS have earned this designation. Learn more at www.crs.com.
GRI, Graduate, Realtor Institute – awarded in 1991 by the Massachusetts Association of Realtors
The first five years of working in the industry are the most crucial to understanding the needs of being a knowledgeable, competent agent. GRI is the rough equivalent of B.A. for Realtors. Its programs are run through the state associations and involve training in all aspects of the practice of real estate. Call the Vermont Association of Realtors to learn more about its GRI program.
SRES, Seniors Real Estate Specialist – awarded in 2003
SRES designees represent those REALTORS with the experience, knowledge and desire to serve senior clients. For more information visit www.seniorsrealestate.com.
e-PRO, Internet Professional REALTOR – awarded in 2004
Certified internet professionals are trained to understand what today's consumers really want. They respect your privacy, answer email promptly, don't send unwanted communication and protect personal information. The e-PRO streamlines the entire transaction, from first contact to closing. They can potentially save expense when clients are relocating from afar. By mastering business on the internet, an e-PRO designee provides the kind of service you want... and need. Visit www.epronar.com to learn more.
