The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) and its affiliated Institutes, Societies and Councils provide a wide range of programs and services that assist members in increasing skills, proficiency and knowledge. These programs, many of which are co-sponsored by the Colorado Association of Realtors® (CAR) and local boards and Associations like DMAR, provide valuable instruction on new real estate business practices, emerging niche markets and specialty areas of the profession.
There are many designations/certifications not affiliated with NAR. When deciding whether to earn a designation or certification, be sure to investigate who presents or accredits the training and if continuing education is earned, in addition to examining the added value. There may be other requirements (such as additional or recurring dues) to maintain a designation or certification.
DMAR encourages you to research certifications and designations carefully before committing to earning one. Below you'll find the providers we recommend. As always, we are available to answer any questions you may have.
NAR Family Designations
The Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation is designed for real estate buyer agents who focus on working directly with buyer clients at every stage of the homebuying process.
Accredited Land Consultants (ALCs) are land professionals who are the most accomplished, most experienced, highest-performing land experts. Becoming an ALC requires the successful completion of a rigorous education program, a proven track record of transaction performance and a commitment to professional growth.
The Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) designation is commercial real estate’s global standard for professional achievement, earned through an extensive curriculum of 200 classroom hours and professional experiential requirements.
The Certified Mountain Area Specialist (CMAS) designation is offered by the Mountain Metro Association of Realtors® (MMAR). All classes are approved for CE credit by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies, Division of Real Estate. MMAR follows the NAR designations guidelines, promotes the CMAS designation only to the Realtor® population and to Affiliate (Industry Partner) members of Colorado Associations and educates the public about the designation. Mountain areas have properties with unique features. Courses cover topics such as wells, septic systems, fire mitigation concerns, radon, building on land in the foothills, easement issues, living with wildlife and survey issues, just to name a few. Our CMAS continuing education program provides the education needed to effectively market and sell these properties. For full details about the CMAS designation, courses offered and guidelines, click here. Please call the MMAR office at 303-674-7020 for registration instructions and questions.
The Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation is for Realtors® from the United States and abroad, as well as association staff and volunteer leaders who wish to develop or grow their international real estate business.
Certified Property Manager® (CPM®) designees are recognized as experts in real estate management. Holding this designation demonstrates expertise and integrity to employers, owners and investors.
The Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB) designation is designed to elevate professional standards, strengthen individual and office performance and indicate expertise in brokerage management. This designation represents the highest level of professional achievement in real estate brokerage management.
Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) is the highest credential awarded to residential sales agents, managers and brokers.
Membership in the Counselors of Real Estate (CRE®) is extended on an invitation-only basis. To be invited, prospective members must be recognized by their peers, clients and employers for their outstanding professional achievement, impeccable judgment and commitment to integrity in the field of real estate counseling.
The General Accredited Appraiser (GAA) designation is for State General Appraisers. Earning it shows that an individual has completed appraisal education above and beyond that required for qualification as a general appraiser.
NAR's GREEN designation is designed for agents looking to learn about issues of energy efficiency and sustainability in real estate.
Earning the Graduate, Realtor® Institute (GRI) designation is a way to stand out to prospective home buyers and sellers as a Realtor® who has gained in-depth market knowledge and increased proficiency in a broad array of subjects to enhance professionalism and business success.
The Performance Management Network (PMN) designation focuses on developing negotiation strategies and tactics, networking and referrals, business planning and systems, personal performance management and leadership development.
The Realtor® Association Certified Executive (RCE) is the only professional designation designed specifically for Realtor® Association executives. The RCE designation exemplifies goal-oriented association executives with drive, experience and commitment to professional growth.
The Residential Accredited Appraiser (RAA) designation is for State Certified Residential Appraisers. Earning it shows that you have completed appraisal education above and beyond that required for qualification as a residential appraiser.
The Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation is the premier credential in seller representation. It is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance. The designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Council of Real Estate Brokerage Managers (CRB) who meet specific educational and practical experience criteria.
Society of Industrial and Office Realtors® (SIOR) designees are specialists in industrial and office markets. They are top-producing professionals and respected industry leaders.
The Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) designation is for Realtors® who want to be able to meet the special needs of maturing Americans when selling, buying, relocating or refinancing residential or investment properties. By earning the SRES® designation, Realtors® are prepared to approach mature clients with the best options and information for them to make life-changing decisions.
NAR Family Certifications
The At Home With Diversity certification teaches individuals how to conduct their business with sensitivity to all client profiles and build a business plan to successfully serve them.
The Broker Price Opinion Resource (BPOR) certification is specifically designed to help residential real estate agents and brokers enhance their skills in creating BPOs, reducing risk and applying alternative valuation techniques.
NAR's e-PRO® certification teaches real estate professionals to use cutting-edge technologies and digital initiatives to link up with today's savvy real estate consumer.
NAR's Military Relocation Professional certification focuses on educating real estate professionals 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.
The Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) certification is for Realtors® who specialize in buying, selling or management of properties for investment, development, retirement or second homes in a resort, recreational and/or vacation destination.
The Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource (SFR®) certification is for Realtors® who want to hone the skills that will allow them to help buyers and sellers of distressed properties.