We all know what the letters “MD” stand for in medicine, but how many of us can say that we’re aware of distinctive titles in the realm of real estate? Because Charleston Women in Real Estate magazine values its readers, as well as the helpful, knowledgeable people who help our readers either buy or sell a home, we believe it’s useful to understand these distinctions, which will aid in choosing the correct agent for you and your family.
Here are some of the national designations that you will run across.
Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) – This means that a Realtor has dedicated his or her career to the task of working with home buyers throughout the process of buying and selling. First-time buyers will do well to find an ABR Realtor to walk them through the process.
Resort and Second Home Property Specialist (RSPS) – This title is reserved for Realtors who are specialized in aiding clients with their vacation and retirement properties. Whether you are looking to retire in the Lowcountry permanently or find a vacation spot that your family will enjoy for years, call an RSPS Realtor for the job.
Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) – Real estate professionals with this title include residential sales agents, managers and brokers who have earned higher numbers in income, transactions and gross sales. If you are looking for someone who can help you pick out the perfect neighborhood, a CRS Realtor might do the trick.
Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) – The SRES title means this particular Realtor has experience dealing with buyers and sellers over 50 years of age. Folks who decide to relocate to the Lowcountry later in life for retirement or for proximity to grandchildren often call on an SRES to help.
Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI) – These Realtors have in-depth training in legal and regulatory issues, technology, professional standards and the sales process.
E-Pro Certification – Realtors who possess this certification are accustomed to using digital technology. If you are looking for a house in the Lowcountry but haven’t had the chance to visit yet, let an E-Pro Certified Realtor help you navigate the web.
Military Relocation Professional (MRP) – If you are in the military, you’re accustomed to moving around frequently, and a Realtor with this designation can help ease the process of acclimating your family to a new area (with new schools, hospitals and businesses) once again.
Accredited Luxury Home Specialist (ALHS) – Agents who bear this title are well-versed in the luxury market, often selling homes over the $1 million mark. Agents must abide by guidelines set by The Luxury Home Council and understand the priorities of a more affluent market.
Certified Negotiation Specialist (CNS) – Working with these agents will give you competitive advantage in your market. These agents are talented at negotiating and offer a skill set that will mean better deals and outcomes for you.
Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) – People move to the United States from other countries every day, and agents with the CIPS designation are able to help them find the perfect home or investment property. Agents with this title are sure to possess the knowledge and networking skills to assist with a global purchase.
Strategic Listing Specialist (SLS) – With so many homes in the market, an agent certified in SLS will help you navigate the waters. They understand the mind of the seller and will help you feel confident in your purchase.
