Designation Awareness Month: The Value of Designations

Why Earn a Designation?
Earning a designation from NAR or one of its affiliated Institutes, Societies and Councils can help you succeed in all aspects of your business and help you earn more money.

REALTORS® who pursue professional designations have a distinct competitive edge as a result of their increased expertise and marketability. Based on the 2011 survey data, the median income of REALTORS® without a designation was $26,900 and the median income of those with at least one designation was $49,300. A difference of $22,400.

There is an official NAR designation for practically every specialty in the real estate industry. The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and its affiliated Institutes, Societies and Councils provide a wide-range of programs and services that assist members with increasing skills, productivity, marketability, proficiency and knowledge. Designations and certifications acknowledging experience and expertise in various real estate sectors are awarded by each affiliated group upon completion of required courses.

Learn More About Official Designations & Certifications
View a complete list of NAR's official designations and certifications.

Download the Education and Resources Guide from the REALTOR.org Store as a free e-product.

Course Information
Explore classes to help you earn your designation or certification. Visit NAR's Education Matrix for a list of all education provided by NAR and its affiliated Institutes, Societies and Councils.

REALTOR® University: NAR's Online Education Destination Is Expanding

REALTOR® University has expanded to better fit the changing industry and the way you do business. In addition to the School of Professional Development and Continuing Education, which continues to be the exclusive provider of courses leading to NAR’s official designations and certifications, REALTOR® University’s plans to offer a new master’s degree in real estate, beginning Spring 2012.