RSPS Frequently Asked Questions
- To whom will this certification appeal?
- How do I apply for the RSPS certification?
- Where can I find the core and elective courses?
- I cannot find either of the core courses scheduled in my market. What should I do?
- I took a 1031 course for my state continuing education requirements. May I substitute that 1031 course for the RLI Tax Deferred 1031 Exchange course?
- I attended the Vail and Naples Symposiums. Have I fulfilled the RSPS Elective requirements?
- How much does RSPS certification cost?
- Do I have to pay annual dues to maintain the RSPS certification?
- How long does it take to earn the certification?
- I took one or more of the core and/or elective courses prior to January 2, 2006 – will they still count towards the RSPS certification?
- Does RSPS certification require a comprehensive or final exam?
- Will RSPS be recognized in the National REALTORS Data System (NRDS)?
- Where can I learn more about the program?
Q: To whom will this certification appeal?
A: RSPS certification will appeal to REALTORS® in resort and second-home markets around the world who wish to distinguish themselves amongst their peers and amongst consumers. NAR currently defines a REALTOR® specializing in resort & second-Home markets as "a real estate practitioner who facilitates the buying, selling, or management of properties for investment, development, retirement, or second homes in a resort, recreational and/or vacation destination."
Q: How do I apply for RSPS certification?
A: Send the completed application (see following PDF attachment) along with copies of certificates of completion or evidence that you have completed the required courses and electives successfully. Do not send in your RSPS Application and documentation until you have successfully completed the courses and are notified that you passed.
Download the RSPS Application (PDF: 281K) to begin the process.
Q: Where can I find the core and elective courses?
A: Course schedules for the core course, the Resort & Second-Home Market Course, can be found on www.CourseCalendar.com. Elective course information can also be found on www.CourseCalendar.com.
Q: I cannot find the core course scheduled in my market. What should I do?
A: New courses are posted every week on www.CourseCalendar.com. If you would like a course to be scheduled in your market, you could contact your local REALTOR board and/or state association about scheduling the course. Courses are often scheduled because of demand from members! If you would rather, you may take the core course and many elective courses online at REALTOR University.
Q: I took a 1031 course for my state continuing education requirements. May I substitute that 1031 course for the RLI Tax Deferred 1031 Exchange course?
A: No. The Resort and Second-Home Markets course nor the electives can be substituted with another course.
Q: I attended the Vail and Naples Symposiums. Have I fulfilled the RSPS Elective requirements?
A: Yes. Attendance at one symposium equals one elective. By attending two or more symposiums, an applicant will satisfy both elective requirements. (Symposiums have been held in 2003 Cabo San Lucas; 2004 Cape Cod; 2006 Hawaii; 2007 Vail; 2009 Naples)
Q: How much does RSPS certification cost?
A: Upon meeting the education requirements, an applicant will pay a one-time fee of $195 to enroll in the certification program. Applicants will also be responsible for securing and paying costs for the education requirement and electives.
Q: Do I have to pay annual dues to maintain the RSPS certification?
A: No, there are no recurring dues in order to maintain the RSPS certification; only the initial application fee and education costs.
Q: How long does it take to earn the certification?
A: Applicants would need a maximum of 6 to 8 days depending on their choice of elective courses. It could take 6 to 12 months to complete coursework depending on the frequency of course offerings.
Q: I took one or more of the core and/or elective courses prior to January 2, 2006 – will they still count towards the RSPS certification?
A: Yes, core and/or elective course, with proof of completion, will qualify for meeting the certification education requirements.
Q: Does RSPS certification require a comprehensive or final exam?
A: No, RSPS certification does not require a comprehensive or final exam though individual required and elective courses may require examination.
Q: Will RSPS be recognized in the National REALTORS Data System (NRDS)?
A: Yes, RSPS is the official resort & second-home certification of the NAR family and will be recognized in NRDS.
Q: Where can I learn more about the program?
A: Contact NAR Resort Specialties at 1-800-874-6500 ext. 8393 or by email at resort@realtors.org.
