When agents are wondering why Homesale Realty is the best choice for them, one thing they think about is their ability to advance their careers. Let's face it: No one wants to wander a maze of confusion if you can move toward a fulfilling career faster. The question is how to do it while remaining true to your values.

One of the most common ways agents try to accelerate their careers is by seeking out new agent designations. Designations are a set of common and respected credentials for real estate agents. These help people choose the right agent for them by specifying the skills and abilities a real estate pro has invested extra time and effort in. Several of the designations require upwards of 50 hours of continuing education and carry other expectations that vary by state.

Some of the top designations include:

• Graduate of the Realtor Institute (GRI)
• Licensed Real Estate Broker (LREB)
• Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR)
• Seller Representative Specialist (SRS)
• Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR)
• Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE)

There are also certifications and continuing education classes you can seek from credible universities—both online and off. While these are valuable training in their own right, most of them can be applied toward the designations listed above.

Why are designations valuable for agents of all experience and skill levels?

1. They Expand Your Real Estate Skills
   First and foremost, a designation will extend your skills and knowledge into new areas. This is a crucial aspect of making sure your business continues to grow. You will be able to appeal to a broader segment of clients and to provide even better results for those you do take on. Plus, you'll have new ideas that will keep your mind sharp. Stay on the lookout for opportunities!
   
   
2. They Provide Great Marketing Tools
   No matter where you are, odds are good there are dozens or even hundreds of other real estate agents in your area. Think of the confusion this creates when someone just needs help buying or selling a home! When you pursue designations, you give those prospective clients insight into what makes you the best fit to help them. They essentially help you market your personal brand.
   
   
3. They Teach You About Your Brand
   Who is your ideal client and how do you want to help them? Many people go into real estate not quite knowing the answers. The more you hone your understanding of these key points, the better you'll be at finding and appealing to the right clients for you. That means greater career satisfaction and, very often, more revenue each year. It really is worthwhile.
   
   
4. They Give You the Tools to Teach
   It's often been said that you don't really know a subject unless you can explain it someone else. When you complete designations, you'll have a wider wealth of experience to share with others. This is key in two ways: Educating your clients about their options and mentoring others in the industry. Knowledge-sharing is one of the core ways real estate agents get ahead.

When you surround yourself with experienced real estate mentors, you can defer to their expertise about which designations you should pursue. You'll also be able to select the ones that make the biggest difference for you. All in all, that means more time focused on what matters to your career and clients.

We can help you build the real estate practice you have been dreaming of. Contact BHHS Homesale Realty to find out more today. We look forward to meeting you soon.