Real Estate Designations and Certifications
The National Association of REALTORS® and its affiliated Institutes, Societies, and Councils provide a wide range of programs and services that help members increase their skills, proficiency, and knowledge. Designations and certifications acknowledging experience and expertise in various real estate sectors are awarded by NAR and each affiliated group upon completion of required courses.
Real estate designations and certifications through NAR are specialized credentials for REALTORS®. Both designations and certifications are forms of real estate agent education that require real estate professionals to be active members of NAR. The difference between the two is that a designation requires annual dues, but a certification only requires an application fee without annual dues.
Designation and Certification Guidelines and Promotional Materials for Associations
NAR Family Designations
Designations are specialized credentials for REALTORS®. Designations offer extensive benefits that are continually improved upon and expanded. For this reason, maintaining a designation requires annual dues and continued membership in NAR.
ABR® – Accredited Buyer’s Representative
Specializes in representing home buyers with advanced training and resources.
Learn more about ABR®
ALC – Accredited Land Consultant
Recognized experts in all segments of land brokerage with proven experience.
Learn more about ALC
CCIM – Certified Commercial Investment Member
Global standard for excellence in commercial investment and analysis.
Learn more about CCIM
CIPS – Certified International Property Specialist
Equips REALTORS® to work with international clients and expand globally.
Learn more about CIPS
CPM® – Certified Property Manager
Demonstrates expertise and integrity in real estate management.
Learn more about CPM®
CRB – Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager
Prepares brokers and managers to lead effectively and integrate new business strategies.
Learn more about CRB
CRS – Certified Residential Specialist
The highest credential for residential sales agents and brokers.
Learn more about CRS
CRE® – Counselor of Real Estate®
Exclusive recognition for elite professionals providing expert real estate advice.
Learn more about CRE®
GAA / RAA – Accredited Appraiser Designations
For general and residential appraisers whose education exceeds state standards.
Learn more about GAA/RAA
GREEN – NAR’s Green Designation
Focuses on energy efficiency, sustainability, and marketing green properties.
Learn more about GREEN
GRI – Graduate, REALTOR® Institute
Comprehensive training in legal, technology, professional standards, and sales.
Learn more about GRI
PMN – Performance Management Network
Develops leadership, networking, and personal performance skills.
Learn more about PMN
RCE – REALTOR® Association Certified Executive
For REALTOR® association executives demonstrating professional excellence.
Learn more about RCE
RAA – Residential Accredited Appraiser
Recognizes residential appraisers whose education and experience exceed state certification requirements.
Learn more about RAA
SRS – Seller Representative Specialist
The premier credential in seller representation and client advocacy.
Learn more about SRS
SIOR – Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS®
Recognized globally for top-performing commercial and industrial specialists.
Learn more about SIOR
SRES® – Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
Trains REALTORS® to meet the needs of clients aged 50+ in housing transitions.
Learn more about SRES®
NAR Family Certifications
Like designations, certifications are also specialized credentials for REALTORS®. Maintaining a certification requires only an application fee and continued membership in NAR, but no annual dues.
AHWD – At Home With Diversity®
Learn to work effectively within today’s diverse real estate market.
Learn more about AHWD
C-RETS – Certified Real Estate Team Specialist
Improves leadership, structure, and profitability for real estate teams.
Learn more about C-RETS
Digital Marketing: Social Media
Builds advanced skills in social media and online brand presence.
Learn more about this certification
e-PRO®
Master today’s digital marketing tools and client data protection.
Learn more about e-PRO®
HFR – Home Finance Resource
Teaches REALTORS® to confidently guide clients through mortgage options.
Learn more about HFR
Inside Sales Agent
Builds lead generation, client conversion, and communication skills.
Learn more about this certification
LHC – Luxury Homes Certification
Prepares agents for the luxury real estate market with advanced pricing and negotiation tactics.
Learn more about LHC
MRP – Military Relocation Professional
Helps REALTORS® serve current and former military clients with specialized knowledge.
Learn more about MRP
PSA – Pricing Strategy Advisor
Enhances expertise in pricing, CMAs, and working with appraisers.
Learn more about PSA
REI – Real Estate Investing
Equips REALTORS® to work confidently with property investors.
Learn more about REI
RENE – Real Estate Negotiation Expert
Sharpens negotiation strategies and client advocacy skills.
Learn more about RENE
RSPS – Resort & Second-Home Property Specialist
For REALTORS® working in vacation, investment, or resort markets.
Learn more about RSPS
SFR® – Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource
Trains REALTORS® to assist distressed sellers and manage short sales.
Learn more about SFR®
Smart Home Certification
Develops expertise in smart home technology, privacy, and marketing.
Learn more about this certification