Taking the Seniors Real Estate Specialist class now sponsored by The Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® was one of the best classes I have taken.

The designation, which certifies that a practitioner is proficient in serving clients aged 50 and older, has surged in popularity in recent years, say Gary Thomas, chairman of the board of SAREC.

"Older home buyers have special financial and lifestyle needs," says NAR President Thomas M. Stevens. "The SRES designation indicates advanced education and commitment to this population. With the oldest of the baby boomers turning 60 this year, and given the importance of the emerging senior market nationwide, the number of REALTORS® earning this designation is likely to increase dramatically over the next few years."

The SRES designation was developed by the Senior Advantage Real Estate Council, which was created in 1997 to focus on the needs of home buyers and sellers aged 50 and over.

To earn the SRES designation, you must complete a two-day course covering issues such as specialized housing options and asset protection. You can then carry the designation on a provisional basis for as long as one year, and must execute three senior property transactions during that time.

- REALTOR® Magazine Online

Reasons To Earn Your SRES®

More the than 50% of my listings and sales right now belong to the senior community. These folks are very fragile and this is a very emotional experience for them. They usually are scaling way back in size and Stuff to make life easier for themselves and their loved ones. With this move also comes reality. The reality that there may not be much time left. Certainly not the time they usually want or hoped for. Many of the seniors wonder where the time went and want to make the best of their retirement. They need extra TLC - I enjoy this part of my real estate consultanting so much - it is very rewarding and lasting friendships are made.