google designations

Recently I read a blog post from one of our fellow active rain members who was asking for views on value - or lack of value - of designations.  He went on to ask if anyone has actually gained a client because of a designation. Today I have a testimpny I'd like to share. I do have the CRS,GRI,ABR designations I've earned over the years. I'm not bragging. For me, it was simply a personal and professional decision to enhance my knowledge as a real estate professional and add value for my clients.

On with my testimony...

This past Monday I received an email requesting a comparative market analysis for a home located in Pflugerville - my hometown city. The request was sent via my website button link "Your Home's Value" . Clicking on that link takes one to a form page that asks for general information on the subject property. The person requesting the home value provided a phone number so, of course, I made immediate contact. Come to find out the couple are relocating, already working out of town and ready to sell now.

As conversation went on, and I scheduled my home preview appointment, I asked the Mrs. who I could thank for referring me. Her response to me went like this... "My aunt is a Realtor and has GRI, CRS designations, so I got on the internet and googled Pflugerville Realtor and included the three letter designations. Your website came up on the search. I went to it and was impressed enough with what I read so contacted you."   Talk about the power of SEO!

Over the years, I've had the privilege of working with many buyers and sellers who connected with me in in many ways - referrals, my website, marketing, networking, and yes - Localism and blogging on activerain. I don't know how many of those clients may have connected with me because of the designations that follow my name, but I do know that more than ever before, buyers and sellers are making informed decisions on selecting their Realtor.

I am pleased to say that today I put my sign in the yard, lockbox on the door and listed the home in MLS with the sellers who found me by my CRS,GRI,ABR.

 

 
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9 Comments on Here's My Testimony On The Value of Designations

MAR
03
2010
305,993 Points 4 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp

Karen, I've always thought the designations are important because they show your dedication to futher education.  And your story is proof of the value!  Thanks for sharing.
10:58am • #1
345,857 Points 1 Featured Post

Hi Karen.  That's an interesting story.  If only it were so easy on a regular basis. 

Aloha & best wishes
10:59am • #2
Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

I'm still new to real estate (less than 2 years) and in that time I've learned one thing about this business.  You can never learn too much.  My dad, a long-time educator, used to say, "The day you stop learning is the day you die."  Of couse, he didn't mean that 'literally,' but the point is well taken.  Being well educated as a Realtor requires more than designations -- one learns by doing -- but I sincerely believe there is a direct corelation between learning and earning.
11:10am • #3
1,100,750 Points 52 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

I think education is great..that's why we are in here. But when you see twenty seven designations...hmm. They are not all created equal.
1:40pm • #4

Hi Susan - You are right...continued education is most certainly worth the investment of time.  

Hi Richard - LOL.  If that were the case, I think we'd have a country full of designated Realtors.

Hi Wanda - You dad said it right.  Thanks for taking the time to comment.

Hi Andrew -  I couldn't imagine trying to put 27 designations on my business card! And I agree, they are not all created equal but I do believe most have some value that we can apply in our professions.  Thanks for taking the time to comment.
7:39pm • #5
337,460 Points 9 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

Hi Karen ~ I've always loved taking classes and never have to scramble to meet my CE requirements. I got my CRS early on and it's been a steady source of referral business.   But having the customer do the search themselves - no referral fee - now that's pretty nifty!!

Liz
8:38pm • #6

Hi Liz,  There are such a slew of great classes out there too.  I've even been tuning in to a few live webinar classes lately.  Thanks for your comments.
11:18pm • #7
MAR
08
2010
Localism Sponsor Hit Router

Hi Karen,

  Great post!  I think designations help you in learning out to be a better Realtor and boost your confidence.  I would reccommend all new and veteran Realtors to pursue them.
7:37am • #8
113,561 Points Localism Sponsor

That is so cool.  I have yet to get an actual client call me because of designations - at least now I know there is some hope!  LOL

It's all good though - I wouldn't trade mine for anything.  :-)
4:07pm • #9


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Karen Staha, CRS,GRI,ABR REALTOR - Austin & Surrounding Areas Texas

Round Rock, TX

More about me…

Gaston & Sheehan Realty

Address: 1420 Hwy 685, Pflugerville, TX, 78660

Office Phone: (512) 217-2435

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