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Designation - Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI)

By
Real Estate Agent with Robert Defalco Realty
I have been thinking for some time about going for the designation of GRI.  I was wondering for those of you who have it if you found it to be beneficial.  I know, any continuing education is always good for your business - you can never learn too much and knowledge is power.  Also, there is the Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) and the CIPS Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS).  If anyone who has any of these designations can you give me some feedback on them I would appreciate it because I am trying to decide which one to take that I will get the most from right now. Thanks.  Feedback appreciated.
Kate Elim
Dockside Realty - Spotsylvania, VA
Realtor 540-226-1964, Selling Homes & Land a

Gaye...The first year I was in real estate (August 1986) I began taking courses for my GRI designation.  I took the courses one right after the other and was very, very pleased with the amount of teaching and work were involved.  It is not a one day designation.  I would definitely recommend you consider the GRI before the others.

I'll be curious to know what you decide.  Best wishes either way.

Cheers,

Kathleen

Jan 25, 2008 01:21 PM
Gaye Granice
Robert Defalco Realty - Staten Island, NY
Associate Broker
Kathleen,  Thank you for the response.  GRI will be my first - I'm just trying to coordinate because in New York You have to go to a lot of different places for the different courses.
Jan 25, 2008 01:25 PM
David Patterson
Columbia, SC
ibdp3

Gaye:

On recommendations from several long-time agents, I did not spend my time AND MONEY on the GRI designation. Hence....

Within ten months after receiving my license, I obtained my ABR Designation. This really has helped me become an expert in Buyer Representation. Within 10 months after getting my ABR designation, I received my CRS designation.

By going through the CRS training, I was able to gain more confidence with being in front of homeowners. Also....it has given me a competitive advantage and a point of distinction.

It is not a matter of if I'm getting the listing.....It's whether I want the listing.

The CRS classes helped me with looking at my real estate career AS A BUSINESS! Things such as....."Knowing Your Numbers" and how to meet client needs are really important. You don't get that in a licensing or continuing education class.

There are other designations that are probably good to obtain (e-Pro is a must). Do you research and ask other designees.

Much Success to You in 2008!

Jan 25, 2008 01:44 PM
Judy Tuscano
Prudential Verani Realty - Nottingham, NH
NH Real Estate Professional
Gaye, I have my ABR and think it was well worth the time spent. The only thing is that each year there is another annuall dues to pay to hold on to the designation. I'm not sure about the expense of GRI or CRS as I do not have them. Whatever you decide, education is a good choice.
Jan 26, 2008 01:00 PM
Kate Elim
Dockside Realty - Spotsylvania, VA
Realtor 540-226-1964, Selling Homes & Land a

Gaye...Aside from the terrific classes offered for the GRI, it is a one time cost.  Once you earn your designation it is yours for keeps.  No annual fee to retain what you have already earned. 

That is the problem with, among others, ABR and SRES both of which I've earned.  I'm taking the e-Pro now (at least I signed up and paid for the course).

I'm sure the CRS is very worthwhile also. So are brokerage classes which I have and will continue to take although I may never take the licensing exam as I do not want to be a Broker.

Enjoy whatever you do.

Cheers,

Kathleen

Jan 26, 2008 01:17 PM