CRS has always been a significant designation, because of its history and the commitment of its members. The experience requirement for the designation is critical to its value - designations where you only have to attend a two day course or an online course just don't represent the degree of experience that a CRS has.

Most of us will always refer first to someone we know. When I don't know someone in an area, the first criteria for me is a CRS. Following that, I'll see what other designations we have in common - CLHMS, CIPS, ABR etc. Then I'll check their website. No website? No e-mail? Then from me, no referral. After determining the top 1 or 2 candidates, I'll make a phone call and talk to the CRS agent - is their style compatible with my clients? Do they serve the price range and geographic area that my client needs?

Will I refer to someone just because they have a CRS? No, of course not. But it is the first thing I look for.

P.S. - when you take a CRS class, don't take it locally. Ideally, go to an area that has the most people moving to your area. But go somewhere else. You'll get more ideas than from your local market, and you'll certainly meet more potential referrors.