OK all you wise ActiveRain folks, I could really use your honest opinions here... I have been seriously thinking about getting a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation.  I have been thinking about this for some time and I wonder if it would be worth the extra cost.  I am never against additional education, but I do tire of repetition of course work.

With the populace of the US growing older these babyboomers need to sell their 2 story larger homes and many are looking to downsize in homes, one story has become the favored around these parts.  So tell me ARlanders.. what say you? Do you have additional designations and do you find they bring home more dollars per year? Would you do it again if you know now what you didn't know then?

I don't think the 15 hours of classroom time is very much for the SRES designation, actually the $300 isn't too much money either, then why am I procrastinating?  I guess I just want affirmation that it is a good choice. 

 Here in Texas we have to have about 270 hours of classroom education to get a license, currently, plus of course keep up with Ethics and Legal classes to keep our NAR designation as a Realtor. 

 

South Austin Real Estate

 
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10 Comments on Is the Senior Real Estate Specialist for me?

DEC
01
2008
231,708 Points 13 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Wow, lots of training there in Texas!  I think it depends on what you are going to do to market these people.  I don't have any designations and do just fine.  My reason for not having them is because I don't have the time, even in this market things are busy!  Designations in and of themselves will not necesarily bring you business.  It is what you do to go out and get that business...
3:01pm • #1

I would not spend 30 cents or 30 minutes to get that designation.  Dealing with seniors is much easier than dealing with anyone else.  Patience, understanding and respect is all you need.  You can send me a check for $300. 
3:18pm • #2
586,544 Points 4 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Gail,

I think it is a worthwhile designation.  I plan to attend the class, it is not taught that often in the Dallas area.
4:01pm • #3
653,131 Points 3 Featured Posts Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Gail,

I was wondering the same thing as you...  Is the class worth the time and money..

Ann
6:03pm • #4

Gail,

I am a broker in Dallas and on the board of the NAR for the SRES designation. I would suggest everyone who is interested in working in the Seniors market obtain the designation. Since the NAR now owns the designation it has been updated and improved temendously since it began.

You will benefit for sure.

Armand Christopher

 
Armand
6:29pm • #5
512,629 Points 1 Featured Post Outside Blog Called Shot Master

Hi Gail, I have noticed more people getting this designation lately and I plan on getting it, too.  It's a good idea.
7:34pm • #6
306,759 Points 23 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor

Hi Gail,   I think it would be a wise investment for you not only for the knowledge but for the marketing advantage as well.
11:29pm • #7
DEC
02
2008
561,347 Points 18 Featured Posts Outside Blog Attended Rain Camp Called Shot Master

I've thought about it.  But this year I decided on the ABR, Accredited Buyers Representative, designation which I highly recommend!

Laura G
7:01am • #8
263,465 Points 8 Featured Posts Outside Blog

Thanks for the comments to all... overall the designation is deemed to be worthy it seems, I have marked my calendar and I will let ya'll know how it goes.  The class is not scheduled here til March so I have some time to decide for sure.
7:22am • #9
135,448 Points 4 Featured Posts Outside Blog

I have taken the class but it has been a few years ago.  It really helps you 'think' about the needs of older or retired buyers.  Your clients will be better served by it.
8:25am • #10

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