How valuable do other Realtors find continuing education? I, for one, LOVE the education that these designations/certifications offer. While I do recognize we, as real estate professionals, get much of our education in the
trenches of real estate, I appreciate that "extra" effort it takes to achieve and pay for and maintain a designation.
Let me share a quick personal story:
Though I had achieved the CRS designation and taken the 204 class previously, I decided to take it again when it was offered in our area with a different instructor. The instructor was Chris Bird, formerly with the IRS. I LEARNED so much!!! I was actually able to save $$$ on my tax return because of what I learned in his class. My CPA had already prepared my taxes, but I called him, told him what I had learned, he researched it, and voila.. he redid our taxes and saved us lots of $$$.
Even though I had achieved my GRI in 2001, I took another class in 2005 which helped me learn so much about new technology, including the Tablet, specific website info, etc. from Joeann Fossland, instructor. Fabulous teacher and class. I also continue to get my continuing education in new and updated GRI classes.
In Arizona, the Arizona Association of Realtors acknowledge those Realtors who double their education hours plus 10 every two years and award the Masters of Real Estate (MRE) certification specific to Arizona. May I brag a little? I was the first/only one in the first year they offered that certification in my South East Valley Association. I have continued to maintain the required education hours since 2001 - my first year of earning the MRE. In 2007, I attended school and received my Broker's license.
My bottom line? All of these designations and/or certifications have been invaluable to me. When I refer out business, unless I know the individual personally, I look at the education accomplishments of the Realtors. Many of my leads come along because of all of those acronymns after my name. Buyers and sellers are curious, and ask me what they mean, and I receive more referrals because of the education. I've even thought about going back to college to get a degree - that's how much I love learning. I proudly share my designations; however, you will never see anything such as "top salesperson of the year", a "billion dollar salesperson", etc. I don't brag, but I am proud of the education that I have sought and earned.
I know that some feel these acronyms aren't all that important nor do people know what they mean. "I" know, and so do most Realtors. I am a HUGE fan of continuing education, and it has been of great benefit to me.
Recently I've taken classes in Short Sales, and today a class on our new FlexMLS. 
In my opinion, there is always a benefit to more education. It's always about learning and gaining knowledge.
For me, it's not about being smarter than someone else - it's about learning more and being more self-assured. You all KNOW what a fanatic I am about learning...I'm always sharing what I've learned HERE!!!
Mesa, Arizona Real Estate. Call me at: 480.216-3334 for information on purchasing or selling a home in Mesa, Arizona or surrounding towns. OR email me: Teri@TeriEllis.com. Feel free to visit one of my websites: HomesAzRE.com, MoveToMesaAz.com or MoveToSunnyAz.com. Or stop by my blogs at: MesaAzRealEstateVoice; or Phoenix Valley Real Estate Blog
Mesa, Arizona Real Estate. Call me at: 480.382-8711 for information on purchasing or selling a home in Mesa, Arizona or surrounding towns. OR email me: Teri@TeriEllis.com. Feel free to visit my website: HomesAzRE.com, or stop by my blogs at: MesaAzRealEstateVoice and AzLadyInRed!
