Agent Advice

REALTOR® Certifications in Canada

Published

3 months ago

June 10, 2024

REALTOR® Certifications in Canada

The real estate industry in Canada is a dynamic and competitive field that requires professionals well-versed in its many aspects.

If you’ve decided that the real estate market is where you’d like to be, you must equip yourself with the necessary skills and qualifications with one of the many Canadian REALTOR® certifications available.

Keep reading to learn about various REALTOR® certifications you can pursue, how to get them, and where, as well as information on the many opportunities they can present for a rewarding and profitable career.

Types of Real Estate Certifications in Canada

Becoming a REALTOR® in Canada offers a ton of career choices. Here are the different certifications you can pursue and the opportunities they will afford you.

Provincial Real Estate License

The foundation of real estate licensing in Canada is provincial licensing. Each province maintains its own regulatory body to oversee real estate professionals and set the continuing education and licensing requirements. For example:

In Ontario, it’s the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO)
In British Colombia, it’s the Real Estate Council of British Colombia (RECBC)
In Alberta, it’s the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA)

To become licensed real estate professionals, aspiring REALTORS® must complete the pre-licensing courses and pass the examinations specific to the province. This is a mandatory first step in preparing for additional certifications and career paths.

What is the REALTOR® Designation

The REALTOR® designation is the registered trademark of the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA).

Only licensed real estate professionals who are members of the CREA can use this designation, which signifies their commitment to professional standards and ethics.

As members of CREA REALTORS® have access to additional resources, tools, training, and professional opportunities.

While all REALTORS® are real estate agents, not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. Working with a REALTOR® assures consumers they are dealing with a professional who abides by the industry’s code of ethics.

Types of Real Estate Certifications in Canada

Broker Certification

A real estate professional with some experience can pursue broker certification. This qualification allows REALTORS® to own and operate their own brokerage or take on management roles within the field. Broker certification requirements vary between provinces but generally include:

Additional courses for continuing education and advancing skills
A minimum number of years as a licensed agent
Passing the real estate broker’s exam

Certified Real Estate Specialist (CRS)

The CRS is one of Canada’s most prestigious certifications for real estate professionals. It’s an internationally recognized certification that indicates expertise in residential real estate.

Agents who wish to obtain the CRS must complete advanced courses in listing, selling, and marketing real estate properties, demonstrate a high volume of transactions, and adhere to a strict code of ethics.

Designees of the CRS are afforded access to exclusive marketing tools, educational resources, and referral networks to help them grow their business.

Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®)

This designation focuses on providing agents with specialized knowledge for representing buyers during real estate transactions.

It shows a steadfast commitment to delivering a quality service. Home buyers working with an ABR designee can be confident the agent is working with their best interests at heart. The requirements include:

Completing a two-day course
Completing an elective course
Providing documentation for five completed transactions where the agent acted as a buyer’s representative

Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®)

This two-day course gives REALTORS® in-depth knowledge to help them better serve the real estate needs of seniors. The designation is of growing importance and value in an increasingly aging population with a growing client pool of people aged 50 and over. Requirements include:

Complete a two-day course covering the unique needs of older adults in real estate
Maintain membership in the SRES® council

Designees will have access to marketing tools and resources tailored to the 50+ real estate market.

Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)

The CCIM REALTOR® certification is a good option for agents seeking a commercial real estate career. This highly regarded certification signifies expertise in the field. The requirements for this designation include:

Complete a comprehensive curriculum covering financial analysis, market analysis, user decision analysis, and investment analysis
Pass a comprehensive exam
Demonstrate extensive experience in the commercial real estate field.

Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS)

Like most other industries, the real estate market has become increasingly global. The CIPS designation is valuable for agents working with international clients and properties. Requirements for earning this designation include:

Complete five full-day courses covering international real estate topics
Demonstrate experience in international real estate transactions

CIPS designees gain access to global networking opportunities and specialized international marketing tools.

GREEN Designation

More and more homebuyers are keen to invest in energy-efficient homes while pursuing a more sustainable lifestyle. Achieving the GREEN designation equips REALTORS® with the knowledge to provide the best service for these clients. Requirements include:

Completing courses on resource-efficient homes and building
Demonstrating knowledge of green building principles

The above certifications give REALTORS® the skills and knowledge to specialize in specific property markets. Each designation has unique advantages, including access to exclusive resources, marketing tools, and networking opportunities. They offer unique career paths for real estate agents searching for ways to stand out in a competitive market and better serve their clients’ unique needs.

Where to Obtain REALTOR® Certifications in Canada

REALTORS® have several options for obtaining certifications and designations to further their careers and enhance their expertise. Here are some of the organizations offering REALTOR® certifications.

Provincial Real Estate Association

REALTORS® will find many certifications and courses on offer here. For example, the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) and the British Columbia Real Estate Association offer development courses and certifications specific to their provinces.

Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA)

CREA is one of Canada’s largest real estate associations, with more than 150,000 members, including brokers, agents, and salespeople. Through its education platform, CREA’s Learning Hub,

launched in 2018, offers several designations and certifications. It provides members access to video tutorials, live webinars, professional development courses, and guides.

Real Estate Institute of Canada (REIC)

As a non-profit organization, the REIC maintains a standard of excellence in the retail estate landscape, upholding integrity and ethical conduct within the industry.

Members of REIC receive many valuable benefits, including:

A collaborative network to engage with fellow members, exchange industry insights and business opportunities, enhance professional standing, and connect with peers at regional and national gatherings.
Exclusive Facebook and LinkedIn communities.
Professional Accolades through the REICs annual Pursuit of Excellence Awards that recognize outstanding members, chapters, and organizations.
Leadership development through REIC committees, task forces, and working groups.
Develop industry alliances through REIC channels, including industry media and the REIC official website.

Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM)

REIC is the exclusive provider of IREM property management designations, which include:

Certified Property Manager (CPM®)
Accredited Residential Manager (ARM®)
Accredited Commercial Manager (ACoM®)

These are globally recognized designations that can significantly enhance a real estate professional’s standing in the industry.

National Association of REALTORS®

Although the NAR is based in the United States, its educational programs offer various internationally recognized designations that would be valuable additions to a Canadian REALTORS®’ portfolio, such as:

Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®)
Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®)
Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS)

More Certification Locations

Local real estate boards throughout Canada offer various courses and certifications specific to their regions.
Universities and colleges may offer real estate courses and certifications specific to their regions, providing credits toward certain designations. The courses can often give you a more comprehensive educational background in real estate principles and practices.
Online platforms offer many certifications to gain extra skills and qualifications while maintaining your regular work schedule.

Benefits for Certified REALTORS®

Getting certified can open many more doors for career advancement, including:

Increased Earning Potential

Gaining specialized knowledge and certifications often translates to higher earnings potential. For example, Certified Commercial Investment Members (CCIMs) are qualified to handle significantly larger transactions than when dealing with residential properties. More valuable transactions translate to higher commissions.

Niche Market Expertise

A REALTOR® can tap into previously unavailable real estate niches with the proper certification. For example, those with a GREEN Designation open themselves to a growing market segment concerned about living more sustainably. Senior Real Estate Specialists (SRES®) can tap into an expanding market segment expected to grow over the coming decades.

Career Advancement

The Canadian real estate market is a dynamic industry with many career progression opportunities. One such career in real estate is available through the Certified Property Management (CPM®) designation, which allows real estate agents to open a brokerage or accept management roles that improve their earning potential.

Networking Opportunities

Many REALTOR® certifications come with membership in professional organizations, delivering valuable networking opportunities.

For example, CCIM designees gain access to a global network of commercial real estate professionals. Additionally, Certified International Property Specialists (CIPS) can broaden their career horizons by connecting with international real estate professionals and the potential for cross-border transactions.

Enhanced Credibility

A certification is a testament to a real estate agent’s commitment to professional development and expertise and a market differentiator that helps them stand out. Clients tend to place greater trust in REALTORs® with recognized certifications.

More Adaptable to Market Trends

Realtors with certifications can take advantage of market trends and emerging opportunities. For example, the SRES and GREEN designations enable real estate agents to work within these growing segments.

Legal and Ethical Competence

Many certifications include training in legal and ethical aspects of real estate, which helps agents avoid legal pitfalls while maintaining ethical standards. Clients also have the confidence and peace of mind from working with a knowledgeable and trained professional.

Professional Development

Obtaining certifications enhances career satisfaction, with continuous learning keeping REALTORS® engaged and passionate about their careers.

Choosing the Right Certification Path

With so many options, it’s critical to consider which path will match your career goals. Keeping the following key factors in mind should help you make the right choice.

Consider your career goals: Where do you want your real estate career to take you in the long term? Do you love helping families with residential properties or prefer the lucrative commissions of commercial property transactions? Perhaps you enjoy a steadier paycheck, in which case property management could be the best path for you.

Consider your target market: The needs of your local real estate market are determined by the area’s demographics. For example, if you are in a location with a growing senior population, then the Seniors Real Estate Specialist designation would be a valuable addition to your skillset.

Know your strengths and consider your weaknesses: Identify areas where you excel and where you could improve and seek certifications that could enhance or strengthen these traits.

Research the reputation and recognition of a certification: Different certifications carry different weight within the industry. Consider how well-respected and recognized each certification is among your clients and colleagues.

Consider time and financial investment: The costs and time associated with each certification will significantly affect its value to your career.

Look at the curriculum and learning outcomes: Checking the learning outcomes will ensure that the certification will provide the knowledge and skills required to advance your career.

Start with the foundational certificates: Real estate agents new to the field would benefit most from starting with the most widely recognized designations, like Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®), before considering the more specialized designations.

Consider the real estate broker’s recommendations: Your brokerage may have preferred certifications or offer support for specific designations. Consult with your broker for experienced guidance.

Obtain certifications that complement each other: Look for designations that have synergy between others. For example, a GREEN designation and a luxury home certification could position you well in the high-end sustainable housing market.

Acquiring certifications requires time and effort. However, your investment could pay significant dividends by providing career advancements and opportunities to help you thrive in the Canadian real estate market. Assess your career goals and target market to ensure you make the best choice in gaining certifications to enhance your reputation and career prospects.

Agent Advice

REALTOR® Safety

Published

5 months ago

March 29, 2024

Cody Tritter

Safety First: Protecting Real Estate Agents in a Changing Landscape

A REALTORS® role means agents are regularly in close contact with the public, often meeting with total strangers. As a result, safety should be a top priority.

So, whether you are showing in busy inner-city apartments or houses in quiet rural areas, these safety tips will help create a positive and safe experience for you.

Resource Guides to Safety

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) provides a wealth of resources dedicated to the safety of real estate professionals. These tools are designed to help you

navigate potential risks with confidence and security. Explore the REALTOR® Safety Checklist for comprehensive safety strategies, and for even more insights, visit NAR’s main safety page.

Pre-Screen, The Client

Before you meet with the client, gather essential information about them. Ask for names and contact details like phone numbers and emails. This information will help you stay organized and give you an overall sense of the person as you converse.

If red flags come up with a client, don’t hesitate to ask them why they need your services and gauge their

behavior while they provide you with personal information. Do they seem guarded or hesitant? Are they resistant to the idea of meeting at your office first rather than heading straight to the property? These traits could be a clue about how future interactions might go.

Do a quick Google search using their name with added keywords like “felony” and even “arrest.” It’s surprising how much of this information is held in public records. Remember, you are not judging but are simply being cautious about your safety.

Social media can provide many clues about your new clients, so review their online profiles before setting up a meeting. How they interact online can give you valuable insights into their background and the type of personality you will be dealing with.

Don’t be afraid to jump on a video call with them, part of our initial contact with clients often involves sending a Loom to them, this makes the clients comfortable and allows us to build value while putting a face and proper cadence and tone to the messaging.

When setting up your first meeting, always suggest meeting at your office or during the day in a trusted public space before heading to the property. It’s the safest option and allows you to review essential information. This first meeting will also provide an opportunity to gauge their seriousness about purchasing or selling a property.

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut instinct and take further precautions.

Essential Safety Tips for Real Estate Professionals

Schedule Daytime Showings

Maximize safety with daytime showings to leverage the visibility and community presence. Introducing yourself to neighbors not only builds a network but ensures locals are aware of your presence, adding an extra layer of security. Remember, a refusal for daytime showings without a solid reason might be a red flag, warranting additional client verification steps.

Advertise Smartly

Refrain from labeling properties as “vacant” in listings. Use neutral language that focuses on property

features without disclosing occupancy status. This practice reduces risks associated with vacant property showings and attracts genuine interest.

Parking Strategy

Choose well-lit, visible parking spots and prefer street parking to avoid being blocked in. This not only ensures your vehicle is accessible for a quick departure if necessary but also maintains proximity to potential help.

Share Your Schedule

Sharing your schedule with trusted contacts is crucial. Use digital tools like Google Calendar for real-time updates to your team, family, or friends, ensuring someone always knows your location and appointments.

Trust Your Instincts

Never underestimate the power of intuition. If something feels off about a showing or client interaction, consider postponing or bringing an associate. Listening to your gut can prevent compromising situations.

**Proactive Safety Procedures Adopted by REALTORS® in 2023**
Procedure	Percentage
Meetings at Office/Neutral Location	65%
Implementation of Personal Safety Protocols	71%
Participation in Self-Defense Classes	38%

Rural Showings Require Extra Caution

The isolation of rural properties necessitates additional safety measures. Consider employing a safety app, ensuring mobile service is reliable, and, if possible, conducting showings with a colleague.

Don’t Park on the Driveway

Park your car on the street in a highly visible and well-lit area. Parking on the driveway may give someone with malicious intent the means to block off your fastest escape route.

Independence in Transit

Encourage clients to follow in their own vehicles to showings. This approach not only safeguards personal boundaries but also mitigates risks associated with transporting clients.

Driving Distractions

Keep your focus on the road; avoid texting or calling while driving. If you must take a call or respond to a message, pull over in a safe location first.

Ask Clients to Verify Identities

After pre-screening a client for an open house, asking for verification of their identity can enhance your safety. Someone with malicious intent may balk at this requirement and there’s a good chance they will back out of the meeting.

Stay Vigilant

Walk behind the client and only step into a room after them, to ensure you always have an escape route available. You should only show homes during the day, but this doesn’t mean you should let your guard down.

The majority of attacks on REALTORS® occur during daylight. Men and women REALTORS® are equally at risk, and the fact that many criminals have cars means that even a home showing in a well-to-do neighborhood can put you at risk if you ignore other safety protocols.

Research and Know Your Property

Whether you’re hosting an open house, or you’re showing homes, it’s important to know the property before you show it. Check out the exits, nearby amenities, and establishments. Are there any dangerous elements, such as uneven flooring, damaged stairways, or electrical hazards?

Unlock back doors and other potential exits and ensure they are in good working order. The property may also have security features you can use to your advantage, such as functioning alarm systems, CCTV, or deadbolts.

Always arrive with enough time to inspect the environment before the client arrives. If a client is already waiting, it could simply be an eager client, but it could also be a red flag.

Limit The Personal Details You Give Out

A REALTORS® job is to be personable and approachable, but this should not come at the expense of your safety. Try to keep your personal details, life, and schedule out of engagements with sellers and buyers.

Use a Google Voice phone number and a professional email address. Keep your social media profiles set to private or friends only, and never give out your home address or share personal photos with potential clients when booking a showing.

2023 NAR Member Reported Situations That Caused Fear for Personal Safety (2023)
Situation	Percentage
Threatening/Inappropriate Communication	29%
During a Showing	26%

Take Advantage of Technology

According to a recent NAR® study

Flashy jewelry can make you more of a target. Replace expensive jewelry with accessories that can help in dangerous situations. An Apple, Samsung, or Fitbit watch can send out your GPS location in an emergency.

Apps are also available that can significantly enhance your safety when showing a property. For example, with the Life360 app, you can create a trusted inner circle to share your current and recent locations and receive alerts when a client arrives or leaves an area.

One-tap location alerts allow you to quickly notify your group should you ever feel threatened or unsafe. Check out this list from the National Association of REALTORS® for more apps that can help real estate agent safety.

Kinetic Global: Advanced Personal Security Technology for Real Estate Professionals

Kinetic Global (formerly LifeLine Response) offers the most advanced personal security technology available today. In emergency situations, traditional 9-1-1 services may not reliably track your location. Kinetic Global uses GPS and cell tower triangulation to provide emergency responders with your exact location, ensuring fast and accurate assistance.

This technology is available to real estate professionals through participating organizations, such as real estate boards that prioritize the safety of their members. If your organization has partnered with Kinetic Global, download the app and start with your organization email address.

For more information on Kinetic Global and how it can enhance your personal safety, visit Kinetic Global’s website.

Available for iOS with a minimum requirement of iOS 10x. Note: Continuous use of GPS can decrease battery life.

The REALTOR® Safety Show: A Podcast Dedicated to Keeping Real Estate Professionals Safe

Developed by REALTOR®, Rob & Beth Andress, the REALTOR® Safety Show is a unique podcast aimed at educating REALTORS® on how to stay safe in their profession. Drawing on Rob’s 38 years of experience in real estate and his work with victims of violence, this podcast is an essential resource for all real estate professionals.

Listen to the REALTOR® Safety Show On Spotify for tips and strategies on safety. It could save your life and is a valuable resource for those interested in personal safety.

Know Your Options with Self-Defence

Even though you can’t carry a loaded firearm, you still have several self-defense options. Many REALTORS® carry pepper spray or mace to ward off attacks should an open house go bad. Tasers, pocket knives, and noisemakers are other options.

Keep in mind that pepper spray and mace are two very different products. While pepper spray will be effective against those under the influence of drugs, mace, which is tear gas, will not deter them.

NAR REALTOR® SAFETY SURVEY & REPORT

One of the many resources provided in the Safety Program is NAR’s annual REALTOR® Safety Survey and Report. The Report is an excellent source of information regarding safety protocols, risks, and updated safety trends.

23% of Realtors® reported experiencing a situation that made them fear for their personal safety or safety of their personal information.
Residential Realtors® most often reported feeling unsafe after receiving a threatening or inappropriate email, text message, phone call, or voicemail (33%) or during a showing (27%). Industry experts advise taking any threat of any kind seriously and report it to your broker and the local police.
Of those who reported being a victim of a crime while working as a real estate professional, 30% of those crimes were likely to be encountered after receiving a threatening or inappropriate email, text message, phone call, or voicemail.
34% of residential Realtors® said that they had met a new or prospective client alone at a secluded location or property.
18% of residential Realtors® felt unsafe while hosting an open house alone.
43% of residential Realtors® have shown vacant properties in areas with poor or no phone coverage.
51% of residential members choose to carry self-defense weapons.

Final Words

Fortunately, most of the people you will meet in your career will be friendly or at least mean you no harm. However, when faced with many unknown variables, prioritizing your safety as a real estate agent is paramount.

It’s impossible to eliminate every threat, but a proactive approach will significantly reduce the chance of putting yourself in a dangerous situation. Stay vigilant, adopt some of the tools discussed above, and plan ahead to minimize your risk during property showings.