In order to display the National Association of Realtors® trademark, agents must first agree and adhere to a strict Code of Ethics. Additionally, the more than one million members of the NAR® are dedicated to lifelong learning and professional development. One way that Realtors® set themselves apart from typical real estate agents is by earning a professional designation from the NAR®.
What is a SRES Designation?
There are few NAR® designations as specific as the SRES Designation. The Seniors Real Estate Specialist Designation indicates that a Realtor® is distinctively trained in meeting the residential needs of the 50+ community. This group includes one of the largest groups of home buyers and sellers; the Baby Boomers.
Realtors® working with an SRES Designation are part of a network that spans the 50 states and Canada, marketing to and assisting seniors through the home buying and selling process. Members have access to exclusive benefits to aid them in their work including:
Targeted Marketing Materials
Marketing Concepts for Attracting 50+ Aged Clients
Free Quarterly Newsletter
Access to Members-Only SRES Website
And Access to the SRES Member Database
SRES Designees are explicitly trained on how to approach aged clients. Their goal is to assist their clients with making life decisions about buying, selling, refinancing, relocating and real estate investing. The focus is on ethics and expert knowledge of the options available to the 50+ community.
What Does it Take to Earn an SRES Designation?
Professional Affiliations. SRES Designation applicants must either be members of the NAR® in good standing or a cooperating association. Members must also join the SRES Council as a member in good standing before applying for an SRES Designation.
Coursework. There is a two-day, required SRES course that can be taken either online or in a classroom. The online course costs $295, but classroom costs will vary depending on where and by whom it is administered.
Comprehensive Exam. Once the coursework is completed, SRES Designees must pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher.
How Does My Agent’s SRES Designation Help Me?
Seniors often need more than just real estate advice. Their needs often surpass standard real estate services. Working with a Realtor® with an SRES Designation as a 50+ buyer or seller gives you access to their in-depth knowledge of the situations faced by seniors. These Realtors are specifically trained to offer comprehensive assistance.
Whether looking for investment properties to supplement retirement income, downsizing to save more money or anything in between, these specialists have specific expertise for seniors. Learn more about how your Realtor’s® SRES Designation can help you. Simply contact me now.
