RealTown's RealTalk

Is there anyone out there that has both the both the CRS and GRI designations that could give some insight to the pro's or cons of either? If you were to get just one which one would you get?

Hi Jeff,

I have been a CRS since 1996 and find it invaluable. I receive at least four to five (closed) referrals a year as a result. One tip I might offer is to be sure to pay the extra yearly fee for a little larger ad with a photo. When I send out referrals, I first look for a CRS. I feel that anyone who has devoted the time and expense to obtain the designation is probably one step above the competition. The courses are extremely good and well worth it!  I am going to begin taking GRI courses as soon as I complete my e-PRO final exam. You can never have too much education as far as I'm concerned! I hope this helps!

Linda Joyce, CRS
RE/MAX Elite
Albuquerque, NM

Hi,
  I've been a GRI for several years and just submitted my CRS application today. I enjoyed both and GRI can be used as some credit toward CRS. If I was forced to pick only one though, I would pick CRS. The courses cover everthing from business planning to how to take better photos.

I have both.. I felt the GRI was absolutely outstanding and that CRS is the cream of the REALTOR crop :))  GRI gave me invaluable information even after having been in the business over 7 years, and CRS has provided a definate referral source.  I won't refer to anyone that isn't a CRS now that I have been through the course and done the work.  

Personally, I think that the public knows very little about what either of these designations mean...they could really care less, but having them has added to my knowledge and power, which has equated to better service, less likelyhood of screwing up and overall knowledge of my profession.   When I am doing renewal hours I always will go to a GRI or CRS class over any others offered. 

The CRS has a pretty stiff production requirement which is why many take the GRI first and that gives a good foundation to meet the closed transactions required of a CRS.  The CRS instructors though are absolutely outstanding... if you can imagine a room full of REALTORS sitting on the edge of their seats for 2 days of class instruction you can imagine how captivating and rewarding it was.  Its a great way to network too, and if I had it to do over again I would check out taking classes in areas outside of my city.  I live in AZ.. so a good place to take a class would be where everyone is moving to AZ FROM...  referrals are the name of the game for a CRS...

Gloria

Chandler/Gilbert AZ

You need both!  You can pursue the designations simultaneously as your achedule and classes allow.  GRI provides a solid foundation. CRS offers the best national classes/teachers available (save maybe the CIPS teachers), and the network is vibrant.  Plan to attend Sellabration in San Fransisco, January 2009, and see for yourself.  Enjoy!

Diana Woods
Aloha Hawaii CRS - Big Island Area Vice President
Mauna Kea Realty
Hawaii

Rich Hudson
Director of PR/Marketing
InternetCrusade
(619) 283-7302 Ext. 602
Rich@InternetCrusade.com

Hi Jeff,

I agree with all of the postings. I would still take the GRI first due to production and the fact that you can use it as an elective for the CRS. If you can, take them both at the same time!

The CRS I took was at the PROACT session. It was the most productive and learning 6 day session I have had. To meet 600 agents and learn what they do in their part of the country along with the networking possibilities was also great!

The main thing about these designations IMHO is the education you get from the books and more importantly the other agents. It feels that you are getting years of experience coming at you from several directions. This allows me to take care of my clients more thoroughly and with much better representation. I wish more agents would take these courses!

Good Luck!!!

Sincerely,

Carlos A Cardo- USMC (RET) Associate Broker
REALTOR® ,CRS, GRI, ABR, CSP
SRES, CNHS, RCC, e-PRO Tel: 757-971-3574
FAX:757-282-6717
http://CarlosCardo.com
Tel: 757-971-3574 Toll Free: 866-971-3574

Fax: 757-282-6717

RE/MAX Alliance
Covering:
Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Suffolk,
Portsmouth, Hampton and Newport News
mailto:carlos@CarlosCardo.com

Hi Jeff:

I have both CRS & GRI Designations. While they both have merit, strictly from a business perspective, the CRS designation is more valuble. I receive between 3-5 referrals yearly which usually close and send out about the same amount which usually leads to a nice referral fee. Hope this helps.

Mike Baum, CRS, GRI
Broker - Associate
Century 21 Solid Gold Realty
Brick, NJ 08723