Ever wonder what all the acronyms following a Realtor's Agents name indicates? They are designations which a Realtor has worked for to further his/her knowledge about marketing homes. These designations are an indication of each individual Realtor's dedication to their profession in both time and money. They do not however measure an individual's expertise in sales and marketing. Lin and Sharon both received their CBR (Certified Buyer Representative) designation in 1990. To achieve this REALTORS take a short course covering buyer representation, marketing as a buyer's rep and the accompanying responsibilities.

The designation REALTOR is common to all realty agents and hence is the most familiar to most people. A REALTOR designation means only that one has obtained a license to sell real estate, subscribes to the ethics of the profession and have attended an "orientation" at the local realtor's board. One designated as a REALTOR, could have two months experience or twenty years experience.

The designation BROKER is seldom seen, because it represents extended training and expertise which the average REALTOR does not possess. It encompasses an education process that covers most of the "acronym credentials" associated with Realty Professionals. A BROKER must have three years minimum active and full time experience selliing and marketing real estate under another BROKER,S guidance. The BROKER must also have passed college level courses in real estate law, management, investment programs, appraisal procedures, ethics, professional standards, finance etc. To obtain a broker's license, in addition to a sales rep licensure exam, one must satisfactorily pass a state and national examination .

Most agents pursue a BROKER'S license only if they wish to manage a firm, purchase or own a brokerage firm for themselves. Lin Howard has been a licensed BROKER since 1981 and Sharon obtained her BROKER'S license in 1994.

American Realty would like to remind you that when choosing a BROKER, don't settle for anything less than a real estate professional with the highest level of experience, expertise and commitment. Commitment, education and experience await you at American Realty. Buying, selling, or in need or professional property management we offer maximum representation to YOU.