If you own a company in the real estate industry, you would do well to partner with real estate agent and broker organizations to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from across company divisions, but all share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.

Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, real estate agent associations may provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a real estate agent organization, remember the following:

1. Make sure the real estate agent association that you're interested in is credible. Check BBB or other industry accreditations.

2. Many organizations don’t stipulate membership for certification

3. Most organizations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a member of an accredited independent real estate brokers association

Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional service, product and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: The Organization of Real Estate Professionals offers benefits that include product discounts, health insurance and access to SiteXdata. Council of Real Estate Brokerage Managers provides educational resources to their members, as well as a knowledge center and chapter networking opportunities.

Take advantage of certification opportunities provided by real estate agent organizations

Progress stops for no one, and you need to advance as a professional by keeping your industry skills sharp and current. Take advantage of educational programs and tools to assist you and your employees in knowledge development and career advancement. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, conferences, business development courses and other industry-related programs, in addition to industry certifications.

I recommend: Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council offers a number of courses for real estate professionals. The Institute of Real Estate Management offers plenty of educational opportunities, including convenient online courses.

Join real estate broker associations that offer a full schedule of events and conferences

Events and conferences are a boon to any business. They give you an opportunity to network and share issues with industry peers. More importantly, they give your company exposure within the industry and provide you an opportunity to further your relationships with other businesses. Try and pick organizations with nationally-recognized events.

I recommend: The National Association of Realtors provides a calendar of events for your networking needs. The Commercial Brokers Association lists training and networking events.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're considering real estate professional organizations for their online resources, look for current forums where you can discuss issues with industry experts in real time.