I value my CRS designation and gladly pay the annual fee. I've made some excellent connections throughout the state and nationwide through CRS that have resulted in many referrals.  Whether it's CRS or another designation, the public may not know what it means but people in the industry do. What you get out of it ultimately also depends on what you put into it. 

when I was active, I referred to CRS members long before I selected a RE/MAX agent!!!  just saying....

No, dumped it. In fact, dumped all of them. You've got the designation, you've passed the course, why keep paying? It's not a club.

You don't have to keep paying for completed college courses do you?

I've never had any initialas or designations and have not seen it hurt my business

Hi Mimi - Mary has had her CRS designation forever, and keeps it current. We have received a good number of referrals over the years because of it, and use it as a referral source when we can't find anyone on AR. We'd say it's worth it.

Yes, I think it is, because of all the designations, this is the one that means the most and really sets you apart from other agents. The CRS agents that I know are the best in their fields and locations and I know that I will be getting someone with the experience and success that goes along with the designation.

Mimi Foster - I do not have many such designations - never tried it. I do believe it does help connect with other CRS members.

My CRS is my favorite designation as I do use many of the tools and check the roles first for referring clients out.

Yes I use their resources and the training is excellent. It is the money I don't begrudge at all. 

Mimi Foster it is all part of the many ways others profit off real estate agents. I am not a fan of any of the designations.  The one that served me wells was short sale and hafa. 

We have it, but not a big fan of recurring annual charges.  And the CRS Referral FB group kind of rubs me the wrong way with the mentality of ONLY referring to other CRS vs. finding the best agent match for a referral regardless of whether or not the agent is CRS.

I am not a member, I have a friend that use to get lots of clients from it she said.

I am sure the public does not care, but if you get enough training and networking in then it may be worth it.

I question it every year, too.  I eventually pay it, just 'cause I've thrown too much money at it, to lose it now.

I feel the same way - although I do like their classes - just have been too busy recently to take any! 

There are better uses for your money.

Hi Mimi... that is one designation I believe is worth having and "selling" to prospective clients. I get consistent referrals from other CRS's and look for a CRS when I refer.

I do not like to pay the dues.

No. I decided the designations that require annul payments are not worth the investment.

It used to mean something.  Not anymore.  Money making racket.  Don't waste your time.

Chat with the Next 100,000 citizens you meet and ask them if CRS to your name or website did ANYTHING for them?

Ask, "Do you know what CRS means?"

Ask, "Would you give preference to CRS or PDQ?"

If you find five indicating CRS meant squat to them, keep going.

Because habits are hard to break, simply make the next renewal check payable to Annette Lawrence. I will put the money to GOOD use.

Hi Mimi.  Not something that I care to pursue.

The only one I keep is GRI since it doesn't nickle and dime me. Never a CRS. Dropped CDPE.

I think it depends on the market you are in... one where there is an influx of people moving in and you would likely be receiving referrals.   I question the value of the CRS logo on your marketing material.  The general public doesn't know what it means.  

I did not have it for that very reason, you have to pay for years. I do not see any benefits. The only designation I renew that i need to pay annual fee: Green one. 

COMPLETELY AGREE WITH Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041 !!!

I was considering the CRS but when I found out the annuals were almost $200 I was out.

I too continue to renew this designation every year.  Over the years I have had lots of referrals, but recently, not as many directly associated with CRS.

I imagine you have to look at both the positive and not-so-positive aspects of membership.