I suppose when you talk about leadersship in any state association, it depends on your particular state and/or how involved you want to be. I've always been of the school of thought that if you're not happy with how things are going, get involved and help change it for the better.

Another income stream for the CRS folks.

We no longer pay state dues since the realignment. Before that I did it because the fee was small and I wanted my voice heard.

I'm new to CRS Dennis Swartz I'd defer to long time members like Jeff Dowler since I'm still exploring my membership and all the benefits, etc. My understanding is to have a local chapter for more state-focused info and resources since laws and customs vary state to state.

Bob Crane nailed this one!

Another way to empty your pocket into theirs

Dennis Swartz excellent answer from Nina Hollander ..

There is no separate State and National now - everyone who is a CRS is also a member of the state or regional CRS and no separate fees as in the past for a local Chapter. For me the value is the continuing education, some of which is free for members, an incredible network of people from around the country who are willing to share what works for them in their businesses, and an awesome referral network...but you have to participate by getting to know people, sharing (like we do here) and giving out referrals as well as positioning yourself for them. Participation on the local, state or national level is a terrific way to be more visible to the CRS commuity, and learn from others as well as developing your communication and leadership skills.

I'd be happy to talk further if you want, Dennis!

  Several have answered that the networking is valuable. 

    With respect, aren't there other ways to network without spending so much time and money to get and keep that designation?

Do we really need the designations?

Dennis there is no longer the same structure at the state level like there used to be for years.  Personally I find CRS connections & continual conversations to be extremely valuable on many levels. I give and receive referrals every year. We just had the CRS Sell-a-bration here in Phoenix and it was fantastic and a great networking opportunity as well.  I'm already booked for next years conference.

Presumably they advocate on our behalf, but I think it's mostly a bureaucracy. Also, there are far too many local associations, which drives up our costs as well since each has its own staff and other overhead costs.  Even the NAR is encouraging consolidation. 

I am not a CRS member but appreciate the responses provided by Nina Hollander and Debbie Reynolds.

any organization is as worthwhile as its members allow it to be....just like a real estate office....it's as good as its agents...

Dennis,

I am off the same opinion as Nina Hollander stated.  A

Honestly I don't even know if I am a member of my state chapter, I'd have to look.  I haven't been involved with CRS at all, but some here on AR are convincing me I should step it up to make the designation worth it and work for me. -Kasey

I do not have a connection to CRS however I know many members here in the Rain do.  Jeff Dowler comes to mind. 

We don't give to them in IL as part of the state dues, etc.

Dennis Swartz I am not a CRS, but I would think you get out of any organization what you put into it.

Good question.

I pay the state fee too, but have no use to meet with other CRSs in Denver.   Have never seen the point.

Looks like Jeff Dowler nailed this one!

Agreed.

Value is a matter of personal perspective. I would find other ways to spend my money.

Our state CRS does a great job!

Personally I find CRS a valuable networking group. I just attended a local luncheon where we had a respected local economist lecture on a forecast for Austin. I always like to hear him speak and I find their events very worth while. Only pay National dues and feel its definitely worth it.

Dennis, I totally agree!

I have earned a lot of designations over the years. CDPE, EIT, PE(other states), Black Belt ISO, etc... The ones that are important are graduate degrees. 

I was curious to read the comments about this. I guess it's a question of involvement and participation. 

Another abiity to do networking. If you do not network then I agree. Personally I network.

I'll let Jeff Dowler and Anna Banana Kruchten, probably our most senior CRS MEMBERS speak to that.  I feel like I do get more out of the national association than the state organization though, Dennis Swartz. 

We do not have CRS fees unless you are a member. 

I am not one, but know several members here are.

The cable, tax and other bills just piggy-back on with their miscellaneous fees making it expensive when it shouldn't be...Your point included too

CRS's were great years ago, not sure now.

I say to each their own Dennis Swartz  . I personally don't feel the need to have any initials behind my name but more power to those who do.

I do not like to pay the annual dues either. 

I don't like that you pay to take the courses and get the designation and keep paying to keep the designation.  Good thing college degrees don't work that way.  Hey, I think I just discovered a way to fund higher education... make graduates pay an annual fee to keep their degree valid.