The real estate market is constantly changing, so it is important to stay up-to-date on regulations and procedures. The best way to do this is through education. Failure to take continuing education could cause the loss of your license. Take seminars and classes on relevant topics that can help you grow professionally or personally to earn a designation or certificate or review an area in which you struggle. Locally, the Hampton Roads Realtors Association offers training each month, and each Council offers presentations on relevant topics.
A common concern is there is not enough time to take classes. As busy as we are, it is important to invest in yourself to remain successful. Numerous options are available for continuing education. Most schools and organizations offer webinars, online classes, self-study programs, and live classes, which are usually the most beneficial. Another option is to attend a professional conference in which you are interested. Most professional conferences offer continuing education. VAR’s Annual Convention is September 19 – 21, offering various continuing education seminars and keynote speakers. In November, NAR is hosting the REALTORS Conference & Expo in Orlando. Classes and programs are offered throughout this four-day conference. Also in November, VAR is hosting the Property Management Conference in Charlottesville. This conference has seminars and classes with 25 CE credits offered.
To remain a licensed professional, continuing education is necessary; however, it need not be a hindrance. Use education to your advantage. Learn a new process or review a topic you have not taken in a while, such as contract writing or escrow accounts. Although these are common items in every transaction, a class may point out areas completed incorrectly or left incomplete inadvertently. It is easy to develop a habit, whether good or bad; the bad habits need to be corrected.