Are you familiar with the CCIM designation? Certified Commercial Investment Member, some describe it as the PhD of commercial real estate and I couldn't agree more. The CCIM lapel pin denotes that the wearer has completed advanced coursework in financial and market analysis, and demonstrated extensive experience in the commercial real estate industry. CCIM designees are recognized as leading experts in commercial investment real estate.
My business partner embarked on his CCIM educational journey in the early 1990's and received his designation. Frankly when you see someone with the CCIM designation on their signature line it does add to a certain level of confidence in their abilities. Commercial real estate is a competitive industry and for the most part it's a career that we embark on with the professional understanding that this is a marathon and not a race. Our colleagues with their CCIM are well trained for this marathon.
Many industries require continuing education for licensing and real estate is no different. The CCIM designation meets some of the continuing ed requirements so it serves a dual purpose. And not only commercial real estate agents can earn the degree: it is also held by professionals is complimenting industries that include:
- Investment counselors
- Asset managers
- Appraisers
- Corporate real estate executives
- Property managers
- Developers
- Institutional investors
- Commercial lenders
- Attorneys
- Bankers
- Other allied professionals
So now it is a resource for networking with others that provide services that we need to get the deals done!
My encouragement...look into your local CCIM Chapter and attend an event. Then consider joining the chapter while you take the courses to become a designee because honestly this takes TIME! There are 4, week long courses that are required, several smaller electives as well as the time to produce your portfolio. There are tests you will take after each course and then the grand daddy test of them all that is offered 2 times a year. It's a process and a commitment but the learning, connections and other benefits are worth it.
