Are designations worth it?

[David Nacco]

Are real estate designations worth the time and money? I am currently in the military in the Norfolk, VA area and I'm getting my real estate license. I was thinking about getting the military relocation specialist designation and starting off by targeting my marketing and networking towards veterans and active duty/reservists while building up my business because I think I have an advantage in that area already. I eventually plan to branch out but I think that would be a good way for me to jump start the business. Is getting the actual designation worth it and have you guys found clients find you to be more of an expert or more likely to choose one who has a designation that relates to them over an agent who does not?

[Patti Robertson]

I personally don't think anyone pays attention to the designations other than the organizations offering them.  That said, the knowledge you will receive by going through the process of getting a designation can be invaluable. Don't do it if all you care about is the letters behind your name.  If the work needed to complete the designation is going to give you more tools for you tool box and will make you more money, it makes sense to do it. Just my two cents.