CRS study guide
CRS · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) Designation is a professional credential for residential real estate agents, administered by the Residential Real Estate Council (RRC). The RRC describes it as "the industry's most respected credential for residential real estate," earned by agents who are committed to doing the work and standing out in their market, and it positions the designation around three pillars: proven professionalism, advanced education, and a network that leads to real opportunity. The CRS study guide has 5 sections and about 1,660 words.
01Professional Standards and Ethics
Every licensee answers to state license law; only REALTORS® answer to the NAR Code of Ethics (17 Articles plus Standards of Practice). Know the Articles candidates stumble on: Article 1 (protect and promote the client's interests, with confidentiality that survives the transaction), Article 2 (no exaggeration, misrepresentation, or concealment of pertinent facts), Article 3 (cooperate with other brokers unless it harms the client), Article 9 (written agreements), Article 10 (equal opportunity), Article 11 (stay within your competence), Article 12 (truth in advertising), Article 15 (no false or misleading statements about competitors), Article 16 (don't interfere with another broker's exclusive agreement).
368 words, about 2 min02Listing and Buyer Representation
Know four structures and who gets paid. Exclusive right to sell: broker earns a fee no matter who procures the buyer, including the seller.
344 words, about 2 min03Pricing, Valuation, and Market Analysis
A CMA is a broker price opinion for marketing and pricing decisions; an appraisal is a licensed valuation for lending, governed by USPAP. Neither "proves" value - value is an opinion supported by evidence.
306 words, about 2 min04Contracts, Negotiation, and Transaction Management
Offer, acceptance, consideration, capacity, legality, and mutual assent - plus the Statute of Frauds requiring real estate contracts in writing. Electronic signatures are valid under ESIGN/UETA.
298 words, about 1 min05Business Development, Finance, and Technology
Start with a net-income goal, then work backward: net income = GCI − splits/desk/franchise fees − business expenses − taxes. GCI = sides × average commission.
344 words, about 2 min