Why Sellers Should Hire a REALTOR®: Expertise That Goes Beyond the Basics

Selling a home is one of the most significant financial transactions most people will ever make, yet many homeowners don’t realize just how little education is required to become a licensed real estate agent. In Alaska, it takes only 40 hours of pre-licensing education to qualify for a real estate license. Compare that to the 1,650 hours required to become a licensed barber in the state or the 350 hours needed for an esthetician. That means if you’re choosing an agent based solely on their license, you may not be getting the expertise you deserve.

This is where working with a REALTOR® makes all the difference. Not all real estate agents are REALTORS®, and that distinction matters. A REALTOR® is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and is held to a strict Code of Ethics, requiring them to put their clients’ interests above their own. Beyond this, many REALTORS® pursue additional accreditations and designations to further their education, expand their knowledge, and provide better service to home sellers like you.

Why Accreditation Matters in Real Estate

Think of it this way: If you had a complicated tax situation, would you rather go to a general accountant or a CPA with specialized knowledge? The same principle applies to real estate. A REALTOR® who has pursued additional certifications has demonstrated a commitment to mastering the complexities of home sales.

Here are a few highly respected designations that signal an agent has gone the extra mile to serve sellers:

• Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) – A top-tier accreditation that signifies advanced expertise in residential real estate. Fewer than 3% of real estate agents nationwide hold this designation.
• Accredited Seller Representative (SRS) – Focuses on advanced negotiation strategies and marketing techniques specifically for home sellers.
• Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) – Designed for agents specializing in high-end properties, ensuring sellers get top-tier marketing and pricing strategies.
• Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) – A deeper dive into legal, regulatory, and marketing aspects of real estate that go beyond the basic licensing requirements.

Alaska’s Unique Market Requires Specialized Knowledge

Alaska’s real estate market presents challenges that a basic 40-hour licensing course simply doesn’t cover. Whether it’s understanding the impact of extreme weather on home values, navigating unique lending requirements for rural or off-grid properties, or effectively marketing waterfront and luxury homes, an experienced REALTOR® with advanced credentials is essential.

Additionally, the Alaska Real Estate Commission requires new licensees to complete an additional 30 hours of post-licensing education within their first year. However, beyond that, many agents don’t pursue further training—leaving them with only the bare minimum knowledge.

The Bottom Line: Experience and Education Protect Your Bottom Line

Hiring a REALTOR® with advanced accreditation isn’t just about prestige—it’s about results. Agents with additional certifications are often better at pricing homes accurately, negotiating effectively, and marketing properties to the right buyers. This translates into higher selling prices, fewer roadblocks, and a smoother overall experience.

When it comes to selling your home, don’t settle for just any licensed agent. Choose a REALTOR® with the experience, education, and ethics to ensure your sale is handled professionally. In an industry where the basic training requirements are shockingly low, working with someone who has pursued additional expertise is one of the best decisions a home seller can make.