In a transformative step forward for the Nigerian real estate sector, a conglomerate of real estate investors and professionals has launched the Certified Real Estate Consultant (CREC) designation for real estate agents in Nigeria. With technological innovation, this program aims to empower Nigerian realtors with advanced skills, knowledge, and credentials to excel in today’s dynamic and competitive real estate market. The CREC designation provides real estate agents and professionals in Nigeria with their own professional designation, akin to how finance professionals have the CFA and project management professionals have the PMP.
Mr. Aaron Olajide, LLB, MBA, the Executive Director of the Advanced Professional Development Institute (APDI), the driving force behind the CREC designation, illuminated the program’s inception. “Available at apdi.global, the decision to create the CREC designation stemmed from a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing real estate professionals in Nigeria. We recognized the need for a comprehensive certification program that not only enhances the skill set of realtors but also provides them with the validation and recognition they deserve in the eyes of clients and peers.”
For many real estate clients, the difficulty lies in discerning the competence of a real estate consultant. The absence of a standardized measure of qualification often leaves clients vulnerable to misrepresentation and fraud. Unfortunately, the industry has seen its share of clients who have suffered financial losses or have been defrauded due to dealings with fraudulent or incompetent consultants. These experiences undermine trust and can deter potential investors from engaging in the real estate market.
The CREC program is designed to equip real estate professionals with a diverse range of skills, including market analysis, negotiation tactics, client management, and legal knowledge. By completing the program and earning the CREC designation, realtors demonstrate their commitment to excellence and their readiness to provide unparalleled service to their clients. This designation serves as a beacon of trust and expertise, offering clients the much-needed comfort that they are dealing with a consultant who truly ‘knows their onions.’
Realtors who have participated in the CREC program have been quick to praise its effectiveness and value in their careers. Tolu, a seasoned real estate consultant, shared his testimony: “The CREC designation, which I now add to my name, has truly transformed the way I approach my work. The knowledge and insights I gained have allowed me to better serve my clients and achieve greater success in the market.” Similarly, Chioma, another participant in the program, emphasized the impact of earning the CREC designation: “Obtaining the CREC designation has not only enhanced my professional credibility but has also opened doors to new opportunities and expanded my network within the industry. It’s been a game-changer for my career.”
The CREC designation represents a significant milestone in the professional development of Nigerian realtors. By earning this designation, real estate professionals can distinguish themselves as trusted advisors and leaders in the field. Furthermore, the CREC program provides realtors with the skills, knowledge, and validation needed to thrive in today’s competitive real estate market.
Mr. Segun Akolade, MBA, the Managing Director of APDI shed more light on the technology powering the program: “We used cutting-edge technologies to deploy the CREC program. This ensures that real estate agents have a seamless experience when obtaining the designation from apdi.global. We are very proud and happy with this innovation.”
In essence, the introduction of the Certified Real Estate Consultant (CREC) designation marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s real estate landscape. Through targeted solutions to industry challenges and the establishment of a uniform qualification standard, the CREC program fosters heightened trust among clients and bolsters protection against fraudulent practices. Leveraging state-of-the-art technology, the program guarantees a streamlined and efficient learning experience, amplifying its accessibility and impact. Ultimately, the CREC designation has the potential to propel Nigerian real estate professionals to elevated levels of professionalism, solidifying their roles as esteemed advisors and frontrunners within the industry.
