CCIM: Raising the Bar of Excellence (COMMENTARY)

In Northwest Arkansas, I often have people ask “What is a CCIM?”

You will notice very few local real estate agents have the CCIM designation, and for good reason. A CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) is a recognized expert in the commercial and investment real estate industry.

In order to obtain this designation, candidates must complete extensive curriculum and pass tests on essential CCIM skill set, including interest-based negotiation, financial analysis, market analysis, user-decision analysis, and investment analysis for commercial investment real estate.

In my opinion, the most important component of certification is a CCIM must have completed a detailed portfolio demonstrating the depth of the agent’s commercial real estate experience.

The portfolio must show extensive personal experience and understanding of commercial real estate transactions. Strict minimum requirements for the number and dollar value of transactions limit the number of agents that can qualify for the CCIM exam.

A CCIM is part of a global commercial real estate network with members across North America and in more than 30 countries. This professional network has enabled CCIM members to close thousands of transactions annually, representing more than $200 billion in value.

As a result, the experts who possess the CCIM designation are an invaluable resource for commercial real estate owners, investors and users. This elite corps of CCIMs includes brokers, leasing professionals, investment counselors, asset managers, appraisers, corporate real estate executives, property managers, developers, institutional investors, commercial lenders, attorneys, bankers and other allied professionals.

In 2008, I became a CCIM, although I was unaware of how valuable the designation would be. It has given me the opportunity to grow professionally and build new relationships.

In 2015, I will be taking on the role of vice chair of the CCIM’s national designation committee, which is responsible for the policies and procedures of the CCIM Institute Designation program.

This opportunity allows me to help other professionals who are striving to obtain the CCIM designation.

I highly recommend that all commercial real estate agents fine tune their skills and continue to strive to obtain their CCIM designation. It is important for the real estate industry to continually foster an educated workforce as market trends continue to change.

In today’s marketplace, it is easy to find a Realtor, but for investors, large and small, finding the right skilled professional to offer expertise and guidance during the process can make a difference in the success of the real estate project. It is essential that, before making a decision for representation on any sort of real estate transaction, that the buyer or seller takes time to research. The CCIM designation ensures the gold standard.

Northwest Arkansas has a local chapter for CCIMs, which is a wonderful resource for those looking for quality representation.

Understanding the role that CCIM as an organization plays nationally is also very important. Being a part of this network of professionals has allowed for many national real estate transactions to take place here in Northwest Arkansas. Other CCIMs around the globe often reach out to us when looking for space, land, or developments because we are a part of this elite network.

In Northwest Arkansas there are many options for wealth management and investment strategy, and real estate is an optimal choice for many who are looking to diversify their income streams. In addition to traditional IRAs, trusts, and stock options, there is an abundance of ways individuals can capitalize through real estate investment and maximize their tax credits. CCIMs are skilled to specifically help with these types of transactions.

When you are looking to buy or sell, lease or build, take the time to do your homework to ensure the greatest return on your investment and always work with the most qualified professional, the CCIM.

Amy Mills, CCIM, is a commercial real estate broker with Steve Fineberg & Associates Inc. of Bentonville. She can be reached at 479-685-8875 or [email protected].