The real estate world is always changing, with market shifts, new technology, and evolving regulations keeping things exciting but also challenging. In fact, it can be incredibly hard for agents to keep up with it all.
But, in this fast-moving environment, staying up-to-date isn’t just a good idea—it’s a must. Agents who make learning a priority are the ones who stay ahead, keeping their skills sharp and their services top-notch.
By embracing ongoing education, real estate professionals can not only boost their expertise but also build stronger relationships with their clients. Whether it’s mastering the latest negotiation strategies or exploring new tech tools, agents who commit to learning are better equipped to turn challenges into opportunities, making them true standouts in the industry.
We’ve put together our selection of top thought leaders, certification courses and conferences to help you along your learning journey.
6 thought leaders to follow
Consider tuning in to influential voices in real estate. Different perspectives can inspire agents to build a successful business.
1. Tom Ferry
Topics covered: Sales strategies, business planning, and marketing in real estate.
Why follow: Tom Ferry is a renowned real estate coach who helps agents build and scale their businesses through actionable advice. His videos, webinars, and seminars cover everything from creating a client base to maximizing productivity. He offers free tools for agents to implement that will impact their bottom line.
2. Brian Buffini
Topics covered: Referral systems, personal development, and business management.
Why follow: Buffini’s training focuses on the power of referrals and long-term relationship building. Thousands of agents seek to increase client engagement and trust his “Buffini & Company” program. He also offers free resources and a free consultation to help agents kickstart their development.
3. Katie Lance
Topics covered: Social media strategies and content marketing for real estate professionals.
Why follow: Known for her expertise in helping agents master social media, Katie Lance’s resources help agents create engaging content, build their brands online, and generate leads through platforms like Instagram and Facebook. She promises to help agents save “a ton of time”.
4. Inman News (Brad Inman)
Topics covered: Market trends, technology in real estate, and industry insights.
Why follow: Inman is one of the most comprehensive real estate news platforms. Brad Inman and his team regularly share thought-provoking articles and host interviews and events with industry leaders, informing real estate professionals on the latest trends.
5. Jared James
Topics covered: Lead generation, mindset, and leveraging technology in real estate.
Why follow: A highly motivational speaker and coach, Jared James offers valuable insights on the latest tools and strategies agents can use to increase sales and streamline their workflow.
6. The Dose (newsletter from 1000WATT)
Topics covered: Industry, branding, marketing and opinion.
Why follow: By far one of the best industry newsletters out there, you can always rely on The Dose for a different take on what’s happening in the industry, as well as a healthy helping of inspiration.
5 certified courses to take
Certified courses carry credibility and can provide real estate professionals with the skills they need to thrive in a competitive market.
a) Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) Certification
Provider: National Association of Realtors (NAR).
Focus: This certification involves a two-day course designed to sharpen an agent’s negotiation skills, a vital aspect of successful real estate transactions. It covers communication techniques, understanding client needs, and applying negotiation strategies effectively.
b) Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
Provider: Residential Real Estate Council (RRC).
Focus: CRS is a prestigious certification for residential real estate agents, brokers and managers. It provides advanced training in managing residential properties, understanding market data, and boosting sales strategies. Continued learning is a condition for maintaining the designation – just two hours per year.
c) Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM)
Provider: CCIM Institute.
Focus: This certification is the global standard focusing on commercial real estate and offers deep insights into market analysis, investment strategy, and financial modeling, equipping agents to work with commercial properties more effectively.
d) At Home With Diversity (AHWD)
Provider: National Association of Realtors.
Focus: This certification helps agents understand the needs of a diverse clientele and how to apply U.S. fair housing laws. The course will improve agents’ cultural competence in multicultural real estate markets.
e) Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)
Provider: Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC).
Focus: This course, free in 2024, equips agents and brokers with strategies and techniques for assisting home buyers through the real estate process. It covers buyer consultations, negotiations, and navigating closing challenges.
5 conferences to attend
Conferences are an excellent way for real estate professionals to learn from experts, stay updated on industry trends, and network with peers.
NAR Annual Conference & Expo (8-10 November 2024, Boston)
The NAR Annual Conference brings together real estate professionals nationwide for hands-on workshops, educational sessions, and networking opportunities. It covers everything from legal updates to market insights.
Inman Connect (22 – 24 January 2025, New York)
Inman Connect is one of the leading conferences for real estate professionals. It covers the latest industry trends, new technologies, and strategies for success. Attendees can connect with industry leaders and attend sessions led by top real estate coaches.
1000WATT Brand & Marketing Summit (8 – 9 April, 2025, Gilley, Dallas)
The real estate brand and marketing company 1000WATT’s summit is where you need to go for inspiration, insights and actionable information that you can apply to your own real estate business. With a host of excellent keynote speakers, you’ll leave with a fresh new take on how to tackle this time of change with confidence.
REimagine! Real Estate Conference (15-17 September 2025, Chula Vista, CA)
Hosted by the California Association of Realtors (CAR), this event highlights innovation and the latest tools and technology in real estate. Gain expert strategies from CEOs, thought leaders, and industry specialists, explore trending topics and discuss the industry’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. Discover countless actionable takeaways to help you strengthen and grow your business.
CREW Network Convention (8-10 October 2025, Austin, Texas)
This convention is beneficial for women in commercial real estate. CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) Network provides learning opportunities on leadership, industry innovation, and market trends.
