Step 4: Graduate

Overview

Once you’ve passed the CPM^® Capstone, you’re almost ready to graduate. After completing your CPM candidate file (outlined below) you’ll officially become a Certified Property Manager^®.

Activities

Complete your CPM candidate file

CPM candidates must be paid and current with all applicable dues, fees, licenses, and other requirements. Refer to the CPM Handbook for details.

• Have 36 months of qualifying real estate management experience by time of graduation
• Have been a CPM candidate for one year (this requirement is waived for those who are ACoMs or ARMs for at least 12 months prior to graduation)
• Pay annual CPM candidate dues of $495 plus chapter dues (varies by chapter)
• Pay one-time graduate processing fee of $210
• Hold membership in the National Association of REALTORS® as a REALTOR® , REALTOR® Associate, or Institute Affiliate
• Hold an active real estate license (if required for your position in your state)
• Attend at least two of your IREM chapter’s events within 12 months prior to graduation and be endorsed by the chapter

Graduation

Once your CPM candidate file is complete, you have graduated! You’ll receive an official CPM certificate and CPM pin, and can begin to use the CPM designation with your name on professional profiles, email signatures, business cards, and more.

What’s next for CPMs

Keep your membership and licenses current

Important: Once approved as a CPM, you are required to maintain an annual membership in IREM and NAR, along with any required state licensures, or you’ll lose the right to use your CPM designation. This helps maintain the high standards that make your CPM designation so valuable.

Equip yourself with expert tools

You’ll keep your competitive edge in property management financial analysis, budgeting and forecasting, and the full range of operational needs with IREM tools, including:

• IREM Income/Expense Analysis^® Reports, free to CPM members and published annually
• IREM Financial Analysis Toolkit
• Over 250 downloadable IREM property manager forms and checklists
• And much more…

Ethics

All CPMs must continue to uphold the IREM Code of Professional Ethics

Keep on learning

As an IREM member, you’ll have discounted access to the latest learning. Accelerator courses covering skill-building topics and emerging trends will keep you up to speed. IREM white papers, newsletters, and blog posts will provide the latest news and best practice advice.

Stay engaged with other experts

Attend your IREM chapter’s events to network, share challenges, and brainstorm solutions. Learn, contribute, and be known on an even larger industry stage by attending the annual IREM Global Summit, one of the industry’s largest property manager events.