Become a Specialist
As of June 1, 2024, the Workforce Housing Specialist program will cease to be accessible. We express gratitude to all members who pursued this certification, advancing their dedication to housing in North Carolina.
For those who are currently working on their certification, the application will remain open until June 1, 2024.
The WHS Certification Program provides Real Estate Professionals with the knowledge of available programs and resources to assist workforce housing buyers while enhancing their skills, expertise, and versatility in the field of real estate.
The NC WHS credential is awarded and recognized by NC REALTORS® as a state-certification and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Association of REALTORS®.
Benefits of Certification
- Gain access to downpayment options only open to Workforce Housing Specialists.
- Become an affordable housing expert in your community.
- Remain educated on the most recent and pressing issues affecting homeownership affordability.
- Join other like-minded professionals to advocate for affordable housing at the state level.
- Gain industry recognition.
- Receive a certificate and a pin and be listed as a Specialist on this website.
- Advertise your credentials in your marketing.
In order to be certified as a Workforce Housing Specialist, real estate professionals must complete 20 hours of coursework within 18 months consisting of Core Courses and Electives.
Graduates are required to recertify on an annual basis in order to keep their Workforce Housing Specialist title and remain on the Housing Foundation website.
BONUS Some of the courses listed below are also requirements for the Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) designation. Questions? Contact Savanna Reagin for more information.
Core Courses
Financing in Today’s Market
Virtual Course | See Course Calendar »
Financing Dreams
Virtual Course | See Course Calendar »
At Home With Diversity OR Bias Override
Virtual Course | See Course Calendar »
Qualifying Electives (Select one from the following)
Beneath the Surface: Understanding the Anatomy of a House
Online Course | Register »
Fair Housing & Beyond
Online Course | Register »
Financing in Today’s Market
Virtual Course | See Course Calendar »
Meeting the Needs of Buyers and Sellers
Online Course | Register »
Military Relocation Professional
Online Course | Register »
Successful Buyer Client Systems
Online Course | Register »
Application for Certification | Submit Application Online »
After completing the WHS Program Requirements, real estate professionals will need to submit a graduation application. There is no fee to submit the application. Once approved as a WHS, graduates will receive a certificate, pin, and will be listed as a specialist on the NC REALTORS® Housing Foundation website.
In order to assist with the cost of courses, the North Carolina REALTORS® Housing Foundation is offering Reimbursement Scholarships on a quarterly basis. Click here to apply for a scholarship.
Questions? Please contact Kentia Smith.