Description

Stand out as the local expert in Maryland's coastal real estate market.

The Coastal Area Local Specialist (CALS) Certification is an exclusive professional development program offered by the Coastal Association of REALTORS®. Designed specifically for REALTORS® serving Worcester, Wicomico, and Somerset Counties, CALS equips participants with in-depth knowledge of the unique issues, communities, and market conditions that define Maryland's Lower Eastern Shore.

Through eight specialized courses taught by respected local industry experts, participants gain practical knowledge in:

• Ocean City real estate
• Ocean Pines
• Condominium & second home financing
• Rental property issues
• Well and septic systems
• Flood insurance
• USDA & renovation lending
• New construction

The curriculum goes beyond the basics, providing the local expertise needed to better advise clients, navigate complex transactions, and confidently represent buyers and sellers in one of the Mid-Atlantic's most distinctive real estate markets. Each course focuses on the regional knowledge that cannot be learned from national designation programs alone. 

Certification Requirements

To earn the CALS Certification, applicants must:

• Be a REALTOR® member in good standing for at least two years (or have completed the GRI program if licensed less than two years).
• Demonstrate participation in at least ten listing or selling transactions within Worcester, Wicomico, or Somerset Counties during the previous two years.
• Complete all eight required CALS courses within two years.
• Submit the required application and certification fee.

Recognition & Benefits

Upon earning the designation, CALS designees receive:

• Recognition as a Coastal Area Local Specialist
• Listing on the Coastal Association of REALTORS® CALS directory
• Access to the private CALS Facebook community
• A biannual CALS newsletter
• An official certificate and CALS lapel pin
• Ongoing opportunities to stay current through certification update events. 

Whether you're new to the coastal market or looking to strengthen your local expertise, the Coastal Area Local Specialist (CALS) Certification demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence and provides the knowledge needed to better serve clients throughout Maryland's coastal communities.