Policies, Program Guidance and Other Information

Frequently Asked Questions

General Education Questions

Who attends CCIM courses?

CCIM courses attract a cross-section of the commercial real estate industry, including brokers, agents, corporate real estate officers, REIT investment executives, developers, asset managers, investment counselors, appraisers, property managers, mortgage bankers, attorneys, accountants and other professionals in allied fields.

In what order must I take courses?

There are no prerequisites to taking CI 101-Financial Analysis or Introduction to Commercial Investment Real Estate Analysis. Once you have successfully completed CI 101-Financial Analysis, you may take the other core courses (CI 102-104) in any order.

What is the difference between CI 101-Financial Analysis and the Introduction course?

Introduction to Commercial Investment Real Estate Analysis is a two-day overview course that is tailored for newer commercial real estate professionals, investors, residential agents who conduct some commercial transactions and professionals interested in learning more about the commercial real estate industry. It is also a good choice for anyone who would like additional preparation before starting the CCIM core curriculum. This introduction course counts for one elective credit.

CI 101-Financial Analysis is the first course in the CCIM designation program and counts for three core credits. CI 101 is an in-depth, five-day course that lays the groundwork for the other three core courses (CI 102-104). Additionally, CI 101 is the prerequisite for CI 102-104.

What is the length, time and cost of courses?

CI 101 – Financial Analysis
CI 102 – Market Analysis
CI 103 – User Decision Analysis

This course is presented in both a three (3) and five (5) day format.

CI 104 – Investment Analysis

This course is presented in both a three (3) and five (5) day format.

Are courses available in a Challenge Program format?

Yes. All CCIM courses are available in a Challenge Program format. The Introduction course is available on an interactive CD-ROM format or online. The other courses (CI 101-104) are available through our Challenge Program. Through this program, students may purchase the complete course material, review at home and complete the course examination at their local board/association of REALTORS® for course credits.

May I skip a day of class?

No. Students are required to attend each day of class. Courses run from two to five days in length with the final course examination given on the last afternoon of class.

Calculator Usage

What is the required calculator for CCIM courses?

A Hewlett-Packard (HP) financial calculator is required for all CCIM courses. The HP-10BII model is recommended because of its reasonable cost. CCIM course materials illustrate the calculator keystrokes of the HP-10BII. However, students may use other Hewlett-Packard financial calculators because the keystrokes are similar.

Students should learn how to use their calculators before attending class.

Where can I purchase a HP calculator?

You can purchase one at any large office supply store such as Office Max or Office Depot. They are also available through the Hewlett-Packard Web site.

Computer Usage

Do I need to bring my laptop computer to class?

Yes, a laptop computer with CD-ROM drive and Excel® software is required or strongly recommended for most CCIM courses. A laptop computer is now used on all core designation courses and most one-day advanced education courses. Students who bring laptops to class and are familiar with Excel® will receive the most benefit from the course material because Excel® worksheets are distributed to help solve class activities and for use on the final exam.

The use of specialized Excel® worksheets will greatly reduce the time spent completing calculations and will greatly enhance the learning experience. The worksheets provide students with hands-on experience using cutting edge analysis tools in class. Refer to the Course Descriptions or specific hardware and software requirements for each course.

Examinations

Will I be required to take an exam in CCIM courses?

To receive full course credit students are required to pass the final course examination by a score or 70% or higher. The examination is administered on the final afternoon of the course. Exams are given in all CCIM courses except one-day advanced education courses.

How long does it take before I get the results of my exam?

You will receive the results of your exam by email within two weeks. A Certificate of Completion will be available to all students who pass the examination.

Candidacy Questions

For complete candidate information, please access http://www.ccim.com/education/ccorner_index.html.

What is a candidate?

A candidate is a dues-paying member of the CCIM Institute working towards the CCIM designation.

Why should I become a candidate?

Candidates enjoy an assortment of benefits including:
In order to gain the CCIM Designation, individuals are required to:

What is the annual candidacy fee?

The annual candidacy fee is $495 in 2008.

Designation Questions

What is the CCIM designation?

The CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) designation is a professional designation awarded by the CCIM Institute. Currently, more than 7,600 individuals hold this prestigious designation, with another 7,000 candidates pursuing the CCIM.

How do I earn the CCIM designation?

There are currently two programs to earn the CCIM designation:

General Candidacy Program

Program requirement include successfully completing the four core courses (CI 101-104), earning three elective credit hours; meeting the experience requirements and completing the Portfolio of Qualifying Experience; and successful completion of the Comprehensive Exam. There is no time limit to complete this program.

Fast Track Program

This accelerated program is offered exclusively to professionals who have earned one of the industry’s other preeminent designations: AACI, CLO, CMB, CRF, CPM, CRE, FRI, MAI/SRPA, RPA, SIOR. The program requirements include becoming a fast track candidate, completing the four core courses (CI 101-104) and passing the Comprehensive Exam. Please note that you have 24 months to complete the Fast Track Program.

What is the annual designation fee?

The annual designation fee is $495.