Building Bridges: Why Agents and Investors Must Learn to Work Together

By Michael Del Prete |AZREIA

In today’s real estate market, there’s an undeniable gap between agents and investors. Both play vital roles in serving homeowners, yet misunderstandings and a lack of education often hinder collaboration. Homeowners end up confused, opportunities are missed, and trust in our industry erodes.

As Executive Director of AZREIA, I’ve spent years listening to both sides. Agents tell me they feel unprepared to advise investor clients or help sellers evaluate investor offers. Investors, on the other hand, face skepticism from agents who may not fully understand their methods or intentions. This disconnect doesn’t just hurt professionals—it impacts the homeowners we serve.

To address this, AZREIA is proud to announce the rollout of the Certified Investor Agent Specialist (CIAS) designation this March, through an intensive two-day training event. This initiative is more than just a certification—it’s an opportunity to raise the standard of professionalism in Arizona’s real estate community.

Why This Matters

Education is the bridge that connects agents, investors, and the homeowners they serve. Through the CIAS program, agents will:

• Understand Investment Strategies: Gain fluency in cash flow analysis, cap rates, and creative financing.

• Expand Client Services: Offer investors sound advice and homeowners a broader range of solutions.

• Strengthen Professional Trust: Learn how to work effectively with investors while protecting consumer interests.

When agents and investors understand each other’s goals and practices, the entire market benefits. For example, homeowners gain more options, complaints decrease, and collaboration replaces conflict.

A Step Toward a Better Industry

This rollout is part of AZREIA’s broader commitment to fostering cooperation and professionalism in Arizona’s real estate community. By equipping agents with the tools they need to succeed with investors, we’re not just improving individual businesses—we’re creating a cultural shift toward collaboration and trust.

I encourage any real estate agent, brokerage, or investor ready to elevate their expertise to join the waitlist for this March event. Visit azreia.org/cias to secure your spot in this transformative training.

Together, we can build a real estate industry where professionalism and education lead the way.

— Michael Del Prete
Executive Director, AZREIA