Certified New-Build Sales Specialist

No. The Certified New-Build Sales Specialist is an independent designation from Agent Certification Institute and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Association of REALTORS. It shows that you completed our training on representing buyers and builders in new construction, reviewing builder contracts at agent level, guiding design studio decisions and discussing accessory dwelling units, and that you passed the final exam.

No. The program explains building stages, common materials and inspection points in plain terms suited to an agent, not a contractor. You are not expected to judge workmanship yourself; you learn what to watch for, when to bring in a licensed inspector, and how to communicate with a builder's site team. Some resale experience helps, since the course contrasts new construction with the process you already know.

It covers what an agent needs to discuss accessory dwelling units responsibly: common types, how zoning and permit rules shape what can be built, why permit history matters when buying or listing a home with an existing unit, and how to describe a unit accurately in marketing. It does not teach design, construction costs or rental projections, and because ADU rules vary by state and city, you always check yours.

Yes. Delays are one of the most common sources of stress in new construction, and the program covers how to read the delay and extension terms in a builder contract, how to keep the buyer's rate lock, lease and moving plans in view with their lender and landlord, and how to communicate with the builder without damaging the relationship. You will not advise on legal remedies, but you will know when to suggest an attorney.

It can be, particularly in markets where many first transactions involve new subdivisions. The program explains the new-build process from the beginning, and newer agents often find builder sales offices a good place to meet buyers. Pair it with the Certified Buyer Consultation Specialist if you are still building your buyer process, since that designation covers the written buyer agreement and consultation skills this one assumes.

Buyers increasingly ask whether they could add a unit for a relative, a home office or rental income. The module shows you how to answer at agent level: pointing them to the city's zoning and permit information, suggesting they consult a designer or contractor before relying on a plan, and making sure feasibility questions are explored during their contingency period where the contract allows. You help them ask the right questions rather than promising what can be built.

It is self-paced and fully online: 4 units, each a solid evening of reading plus a practice quiz and a short assignment you do in your own business. Most agents finish over a week or two. Written exam answers are marked within two business days.

Yes. Every CNBS holder gets a public verification page and a shareable digital badge for LinkedIn, your bio, and your email signature.

Your CNBS certificate is dated the day you pass and is valid for 12 months, and your badge shows the years it is current for. A month before it lapses we email you. Renewing means reading that year's short update on what changed for CNBS holders and answering ten multiple-choice questions, for $29; you then get a re-dated certificate and badge. All-Access members renew free.

Yes. Enroll with confidence. If a designation is not right for you, email us within 30 days for a full refund. No forms, no hassle. Two exam attempts are included with every designation, and if you need another we add it at no extra cost.

Yes. The all-access membership unlocks CNBS and every other designation for $199 a year, and saves $1450 against buying the catalog one at a time.