The Importance of Becoming an Accredited Land Consultant (ALC)

As a national award-winning broker, recognized as Colorado Realtor of the Year, a National Top Producer, and a National Top 20 Producer multiple times, I have dedicated my career to land brokerage. Currently serving as the National President of the REALTORS® Land Institute (RLI), I have witnessed firsthand the impact that earning the Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) designation has on a professional's success in the industry.

The real estate industry in the United States is vast, with over 3.5 million licensed brokers. Of these, approximately 1.5 million are held to a higher standard through their association with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Within NAR, there are five professional affiliates that represent the highest level of brokerage expertise, and RLI is the only one dedicated solely to land. As the saying goes, "Under all is the land," and RLI embodies this principle by representing approximately 2,000 of the nation's top land brokers.

Yet, within this elite group, only around 760 brokers have earned the prestigious ALC designation—a distinction that represents what many consider a master's degree in land brokerage. This means that out of the original 3.5 million brokers in the U.S., only about 0.0002% hold the ALC title, making it one of the most exclusive and respected credentials in the industry.

Why Become an ALC?

Achieving the ALC designation is not just about education; it is about commitment, expertise, and a passion for land brokerage. The rigorous LAND University (LANDU) program offered through RLI ensures that ALCs are equipped with specialized knowledge in land transactions, including:

• Land Investment Analysis
• Tax-Deferred 1031 Exchanges
• Agricultural Land brokerage and marketing
• Subdivision Land Development and Site Selection
• Transitional and Recreational Land sales

This education, combined with the requirement for a proven track record in land transactions, ensures that ALCs stand out as the most capable and knowledgeable land professionals in the industry.

The Benefits of Working with an ALC

For buyers and sellers, working with an ALC provides confidence that their transaction is being handled by an expert who understands the complexities of land sales. Some of the advantages include:

• In-depth knowledge of zoning laws, easements, and mineral rights
• Strong networks that increase exposure and attract serious buyers
• Cutting-edge marketing techniques, including drone videos and virtual tours
• Expert pricing strategies to maximize returns and expedite sales

How to Earn Your ALC

Becoming an ALC is a journey that requires dedication, but the rewards are immense. The steps include:

1. Complete LANDU Courses –Those pursuing the ALC must complete a set of required courses covering all aspects of land brokerage. LANDU courses are open to members and non-members.
2. Attend RLI’s National Land Conference – NLC is an annual event that gathers the industry’s top experts to provide ongoing education. It's highly attended by ALCs, which provides an opportunity for those seeking the designation to build their network.
3. Prove Transaction Experience – Applicants must demonstrate significant experience in land transactions, ensuring that ALCs have both education and practical expertise.
4. Apply for the Designation – Once the education and experience requirements are met, candidates submit their application and portfolio to earn the ALC credential.
5. Join RLI – Membership in the REALTORS® Land Institute is required before receiving the designation.

Join the Elite Ranks of ALCs

The ALC designation is more than just a title; it is a commitment to excellence in land brokerage. As a leader in this field, I have seen firsthand how earning this designation elevates careers and enhances professionalism in our industry. If you are serious about becoming a top-tier land broker, now is the time to take action.

To learn more about becoming an ALC and the benefits of RLI membership, visit https://www.rliland.com/. Join us in raising the standard of land brokerage and positioning yourself among the elite in the industry.