If you take the REFM cert test you also have access to the NYU tests. I took the NYU test to see what it was like and it was basically identical to the REFM test. I have also taken the BIWS Financial Modeling and the Real Estate & REIT Modeling classes and found them to be much more helpful.

As for ARGUS, It may look good on a resume if you have no RE experience but I don't think it will make a difference in actually landing the job.

 

I was thinking on just getting the software and some case study and self study material.

1000 is pretty expensive for the cert. Can one at least have a working knowledge of it by buying the software and playing around with it and study materials?

I was looking it at the BIWS and seems like it's more focused on REITs

 
Best Response

I purchased BIWS before starting my job as an analyst at a REIT and it was the best thing I ever did, from a technical perspective and as a good CRE overview.. I would highly recommend it to anyone entering CRE, especially RE finance. It isn't focused just on REITs, it covers valuation of all property types in any capacity - acquisition, disposition, development, etc. One advantage of BIWS over an in person course is that you can always go back and review the material in the anytime. The moderator is extremely good at explaining things and you can ask questions anytime (with quick and detailed responses).

 

Questions for those with BIWS. Is the software/program shareable? Meaning, can me and another person be logged on at the same time reading/reviewing the material?

Also, I got Argus Cert two years ago through my RE program in undergrad. I just started working for a lender and we don't use Argus, just excel. Even then, the bank has standard models for every property type/deal type.

I'm thinking of doing BIWS to learn the developmental/REPE side to be familiar with that side of the industry. For those who have experience, is this a waste of money? I'm interested in that side of the business in the future, and would like to invest in small MF deals on my own.

 

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