CCIM and RICS sign memorandum of understanding

The CCIM Institute and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will lead to greater cooperation and improved benefits and opportunities for members of both organizations. The agreement between CCIM and RICS provides a basic framework for the two organizations to build greater dialogue and collaboration. It will allow for joint action in priority areas of common interest, including enhancement of business, professional development, education and training, member services, and professional services. "The skilled and certified real estate professional is vital to restoring investor, builder, and tenant confidence in commercial real estate," said Tony Grant FRICS, chairman of the RICS Americas Markets Council and RICS liaison to CCIM. "This MOU means two of the most respected member organizations representing our industry are now working together to improve and maintain standards of appraisal, brokerage, finance, development, and investment." "CCIM and RICS each recognize the local, national and international context in which both organizations operate," said Charles "Mac" McClure CCIM FRICS, the 2009 president of the CCIM Institute. "We share a common goal of promoting the highest standards of professionalism, and we recognize that collaboration and reciprocity will add value to both organizations." Pilot initiatives under consideration include membership reciprocity agreements, education and training programs, joint events, and research/publication programs.