Applications are now being accepted for the 2025 Circle of Excellence (COE) Awards, according to an announcement from the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors. The application window will remain open until Tuesday, October 14, 2025.
Agents who have completed their COE year, which runs from October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025, can submit their applications online through the Member Portal once all qualifying closings are finalized.
The organization has highlighted several updates to this year’s program. Award levels will remain unchanged; however, some rule revisions may affect eligibility or recognition for applicants. Notably, only individual recipients will be recognized as first-time honorees at the awards ceremony. According to the updated rules: “Only individual recipients will receive first-time recognition at the awards ceremony. If someone receives the award as part of a team and branches off to become an individual agent, that agent is NOT considered a first-time recipient.”
In addition: “Any application received after 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 will not be eligible. NO EXCEPTIONS.”
Invoices for application fees will be emailed directly to applicants after the October 14 deadline. Offices may opt to bulk pay through the Member Portal if permitted by brokerage policy; agents are encouraged to confirm payment arrangements with their Office Manager.
All applications must include a completed transaction sheet signed by both agent and broker or manager and a high-resolution photo or logo for use in COE-related marketing materials.
The application fee is $175. Applications submitted after October 14 but before October 21 will incur an additional $650 late fee and be automatically audited. No applications will be accepted after the final deadline of Tuesday, October 21 at 5:00 PM.
For questions regarding submissions or requirements, applicants are directed to contact Yvette Briggerman.
The annual Circle of Excellence celebration is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at Hard Rock Casino in Cincinnati. Sponsorship opportunities for this event are available via the organization’s website.
More details about eligibility guidelines and full rules can be found on the Circle of Excellence Info & Rules page.
