Sarasota Realtor Magazine - April 2010-1

APRIL 2010

HelpingHandsVolunteers arethe life bloodof successfulcommunities

Page 6

10Red Hawk

ReseRveSingle-family homesFrom the low $300s

GReyHawk LandinG

Single-family homesFrom the upper $100s

4

LeGends Bay

Single-family homesFrom the mid $300s

5CoveRed

BRidGeSingle-family homesFrom the mid $100s

1

waLkeR’s Cove at RiveR PLaCe


6

7ReGent

LakeSingle-family homesFrom the low $300s

8PHiLLiPPi

Pines Single-family homesFrom the low $300s

9oak

vistas Single-family homesFrom the low $200s

oLd taMPa estates


2

Rye wiLdeRness estates


3LandMaRk

estatesSingle-family homesFrom the low $300s

11

CGC1513647 Locations are approximate and not to scale. Prices, plans, incentives and availability are subject to change without notice. Prices are valid through 06/30/10. *4% Realtor Co-op is subject to change without notice. Homes must be sold and closed on or before 06/30/10 to be eligible for 1% Realtor Bonus. 1% Bonus will be paid at closing. Please contact a Sales Associate for details. **On homes sold by 06/30/10. See Sales Associate for details. ***Federal tax credit of up to $8,000 available to first-time homebuyers (or up to $6,500 for repeat buyers) who close escrow on or before April 30, 2010 (or before July 1, 2010 if a binding contract is signed by April 30, 2010). Income

limitations apply. Amount of tax credit, if any, is not paid to buyer upon close of escrow. Buyer must claim the tax credit on buyer’s federal income tax return. Not all buyers will qualify. This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute tax advice. Please consult an accountant or attorney for your particular situation. Visit www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com for complete details. ©2010 DR Horton, Inc. All rights reserved.

4% CO-OP1% BONUS*

PlUS

America’s Builder is Moving To Town!

50% Off HOMeSiTe PreMiUM

iN DeSigN OPTiONS!**+ $5,000

10Red Hawk

ReseRveSingle-family homesFrom the low $300s

GReyHawk LandinG


4

LeGends Bay


5CoveRed

BRidGeSingle-family homesFrom the mid $100s

1

waLkeR’s Cove at RiveR PLaCe


6

7ReGent

LakeSingle-family homesFrom the low $300s

8PHiLLiPPi

Pines Single-family homesFrom the low $300s

9oak

vistas Single-family homesFrom the low $200s

oLd taMPa estates


2

Rye wiLdeRness estates


3LandMaRk

estatesSingle-family homesFrom the low $300s

11

CGC1513647 Locations are approximate and not to scale. Prices, plans, incentives and availability are subject to change without notice. Prices are valid through 06/30/10. *4% Realtor Co-op is subject to change without notice. Homes must be sold and closed on or before 06/30/10 to be eligible for 1% Realtor Bonus. 1% Bonus will be paid at closing. Please contact a Sales Associate for details. **On homes sold by 06/30/10. See Sales Associate for details. ***Federal tax credit of up to $8,000 available to first-time homebuyers (or up to $6,500 for repeat buyers) who close escrow on or before April 30, 2010 (or before July 1, 2010 if a binding contract is signed by April 30, 2010). Income

limitations apply. Amount of tax credit, if any, is not paid to buyer upon close of escrow. Buyer must claim the tax credit on buyer’s federal income tax return. Not all buyers will qualify. This information is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute tax advice. Please consult an accountant or attorney for your particular situation. Visit www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com for complete details. ©2010 DR Horton, Inc. All rights reserved.

4% CO-OP1% BONUS*

PlUS

America’s Builder is Moving To Town!

50% Off HOMeSiTe PreMiUM

iN DeSigN OPTiONS!**+ $5,000

Sarasota Realtor®Volume 7, Issue 4

APRIL 2010

Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc.

3590 South Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34239 Phone: 941/923-2315 FAX: 941/923-0191

www.sarasotarealtors.com

2010 OfficersPresident

Erick Shumway RE/MAX Alliance Group

President-Elect Michael Bruno

Prudential Palms RealtySecretary Roger Piro

Town & Country RealtyTreasurer

Laura Benson Michael Saunders & Company

Immediate Past President William Geller

RE/MAX Platinum RealtyChief Executive Officer

Kathy Roberts

Mission StatementThe mission of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® is to advance members’ professionalism through delivery of education and resources while upholding the Realtors® Code of Ethics. We are committed to be the leading advocate of real estate in the communities we serve by protecting private property rights and expanding relationships with individuals and organizations both locally and worldwide. Sarasota Realtor® is published monthly by the Sarasota Association of Realtors® Inc.

Editorial Staff

Director of CommunicationsRay Porter

Director of Member ServicesDan Andrews

Director of MLS Information SystemsJesse Sunday

Director of Professional DevelopmentCatherine McCaskill

Governmental Affairs DirectorMarc Mansfield

ProductionCoastal Printing, Inc.

Sarasota Realtor® Advertising: For information on advertising rates and deadlines, contact Ray Porter at 941/328-1168 or [email protected].

Subscriptions: The annual dues of every member of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc., includes a one-year subscription to Sarasota Realtor® magazine. A yearly subscription for Sarasota Realtor® magazine is available to non-members for $25, plus Florida sales tax.

Editorial ideas and manuscripts are welcome. Byline articles and columns express the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the policies or sentiments of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All submitted copy is subject to editing.

2010 Copyright© by the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

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6 Giving Back A community can be graded by the level of volunteer participation among the populace, and over the years, SAR members have met the challenge in the Sarasota area.

10 Legislative Process What does it take to get a piece of legislation through Congress? There are numerous steps in the political process, which can be very complicated.

12 Splitting, Combining Real estate practitioners need to be aware of the benefits and potential problems involved in splitting or combining property, and their implications.

15 Property Sales Surge! February 2010 continued the trend toward higher property sales in the Sarasota market, with a 49 percent increase over last February.

18 Bank Stimulus Needed? Lack of financing is one of the frustrating challenges the commercial sector faces in 2010 - is a stimulus needed?

In every issue10- Governmental Affairs12- Property Appraiser14- Ethics in Action15- Sales and Listing Statistics18- Commercial Investment Division20- Education Programs25- On the SAR Scene27- Broker Corner28- WCR News29- International30- Membership News32- Calendar of Events/Education

Visit SAR on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

4 APRIL 2010 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Doug Mackenzie is SAR Affiliate of the Month for April 2010

Membership Luncheon highlights Habitat for HumanitySAR’s first Quarterly Membership Meeting &

Luncheon on March 12th was well attended at Pine Shores Community Center. The meeting featured a presentation by Fred Scheerle, Director of Family Services for Habitat for Humanity Sarasota, who spoke about the great work they’re doing. In addition, 11 Realtor® Emeritus awardees were recognized at the event (see P. 24).

Habitat is the primary SAR partner this year for Community Outreach projects. The first project was held on March 6th and involved a home in Lockwood Meadows now under construction as part of the federal Neighborhood Stabilization Program. Twelve members of SAR responded to calls for volunteer help and participated in landscaping, plus pressure-washing of the subdivision wall.

The next Quarterly Meeting is set for Friday, July 16th at Troyer’s Dutch Heritage restaurant.

The March 2010 SAR Affiliate of the Month is Doug Mackenzie.Doug MacKenzie moved to Sarasota in July 2005 to follow his wife who had

just been named CEO of Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Doug initially started a company called Sarasota Home Checkers, but in April 2006 merged his company with Key Concierge.

Doug brings an extensive business background in the construction and technology field to the table.

As an account executive for Key Concierge Doug manages both single family homes and condos. He can be reached at 941-388-2611, or by email at:

[email protected]. The business address is: PO Box 8807, Longboat Key, Fl. 34228.

Doug MacKenzie

Health care reform: What it means to Realtors®For years the National Association of Realtors® has worked

with Congress to address the growing need for reforms to our nation’s health insurance system.

As independent contractors and small business owners, Realtors® know first-hand the rising cost of insurance coverage and the difficulty in obtaining it. In fact, member surveys show that 28 percent of Realtors® are currently uninsured, with many more underinsured.

The health reform legislation that passed the US House of Representatives on Sunday, March 21, 2010 would make major changes to many aspects of our health care system.

NAR is keeping close watch on how these comprehensive changes will ultimately impact the real estate community.

America’s health care system is incredibly complicated and complex. Thus, so are many of the changes in the bill the House has passed. NAR did not support or oppose the legislation that was passed in the House. Instead, NAR chose to work with members of Congress from both sides of the aisle to address as many concerns of our members as possible while also guarding against real estate tax provisions being used as a major way to pay for some of these changes.

Visit www.realtor.org/HealthReform for the latest news!

SAR President Erick Shumway with Fred Scheerle of Habitat Sarasota.

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine APRIL 2010 5

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Volunteerism is at the heart of every great community, or organization. The selfless spirit of giving, of putting aside personal gain for the sake of the community, makes the difference between a money-making venture and a true partner in the greater good. It is what defines us as a people, or an individual.

It is one of the most beautiful compensations of life, that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Sarasota has always been known as a place where neighbors help neighbors through difficult times. The recent news of the Community Foundation’s successful fundraising drive, which collected an unbelievable $1.5 million during a down economy, just underscored the obvious - Sarasota cares!

At the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, this spirit of giving is alive and well, reflected in the many charitable activities of our individual members, local brokerages, affiliate businesses and partner organizations.

The SAR Community Outreach Committee is the organizing force behind the Association’s projects. Every year, the group takes on the task of assembling our members to assist with several projects of a community nature. This year, the emphasis is on partnerships with Habitat for Humanity Sarasota, and the Friendship Volunteer Center.

The first project promoted by the committee was a Lockwood Meadows home which is under renovation through Habitat for Humanity. On March 6th, committee leaders and a few SAR members gathered to landscape the lot, and also pressure-wash the subdivision wall in preparation for repairs and painting. The home had been a foreclosure and will soon be occupied by a new family, helping to give the community a second

breath of life in these troubled times.

Many other projects are planned throughout the year, and the Committee is always looking for additional members to help spread the word, and recommend additional real estate-related projects to the group.

The current chair of the committee is Michael Cochrane of Prudential Palms Realty. He can be reached at 926-7000.

Other current members of the committee are Michael Bruno, also of Prudential Palms; Doug Nelson of Coldwell Banker; Elaine Adair of Prudential Palms; Michelle Crabtree of Michael Saunders &

Company; Cindi Jackson of Exit Realty; Hylda Fenton of Innovative Agent Services; and Sandy McCourtney of RE/MAX Tropical Sands.

The SAR Strategic Plan calls for the involvement of 30 percent of our members in charitable projects this year. By putting together a project list with specific dates, the committee hopes to be able to attract additional involvement in 2010 and beyond.

This is the current project list, which will be updated in the magazine, the web site, on Facebook, and through e-mail blasts throughout the year.

Please take the opportunity to save this list in your computer, and save the dates on your calendar. Remember - OPPORTUNITY IS KNOCKING, and it’s time to answer the call!

Spirit of GivingRealtors® make a positive difference in the Sarasota community

Michael Bruno of the Community Outreach Committee pressure-washes the wall of the Lockwood Meadows subdivision.


DATES FOR 2010 SAR COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROJECTS

- Saturday, April 17th - Partnering with Friendship Volunteer Center (details to come)

- Saturday, May 22nd - Partnering with Habitat for Humanity Sarasota (details to come)

- Saturday, Aug. 7th - Partnering with Keep Sarasota Beautiful - morning BEACH CLEANUP!

- Saturday, Oct. 23 - Annual Make A Difference Day, and Brush Up Sarasota (various projects)

- Saturday, Dec. 4th - Partnering with Habitat for Humanity Sarasota (morning), followed by afternoon Volunteer Appreciation Event

If you have any questions concerning the Habitat projects or any other SAR community projects, please contact Ray Porter at SAR (328-1168) or the Habitat front desk, 365-0700 or Email: [email protected]

You may also contact Janet Pederson, Director of Volunteer Operations (941) 365-0700 ext. 118 Email: [email protected]

Top, Kay Culliton and Doug Nelson shovel landscaping stones at the March 6th project. At right, Hylda Fenton and Elaine Adair transport the stones to the yard.


This month on the weekend of April 10 and 11, more than 50,000 balloons bearing the Realtor® logo will be floating above mailboxes across the state, luring prospective buyers to thousands of Realtor® Open Houses. It’s part of the Florida Open House Weekend, and SAR is participating.

“It’s a home shopper’s dream,” said Florida Realtors® 2010 President Wendell Davis. “For the serious buyer, the opportunity to tour dozens of homes in one weekend is a real time saver. Others who didn’t think they could afford a home may be drawn into the market by affordable prices and low interest rates. It’s a win-win!”

To help SAR promote the open houses, Florida Realtors® has purchased balloons featuring the Realtor “R” and created two eye-catching event logos: one for Realtor® to Realtor® communications and one for Realtor® to consumer communications, both available at:

floridarealtors.org/openhouse.

The balloons are now being distributed by SAR, which was allocated 1,500 to disburse to our members. They are available at the front desk, at Power Marketing sessions, and also at major brokerages. SAR requests that three balloons be flown at every open house on April 10-11th!

SAR promotes Florida Realtors® Open House Weekend

City flood plain informationCurrent flood plain information may be obtained from the City

of Sarasota Building, Zoning and Code Enforcement Department. They can provide the following information:

• Community Number• Panel Number• FIRM Suffix• Date of the FIRM’s Index• The FIRM Zone (e.g. “A,” “C,” “V,” etc.)• Base Flood Elevation (BFE)• Copies of Elevation Certificates for those structures that have

been required to provide them.Federal law requires that a flood insurance policy be obtained as

a condition of a federally backed mortgage or loan on properties in special flood hazard areas (SFHA). There is a 30-day waiting period before a flood insurance policy takes effect.

City of Sarasota officials are prepared to meet and discuss any flood plain related questions or problems you may encounter. You can reach the department by calling 954-4127 or by writing to: City of Sarasota, Attention: Zoning Division, P.O. Box 1058, Sarasota, FL 34230-1058.

Visit www.sarasotagov.com for more information.

Join SAR at the Florida Legislature’s 2010 Great American Realtor® Days, April 6-7! This yearly event in Tallahassee brings together Key Contacts and Florida Realtors® who want legislators to hear the collective voice of the Realtor® community.


Watch out for creative flippingEditor’s Note: This update is brought to you by the SAR Realtor-Attorney Joint Committee. This month’s column is provided by Julie Horstkamp, Esq., of Berlin-Patten, PLLC.

Watch out for the creative short sale flip transactions. Each use some type of vehicle, such as the use/creation of a trust, land trust, limited liability company, or option arrangement, and essentially involve two (2) transactions wherein the seller sells/conveys the property or the beneficial/ownership interest in some type of trust/entity to the buyer/investor (“Flipper”) (the “Initial Transaction”) and Flipper subsequently conveys the same property/interest to the eventual third party Buyer (“Ultimate Buyer”) for a profit (the “Flip Transaction”).

Unless both transactions are fully disclosed to all parties involved in both transactions, including but not limited to, Short Sale Lender(s) and Ultimate Buyer’s Lender, each transaction has the

potential to conceal:(a) from the seller and/or the seller’s

lender the details of the final or “true” sales price associated with the Flip Transaction, and/or:

(b) from the ultimate buyer and lender,

the details of the Initial Sale all of which poses a significant risk for real estate agents involved in these transactions.

These transactions are each designed to minimize the initial sales price in an effort to ultimately sell (or flip) the property to a buyer who is willing to pay more for the property. If you cannot justify to your seller why you are encouraging the seller to sell the property for an amount less than what you think (or worse yet, know) the property can actually be sold for, you are running the risk of significant legal liability, especially if you are encouraging the seller to

allow the Flipper to negotiate the short sale with Seller’s lender(s).

We urge you to contact a lawyer if you are presented with one of these transactions to address the potential risks and make sure there’s proper disclosure.

Congress: Legislative process decides issues

tThe chief function of Congress is making laws. There are many aspects and variations of this process.

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As a result of the current debate on Health Care and other proposed legislation, the process Congress utilizes to pass legislation has come under scrutiny by the media and general public.

To help you better understand how the system works, a brief overview of the legislative process within the House of Representatives is shown below. (Thanks to the House of Representatives for providing this summary).

Forms of Congressional Action:The work of Congress is initiated by the introduction

of a proposal in one of four forms: the bill, the joint resolution, the concurrent resolution, and the simple resolution.

BillsA bill is the form used for most legislation,

whether permanent or temporary, general or special, public or private. A bill originating in the House of Representatives is designated with the letters “H.R.” signifying “House of Representatives”, followed by a number that it retains throughout the legislative process. Bills are presented to the President for action when approved in identical form by both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Joint ResolutionsJoint Resolutions may originate either in the House

of Representatives or the Senate. Bills and Joint Resolutions are both subject to the same procedure, with the exception for a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution. On approval of such a resolution by two-thirds of both the House and Senate, it is sent directly to the Administrator of General Services for submission to the individual states for ratification. It is not presented to the President for approval.

Concurrent ResolutionsMatters impacting the operations of both the House

of Representatives and Senate are usually initiated by means of concurrent resolutions. On approval by both the House of Representatives and Senate, they are signed by the Clerk of the House and the Secretary of the Senate. They are not presented to the President for action.

Simple ResolutionsA matter concerning the operation of either the

House of Representatives or Senate alone is initiated by a simple resolution. They are not presented to the President for action.

Consideration by CommitteeIntroduction and Referral to CommitteeAny member of the House of Representatives may

introduce a bill at any time while the house is in session. The sponsor’s signature must appear on the bill and is assigned its legislative number by the Clerk of the House and referred to the appropriate committee by the Speaker of the House with assistance of the Parliamentarian.

Public Hearings and Markup SessionsUsually the first step in this process is a public hearing,

where committee members hear witnesses representing various viewpoints on the measure. After hearings are completed, the bill is considered in a session that is popularly known as the “mark-up” session. Members of the committee study the viewpoints presented in detail. Amendments may be offered to the bill and the committee members vote to accept or reject these changes.

Committee ActionAt the conclusion of committee deliberation, a vote

of committee members is taken to determine what action to take on the measure. It can be reported, with or without amendment, or tabled, which means no further action. If the committee has approved extensive amendments, the may decide to report a new bill incorporating all the amendments. This is known as a “clean bill” which will have a new number. If the committee votes to report a bill, the Committee Report is written. This report describes the purpose and scope of the measure and the reasons for recommended approval.

House Floor ConsiderationConsideration of a measure by the full House can

be a simple or very complex process. In general, a measure is ready for consideration by the full House after it has been reported by a committee. The

By Marc MansfieldGovernmental Affairs Director


consideration of a measure may be governed by a “rule.” A rule is a resolution which must be passed by the House that sets out the particulars of debate for a specific bill-how much time will be allowed for debate, whether amendments can be offered and other related matters. Debate time is normally divided between proponents and opponents. Each side yields time to those Members who wish to speak on the bill. After all debate is concluded and amendments decided upon, the House is ready to vote on final passage. In some cases, a vote to “recommit” the bill to committee is requested. This is usually an effort by opponents to change some portion or table the measure. If the attempt to recommit fails, a vote on final passage is ordered.

Resolving DifferencesAfter a bill passes in the House, it goes to the Senate for

consideration. A bill must pass both bodies in the same form before it can be presented to the President for signature into law. If the Senate changes the language, it must return to the House for concurrence. Often a conference committee will be appointed with both House and Senate members. This group resolves differences between the House and Senate and will report the identical bill back to both bodies for a vote.

Final StepVotes on final passage are completed by both the House and

the Senate. After a measure has been passed in identical form by both the House and the Senate, It is considered “enrolled.” It is sent to the President who may sign the measure into law, veto it and return it to Congress, let it become law without signature or at the end of the session pocket veto it.

Amendment 4 will hurt Florida taxpayersBy Ryan HouckExecutive Dirctor, Citizens for Lower Taxes and A Stronger Economy

As our state’s economy continues to buckle under the strain of the Great Recession, Floridians have been forced to tighten their belts. However, even as many working families and small businesses struggle to make ends meet, a handful of well-funded lawyers and special interest groups are trying to pass an irresponsible amendment to our state constitution that would lead to painful property tax increases. The authors and proponents of Amendment 4 have spent several years and millions of dollars placing their reckless measure on the ballot. However, its spot in this November’s election is particularly alarming given Florida’s struggling economy and depressed fiscal environment.

Even as city budgets decline and local government services are cut to accommodate drastic reductions in revenue, Amendment 4 would require Florida’s taxpayers to fund hundreds of costly referenda each year. In the last four years alone, this amendment would have required an average of over 10,599 additional local votes per year in Florida. In larger counties, special elections can cost millions of dollars

each and even if amendments were rolled onto existing ballots, the costs would quickly spiral out of control. According to the Orlando Sentinel, “The cost to local governments of including the land-use amendments on ballots would soar into the millions.”

The result, according to a Washington Economics Group study released in January, would be to “force local and state governments to either raise taxes or cut services.” Ultimately, the study notes, “Public schools, public safety and local health care services would suffer from both the direct impact of Amendment 4 (delay construction until the next election) and the indirect impact of fewer tax revenues from which to fund needed operations and capital investments.”

And that is what already happened in one small, Florida town. St. Pete

Beach was forced to raise property tax rates after adopting a local version of Amendment 4 in 2006. Their economy, hindered by an impossible growth management process, has suffered greatly. What’s more, when St. Pete Beach voters approved four pro-growth changes to their comprehensive land use plan in 2008, Amendment 4 lawyers sued to overturn the results of the election. To date, the taxpayers of St. Pete Beach have shouldered over half-a-million dollars in legal fees tied to their local version of Amendment 4; they are still defending their vote in court. However, the costs to St. Pete Beach—a small town of only 10,000 residents—would pale in comparison to the cost of imposing this measure upon every community in Florida.

Now, more than ever, we need to avoid the kind of short-sighted, anti-jobs thinking that is exemplified by Amendment 4. When our economy is struggling to regain its vitality, the last thing we need is an amendment that will impede, rather than promote, progress. We must not let Amendment 4 and its supporters erect a roadblock to economic recovery.

For more information on Amendment 4 or Citizens for Lower Taxes and A Stronger Economy, please visit www.florida2010.org.


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iser Splitting and combining real property:

What are the scenarios for Realtors®?

For more information, contact the Property Appraiser’s office at 941.861.8200.

Scenario #1- COMBINE: Your phone rings, and it’s the Smith’s, former clients who purchased their home a few years ago. They’re calling you because a For Sale sign just went up on the vacant lot next door. You and the Smith’s discussed that vacant parcel when they bought their home, agreeing that having the open space next door enhanced their property, but the Smiths’s were not in a position to purchase it at that time.

They now want to move quickly to protect their privacy and the views they’ve enjoyed the past several years. However, they’re concerned about the property tax implications. The Smith’s want you to tell them how they can incorporate the vacant lot with their Homestead exempt property.

When parcels are contiguous, and identically titled, they can be combined into one assessment parcel with one identification number and one tax bill. Contiguous parcels border each other or at least meet at one point.

Identically titled means that if your client, John Smith, is in title on his current property, then the other parcel or parcels must be titled to John Smith, not John and Mary Smith.

Nevertheless, it is possible to extend the Homestead exemption when the person or persons that have beneficial title to contiguous parcels have title to the properties in different forms such as a single person, trust, life estate, etc.

Once the Smith’s acquire the new property they will need to visit our office to fill out the paperwork requesting a combination of the parcels and file a revised Homestead exemption application.

Combination requests for Homestead exempt property filed by March 1 will take effect on the year of the request. Requests for combinations of non-Homestead

property must be filed by January 1 of the year for which the combination is requested. The entire combined value of the added property would be subject to the Save Our Homes Cap in subsequent years.

Scenario #2 – SPLIT or Cutout: Your phone rings again. This time is the Jones’s, the folks who purchased a large tract of land several years ago with visions of fresh eggs, organic produce, and horses for the kids.

The charms of the gentleman farmer lifestyle have faded. The Jones’s are now eager to sell off most of their property, but retain their existing home on a smaller piece of land. They’re calling you to advise them on how and when to split the property they want to sell.

An option would be to provide us a site plan showing the portion they will retain and request we separate the lands to be sold. However, the option most people choose is to wait until the property actually sells or is otherwise subdivided in an official plat, thus holding on to any exemption benefits as long as possible. The deed selling the property or the recorded plat will automatically cause an adjustment of the Homestead parcel and the creation of new parcels.

A note of caution: Before asking this office to combine or split any lands, we strongly suggest you contact the proper jurisdictional Zoning Agency to insure the combination or split will not create a zoning violation or impair your ability to separate the parcels again in the future.

Scenario #3 – Split Tax Bill: The Jones’s are calling again. In the summer you brokered the sale of their excess lands to a developer. It is November and they just received their tax bill. They are frantic because

By Bill Furst, GRI, CRS, CRBSarasota County Property Appraiser

SPLITTING AND COMBINING REAL PROPERTY Scenario #1‐ COMBINE: Your phone rings, and it’s the Smith’s, former clients who purchased their home a few years ago. They’re calling you because a For Sale sign just went up on the vacant lot next door. You and the Smith’s discussed that vacant parcel when they bought their home, agreeing that having the open space next door enhanced their property, but the Smiths’s were not in a position to purchase it at that time. They now want to move quickly to protect their privacy and the views they’ve enjoyed the past several years. However, they’re concerned about the property tax implications. The Smith’s want you to tell them how they can incorporate the vacant lot with their Homestead exempt property. When parcels are contiguous, and identically titled, they can be combined into one assessment parcel with one identification number and one tax bill. Contiguous parcels border each other or at least meet at one point. Identically titled means that if your client, John Smith, is in title on his current property, then the other parcel or parcels must be titled to John Smith, not John and Mary Smith. Nevertheless, it is possible to extend the Homestead exemption when the person or persons that have beneficial title to contiguous parcels have title to the properties in different forms such as a single person, trust, life estate, etc. Once the Smith’s acquire the new property they will need to visit our office to fill out the paperwork requesting a combination of the parcels and file a revised Homestead exemption application. Combination requests for Homestead exempt property filed by March 1 will take effect on the year of the request. Requests for combinations of non‐Homestead property must be filed by January 1 of the year for which the combination is requested. The entire combined value of the added property would be subject to the Save Our Homes Cap in subsequent years. Scenario #2 – SPLIT or Cutout: Your phone rings again. This time is the Jones’s, the folks who purchased a large tract of land several years ago with visions of fresh eggs, organic produce, and horses for the kids. The charms of the gentleman farmer lifestyle have faded. The Jones’s are now eager to sell off most of their property, but retain their existing home on a smaller piece of land. They’re calling you to advise them on how and when to split the property they want to sell. An option would be to provide us a site plan showing the portion they will retain and request we separate the lands to be sold. However, the option most people choose is to wait until the property actually sells or is otherwise subdivided in an official plat, thus holding on to any exemption benefits as long as possible. The deed selling the property or the recorded plat will automatically cause an adjustment of the Homestead parcel and the creation of new parcels. A note of caution: Before asking this office to combine or split any lands, we strongly suggest you contact the proper jurisdictional Zoning Agency to insure the combination or split will not create a zoning violation or impair your ability to separate the parcels again in the future. Scenario #3 – Split Tax Bill: The Jones’s are calling again. In the summer you brokered the sale of their excess lands to a developer. It is November and they just received their tax bill. They are frantic because the lands they sold are still included in their tax bill; they demand to know what you did wrong. The sale of a portion of a property that takes place after January 1 of any year is processed on the following year’s tax roll. In other words, a new tax roll entry for the sold parcel would be created on the year following the sale. In this case the Jones’s have no reason to worry. Either they or the buyer may contact the Tax Collector’s office and request a “Split Tax Bill.” Our office would then calculate the value, tax exemptions and/or assessment limitation caps to be apportioned among their parcel and the new parcel. This information would be delivered to the Tax Collector to generate a revised tax bill for the Jones’s’ and a new tax bill for the buyer. Our staff is ready to answer your questions. Give us a call at 941.861.8200 or email us at PA@SC‐PA.com.

Statutes and Rules related to Splitting and Combining §192.042 F.S. Date of Assessment. – All real property shall be assessed according to its just value as of January 1 of each year. Improvements or portions not substantially completed on January 1 shall have no value placed thereon. §196.031(1) Exemption of Homesteads – Every person who, on January 1, has the legal title or beneficial title in equity to real property in this state and who resides thereon and in good faith makes the same his or her permanent residence is entitled to an exemption on the residence and contiguous real property. Chapter 12D‐13.007 ‐ Florida Administrative Code. – Splits and Cutouts, Time for Requesting and Procedure. (1) When property has been properly assessed in the name of the owner as of January 1 of the tax year, the appraiser may not cancel the assessment by reason of a sale of the whole or a part of the property. The assessment is against the property, not the owner. (2) When the new owner or the original owner wishes to pay taxes on his or her proportionate share of the whole property, it is the duty of the property appraiser to figure the amount of the assessment on that portion of the whole. The request for a split or cutout shall initiate with the tax collector. The owner may request at any time from November 1, and up to 15 days before the tax certificate sale, an assessment on property to be split or cutout of a larger parcel.

_____________________ NEED A SPEAKER FOR YOUR MEETING? BILL FURST WILL COME AND TALK WITH YOUR GROUP AND ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS. To set up an appointment call our office at 941.861.8200 or email us at PA@SC‐PA.com


the lands they sold are still included in their tax bill; they demand to know what you did wrong.

The sale of a portion of a property that takes place after January 1 of any year is processed on the following year’s tax roll. In other words, a new tax roll entry for the sold parcel would be created on the year following the sale.

In this case the Jones’s have no reason to worry. Either they or the buyer may contact the Tax Collector’s office and

request a “Split Tax Bill.” Our office would then calculate the value, tax exemptions and/or assessment limitation caps to be apportioned among their parcel and the new parcel. This information would be delivered to the Tax Collector to generate a revised tax bill for the Jones’s’ and a new tax bill for the buyer.

Our staff is ready to answer your questions. Give us a call at 941.861.8200 or email us at [email protected].

The sale of a portion of a property that takes place after January 1 of any year is processed on

the following year’s tax roll.

Photo CourtesyDetlev von Kessel


pqQ: An acquaintance of mine has her home exclusively listed for sale with a competing broker, but she told me in a phone conversation that she might change listing brokers. She asked me to look at her home, present a CMA, and discuss possibly taking on the listing. Would it be in violation of the Code of Ethics for me to follow through with this request without first getting permission from the broker who currently holds the listing? Or would this be OK because my acquaintance approached me about it?

A: It is not a violation of the Code for you to go on the listing call in these circumstances. Both Standard of Practice 16-6 and Standard of Practice 16-13 address this question.

Standard of Practice 16-6 states that “When Realtors® are contacted by the client of another Realtor® regarding the creation of an exclusive relationship to provide the same type of service, and Realtors® have not directly or indirectly initiated such discussions, they may discuss the terms upon which they might enter into a future agreement or, alternatively, may enter into an agreement which becomes effective upon expiration of any existing exclusive agreement.”

The key elements of this Standard are that the Realtors® is contacted by the client and has not directly or indirectly initiated the call or the discussions. That is exactly what has happened here. Thus, you may go on the call, present the CMA, and discuss a future listing with your acquaintance.

The primary idea behind Standard of Practice 16-13 is “dealings.” A Realtor® may not conduct dealings with the client of another Realtor® without the permission of the client’s exclusive representative or broker or without direction from the client. Thus, there is no violation of the Code because the dealings were not initiated by you.

Q: I recently acted as the listing agent for a neighbor who was selling her home. The buyer was represented by a salesperson from a different company. After the transaction closed, a third real estate practitioner who had no part in the deal mailed a “Just Sold” flyer to households in the neighborhood. The flyer contained

information about the house and the public synopsis from the MLS, along with that real estate practitioner’s contact information and an advertisement for his business. A letter accompanying the flyer also made it appear that he was the broker responsible for the sale, although he didn’t say that explicitly. Is this a Code of Ethics violation?

A: The key concept is whether or not the advertising presents a “true picture.” Article 12 of the Code says “Realtors® shall be honest and truthful in their real estate communications and shall present a true picture in their advertising, marketing, and other representations.” Standard of Practice 12-7 amplifies the “true picture” test. “Only Realtors® who participated in the transaction as the listing broker or cooperating broker (selling broker) may claim to have ‘sold’ the property.”

If the flyer and letter would lead a reasonable consumer to believe the Realtor® who sent the flyer actually “sold” the property, then likely it’s a violation of the Code. Although sold properties and (usually) their sale price are public record, that doesn’t allow Realtors® to claim to have “sold” the property if they weren’t the listing or cooperating broker.

This standard also applies to newsletters. Case Interpretations 12-12 and 12-13 allow Realtors® to publish a list of sold properties in a “neighborhood newsletter” as long as that publication is consistent with local MLS rules and it’s clear to reasonable readers that Realtors® aren’t claiming to have sold any property where they weren’t either the listing or selling broker. Remember, the essence of Article 12 is “truth in advertising!”

Ethics Q&A: Keep up your ethics acumenBy Bruce AydtRealtor® Magazine Online

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pFebruary 2010 property sales 49 percenthigher than February 2009; pendings up

Property sales up 49 percent in February 2010; pending sales spike

Overall property sales reached 528 in the Sarasota market in February 2010, up nearly 49 percent over February 2009, and pending sales were also strong at 967 - the second highest total in the past four years. The statistics continue to reflect a recovering Sarasota market, as median sale prices also rebounded for condos in February and remained stable for single family homes.

February sales of 379 single family homes and 149 condominiums was a major improvement over February 2009, which saw only 354 overall sales (260 homes and 94 condos). Pending sales, at 967, were about 19 percent higher than last month’s 815, and more than 23 percent higher than the 782 reported in February 2009. The statistic is a strong indicator for the next two or three months of sales, as pending sales are an indicator of current buyer activity. and likely reflects the rush of buyers to qualify for homebuyer tax credits before the April 30th expiration.

Median sale prices in the Sarasota real estate market rose in February 2010 for condos, while slipping slightly for single family homes. The median sale price for a single family home was $150,000, down 4 percent from January’s $156,250, but up 5.6 percent over last February’s figure of $142,000. For condos, the median price rose to $169,000 from last month’s level of $165,000, a 2.4 percent increase. Last year at this time, condo median sale price was $198,000. For the last 12 months combined, the median sale price for single family homes was $160,000, while the median sale price for condos was $185,000.

Distressed property sales represented 47 percent of the overall market in February 2010, nearly the same as the previous month’s figure of 48 percent. The high percentage of short sales and bank-owned foreclosure sales in the Sarasota market continues to be the single biggest factor holding

back the overall median sale prices.

Normal arm’s length property sales continue to show median sale prices

roughly 150 percent higher than distressed property sale prices.

“Despite the national economic doldrums, lingering high unemployment, and other negative factors, our local real estate market remains strong compared to recent down years,” said 2010 SAR President Erick Shumway. “There are now several months of positive numbers which indicate we are emerging with strength from the recent downturn. While distressed property sales remain a drag on the overall market health, all the other statistics are tracking in a very positive manner. Our local and even our international buyers are proving the old adage that you can’t keep a good market down for long. And with pending sales at nearly 1,000 last month, the near term future looks very promising.”

The property inventory level fell slightly in February 2010 to 6,329 from the January total of 6,342, which remains at near the lowest level since late summer of 2005.

The months of inventory for single family homes was 10.6 months, a drop from last month’s 11.5 months and far lower than the 24.1 months in February 2009. For condos, the months of inventory level was 15.4 months, or slightly higher than the 14.7 months last month, and far lower than the 28.4 months only a year ago. Once the market reaches the 6 month level it is considered to be in equilibrium between buyers and sellers.

The first-time homebuyer tax credit, extended and expanded to include many other homebuyers on Nov. 6, expires at the end of April, noted Shumway. He urged potential buyers to contact local Realtors® and get a contract approved before the end of the month to ensure they can take advantage of the $8,000 and $6,500 credits.

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“You can’t keep a good market down for long.” - 2010 SAR President Erick

Shumway


Sarasota MLSSM Statistics February 2010 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics February 2010

Statistics were compiled on properties listed in the MLS by members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® as of March 10th, 2010,including some listings in Manatee, Englewood, Venice, and other areas. Single-family statistics are tabulated using property styles of single-family and villa. Condo statistics include condo, co-op, and townhouse.

Single Family – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2009 93.0 93.1 92.5 92.4 93.2 93.8 93.2 93.6 94.2 94.4 94.1 94.2 2010 94.4 92.8 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

050100150200250300350400450500

Feb‐09 Mar‐09 Apr‐09 May‐09 Jun‐09 Jul‐09 Aug‐09 Sep‐09 Oct‐09 Nov‐09 Dec‐09 Jan‐10 Feb‐10

Unit Sales Single FamilyCondo


$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

Feb‐09 Mar‐09 Apr‐09 May‐09 Jun‐09 Jul‐09 Aug‐09 Sep‐09 Oct.09 Nov. 09 Dec‐09 Jan‐10 Feb‐10

Single FamilyCondoMedian Sale Price

Single Family

#Active #Sold %Sold Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending # New Listings

# Off Market

This Month 4,031 379 9.4 174 $150,000 $160,000 10.6 701 17.4 868 224

This Month Last Year

6266 260 4.1 166 $142,000 $225,000 24.1 611 9.7 837 218

Last Month 4042 350 8.6 169 $156,250 $160,000 11.5 573 14.2 1,004 185

YTD ‐ 867 ‐ 172 $150,000 ‐ ‐ 1274 ‐ 1,872 ‐


Sarasota MLSSM Statistics February 2010 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics February 2010

Median sales price is the middle value, where half of the homes sold for more, and half sold for less. Listings sold were closed transac-tions during the month. Pending sales are sales where an offer has been accepted during the month, but the sale has not yet closed. Even though some pending sales never close, pending sales are an indicator of current buyer activity. DOM indicates the average number of days that sold properties were on the market before a contract was executed.

Condo – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2009 91.0 90.2 90.4 92.2 90.1 91.4 92.1 92.4 91.5 92.4 92.3 93.1 2010 92.5 92.4 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

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8,000


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100

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Pending SalesSingle FamilyCondo

Condo

#Active #Sold %Sold Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months ofInventory

Pending Reported

%Pending # New Listings

# Off Market

This Month 2298 149 6.5 206 $169,000 $185,000 15.4 266 11.6 326 255

This Month Last Year

2675 94 3.5 154 $198,000 $295,000 28.5 171 6.4 386 148

Last Month 2300 156 6.8 207 $165,000 $189,900 14.7 242 10.5 385 205

YTD ‐ 308 ‐ 206 $170,000 ‐ ‐ 508 ‐ 711 ‐


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n)Grassroots bank stimulus is neededBut many community banks don’t want TARP moneyBy Lee DeLieto, Jr.2010 CID President

One of the many frustrating challenges commercial real estate practitioners have to face is a transaction falling apart due to a lack of financing.

No one knows that better than the bankers themselves. Pete Skokos, a partner with the law firm, Norton, Hammersley, Lopez and Skokos, is also a board director for the local Superior Bank. He explains the recent conundrum.

“Community banks have been hit hard by this economy and the declining real estate values resulting in loan losses and write downs,” noted Pete. “The loan losses and write downs have in turn led to a deterioration of the bank’s capital. The majority of the community banks did not have access to the TARP funds and as a result of the numerous bank failures, especially among community banks, it is nearly impossible for these banks to raise the capital they need to satisfy the regulators. One of the keys to any stimulus money being offered to the community banks will be the incentives provided to these banks to get them to loan the money rather than to keep the money to shore up their capital position.”

In a February issue of CNNMoney.com, staff reporter Catherine Clifford wrote of President Obama’s introduction to Congress of his new government lending program. Does the acronym TARP ring a bell? Standing for Troubled Asset Relief Program, the program gained notoriety for the billions of dollars it fed to the big banks and Wall Street. Clifford explained that the nation’s 22 largest recipients of TARP cut back their small business lending. With that being said, Obama’s “recycled TARP” program was being proposed.

However, according to Charlie Brown, CEO of Insignia Bank, any lending proposal that looked like or smelled like TARP was not going to be accepted by community banks. By invitation of Congressman Vern Buchanan, Brown and seven other local community bank CEOs from Florida’s 13th Congressional District met to discuss their roles as it relates to small business lending.

In addition to being our local Congressional Representative, Buchanan is also ranking member of the Small Business Finance and Tax Subcommittee and a crusader for the small business owner.

“I believe that jobs and the economy are the most important issues facing our country right now,” said

Buchanan. “Small businesses create 70 percent of the jobs in this country. They need access to credit to maintain and grow their businesses and hire new workers. Local community banks are vital in the effort to provide capital to credit worthy small businesses.”

Buchanan noted that banks aren’t lending. In 2009, bank lending fell by $587.3 billion, or 7.5 percent, from 2008. The Obama administration has proposed a new small business lending fund to make $30 billion in TARP funds available to community banks with $10 billion or less in assets.

“What I heard from the banks is that they need capital, but don’t want TARP funds, and I agree,” said Buchanan. “TARP funds should be used to pay down the debt. They also need regulators to work with them to make credit available to small businesses.”

As Brown explains, the success of the proposal could come down to the definition of what is a small business loan. Typically, the SBA program (Small Business Administration) is promoted and very successful, but it is also very specific by nature and narrow in scope based on the number of employees and level of sales. On the other hand, the CRA (Community Redevelopment Act) will look at any business with less than $1 million in revenue.

Like every other facet of this industry these days, there is no doubt going to be various iterations. But as Brown states, “If the government can pull this off, there will be a tremendous amount of capital and a tremendous incentive to lend, thus funding more small business growth.”

If you have questions, comments or topics for discussion, please feel free to write me at [email protected]

CID plans programfor April 20th

This month’s CID program will be held in the SAR Main Auditorium on Tuesday, April 20th at 8:30 a.m., and all CID members are invited to attend. Watch for emails concerning details of this month’s program highlights.

Consult SAR’s web site - www.sarasotarealtors.com - and weekly e-mail updates for all current CID information.The meeting will be chaired by 2010 CID President Lee DeLieto, Jr. Stay tuned for future program announcements!


Enter at your own risk!These days, commercial real estate feels like a lion’s denBy Brad LindbergCID Vice President

It’s hard enough to find a buyer today who hasn’t been influenced by the negative media coverage into thinking that the asking price is 50 percent too high. Properties that are a perfect fit, reasonably priced, and definitely a fair bang for the buck come under fire by the “educated” buyer.

On top of that, they want owner financing, a low interest rate, and extended terms matching the financial institution’s funding that they couldn’t qualify for anyway.

Then there is the Owner. Already bruised from the decline in property values, owners are constantly being berated by the banks to supply endless reports on vacancies, updated financials and ordering new appraisals, only to have the bank come back for more money to equalize the LTV.

No wonder commercial sales agents are carrying raw meat with them these days to throw into the cage before they meet with their respective clients.

More often today, we are faced with the reality of being as much a psychologist as we are sales professionals. We must educate our clients before entering in the market. We need to prepare them on what to expect from all anticipated offers and back up the argument with facts. Those facts can be the difference in keeping negotiations open or losing the sale.

Here are some examples of preparation that may allow you to keep your head after meeting with your client:

Qualify Buyers: If your Buyer needs owner financing for the deal, know that up front. An upside down owner has a very low threshold for coming out of pocket with more money.

Have the “hard talk” with the Owner: Be up front and forthcoming about the worst case scenario. If you tell him he will get his price if he lists with you ... you better carry a lot of meat in your briefcase, because you are going to lose your

head when you present the low offer.Keep in touch with your Owner: This is simple. Call

them even when there isn’t anything going on! This is the “Throw the meat in the cage first” concept.

School your Buyer on the Owner perspectives: If you understand what financial position the owner of a property is in, you can better structure your offer to keep the negotiations open. Agitating the owner will only cost you more. Remember, lawyers get paid by the hour and legal cases can be expensive. Pay me now or pay me later

Quit worrying about your commission: The “What’s in it for me?” approach is not a good strategy. If you are more concerned about your commission than your client needs, it will show, and your greatest fear will come true. Do all the right things for your client and you will be rewarded for your effort.

Do these things and you won’t have to carry raw meat with you to tame the lion!

Officers:President: Lee DeLieto, Jr., Michael Saunders & CompanyPresident-Elect: Anthony Homer, Lakewood Ranch CommercialVice-President: Brad Lindberg, Hembree & AssociatesPast President: Jag Grewal, Ian-BlackSecretary: Tim Mapp, Mapp RealtyTreasurer: Linda Emery, Michael Saunders & Company

Directors:Dave Altwies: Exit Gulf Coast Realty (1 year term - 2010)Lori Conable: Osprey Real Estate (1 year term-2010)Eric Massey: Michael Saunders (2 year term - 2011)Mike Sporer: Interstate Commercial Brokers (2 year term - 2011)Diane Lee: Wagner Realty (3 year term - 2012)

New Director: TBD

2010 CID Officers & Directors


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GRI 2 May 24-26, June 1-2, 2010GREEN June 7-9, 2010

CIPS Inst. June 21-25, 2010GRI 3 July 26-28, Aug. 3-4, 2010

Mark Your Calendars: 2010 Designation Courses

Title: Lunch and Learn Series: Condominium Sales in Today’s MarketplaceDate: Wednesday, April 7, Noon to 1:15 pmLocation: SAR Main AuditoriumCost: Free to SAR and SCBA members,Non-Members: $10

The impact of distress in our real estate market cannot be ignored when buying or selling condominium properties. The Realtor Attorney Committee, a joint effort of the Sarasota Association of Realtors and the Sarasota County Bar Association, brings you a panel of experts to provide a greater understanding of the issues.

• Telese McKay practices solely in the field of condominium and homeowner association law. Ms. McKay acts as general counsel to the community association clients of her firm.

• Robert Lambert is a Private Mortgage Banker with MSC Mortgage, an Affiliate of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Bob has been intimately involved in the financing of various condominium properties throughout our area. He brings his vast business management background to the mortgage marketplace.

• William Sutton, CEO of Progressive Community Management Inc. In addition to his marketing and management duties for Progressive, Bill is intimately involved with associations that have been placed into receivership. Mr. Sutton is currently working with numerous banks and associations that have entered into the foreclosure process.

Join us for the second Lunch while you Learn seminar. Bring a brown bag lunch and gain nourishment for your body and mind.

Condo sales topic of Lunch & Learn

100MPH Marketing for Real EstateTitle: 100MPH Marketing for Real EstateDate: Wednesday, April 28, 9 to 11 a.m.Location: SAR Main AuditoriumCost: $10 (SAR members) $20 (others)Instructor: Mitch Ribak, Tropical Realty of Suntree, Melbourne, FL

The Internet is the biggest mystery to the real estate world. Agents are spending thousands of dollars trying to figure out what a small brokerage in Melbourne, Florida has been able to do month in and month out for over eight years!

What exactly can you learn from Mitch Ribak?

1. Internet Marketing – Learn the most efficient means of marketing on the Internet from Pay Per Click to SEO.

2. Lead Capture – How do you actually get people to register on

your site. Learn to use lead capture forms through landing pages.

3. Lead Conversion – This is the mystery. The national average of Internet lead conversion is 1 percent. Why is this so low? Tropical Realty of Suntree has averaged between 3 percent and 4.25 percent every year for the past 5 years while growing their company 20 percent or more

each year in what is arguably one of the worst Real Estate markets in the country.

4. Follow up – The key to Internet marketing is a solid follow up program including both Drip email campaigns and phone call follow up.

5. Lead Conversion Administrators (LCA’s) – If you are too busy to keep on top of your leads, add an LCA to help insure maximum lead conversion.

This 2-hour seminar will change the way you do business. Mitch doesn’t just teach these programs - he uses them daily.

In 2009, TRS ended as the number 1 Real Estate office in Buyer Transactions with a total of 311 transactions in Brevard County. TRS has been number one for the past four years!


Earn NAR Green Designation June 7-8Title: NAR’s Green Designation (complete!)- Core Course – June 7-8Residential Elective: June 9Instructor: Lynn A. NilssenTime: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.Cost: Core Course $250Residential Elective: $125Save $50 and sign up for both at $325

Green homes that are good for the environment while saving home owners money are in demand, and Realtors® are responding by enhancing their multiple listing services to showcase green homes and green features.

To prepare themselves to better serve this market, thousands of Realtors® have already earned NAR’s Green designation.

In order to earn the NAR Green designation, the student must successfully complete the Core Course and one of three elective courses.

• Green Residential Real Estate• Green Commercial Real Estate• Green Property ManagementStudents who complete the Core Course receive a one-year

membership in the NAR Green Resource Council. SAR is offering the Residential elective in conjunction with the Core course so you can knock out your designation quickly.

After taking this course, you will be able to:

• Recognize the features that make a home or building green and resource efficient in construction or remodeling, use and operation

• Inform customers and clients of the significance of LEED, Energy Star, and other rating systems

• Discuss the cost-benefit of resource-efficient building and home systems, materials and land usage

• Recognize, validate and respond to concerns and priorities of the green consumer, seller, buyer, tenant, builder, developer

• Make the appropriate disclosures consistent with NAR Code of Ethics and state regulations

• Describe the interrelationships of sustainable communities, Smart Growth, natural habitat conservation, New Urbanism and land planning.

GRI Course 2 offered in late May, JuneTitle: GRI 2Dates: May 24-26 & June 1-2Times: 8a.m. to 5 p.m. (varies)Credits: 15 hours broker post-license credit, or 11 hours continuing education Cost: SAR Members by 5/10/10: $275Non Members by 5/10/10: $300After 5/10/10: Add $25

Is it a coincidence that all the top producers in the Sarasota market have earned their GRI designation? We don’t think so! We think the education that you receive from the GRI program is the best anywhere in the country. Sign up today for GRI 2 starting on May 27. Here are the subjects:

- Sales and Marketing (one day)- Personal Promotion (one day)- Appraising (one day)

- Investments (half-day)- Construction (half-day)- Elements of E-mail (half-

day)Increase your knowledge.

You’ll learn valuable information and techniques that can help you and your business.

Professionals find the GRI designation a powerful tool for attracting and building new business.

Expand your network of real estate professionals to generate more leads. Develop skills and obtain knowledge to get better results with less time and work.

Display your designation certification to illustrate your professionalism and expertise.

This GRI series is offered by Florida Realtors® through its Florida Realtor® Institute. All the instructors have been carefully screened for their knowledge of the subjects as well as for their teaching techniques—they’re the best real estate teachers in the state.

All GRI Courses are now available for GRI credit online through a special Florida Realtors® website:

www.fargri.com.


CONGRATULATIONS! Dedication and hard work pay off!! We congratulate our members who have successfully completed

the requirements for the National Association of Realtors designation and certificate programs, Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI), ePRO Certification (e-PRO), and At Home With Diversity

(AHWD).

Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI)Stephanie Lyn Burwood Keller Williams Lakewood RanchJeff Kratz RE/MAX Platinum Realty

e-Pro Certification (ePro)Chuck Shah Lakewood Ranch Realty

At Home With Diversity (AHWD)Regina Brassil True Real Estate

Free seminar on Diversity, Fair HousingMark your calendar for April 21, from 9 a.m. to Noon for

a FREE 3-hour training session concerning Diversity and Fair Housing. Subjects include:

• Brief History of the Fair Housing Act• The Fair Housing Act and Prohibited Practices• Fair Housing for Persons with Disabilities• Definition of Disabled Persons• What are Reasonable Accommodations?

• What Constitutes Reasonable Modifications?• Avoiding Liability – Policies, Procedures• Landlord/Tenant Issues & Fair Housing• Question & Answer SessionThe event is sponsored by the Sarasota Office of Housing &

Community Development, with facility and refreshments by Northern Trust Bank, 1515 Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, 11th Floor Conference Room. RSVP to Cindy Emshoff at 951-3640 ext. 3780 or [email protected]

With short salenegotiations,there aremanyproblemsandissues thatmayarise;manyyoumaynever see coming.

Sobeforeyou leap into ashort salenegotiation,consultwithattorneyStevenR.Greenberg.

Leaping IntoAShortSaleNegotiationCanBeADangerousMove.

2033MainStreet, Suite 500Sarasota, FL34237 941.365.6216For ImmediateService: LindaWitt,Director ofMarketing

Call 941-586-4412 e-mail:[email protected]

AFirmCommitment To You.

Stevenandhis teamoffer:•Comprehensive short sale servicesbya

BoardCertifiedRealEstateAttorney•Fixed fee short salenegotiations forSellers•Experienced, full-timeshort sale coordinator

workingwith lossmitigationnegotiatorsandRealtors

•Pre-foreclosure counselingavailable forSellerswithCPA/Attorney

STEVEN R. GREENBERGBoardCertifiedRealEstateAttorney

941.365.6216

Discover your MFRMLS hidden talentsPre-registration is required for all

MLXchange classes at www.mfrmls.com. All classes are hands-on in the SAR Technology Center (except for Entering and Updating). Registration is limited to 18. Please be sure that you will attend if you reserve a spot!MLXchange BasicApril 5, April 19, 9 a.m. to Noon

Learn the basic tools of MLXchange. It does the work for you, emailing the listings that match your client’s criteria automatically through auto notification. Learn the quick way to find a listing or view your inventory with one click right from the home page or create a professional CMA in less time than it takes to drive to work.

Mandatory session for all new users.- Review the home page features - Add a new client from the search module, saving a search and setting prospecting notification features - Searching and viewing listings, using the map, showing road, aerial, hybrid, and locator features - Adding additional search criteria - Viewing/printing/emailing reports, images, virtual tours, tax, map, driving directions and MLS listing history - Customizing hotsheet configurations - Search Tax - Creating a professional CMA - Personalize user contact informationEntering and Updating Listings in MLXchangeApril 5, April 19, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

This class is mandatory if you will be entering and updating your own listings. You will be taught how to input and modify listings, enter photos, and add attachments along with valuable tips and techniques.- Listing maintenance authorization forms - Explain the importance of accurate data - Rules and Regulations - Review the profile sheet - Entering a new listing, using tax auto pop, reviewing the fields that have specific entries in the Rules and

Regulations - Adding images, attachments, open house information, Supra Key and ShowingTime - Inventory watch - easiest way to modify the listingsMLXchange AdvancedApril 20, 9 a.m. to NoonTake MLXchange to the next level! In this session you will learn how to customize a search & display screens, personal website links and setup & save advanced searches.- Creating a custom template, adding fields, changing the display order - Foreclosure, fixer upper, and vacant listings with lockbox access - Customizing columns, adding/removing fields, changing the column headers and changing the field sort order Creating a Professional CMAApril 20, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.One of the most crucial components in today’s real estate professional’s day-to-day business is capturing and handling leads along with time management. This course will teach you how to set up your personal agent and client web pages, contact management and scheduling features that go hand-in-hand with a successful real estate business.Design Web Pages, Capture LeadsApril 21, 9 a.m. to Noon

One of the most crucial components in today’s real estate professional’s day-to-day business is capturing and handling leads along with time management. This course will teach you how to set up your personal agent and client web pages, contact management and scheduling features that go hand-in-hand with a successful real estate business.

iMapp - Interactive Taxand Mailing LabelsApril 21, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

In this class you will learn how to use the tax search features of MLXchange, access iMapp’s interactive maps, tax data, comparables, auto-valuations, and easily create mailing labels for your favorite area.- MLXchange tax search, using map and field searches, printing mailing labels - iMapp tax search, viewing parcel, GIS, MLS listings, zoom levels, street, aerial and flood zones- Measuring tool, pan and save map - Creating, viewing and downloading mailing labels - Illustrate the link to the tax appraiser website - Viewing and modifying the criteria for comparable properties - MLS and foreclosure searches

Using MLXchange to Effectively Manage Time & ContactsApril 27, 9 a.m. to NoonTime and contact management are more important than ever in today’s fast-faced real estate industry. This course will show you how to maximize the tools available in MLXchange along with other products that work hand-in-hand allowing you to become more productive in your real estate business.

Maximizing Your MFR Productivity ToolboxApril 27, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.This class introduces the user to the often overlooked plug-ins and features that are designed to save you time and money, as well as adding an extra level of service to your customer.

With short salenegotiations,there aremanyproblemsandissues thatmayarise;manyyoumaynever see coming.

Sobeforeyou leap into ashort salenegotiation,consultwithattorneyStevenR.Greenberg.

Leaping IntoAShortSaleNegotiationCanBeADangerousMove.

2033MainStreet, Suite 500Sarasota, FL34237 941.365.6216For ImmediateService: LindaWitt,Director ofMarketing

Call 941-586-4412 e-mail:[email protected]

AFirmCommitment To You.

Stevenandhis teamoffer:•Comprehensive short sale servicesbya

BoardCertifiedRealEstateAttorney•Fixed fee short salenegotiations forSellers•Experienced, full-timeshort sale coordinator

workingwith lossmitigationnegotiatorsandRealtors

•Pre-foreclosure counselingavailable forSellerswithCPA/Attorney

STEVEN R. GREENBERGBoardCertifiedRealEstateAttorney

941.365.6216


On

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SAR members are active, energized and out in force in the community! You can find hundreds of photos from our regular events at www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors Please visit soon and tag your friends and business associates!

SAR members out and about!

Visit SAR on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

SAR awarded 11 Realtor Emeritus designations at the March 12th Quarterly Membership Meeting. From left to right, Charles Volkert, William Greene, Selma Dyer, Paul Inkrott, Maryline O’Dea, Richard Plumb and Nancy Spinks. Not pictured - Craig Abbott, James Barnett, Fred Gibson and Gerald Kabobel. Below right, Fred Scheerle of Habitat for Humanity speaks at the event.

Many SAR members attended the Google Fiber promotion event at Mote Marine in March, where Sarasota Mayor Richard Clapp literally swam with the sharks to boost our community’s chances of getting the higher-speed Internet.


Sarasota’s Premier Real Estate Printer

Award-winning printing and customer service

Specializing in pocket portfolios,die-cutting and foil -stamping

done in-house

FSC and SFI certified to help you go green

1730 Independence Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34234(941) 351-1515 • (941) 351-8639 F • www.coastalprint.com

[email protected]

A new group of SAR members attends the monthly Orientation Session in March.

Anthony Homer of Lakewood Ranch Commercial Realty.

Tommy Klauber, Robin Parsons and Craig Cerreta.www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine APRIL 2010 25

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us Mold can be health risk, devalue propertyBy Edward ThomasSAR AffiliateEnvironmental Toxic Mold Removal

Since there are no set laws to date in the mold-related industry, Environmental Toxic Mold Removal follows the guidelines recommended by the EPA. New laws will be in place by July 2010, so keep an eye on the news.

Did You Know?1. Over 50 percent of homes and buildings contain

mold problems due to water intrusion.2. A 300 percent increase in the asthma rate over the

past 20 years has been linked to mold.3. Mold can cause a

large variety of health effects, including behavior problems, learning disabilities, brain damage, ear infections, sinus and/or eye infections, damage to immune system, breathing disorders such as allergies and asthma.

4. Mold affects everyone differently. Those most affected by mold are young children, the elderly and persons with compromised immune systems.

Because of the countless number of mold lawsuits, problems associated with mold have received a lot of media attention and raised new concerns in the health and real estate industries. Mold issues can cause serious health problems and property damage. An area the size of a softball can emit tens of thousands of spores into the air.

Some mold types are infectious, some are extremely toxic, and indoor molds are considered allergenic.

Sixty percent of the time, there are no visible signs of mold. There are over 30 areas in buildings and homes where water problems can exist. For example, mold may grow behind walls, in ceilings, under floors and in attics.

In some cases, new homes are constructed with lumber that has been left outdoors. Wet lumber is framed into the building and covered with drywall.

The mold will grow in the wall within 48 hours. Mold not only poses health risks, it also does damage to the property.

Symptoms of Mold Exposure1. Chronic fatigue2. Headaches3. Loss of memory or concentration4. Trouble thinking or learning5. Clear, thin, watery mucus drips from the nose6. Green slime comes out of nose7. Frequent bloody nose

8. Coughing or difficulty breathing

9. Hives or skin rashes

10. Sneezing, itchy eyes, nose, throat or mouth

Mold Remediation Tips

1. Work fast in cleanup. The first 24 to 48 hours are crucial. Mold will start growing during this time.

2. Fast cleanup will stop mold organisms from becoming airborne.

3. Do not use chlorine bleach to kill mold. Chlorine bleach is ineffective for three reasons:

a. It is too weak to kill mold and mildew,because it is only about 5% bleach, and not E.P.A. approved.

b. It will not soak into porous materials (drywall, wood, etc.). It will only work on the outside surface, not on the inside where mold may be growing.

c. What little power it has quickly diminishes as it sits on grocery and warehouse store shelves.

Remember that all mold needs is moisture to grow. If you use 5 percent chlorine bleach, that leaves 95 percent water! (FOOD FOR MOLD.)

Environmental Toxic Mold Removal Services is an Affiliate member of SAR. Visit them online at www.etmrservices.com.

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By Pamela Dittmer McKuenRealtor® Magazine Online

Did you know sales contests can alienate team members even when your goal is to boost morale.

One of Linda M. Lukas’ most treasured possessions is a brass eagle that stands nearly a foot tall. The figurine, displayed prominently on her dining room hutch, is a top producer award she earned in the early 1980s from the now-closed Lincoln Realty in Orange, Calif.

“It’s not that I needed more dust catchers, but there’s status in receiving it,” Lukas says. “Everybody sees you walk up and get that eagle at the sales meeting.”

In 2002 Lukas opened her own brokerage, Lukas Properties, also in Orange. As the sole proprietor, she doesn’t have a need for sales contests anymore. But she still recalls how much excitement they would create in the office.

“It was the most fun I had in my life,” she says. “You’d have an idea of who would win because the sales board was up, but there were people who would sandbag deals at the last minute. There was so much camaraderie. We’d pick on each other in a friendly fashion: ‘Oh, no, not you again’ or ‘How many deals are in your briefcase today?’”

Competitions have long served to recognize high achievers and inspire others to ramp up production. Specifics vary from brokerage to brokerage, but monthly, quarterly, and annual competitions are common.

As for the winnings, inscribed wall plaques are traditional and ubiquitous, although the gamut includes ribbons, dollars, and even diamonds.

As Lukas did earlier in her career, many practitioners thrive in a competitive environment in which

they try to outdo themselves and each other.

“I think sales awards are phenomenal as a motivational tool,” says Jason Burkholder, ABR®, e-PRO®, who manages Weichert, Realtors®, Engle & Hambright in Lancaster, Pa. “Our agents love the recognition. It gives them a sense of achievement and purpose, which is important in a business where there’s so much rejection.”

But not everyone feels the same way about contests. Many managers and salespeople say they can backfire, alienating the majority of the office that does not win. And some are downright emphatic about their disdain for such competitions—and not because they’ve never stood to win one.

No Awards, PleaseSix years ago Vicki Doudera began

selling real estate in her coastal hometown of Camden, Maine. One reason she joined Camden Real Estate Co.: Its no-contest policy. She believes such competition breaks down camaraderie more than builds it up.

“Individual recognition is nice,” says Doudera, who holds NAR’s green designation. “I was Realtor® of the Year for the Coastal Mountain Council of Realtors® [part of the Mid-Coast Board of Realtors® in Palermo, Maine]. But what supersedes that is working together as a team and focusing on your client. I don’t think sales contests help your client.”

It doesn’t do much for sales production, either, Doudera says. Despite Camden Real Estate’s relatively small size of 17 practitioners, it consistently ranks among the state’s top-performing brokerages in sales volume, according to local MLS data.

Debi Wilson, a 10-year sales

veteran who last fall joined ERA Freeman & Associates in Gresham, Ore., makes another point: Awards rarely take into account the full story behind the numbers. She’s seen top producers who boost sales figures by buying and selling their own properties, and others who use teams of telemarketers rather than handle marketing on their own.

“One of my associates works with lower-end purchases in the ballpark of $100,000,” she says. “She’s a huge producer in her niche market. She has more transactions and more happy customers than many of those with huge numbers, but she’s not recognized because her dollars are so small.”

And then there are salespeople like Mona Ferro of London Properties in Merced, Calif., who have never felt at ease with sales awards as a means for accolades. As a young sales associate in the mid 1980s, she was discouraged when her production was compared to that of the seasoned pros.

Later she became a winner, too, but by that time she didn’t feel that she needed an award to tell her she was doing a good job—she had plenty of satisfied clients to do that.

“What I want is a bigger part of my hard-earned money,” she says. “I can buy my own plaques.”

Like Ferro, longtime sales associate Diane Saatchi doesn’t like sales contests on a personal level. “I hate any kind of recognition,” says Saatchi, a top producer with Corcoran Group in East Hampton, N.Y. “I don’t mention my awards on my stationery or in my advertising. I don’t want anyone to know how much I sold or how much money I have. I’m a private person.”

But as a former broker-owner, she understands that contests can work as a motivational tool.

Do sales awards really matter? Maybe


tThe Women’s Council of Realtors® is more than a

women’s organization. It is a network of professionals, a support system with strong individuals who are willing to try and meet new challenges. With our speakers, scheduled events, and classes our members make a difference.

Our referral system is like no other and nets thousands of dollars each year to our members. We are a Mega chapter with our state of Florida, Women’s Council of Realtors®, ranking number one nationally.

Our February and March programs were inspirational. Lance Burchett, Vice President for Advancement at Ringling College of Art and Design, inspired us by showing how the college has emerged as an economic driver of the future. He explained how the benefits have given world class recognition to Sarasota. In March, we listened to Beth Barnett’s inspirational talk on Overcoming Adversity. Her perseverance in staying focused as a professional Realtor® while battling health problems has set a positive example for others. Beth was honored by the American Cancer Society and continues to be a role model to others.

Congratulations to Marianne LeBar, Vice President of Membership, and her team during our membership drive and a big welcome to all our new members. Our new local chapter website is www.SarasotaWCR.com For more information about our website for members to advertise their company, contact Tina Darling, our webmaster, at [email protected].

Social media is in growth mode, so grow your business with Women’s Council of Realtors®. Become a member and join us on our websites, local, and national, and now on Facebook and Linked In.Jan - Feb New Realtor® Members

Janice Perry - MSC; Donna Baranowski - MSC; Lisa Curt - MSC; Janis Collier-MSC; Michael Bruno - Prudential Palms; Tama Traberman - MSC; Ellen Laura Esses - Xena Vallone Realty; JoEllyn Yturraspe - Prudential Palms; Judy Nimz - MSC; Maureen Doherty - MSC; Linda Driggs - MSC; Celeste Dymnicki - MSC; Yolanda Kirkpatrick - Prudential Palms; Pam Sweeney - MSC; Bernadette Caswell - MSC; Steve Cavanaugh - RE/MAX; Robin DiSabatino - MSC.

Jan -April New Affiliate MembersSheila Marvel - N&M Cool Today (NYP); Patty Sullivan

- M&I Bank (NYP); Jeanne Abel- Regions Bank; Marylou Bear - Regions Bank; Tina Darling - Innovative Agent Services; Kathleen Vacca -Patterson Appraisal Group; Kathy Collums - Sabal Palms Bank; DJ Throgmorton - First American Home Buyers; Karen Gagliardi - Berlin Patten; Michelle Hobson - Hobson Termite & Pest; Pam McCrone - Premier Inspection Services

WCR 2010 ProgramsApril 9, 8:30 a.m., Bent Tree Country Club: “Young

Producers Panel” - Christina Pitchford, CoordinatorMay 7, 11 a.m., Lakewood Ranch Country Club:

“Honoring Past Women’s Council Presidents” (Joint Meet with Manatee WCR

June 25 - Joint Meet Wth SAR; District XIII & V Forum, President Nan Harper, Keynote Speaker

July 9, 11 a.m., Laurel Oak Country Club: “Lynn McDonald - Topic TBA; Election of 2011 Officers

Aug. 13, 11 a.m., University Park Country Club: “Legislation That Affects Florida Realtors - Ron Reagan, Speaker Pro-Tempore, FL House of Representatives

September - Fashion Show - Date and Location TBDOct. 8, 8:30 a.m., Bird Key Yacht Club: Program TBANov. 12, 11 a.m., University Park Country Club:

Award Ceremony and FarewellDec. 10: Installation of 2011 President and Board,

Sarasota Yacht ClubSponsors

Gold: University Park Lifestyles, Inc.Silver: Lakewood Ranch Communities, LLC Neal Communities Starr Title Insurance Services - Carrie RummeryBronze: Regions Mortgage BB&T Oswald Trippe - Joe Sikora Silver Fox Pest Management MGA Insurance Group Southern Trust Financial Planning Intutive Interiors - Debra Bois

WCR is a great way to garner referralsBy Karen Grant2010 WCR President

Karen Grant President RE/MAX Tropical Sands Cell: 941-504-4952 [email protected]

Cindi Jackson President-Elect Exit Realty Signature Properties Cell: 941-400-6091 [email protected]

2010 Line OfficersMarianne LeBar Vice President of Membership Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-650-0337 [email protected]

Sharyl Smith Treasurer Bank of Commerce Cell: 941-374-06302 [email protected]

Leslie Lauritano Recording Secretary Regions Bank Cell: 941-504-1028 [email protected]

Melia Favorite Corresponding Secretary American Family Financial Cell: 941-807-0303 [email protected]


International Real Estate

Title: CIPS Institute (Certified International Property Specialist)Dates: June 21-25Location: SAR Main AuditoriumInstructors- David Lauster, CIPS, David Wyant, CIPSCost: $499 for SAR members (a $126 discount); $575 for non-SAR members (a $50 discount)

This Institute will be one of the first to be offered after NAR compresses the courses for the designation from 7 days down to 5, effective June 2010.

The low price for the complete designation is possible because of NAR’s Right Tools, Right Now program which has been extended through 2010, and also because the program has been shortened by two days. Get your CIPS designation while the price is the lowest you’ll ever see!

The complete series of classes leading to the CIPS designation is $499 for SAR members, a $126 discount. The complete series is $575 for non-SAR members, a $50 discount.

CIPS Institutes concentrate five of the required international CIPS courses into a 5-day format, allowing students to save travel costs and to complete the program quickly.

June 21: Special Price - $125 - International Real Estate for Local Markets: Analysis of the international real estate business environment, government regulations and cultures. The practical aspects of international brokerage, networking, marketing and selling are discussed (Lauster)

June 22: Special Price - $125 - Investment & Financial Analysis for International Real Estate: Provides the tools needed to present investment information

to international clients—in their currency and area. HP-10B calculator required. (Lauster)

June 23: Special Price - $125 - Europe & International Real Estate: Provides information on working with clients in Western and Central Europe. The European Union and its impact on international real estate are covered, along with economic and real estate trends, networking and relationship building, plus marketing and selling practices (Lauster)

June 24: Special Price - $125 - Asia/Pacific and International Real Estate: Covers real estate practices in Asia and the Pacific with emphasis on cultural influences, economic trends and assessment of investment opportunities. A special chapter on working with the Japanese is included (Wyant)

June 25: Special Price - $125 - The Americas & International Real Estate: Practical information for professionals who work with Caribbean, North, Central and South American investors. Historical and cultural influences, regional relationships, and investment opportunities are covered along with a special focus on Mexico (Wyant)

Special Price—Save and take the entire series!- $499- Entire Series (SAR Members only, $575 non-

SAR members) leading to CIPS designation—June 21-25

Gain the CIPS designation - for less!

Title: International Real Estate 101Date: April 14, 9 a.m.Location: SAR Main Auditorium

FREE! The SAR International Real Estate Council Steering Committee has put together a course that is specially designed to introduce Realtors to the potential of the international real estate market. Learn how to establish relationships, generate referrals and international business. Learn all the new features of an upgraded Immobel (a product for international marketing that comes free with your SAR membership). IMMOBEL can translate your listings into 13 different foreign languages and post these listings in native languages to over 500,000 professionals across the United States and around the world through their

Global Referral Network. This can open your business up to more markets and greater opportunities while also offering exclusive tools to help you market and manage international listings.

Learn where other resources and tools are available to help you get connected.

A panel of successful international agents will tell you how they do business and how they work with their markets.

What is CIPS? TRC? ICREA? Who Is Your Global Business Partner?

Please RSVP to [email protected] by April 7, 2010 or register online.

International Real Estate 101: Get the basics!


Mem

bers

hip

New

sDesignated Realtors®

Barbosa, R. Paulo: Sabal Real EstateClaydon, James: Nextage Lighthouse RealtyFurry, E. Amy: ASF Partners Realty LLCHalpern, C. Allen: Florida West Coast Real EstateOvitz, G. Ernest: Viridian Key CorpPavonetti, M. Nicholas: Neighborhood Stimulus GroupPreissner, William Ryan: Tarpon Coast AppraisalRedding, M. Keith: Omega Real Estate Group LLCSavage, M. Ina: Siesta Dunes Realty Inc

New MembersArthur, Sam: Horizon RealtyButler Denman, Kathleen: Prudential Palms RealtyConway, Clinton: Signature Sothebys Internat’lDeckard, Roger: Keller Williams On The WaterDrourr, Shawn: Michael Saunders & CompanyEckstein, Anna: EXIT Creative RealtyEstes, Toi: Signature Sothebys Internat’lHamilton, Fred: Prudential Palms RealtyJohnson, David: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchKelly, Patrice: Coldwell Banker Res R ELange, Alba: Lakewood Ranch Realty LLCLaRue, Rochelle: Prudential Palms RealtyMasopust, Rudolf: Impulse Realty LLCMenke, Linda: Coffey & Company RealtyMoon, R Rex: Allen Real Estate Services Inc.Otto, J Jack: Michael Saunders & CompanyOwens, Tamara: Cristello and Co Real EstatePadgett, Don: Coffey & Company RealtyParker, Charles: Hembree And Assoc Inc.Plack, Penelope: Realty Executive SolutionsRasmussen, Kay: Michael Saunders & CompanyRuiz del Vizo, Ricardo: Coffey & Company RealtyRuszkiewicz, Laura: Signature Sothebys Internat’lSmith, Bridget: Signature Sothebys Internat’lSmith, Lisa: Prudential Palms RealtyStorey, Richard: RE/MAX Tropical SandsTorok, Tamas: Listing Services DirectTrindle, Leigh Ann: RealtyOne AllianceTurner, Marcus: Engel & Voelkers LBK RealtyWilliams, Angela: RER International

Now With ...Amero, Albert: Exit Realty Signature PropArthur, Sam: Horizon RealtyBaldwin, Patricia: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchBarshinger, Katherine: Midnight Cove Realty Inc.Biggar, Cynthia: Allison James Estates & HomesBiggar, Helen: Allison James Estates & HomesBiggar III, F McKay: Allison James Estates & HomesBohack, Bill: Coldwell Banker Res R EBryant, Teresa: Wagner RealtyCarr, Robert: Waterside Realty LLCChapman, Chris: Horizon RealtyClark, Louise: Coldwell Banker Res R ECooper, Debra: Keller Williams On The WaterCox, Heidi: Michael Saunders & CompanyCunneen, Stacy: GSS Real Estate LLCDavis, Carolyn: Sabal Real Estate

Edwards, Carol: Neal Communities Realty IncEllwood, Marcella: Moynihan Realty Group Inc.Esses, Ellen Laura: Prudential Palms RealtyEvans, Mark: Coldwell Banker Res R EFeeney, Susan: Key RealtyFellabaum, Pamela: Sabal Real EstateFeuerbach, Silvia: Wagner RealtyFlannagan, Mark: Horizon RealtyFlynn, Ronald: Sandals Realty of SarasotaGooding, Carol: Lee Wetherington RealtyGornnert, Gary: Wagner RealtyGoslin, Anthony: Horizon RealtyGrigoli, Deirdre: Prudential Palms RealtyHanson, Ruth: Action Realty of Sarasota LLCHatin, Holly: Cristello and Co Real EstateHering, Daniel: Horizon RealtyHeuer, J Eric: Coldwell Banker Res R EHiggins, Daniel: Coldwell Banker Res R EIcely, Shawn: SB Realty IncJenkins, Troy: Realty Executives SolutionsJohnson, Ronald: Wagner RealtyKehrer, Gary: Wagner RealtyKirk, Susan: RE/MAX Tropical SandsKirkpatrick, Yolanda: Prudential Palms RealtyKnutson, William: Horizon RealtyLaBarre, Dawn: Byrd Realty LLCLatino, John: Beckmann PropertiesLewis, Scott: Cityscapes Int’l Realty GrpMeskil, Brian: Michael Saunders & CompanyMiante, Marie: Atchley International RealtyMills , Sherri: Michael Saunders & CompanyMinton, Mark: Beckmann PropertiesPiper, Patricia: Michael Saunders & CompanyPrice Jr, Glenn: Sandals Realty of SarasotaRobinson, Margot: Wagner RealtySaoud, Mike: Wagner RealtySlater, Marina: Coldwell Banker Res R ESmith, Susan: Michael Saunders & CompanySuplee, Thomas: Mangrove Realty AssociatesTanguay, Keith: Michael Saunders & CompanyTaylor, Judee: Horizon RealtyTravers, William: Atchley International RealtyVelez, Emily: RE/MAX Alliance GroupWalsh, Kevin: RE/MAX ExcellenceYturraspe, Jo Ellyn: Cityscapes Int’l Realty GrpZheleznyak, Maryna: Top Realty Group of Florida

New AffiliatesBaldwin Development LLC.4813 Ocean BlvdSarasota, FL 34242Phone Number: 941-780-2188Representative: Mark H BaldwinSpecialty: Your Residential and Commercial building experts! Custom Home Building, Renovations, and Interior Design. Also specializing in home inspections and project management/consulting. In addition to construction and renovation, Baldwin Development has a line of Do-It-Yourself furniture books for projects and plans.Email: [email protected]

The Association is pleased to welcome new members!


David H. Rosenberg P.L.1626 Ringling Blvd. Suite 500Sarasota, FL 34236Phone Number: 941-361-1153Representative: Christopher HorlacherSpecialty: Boutique Law Firm. Practicing in the areas of Residential and Commercial closings, foreclosure defense, short sale negotiation and all other areas of real estate law.Email: [email protected]

EcoMaids of Sarasota2103 Reynolds StreetSarasota, FL 34231Phone Number: 941-894-7808Representative: George GordonSpecialty: Family owned green cleaning company servicing the Greater Sarasota/Bradenton/Venice area. EcoMaids provides high quality cleaning services using products and supplies that are safe for you and your family, your pets and the planet. Our cleaning products are Non-toxic, Chemical-free, All-natural and Biodegradable. All-natural products clean and disinfect just as well if not better than chemical-based products, without introducing harmful toxins into your home and the environment.Email: [email protected]

5/3 Bank50 Central AvenueSarasota, FL 34236Phone Number: 941-223-1771Representative: James S Foubister IVSpecialty: Progessive Lending Bank with Proven Reliablity. When you are looking to buy a home, you want to look for the best option to suit your financial situation. Consider Fifth Third Bank your mortgage resource. We have a wide selection of options for financing; so chances are, you’re sure to find the type of mortgage that suits you perfectly.Email: [email protected]

First Federal Bank of Florida8307 Lockwood Ridge RoadSarasota, FL 34243Phone Number: 941-359-6820Representative: Christopher SchultzSpecialty: Connecting our Communities.”First Federal Bank of Florida strives to be the prominent bank in the Sarasota area market we serve by providing quality service in accordance with safe and sound banking practices, while responding to the needs of our communities and rewarding those responsible for our success.” Residential Mortgage Loans, Construction Loans, Purchase, Refinancing, FHA, Rural Development, VA, and Conventional LoansEmail: [email protected]

Hometown Lenders LLC3069 Quail HollowSarasota, FL 34235Phone Number: 941-586-7680Representative: Thomas S ZaharakisSpecialty: Mortgage Banker.Email: [email protected]

Hyatt Regency Sarasota1000 Blvd of the ArtsSarasota, FL 34236Phone Number: 941-363-2601Representative: Wanda WallaceSpecialty: Hyatt Regency Sarasota is the only AAA 4 Diamond Luxury Hotel in Sarasota!Email: [email protected]

MoneyCorp7380 Sand Lake Road, Suite 410Orlando, FL 32819Phone Number: 407-352-5890Representative: Stella GiudicelliSpecialty: We help real estate professionals with their international clients. We provide their clients with competitive exchange ratesEmail: [email protected]

National Cremation & Burial2990 Bee Ridge RoadSarasota, FL 34239Phone Number: 941-284-4152Representative: Ellen EssesSpecialty:National Cremation & Burial is the largest single provider of low cost cremation and burial in the state of Florida. Our goal is always to be the most compassionate, empathetic provider available. So while we continue to provide affordable, uncomplicated cremation and burial arrangements, we also seek to offer exceptional value and unmatched service.Email: [email protected]

Sabal Palm Bank5101 Fruitville RoadSarasota, FL 34232Phone Number: 941-806-0436Representative: William L. HoltSpecialty: Sabal Palm Bank was founded in October, 2006, by experienced bankers, diverse professionals and community leaders all having deep ties to Sarasota and Manatee counties. Locally owned and operated Ccommunity Bank. Offering personal and business banking services, commercial, consumer/residential loans and mortgages. Sabal Palm Bank has remote deposit capture services also.Email: [email protected]

Stoneburner Mortgage Group766 South Osprey AveSarasota, FL 34236Phone Number: 941-809-3547Representative: Mike StoneburnerSpecialty: Mortgage Consultants - When you decide to buy a home or refinance a mortgage, it’s a big step. You can trust us to find the loan program that’s best for you. We will give you the personal attention you deserve and treat you with the respect due a valued customer. We understand you’re making a commitment in buying a new home, refinancing a mortgage, or cashing out your home equity. So we will make a commitment to you. We will help you qualify, apply and be approved for the right mortgage loan for you. Not anyone else!Email: [email protected]


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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

29

30

31 9 a.m. Waterfront Property Due Diligence Seminar

April 1 8 a.m. Power Marketing (University Park CC)

2 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace

5 9 a.m. MLXchange Basic 1:30 p.m. MLXchange Entering & Updating Listings

6 Great American Realtor Days - FAR

7 Great American Realtor Days - FAR 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 12 Noon Realtor/Attorney Seminar –Condominium

8 8 a.m. Power Marketing (SAR)


12 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. New Member Orientation & Code of Ethics

13

14 9 a.m. International Seminar 101 5:30 p.m. SYR Social - Ceviche


16 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (Manatee Association of Realtors®)

19 9 a.m. MLXchange Basic 1:30 p.m. MLXchange Entering & Updating Listings

20 8:30 a.m. CID General Membership 9 a.m. MLX Advanced 1:30 p.m. Creating a CMA

21 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 9:30 a.m. Fair Housing Seminar-Northern Trust Bank 9 a.m. Design Web Page 1:30 p.m. iMAPP



26

27 9 a.m. MLXchange Contacts/ Outlook (New Class) 1:30 p.m. MLXchange/Toolbox 5 p.m. Affiliates Social Main St .Oyster Bar

28 9 a.m. Tech Seminar-100 MPH Marketing for Real Estate



APRIL 2010

Note: All events/classes are at SAR, except where noted

My Florida Regional MLS Training The classes E & U (Entering & Updating), Tools, Design Web Pages, MLX Intro, MLX Advanced, iMAPP, Custom Reports and CMA are all My Florida Regional MLS training classes offered at no cost to MLS participants. All classes (except E & U) are HANDS-ON in the SAR Tech Center. Please register for all MLS classes at the MFRMLS website: http://mfrmls.com. Click on “Training,” then “Quick Class Registration” and follow prompts.

SARASOTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® EDUCATION/EVENTS CALENDAR

The Extra Pages - Digital Version O

nlyExtra MLS Statistics


0

100

200

300

400

500

2007‐Q1 2007‐Q2 2007‐Q3 2007‐Q4 2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4

REO Sales ‐ By Quarter Single FamilyCondo


0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

2007‐Q1 2007‐Q2 2007‐Q3 2007‐Q4 2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4

Short Sales ‐ By QuarterSingle Family

Condo


0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

2007‐Q1 2007‐Q2 2007‐Q3 2007‐Q4 2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4

Arm's Length Sales ‐ By QuarterSingle FamilyCondo

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200


New Listings Single Family

Condo

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS


0.0

10.0

20.0

30.0

40.0

50.0

Jan‐09 Feb‐09 Mar‐09 Apr‐09 May‐09 Jun‐09 Jul‐09 Aug‐09 Sep‐09 Oct‐09 Nov‐09 Dec‐09 Jan‐10 Feb‐10

9‐Jan 9‐Feb 9‐Mar 9‐Apr 9‐May 9‐Jun 9‐Jul 9‐Aug 9‐Sep 9‐Oct 9‐Nov 9‐Dec Jan‐10 Feb‐10

Single Family 25.3 24.1 17.1 15.2 14.3 10.0 9.0 10.3 9.8 9.3 9.4 8.1 11.5 10.6

Condo 38.4 28.5 21.2 19.1 19.0 16.1 16.9 20.5 15.1 15.0 14.6 12.3 14.7 15.4

Months of Inventory


$0

$50,000,000

$100,000,000

$150,000,000

$200,000,000



Single Family $66,482,386 $85,952,266 $100,562,897 $98,080,096 $124,493,410 $155,965,679 $93,852,581 $108,129,703 $106,634,831 $118,741,492 $138,311,391 $91,178,403 $90,615,651

Condo $26,765,925 $35,987,736 $42,750,598 $39,960,762 $52,908,252 $47,470,370 $37,933,125 $48,128,868 $46,426,400 $43,392,376 $56,455,335 $45,146,896 $43,400,202

Overall Sales Volume

11267

Annual Sales ‐ 2000 to 2009Single Family Condo Total

9697

11267

10562


6,504

7,596

6,8416533

7036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042

6739


4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

7,596

6,841

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

3,671 3,721

65337036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042 5820

6739


4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

7,596

6,841

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

2,184 2,0962,564

3,1933,671 3,721

2,005 2,120

1,1941,556

65337036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042 5820

6739


4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

7,596

6,841

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

2,184 2,0962,564

3,1933,671 3,721

2,005 2,120

1,1941,556

65337036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042 5820

6739

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009


4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

7,596

6,841

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

2,184 2,0962,564

3,1933,671 3,721

2,005 2,120

1,1941,556

65337036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042 5820

6739

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009


Annual Median Sale Price ‐ 2000 to 2009 Single Family Condo

$351,000$342,000

$303,000$305,000 $301,225

$336,250$320,000


$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$191,000

$225,000

$305,000 $301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000


$132,300

$172,500$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$160,000$142,000 $145,000

$173,000$191,000

$225,000

$305,000 $301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000


$132,300

$172,500$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$160,000$142,000 $145,000

$173,000$191,000

$225,000

$305,000 $301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000


$132,300

$172,500$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$160,000$142,000 $145,000

$173,000$191,000

$225,000

$305,000 $301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009


$132,300

$172,500$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$160,000$142,000 $145,000

$173,000$191,000

$225,000

$305,000 $301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009



0

100

200

300

400

500

2007‐Q1 2007‐Q2 2007‐Q3 2007‐Q4 2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4

REO Sales ‐ By Quarter Single FamilyCondo


0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

2007‐Q1 2007‐Q2 2007‐Q3 2007‐Q4 2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4

Short Sales ‐ By QuarterSingle Family

Condo


0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

2007‐Q1 2007‐Q2 2007‐Q3 2007‐Q4 2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4

Arm's Length Sales ‐ By QuarterSingle FamilyCondo


0

100

200

300



Single Family 166 159 173 195 196 208 179 174 186 179 194 169 174

Condo 154 171 206 203 224 225 230 208 250 236 202 207 206

Days on Market

Documents

Sarasota Realtor Magazine - April 2010-1