ST. AUGUSTINE & ST. JOHNS COUNTY BOARD OF REALTORS速
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
BO R
FO RWA RD
MARCH 2012
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
Officers & Directors
2
Calendar
3
REALTOR/Affiliate
4
New Members
5
April Events
6
Seafood Festival
7
Builder Council News
8
Go Green
9
Tech Tip
10
Seafood Festival Volunteers Needed
11
Move the Vote
12-13
2012 RPAC Bus Trip
14-15
2012 February General Membership Meeting
16-18
Make it, Bake it, Sew it, Grow it Auction
19
Brokers License Course
20
Member Benefits
21
Wally Conway
22
Monthly Statistics
23
April Preview Staff Contact Information
24
BOR PUBLIC WEBSITE: www.stjohnsrealtors.com
BOR FORWARD
Page 2
2012 ST. AUGUSTINE & ST. JOHNS COUNTY BOARD OF REALTORS® AND MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE, INC.BOARD OFFICERS & DIRECTORS BOARD OF REALTORS®
MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE, INC.
Roy Barnes Jr., PRESIDENT St. Augustine Realty (O) 824-3331 / (F) 825-2685/ (C ) 669-1430 rbarnes4@bellsouth.net
Dirk Schroeder , PRESIDENT Century 21- St. Augustine Properties (O) 797-6000 (F) 797-7963/ (C ) 540-2360 c21staug@aol.com
Andrew Birchall, PRESIDENT-ELECT St. Augustine Realty (O) 824-3331 / (F) 825-2685/ (C ) 392-3362 andrewbirchall@bellsouth.net
Katherine Delaney , PRESIDENT- ELECT Watson Realty (US1) (O) 797-8600/ (F) 797-8606/ (C ) 669-2115 Kdelaney13@bellsouth.net
Winston Burrell - SECRETARY Coldwell Banker Premier Properties (O) 471-4204 / (F) 471-4216 / (C ) 669-6585 winston.burrell@coldwellbanker.com
Robert West – SECRETARY Coldwell Banker Premier Properties (O) 471-4204 / (F) 471-4216 / (C ) rob@thepremierproperties.com
Gene Johnson – TREASURER Watson Realty (US1) O) 797-8600 (F) 797-8606 (C ) 710-1090 teamjohnson@watsonrealtycorp.com
Ian Edmonson, P.A. - TREASURER Edmonson & Associates Real Estate, Inc. (O) 827-0722 (F) 638-4746 (C) 315-0997 ian@edmonsonassoc.com
DIRECTORS
814-2006
DIRECTORS
Roberta Odom (1) Re/Max 100 Realty (O) 461-9500 (F) 461-9501 (C ) 466-0114 propertybyberta@aol.com
Ron Barry (1)
Edward Paucek (1) Moses Creek Realty (C ) 669-6422 blackstargroup@comcast.net
Paula Silberberg (1) Watson Realty (A1A) (O) 461-9066 (F) 461-9925 (C ) 687-8803 psilberberg@watsonrealtycorp.com
Bill Thew (1) Olde Carriage Realty (O) 824-4500 (F) 824-6866(C ) 347-6736 billthew@bellsouth.net Gayle Logan (2) Watson Realty (A1A) (O) 461-9066 (F) 461-9925 (C) 669-2778 gmlogan@aug.com Judi Schuyler (2) Coldwell Banker Premier Properties (O) 471-4204 (F) 471-4216 (C ) 669-0788 judiseven@bellsouth.net Sean Hess (2) St. Augustine Team Realty (O) 825-0099 (F) 513-9264 (C ) 386-8327 sean@seanhess.com Chuck Pacetti , PAST-PRESIDENT Homestar Pacetti Realty (O) 827-0600 / (F) 819-9907 / (C ) 669-5000 chuckpacetti@comcast.net Dirk Schroeder , Ex-Officio Century 21- St. Augustine Properties (O) 797-6000 (F) 797-7963/ (C ) 540-2360 c21staug@aol.com Victor J. Raymos, Ex-officio (O) 829-8738 (F) 823-9512 (C) 505-220-8683 ae@stjohnsrealtors.org
St. Augustine Team Realty (O) 825-0099 (F) 513-9264 (C ) 501-2424 realestatebyron@aol.com
Gail Jones (2) St. Augustine Realty (O) 824-3331 / (F) 825-2685/ (C ) 501-7444 gjones4@bellsouth.net Phil Orrill (2) New World Realty ( C ) 377-1016 philorrill@comcast.net Ann King (2) Prudential Network Realty (O) 827-0722 (F) 638-4746 (C) 806-3865 ann.king@prunet.com Andrew Birchall, PAST PRESIDENT St. Augustine Realty (O) 824-3331 / (F) 825-2685/ (C ) 392-3362 andrewbirchall@bellsouth.net Roy Barnes Jr., Ex-Officio St. Augustine Realty (O) 824-3331 / (F) 825-2685/ (C ) 669-1430 rbarnes4@bellsouth.net Victor J. Raymos, Ex-officio (O) 829-8738 (F) 823-9512 (C) 505-2208683 ae@stjohnsrealtors.org
Page 3
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
MARCH 2012
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
5th—Education Committee 9am RPAC Committee 12pm 7th—Commercial CIE Forum 8:30am Technology Committee 9:30am 8th—Board Orientation 9am 9th— FAR 9am 12th—Tax Presentation 2pm 11th—Affiliate Committee 9am 12th—Tax Presentation 2pm 13th—Finance Committee 12pm 14th—Distressed Property 3CE 9am MLS Board 12pm Board Meeting 12pm 16th—iCE Webinar Meeting the Needs of Challenging Clients 3CE 1pm 19th—25th FREI Sales Class 2oth—MLS Training 1pm 21st— Public Relations Committee 9:30am 27th—INNOVIA 2 1:30pm REALTOR/Affiliate Mixer 5pm 28th—iPhone/iPad User’s Group 9am 29th—Blogging Essentials 11:30am 30th– REBAR Camp 2-4pm
Birthstone: Aquamarine, Bloodstone Flower: Jonquil Astrological Signs: Pisces: February 19 - March 20, Aries: March 21 - April 19 Sun
4
Mon
5
Tue
6
Wed
7
Thu
Fri
Sat
1
2 Dr. Seuss Birthday
3
8
9
10 Girl Scout Week 10-16
16
17
Full Moon 11 Daylight Savings Time
12
13
14
15
18
19
20 1st Day of Spring
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
St. Patrick's Day
BOR FORWARD
Page 4
REALTOR® SPOTLIGHT – TOM KAVANAUGH Tom Kavanaugh hails from Chicago, born and raised there. Tom moved to St. Augustine in 1998 after falling in love with the architecture and history of the area. After thirty five years’ experience as an entrepreneur establishing and running his own small businesses. Tom’s sales approach is based on consultative selling and a strong relationship with his customers. He strongly believes in listening to his customers’ needs and solving for X. His business experience has been in real estate sales and investment, retail stained glass store owner, home/commercial renovation contractor, importer/wholesaler of fresh flowers, and importer/wholesaler of handicrafts to the gift/floral/garden centers/ display industries. He has developed and created markets for many products, in particular he introduced the “Chia Pet’ to the United States. He is fluent in Spanish. Tom also holds a current Florida Certified
Builder Contracting License along with a Florida Real Estate Sales Associate License. In coordination with his real estate investments Tom has and is taking an active interest in the Palatka business area working with local business to grow and develop the town. Since moving to St Augustine in 1998 Tom has been active in local business, civic and church organizations. He was on the St Augustine City Parking Committee for over four years at a time when the now new parking garage was studied, planned and implemented. Besides being active in the Cathedral Parish ministries, he was on the Parish Council for five years. Thomas V Kavanaugh Real Estate Sales Associate Prime Real Estate Company 904-540-2165 tom@primereco.com
AFFILIATE SPOTLIGHT– JENA BAKER GREAT EXPECTATIONS AUCTION CO. Whether you are the executor of an estate, responsible for liquidation of the contents of a relative's home, or you find it necessary to downsize your personal property due to retirement, relocation, divorce, or the combination of two households, you may be overwhelmed by the decisions you face. Many people do not realize the amount of work it takes to properly handle important experiences such as these. Great Expectations Auction Company, LLC offers counsel in making these difficult choices of estate liquidation, and handling the sale of such items in a timely and dignified manner. There are several options when liquidating an estate. In some instances we will come in and purchase the entire estate so that you will not have to go through the difficulty of handling details of the liquidation. We also offer Estate Tag Sales, where we will hold a sale on location and price everything prior to the sale. Some estates may include collections or items that require special handling, in which we will contact private buyers. We will make sure, through our contacts, and business experience, that we locate the best avenue to liquidate your items so that the maximum value is realized. We have a wonderful staff of professionals with years of experience in their areas of expertise, ranging from
antiques, collectibles, antique automobiles, business management, real estate, guns and firearms, and so much more.
Thomas Kavanaugh
Success is a science; if you have the conditions, you get the result.
Professional estate sale management with Great Expectations will save you time and money, and also take a tremendous burden off you and your family at what is usually a difficult time. At Great Expectations Auction Company, LLC we strive to provide a complete service. Once you make the decision to liquidate, nothing more is required of you. Our 18,000 square foot Auction Gallery is located at 1755 Lakeside Avenue, in the 312 Business Park in St. Augustine, Florida. Jena Baker, Proprietress Great Expectations Auction Company, LLC 1755 Lakeside Avenue St. Augustine, FL 32084 (904) 806-4274 www.GEauction.com
"Going the extra mile is the difference that separates us from the rest of the crowd"
Jena BakerProprietress
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
Page 5
JANUARY NEW MEMBERS GREGORY BRAD BARFIELD Join Date SAMUEL BARRESI Join Date 1/9/2012 STEVEN RITTER Join Date 1/12/2012 MONTANA HOLT Join Date 1/17/2012
WATSON –US1 (Primary Board/Primary MLS) COLDWELL BANKER PREMIER PROPERTIES (Primary Board/Primary MLS) PLAYA REALTY & MANAGEMENT (MLS Only) FLORIDA HOMES REALTY & MORTGAGE (Primary Board/Primary MLS)
OLDE TOWNE TITLE & GUARANTY ADDS NEW MEMEBER TO IT'S STAFF ST.AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA—Olde Towne Title & Guaranty would like to announce the addition of Kizzy Van Tine to their staff. Kizzy brings with her over 25 years experience in the Mortgage and Banking Industry. Kizzy will join the current staff of Robert McGee - President, Jessica Peel - Escrow Officer, Della Masters - Closer and Jennifer Davis - Post Closing. Throughout the years, Olde Towne has grown in stature with a solid reputation for integrity and standing the test of time. Olde Towne Title belongs to the family of Fidelity National Title, the nation’s largest title underwriting company. Olde Towne Title & Guaranty Agency, LLC has unmatched levels of technology resources, and exceptional customer service. Olde Towne Title has continuously ranked as a top ten agency in Northeast Florida. Robert McGee and his incredible staff of professionals at Olde Towne Title have built a strong reputation among homeowners and professionals in residential and commercial real estate in many counties in the State of Florida. Olde Towne Title serves individuals, families, attorneys, lenders, real estate professionals, builders, large commercial development companies and industries alike with versatile solutions and attention to detail. Olde Towne Title offers traditional title and closing services at competitive prices. Their primary focus is to provide superior quality with outstanding customer service offering out of office and after hours closings upon request and Statewide coverage. Please contact President, Robert McGee for more information at 904-819-5565 or rmcgee@oldetownetitle.net
BOR FORWARD
Page 6
APRIL EVENTS IN ST. AUGUSTINE First Friday ArtWalk (Every Month 2012) - Self-guided walking tour of numerous art galleries 5p-9p (904)829-0065 visit staugustinegalleries.com Concerts in the Plaza - (Every Thursday evening Apr-Sept) Free outdoor music; bring your folding chairs and relax while enjoying breezes off the Bayfront. 7pm-9pm (904)825-1004 (Apr 1) Blessing Of The Fleet Commercial and pleasure craft alike receive a blessing from the Bishop of the Diocese of St. Augustine. 904-825-1010 Location: Municipal Marina Hours: noon (Apr 8) 53rd Annual Easter Parade of marching bands, floats, drill teams, clowns, Royal Family and the city's carriage horses wearing hats donated by nationally recognized women. Begins at 3:00 p.m. and winds through downtown St. Augustine. 904-829-2992 (Apr 24) Easter Sunrise Services - One of the year's most beautiful mornings overlooking the Matanzas River from historic downtown St. Augustine..visit oldcity.com (Apr 16-17) Earth Day Celebration at Washington Oaks State Park & Gardens - On Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. there will be live entertainment, arts and crafts, living history demonstrations, environmental and cultural booths, nature programs, live animals, a large children’s environmental activity center, and a visit from Smokey the Bear. A variety of food and drink will also be available. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission: $8 per vehicle (Apr 20-22)The 27th Annual Cathedral Festival located at the The Mission of Nombre De Dios. Free Admission so enjoy visiting the festival to browse Tents; Bingo; Bakery Goods Booth; Food and Beverage Court; and a Midway which includes rides for all ages, games and our ever-popular pony rides. 904-824-2806 or information@cathedralfestival.com (Apr 21-22) Epic Celebration of Spring. Gala Celebration of food, gardening, - a weekend of food, fun and flowers offering gourmet dining, a food festival and a flower and garden show.(904)829-3295 visit epiccommunityservices.org (Apr 27-29)Rhythm & Ribs Festival - Annual festival featuring championship BBQ dishes from around the country. A variety of outstanding entertainment throughout the weekend at St. Francis Field on Castillo Drive. Hours: Friday 5-10 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. 904 6570255 (Apr 28) Uptown Saturday Night - On the last Saturday of each month From 5 to 9 p.m., the galleries, antique stores and unique shops between Ripley’s Museum and the Mission of Nombre de Dios in St. Augustine’s Uptown San Marco Shopping District remain open during this special evening. Meet-theartists, book signings, live music, refreshments and other events contribute to the party-like atmosphere – plus, great food provided by the St. Augustine Independent Restaurant Association. 904.824.3152
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
Page 7
BOR FORWARD
ST. JOHNS BUILDERS COUNCIL
Page 8
www.stjohnsbuilderscouncil.com
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
Page 9
GO GREEN SPRING CLEANING TIPS Green cleaning products The last thing you want to do is dump toxic chemicals into the environment in the name of cleaning, right? These days, you don’t have to make a special trip to the natural foods store to seek out environmentally-sensitive cleaning products. Seventh Generation, Method and Biokleen are three companies that make full lines of household cleaners, and you can find them in just about every store. These products work just as well as their conventional counterparts. Or you can stock your natural cleaning kit with homemade cleaners— making them yourself is super easy. The basic supplies you’ll need to make your own green cleaners include: Distilled white vinegar (sold in the cooking section of most supermarkets) Baking soda Olive oil Borax (sold in a box in the laundry aisle) Liquid castile soap (like Dr. Bronner's brand, found in most natural foods stores) Essential oils (super concentrated natural plant oils found in natural foods stores, usually in the cosmetics section) Microfiber cleaning cloths Newspaper Here are a few basic “recipes” and techniques to get you started: Glass: Mix 1/4 cup vinegar with 1 quart of water in a spray bottle. Spray on glass and wipe clean with old newspaper or a lint-free cloth. Countertops and bathroom tile: Mix 2 parts vinegar and 1 part baking soda with 4 parts water. Apply with a sponge, scour, and wipe away. Floors: Mix 4 cups of white distilled vinegar with about a gallon of hot water. If desired, add a few drops of pure peppermint or lemon oil for a pleasant scent. After damp mopping the floors, the smell of vinegar will dissipate quickly, leaving behind only the scent of the oil. Wood furniture: Mix equal parts of lemon juice and olive and oil. Apply a small amount to a cloth, and rub onto the furniture in long, even strokes. Toilet bowl cleaner: Sprinkle a toilet brush with baking soda and scrub away! Occasionally disinfect your toilet by scrubbing with borax instead. Wipe the outside of the toilet clean with straight vinegar. Disinfectant: Mix 2 teaspoons borax, 4 tablespoons vinegar, 3 cups hot water, and 1/4 teaspoon liquid castile soap. Wipe on with dampened cloth or use a spray bottle. Wipe clean. Mold and mildew: Wipe with straight vinegar. Air freshener: Sprinkle essential oil on a cotton ball, and stash it in a corner of the room. If you have kids, make sure it is out of their reach as essential oils are very strong and could irritate their skin. Lavender is a relaxing scent that is great for bedrooms, and cinnamon, clove, and citrus oils are great for the rest of the house. You can stash a few in the car too—try peppermint, which may help you to stay alert. And while you’re at it, consider these 6 additional ways to green
up while you clean up: 1. Hang dry your laundry. Drying your clothes in an electric or gas dryer isn’t just hard on your clothes; it’s also hard on the environment. Don’t stop with natural laundry detergent. Stay green every step of the way and install a clothesline in your backyard. If space (or aesthetics) is an issue, look for a “retractable clothesline” like this one from Gaiam, which takes up virtually no space when not in use. Weather permitting, line-dry your clothes outside to reduce pollution, cut your energy bill, get more exercise, enjoy the sunshine, and extend the life of your clothes. Plus, they’ll smell like a clean breeze, not a fake “clean breeze scent.” 2. Add a little greenery. Install a living air filter—houseplants! Some of the most efficient air-cleaning houseplants include Spider plants, English ivy, rubber plants, and peace lilies. You’ll need 15 to 18 medium -sized (6 to 8-inch diameter container) houseplants for the average 1,800 square foot house. If that sounds like a lot, place a few plants in the room where you spend the most time. 3. De-clutter your wardrobe. Donate gently worn items to charity, where they’ll get a second life, and donate torn and stained items (if they’re made of an absorbent fabric) to your rag collection, where they’ll replace wasteful paper towels. And as you’re packing up your winter sweaters, replace those stinky mothballs with a natural and bettersmelling version: Stuff a lonely unpaired sock with cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, and whole cloves and tie it at the end. 4. Paint your walls green. If spring cleaning at your house involves a fresh coat of paint, consider the VOC content of the paint when choosing your paint. VOC's, or Volatile Organic Compounds, are chemicals that form vapors at room temperature. Some VOC’s, like the ones in many paints, contribute to smog and indoor air pollution, and can cause a host of short- and long-term health problems. The good news is that many paint manufacturers have started making low- or no-VOC paints. The bad news is that many of those manufacturers have simply substituted VOC's with other non-VOC-yet-still-toxic chemicals. For truly eco-conscious safe paint, check out these products: Eco-Spec, by Benjamin Moore; Clarity, by Dutch Boy; Enviro-Pure, by MAB Paint; American Pride Paint; and BioShield Milk Paint. 5. Swap out your Swiffer. Instead of continually buying expensive single-use mop pads, invest in a reusable mop. Casabella is one brand that’s widely available in health food stores and general stores. Their mop heads can be washed in your washing machine, hung dry, and used again and again—well worth their moderate price tag. 6. Ditch the paper towels. Save trees, cash and landfill waste. You can buy specially-made, washable cleaning and dusting cloths (in all types of fabrics from cotton to microfiber). But better yet? Use what you already have and give an old piece of cloth (stained towels, ratty sheets and pillowcases, too-small T-shirts, etc.) a new life. Simply cut or tear your old item into smaller squares (if you want to get fancy, finish the edges with a sewing machine), and voila! Pop them in the washing machine with your laundry to clean, and use them again and again. Cleaning up your home for spring doesn’t have to be dirty work. When you implement some of these ideas and products, you can rest assured that you’re benefiting your body, your home and the planet all at once. Many of these changes are small ones, but their impact on your health and the environment can really add up over time. Happy spring cleaning!
BOR FORWARD
Page 10
Technology Committee “Tech Tip” 5 Things to ALWAYS Consider When Creating Your Next Video Let’s face it, as REALTORS we tend to want to be the “star”… of our website, our blog and particularly in our videos. The number one thing to keep in mind; it’s not all about us. Many of today’s top real estate agents believe in the power of blogging and Social Media. You really need to understand what it takes to create the right marketing strategy to turn heads and make YOUR business stand out against the competition. In order to do this video is a MUST add to your marketing mix. Just like in your blog, ask yourself, who is your audience? Whether you are targeting investors, first time home buyers, or the luxury market you must focus your material on connecting with and engaging your particular audience. Remember the acronym KISS? In this case it means Keep It Short. About 2 minutes of information is enough to keep your audience engaged. If you have more to share, consider creating a series that will keep your followers coming back for more. Make sure that your information is relevant to your audience, and of course it must be current and accurate. Update your videos often; there is nothing worse than stale outdated material to make your followers drop off.
My Mother always told me that practice makes perfect. It sure is true when filming your video. Getting in front of a camera can be very intimidating. So at first you may seem awkward and a real stumblebumbler. I first write a script, then pare it down to bullet points and finally put it on cue cards. Finally, you must ALWAYS have a call to action! Consider offering your viewers a special promotion or sign up for a free give-away. Definitely make sure they are able to share your video on their Social Media and with their friends. Incorporating video to your marketing strategies is one New Year’s Resolution that you should follow up on!
Marjorie Taylor
Submitted by Marjorie Taylor, Owner/ Partner, Listing Solutions
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
Page 11
NEWSLETTER TITLE
Page 12
MOVE THE VOTE At the General Meeting on February 17th, a newly created partnership between the St. Augustine and St. Johns County Board of Realtors and the St. Johns County Elections Office entitled “MOVE THE VOTE” was announced. Move the Vote is a new Voter Education Program that simply affords new and existing residents the opportunity to register to vote or update their address. With our mobile society, the Elections Office recognized that REALTOR’S are the principal group who interact with people on the move. Taking time to participate in this program is an excellent community service opportunity. Move the Vote is a VERY SIMPLE program to implement. As your Supervisor of Elections, I am asking Realtors, Title companies, and other participating members to provide a Move the Vote pamphlet to their clients moving into and around the county. A Move the Vote pamphlet has been developed and is readily available. Printed copies are available at the Elections Office, and the Board of Realtors Office. A pdf version will be made available for agents to print on their own through the Elections website at www.votesjc.com. This pdf version will also be provided on the Board of Realtors website. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, or would like the pdf emailed to you directly. I’m looking forward to working with you in creating a successful collaborative partnership.
Vicky C. Oakes St Johns County Supervisor of Elections 4455 Avenue A, Suite 101 St. Augustine, FL 32095 (O) 904.823.2238 (C) 904.599.6645 (F) 904.823.2249
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
MOVE THE VOTE
Page 13
BOR FORWARD
Page 14
2 012 R PAC B U S T R I P St. Augustine, FL (March 10, 2012) – Florida REALTORS® held the 2012 GREAT AMERICAN REALTORS® DAYS on February 14th & 15th.Well over 1,000 real estate agents descended on Tallahassee to visit their Senators and Representatives. Approximately 15 members of the St. Augustine & St. Johns County Board of REALTORS® traveled to Tallahassee on Wednesday, February 15th to attend the legislative briefings at the Challenger Learning Center and to visit to their legislators. This is an annual event that allows our members the special opportunity to make a united in-person statement to our representatives. Victor J. Raymos, Association Executive of the St. Augustine & St. Johns County Board stated local members met with their personal representatives as advocates for Realtors’ top initiatives this year. They met with Senator Wise, Representative Renuart, and Representative Proctor. Great American Realtor Days attendees focused on today’s housing market, insurance, septic tank inspections and local business tax. They also talked with Dr. Proctor about the eminent domain and the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind legislation. The board would like to thank Lennar Homes for sponsoring the bus transportation. Local members making the trip were Roy O. Barnes, Jr., Victor J. Raymos, Barbara Goll, Ed Paucek, Winston Burrell, Teresa Mercurio, Ian Edmonson, Linda DeGrande, Roberta Odom, Katherine Delaney, Gail Jones and Leona Brown. Angela Olmos, the Lennar Homes New Home Consultant, also made the trip with the group.
Left: Dr. William Proctor Right: Dr. Renuart, Victor J. Raymos & Roy O. Barnes Jr. Below: Victor J. Raymos, Roy O. Barnes Jr., Gail Jones, Angela Olmos, Kathy Delaney, Teresa Mercurio, Roberta Odom, Linda DeGrande & Barbara Goll
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
Page 15
2 012 R PAC B U S T R I P
Victor J. Raymos, Ed Paucek, Roy Barnes, Berta Odom & Gail Jones
Berta Odom, Gail Jones, Angela Olmos, Teresa Mercurio & Ian Edmonson
Teresa Mercurio, Ian Edmonson, Kathy Delaney, Leona Brown & Dr. Renuart
Linda DeGrande
Victor J. Raymos, Angela Olmos, Roy Barnes, Gail Jones, Linda DeGrande, Dr. Renuart, Berta Odom, Barb Goll, Teresa Mercurio, Kathy Delaney, Leona Brown, Ed Paucek & Ian Edmonson
BOR FORWARD
Page 16
FEBRUARY G EN ERAL MEM BER SH IP M EET IN G
Thank you Vickie Rianda & Island Title for a Fantastic Breakfast Picture to the right: Bridgette Lewis, Kaitlin Larywon & Vickie Rianda
Vickie Rianda
Left: Barbara Goll & Roberta Odom Right: Roberta Odom & Tracy Glochau
Left: Roy Barnes Jr. pulls the winning ticket from Berta Odom .. Victor J. Raymos & Ed Paucek also pictured Right: AND THE WINNER IS…… BETH RUGGERI
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
Page 17
FEBRUARY G EN ERAL MEM BER SH IP M EET IN G
Victor J. Raymos– AE/CEO
Roy O. Barnes, Jr.– Board President
Dirk Schroeder– MLS President
Seymoine Schmidt– Affiliate Chair
Ed Paucek– RPAC Chair / Roberta Odom-Vice Chair
Paula SilberbergProfessional Standards Vice Chair
Left: Vivian BrowningCommercial Chair/ Tony Bosco— Vice Chair
Vicky Oakes– Guest Speaker St. Johns County Supervisor of Elections
Ron Barry –Education Chair / Rob West– Vice Chair
John Taylor– Technology Chair Gail Jones—Vice Chair
BOR FORWARD
Page 18
FEBRUARY G EN ERAL MEM BER SH IP M EET IN G
Paula & Noel Davis and Wendy Morris
Linda DeGrande & Barbara Goll
Ian Edmonson & Gayle Logan
Jessica Peel & Rob McGee Left: Tom Clarke & Verna Bacon Right: Victor J. Raymos with Kelley Conner who picked up the can goods to be delivered to the designated charity Below: Lorie Zemlo
Ed Paucek & Holly Yelton
Sean Hess and Pat & Jay Kane
BOR FORWARD
Page 19
BOR FORWARD
Page 20
BROKER LICENSE COURSE
DID YOU KNOW.... The St. Augustine Board of REALTORS is hosting a Broker's license course! On May 14th thru the 20th / 8:30am - 5:30pm and May 21st thru the 23rd / 8:30am - 5:30pm and Highly recommended review on the 24th & 25th with testing on May 29th from 6pm - 9pm. This class is an FREI (Florida Real Estate Institute) course Please direct any questions and registrations to FREI at 1-800-638-7040.
THE MOST VALUABLE SQUARE INCH IN REAL ESTATE Why wear your REALTOR® pin? Because three out of four consumers would choose to work with a REALTOR® rather than an agent who is not a member.* Simply wearing your pin lets everyone know that you’re a REALTOR ®, a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. It makes a first impression that shows potential clients how knowledgeable and valuable you are to their real estate transaction. Proudly wear the pin and always place the REALTOR® logo on your materials. It’s a small thing, but it can make a big difference. Tell them. Show them. Wear your REALTOR® pin with pride.
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
MEMBER BENEFITS
Page 21
BOR FORWARD
Page 22
Risk Reduction Tools for More Referrals by Wally Conway, President of HomePro Inspections 904-268-8211 When things go wrong in the real estate transaction, the buyer most often blames the real estate agent if there is no clear place to be compensated from. Only when homebuyers are well educated by their agent about risk and risk reduction tools, do few buyers reject the opportunity to purchase those tools. It all goes back to your customer’s managing expectations (see last month’s article!). Do it well and you will have no complaints from your current customers, and more referrals and business than you can manage! First, you must understand that when someone buys a home, they purchase 100% of the home. They seek to use 100% of the home. They want the entire house to be available to them all of the time. But somehow, there is a denial of the risks associated with homeownership. The fact is that when someone owns 100% of the home, they also own 100% of the risk.
A Home with a Side of Risk. When it is all said and done, we simply do not want risk! We do not want risk with such passion that real risks are routinely denied. Everyone would like to eliminate the risks. But that isn’t possible in its entirety. So the first best way to manage risk is to first recognize that there is risk. That is part of managing your customer’s expectations! Then guide them in taking those steps that are reasonable, rational, and cost-effective to identify, reduce, or transfer risk to someone or some entity other than the homebuyer. This is done by an exchange of fee! To get risk to the smallest amount possible, we first take the whole bundle of risk then go about identifying and handing off small pieces of that risk in exchange for small fees. It’s just like cutting a cake! The thought is to spend a known amount to preclude the loss of an unknown amount. After this process, the homeowner is left with a smaller amount of risk along with their new home, and they can more easily manage the risk that is left. That, ladies and gentlemen, is risk management in the home buying process. While it may be impossible or unreasonably expensive to eliminate all the risks, a simple look at some risk reduction tools is important to understanding risk. The initial risk reduction tool employed by most homebuyers is the selection of a real estate agent. In the hands of an experienced professional to provide guidance, many risks can be exposed or eliminated. The trail is always safer with an experienced trail guide! The real estate agent has traveled the trail many times before and often has a clear picture of the hazards along the way. Appraise the Risks. The risk reduction provided by the appraiser is in the determination of fair market value. If the homebuyer were to overpay for a property, that overpayment is money at risk. In the event that the property needed to be returned to the market, it is unlikely that it could be sold at a price above the fair market value. The amount of the overpayment would be lost. The appraiser can reduce a portion of the homebuyers risk. Survey the Risks. The land surveyor can further reduce the homebuyer’s risk. The surveyor will confirm that the property is of the size and dimension represented. Any buildings on the property will be depicted as well as setbacks and easements that might affect present and future use. Flood zones will be identified. Position of fences, sheds, and driveways will be depicted. It is amazing how many homeowners have unknowingly built fences, sheds, or driveways on a neighbor’s property without problem or issue until one of the properties is sold. The land surveyor can reduce a portion of the homebuyers risk. Fund the Risks. Lenders are absolute experts at reducing their own risk, and in the process, many of the benefits of the lender’s risk reduction are transferred to the homebuyer. Many of the mandatory verifications that the lender puts in place to reduce the likelihood of the homebuyer defaulting on the mortgage also insure that if the home is destroyed, the homebuyer is also protected. Lenders can reduce a portion of the homebuyers risk. Legal Risks. The pile of paper needed to purchase a home can be perplexing. It is critical that every document be complete and correct to ensure that ownership is conveyed correctly to the new owner. A slip in the detail of the paper work can have untold consequences that might not show themselves for years or decades to come. On occasion, these flaws are not discovered until the homeowner is deceased and the heirs are attempting to clear probate. We may not live forever, but the paper trail is eternal and must be correct. Lawyers can reduce a portion of the homebuyers risk. Title Risks. Over the centuries, parcels of land may have changed ownership dozens of times. Large parcels are sub-divided to make neighborhoods. Often, multiple heirs have had claim to land that has long been forgotten. Mortgage notes and taxes due are sometimes abandoned. But when the property is sold or transferred, old debts and demons often rise. The title company can discover
this history and prevent a cloud from hanging over the parcel and the buyer forever. And for an additional fee, the title company can insure against any missed issue or future claim against clear title to the property. Title companies can reduce a portion of the homebuyers risk. Insure the Risks. Principally though the writing of homeowner’s insurance policies, insurance companies reduce the financial risk to homeowners. These policies work in two basic areas - peril and liability. Protection from peril would be fire, flood, theft, and similar threats to the property. Providing payment to an injured or otherwise harmed individual when some unfortunate circumstance occurs in or around your home provides liability reduction. Insurance companies can reduce a portion of the homebuyers risk. Bond the Risks. Termites do more damage to homes each year then fire and flood combined. In many areas of the country the question is not IF your home will have termites, just WHEN. Termite bonding companies will treat or repair damage to your home should a termite infestation occur. Termite bonding companies can reduce a portion of the homebuyers risk. Inspect the Risks. The role of the home inspector in risk reduction is to search for signs, symptoms, telltales, and clues that would indicate some damage or defect maybe located within the home. By discovering risk that is discoverable prior to the purchase of the home, issues effecting performance, maintenance, or value can be addressed. In some instances, the defects discovered are of sufficient magnitude to eliminate the desire to own the home. Home inspectors can reduce a portion of the homebuyers risk. Warrant the Risks. There will always be unforeseen failures of the systems and components of your home. Preparing for many of these unwanted and unpredictable expenses can be managed with a home warranty policy. These types of policies act to protect the appliances and system failures not typically protected by homeowner’s insurance policies. Though home warranties do not cover every eventuality, home warranties can reduce a portion of the homebuyers risk. Why the diatribe on risk? It has been my experience in having spoken to thousands of real estate agents and homebuyers alike, when the concept of risk and risk management is explained, most understand it. And what’s more, they all agree on how to handle it AND who is ultimately responsible for the risks. But surprisingly, few real estate agents have this “risk discussion” with their homebuyers. Homebuyers NEED this primer on risk and risk management. It’s all a part of managing your customer’s expectations! In the absence of this discussion and education, the buyer ends up without the realization that along with their new home, the risk associated with that home is completely theirs. That is, unless they are prepared to either accept the full risk or take proper steps - that is, bear the expense of risk reduction tools.
Back to the beginning; more referrals and more money in your pocket! Have this “risk discussion” with your buyers. Empower them. Educate them on how using risk reduction tools can protect their family and their investment (which will also protect you in the process). This is how you manage expectations and teach your customers how to make the best decisions for their situation. And they will love YOU in the process, leading to fewer complaints, more paydays, and more referrals! HomePro Inspections is your best source for agent liability reduction and client peace of mind! Your client’s one stop for: Environmental Testing (mold, radon, water, lead paint, meth lab); Wind Mitigation Evaluations, Chinese Drywall Assessments, Insurance Inspections, Energy Audits, Home Inspections, Termite Reports, Construction Consultations, Infrared Moisture Instruction Investigations, and More! 904-268-8211 GoHomePro.com
HomePro Inspections is your go-to source for agent liability reduction and customer peace of mind! Infrared technology separates the professionals from the pretenders in the home inspection industry, and only HomePro utilizes infrared technology on every exclusive 5 Star Inspection™ Package. Call for your 5 Star Inspection today – 904-268-8211. Have Wally Conway speak at your office or for your favorite group! Wally is a speaker, writer, FREC instructor, host of HGTV’s “House Detective”, host of DIY Network’s “Finders Fixers”, and host of The Home and Garden radio show on WOKV AM 690 and 106.5 FM. And don’t forget to pick up Wally’s book, “Secrets of the Happy Home Inspector”, available at GoHomePro.com or Amazon.com. Book Wally for your next speaking event today!
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3
Page 23
FEBRUARY STATISTICS Monthly Statistics Report St. Augustine & St. Johns Co. Complied on March 6, 2012
Feb-12
Change From 2/128/2011 - to2/128/2012 -
Feb-11
YTD 2012
2011-2012 YTD
YTD 2011
Residential New Listings
330
313
5.43%
723
676
6.95%
Sold Listings
163
173
-5.78%
307
330
-6.96%
$25,283,582.00
$29,761,103.00
-15.04%
$51,067,571.00
$58,796,799.00
-13.14%
$155,114.00
$172,029.50
-9.83%
$166,343.88
$178,172.12
-6.63%
168
155
8.37%
185
147
25.92%
New Listings
69
83
-16.86%
148
165
-10.30%
Sold Listings
20
16
25%
34
24
41.66%
$1,297,500.00
$1,831,750.00
-29.16%
$2,067,350.00
$2,530,082.00
-18.28%
$64,875.00
$114,484.38
-43.33%
$60,804.41
$105,420.08
-42.32%
382
202
89.38%
318
183
73.28%
New Listings
16
15
6.66%
25
29
-13.79%
Sold Listings
1
2
-50%
4
5
-20%
Vol. Sold Listings
$100,000.00
$204,186.00
-51.02%
$1,005,550.00
$1,303,186.00
-22.83%
Avg. Sell Price
$100,000.00
$102,093.00
-2.05%
$251,387.50
$260,637.20
-3.54%
119
279
-57.34%
299
172
73.78%
New Listings
7
8
-62.50%
7
14
-50%
Sold Listings
1
1
0
4
2
100%
Vol. Sold Listings
$75,000.00
$179,000.00
-58.10%
$545,400.00
$354,000.00
54.06%
Avg. Sell Price
$75,000.00
$179,000.00
-58.10%
$136,350.00
$177,000.00
-22.96%
75
48
56.25%
208
36
485.91%
New Listings
418
419
-0.24%
900
884
2.15%
Sold Listings
185
192
-3.64%
349
361
-3.32%
$26,756,082.00
$31,976,039.00
-16.32%
$54,685,871.00
$62,984,067.00
-13.17%
$144,627.47
$166,541.87
-13.15%
$156,693.04
$174,471.10
-10.18%
191
160
19.23%
200
149
33.79%
Vol. Sold Listings Avg. Sell Price Avg. Day on Market
Lots and Land
Vol. Sold Listings Avg. Sell Price Avg. Day on Market
Commercial/Industrial
Avg. Day on Market
Multi-Family
Avg. Day on Market
Total
Vol. Sold Listings Avg. Sell Price Avg. Day on Market
Search Criteria Date Start:
2/1/2012
Date End:
ALL INFORMATION DEEMED RELIABLE BUT NOT GUARANTED
2/28/2012
APRIL 2012 PREVIEW 2nd
Page 24
4th
ST. AUGUSTINE & ST. JOHNS COUNTY BOARD OF REALTORS®
1789 Lakeside Avenue St. Augustine, FL. 32084 Phone: 904-829-8738
EDUCATION COMMITTEE
9:00AM
RPAC COMMITTEE
12:00PM
COMMERCIAL COMMITTEE
8:30AM
TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE
9:30AM
6th
CLOSED IN OBSERVANCE OF GOOD FRIDAY
11th
AFFILIATE COMMITTEE
9:00AM
NEFAR CONTRACT
1:00PM
13th
MAKE IT, BAKE IT, GROW IT, SEW IT AUCTION
11:30AM
17th
MLS TRAINING
1:00PM
18th
PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE
9:30AM
MLS TRAINING
1:00PM
19th
WCR PMN “LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE”
8:30AM
18st
PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE
9:30AM
24th
REALIST
1:30PM
27th
FR/BAR-1 3CE
9:00AM
iCE WEBINAR “IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTING YOUR CUSTOMER” 3CE
9:00AM
Fax: 904-823-9512
CONTACT INFORMATION B O A R D
W E B S I T E :
S T J O H N S R E A L T O R S . C O M
Board Office Staff Victor J. Raymos, RCE ae@stjohnsrealtors.org Association Executive
IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION
Professional Standards Sharon Lainhart member@stjohnsrealtors.org Membership and Finance
Lise Hays education@stjohnsrealtors.org MLS/Education /SUPRA/ Newsletter/Website/ Membership Linda McNett staff@stjohnsrealtors.org Membership/Website/SUPRA Just like the Board of REALTORS® is your Board, this is YOUR newsletter! We can’t do this without you!
FloridaRealtors– www.floridarealtors.org Tech Hotline— 407-587-1450 Legal Hotline— 407-438-1409 FR Event Registration— 800-669-4327 FR Orlando—407-438-1400 FR Tallahassee—850-224-1400 RPAC—850-224-1400 support@floridarealtors.org
National Association of REALTORS— www.realtor.org 1-800-874-6500 NAR Member Benefits Program— 800-NAR-5233 www.REALTOR.org/RealtorBenefits
REALTOR.COM— 800-878-4166 INNOVIA (MLS) Support— 800-334-0831 FORMSimplicity— 407-587-1450 SUPRA Support—877-699-6787