2012 August September Realtor Magazine

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A U G U S T / SA EP PR TI LE M/ BME ARY 22001122

Our Family Tree M A K I N G

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YOU HAVE A R R I V E D. On the road of life there are many destinations.

When the time comes to choose the path to yours, choose the one that leads to The Villas at Seven Oaks.

This gated community of 29 classic California style Castle & Cooke homes is nestled next to the first fairway of the Robert Muir Graves championship golf course at Seven Oaks Country Club. But you’ll have to hurry, only a few homes and homesites remain.

Taking the road less traveled often leads to the greatest reward. And when your final destination is The Villas at Seven Oaks, you’ll know you have truly arrived.

$2,500 REALTOR BONUS* FEATURED HOME

10603 VENTUCOPA PLACE This beautiful brand new 2,691 sq. ft. home features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, wood flooring, stainless steel appliances, granite countertops and a dining room. This home is located on the Seven Oaks Golf Course. Move-In Ready!

$534,000.00

Homes starting from the low $400’s.

www.CastleCookeHomes.com Prices, amenities and square footage subject to change without notice. Incentive terms and conditions apply. See sales associate for details.

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR MAGAZINE 2 Buyer must use Castle & Cooke Mortgage. Home must close within 30 days. *

®

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Lake s nd Ave

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For a private tour please call Maddy George 661-665-0683

Miramar Ln

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Buena Vista Rd

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CONTENTS BAKERSFIELD REALTOR MAGAZINE ®

6

Giving Changes Lives.

Members take time to give to others

8

Behind the Curtain Shed light on your relationships from the beginning

9

Mortgage Fraud Our high profile press conference

10

Helping a War Hero’s Family Serving our Seniors

20

Education = Success Meet the 2012 Scholarship Recipients

22

Pack your Bags We’re moving home

24

What Matters Most Giving back to our community

14 17

Your Association Leadership 2013 Officers and Directors The Power of Brevity Listen carefully

26

Local Market Stats The numbers say it all

18

Two Generations of Family Share passion for real estate

28 33

Lack of Capital Hinders Commercial Market Stand Above Your Competition with the GRI designation

Executive Editor - Linda Jay, CEO Editor - Cheryl Huff, Director of Communications Designers - Carol Duran, Cheryl Huff

ON THE COVER

A FEW OF OUR REALTOR® FAMILIES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IGER STUDIO

Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® 4800 Stockdale Highway, Suite 100, Bakersfield, CA 93309 P. 661-635-2300 F. 661-635-2317 www.bakersfieldrealtor.org www.bakersfieldrealtor.com facebook.com/bakersfieldrealtors twitter.com/bakorealtors

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

...it is nice to know that in the midst of our struggles, we can find time… make our world just a little bit better.

O

ne of the pleasures in my life, besides being a baseball junkie and having a passion for travel, is reading books.

So while I was on vacation this summer, I sat on the Mediterranean Coast reading Calico Joe, a baseball story by John Grisham, and fulfilled all three passions at once. Now how is that for multitasking?! I have to say that being President of BAR has also had some tremendous rewards, most notably the success of some of the plans we laid out at the beginning of the year. Allow me to elaborate.

On June 27th, Bradley Reese and his Membership Development/ Orientation Committee presented our first “Career Booster I” class, an additional education vehicle for our new agents. In my opinion, it was a smashing success. The idea was to follow-up with new agents, 6 months after orientation and to review and provide more best practice concepts, which they may not have understood when they first became a member. Strange though, over half of the attendees were experienced agents, which showed us that everyone can benefit from an educational tune-up. In addition to the committee, a special thanks to Jared Cope, Amy Mestmaker, Jamey Lyster, Jack Doremus, Dana Leonard and John Busby for their willingness to share their practical knowledge, personal experience and expertise to support and help their colleagues. Everyone who attended learned something. Look for another “Career Booster I” class this fall. It is our intention to make this a part of orientation, but also a resource which benefits our members.

Our second Cultural Diversity presentation, on June 19th, was well attended and featured panelists from a variety of cultures. I want to recognize Dan Shanyfelt and his committee for a very successful and educational meeting. Thank you to our panelists Carlos Sanchez, Amy Mestmaker, Susan Blanza, Deep Singh Grewal and Young Trieu for sharing their knowledge.

Our Association is planning a fundraiser that could prove to be a signature event. On August 16th, we will have our first Casino Night presented by the Harvest Committee. The event takes place at the Moorea Banquet Centre and will include live music, a no-host bar, barbeque steak and chicken and of course, gaming tables.

Once again, my thanks goes to Angie Trigueiro who serves as chair of the committee. She is also the Director Coordinator for YPN. They held their first (and very successful I might add!) Member Softball Tournament and Picnic this year. In addition, she chaired the nominating committee, which just completed the first contested election process. Angie told me she thinks she is working harder this year than she was last year as our President.

These ideas, and many others, grew from the discussions we had at the Leadership Summit in late 2011. There is no way we could accomplish so many things without the help of those in our Association who have given their time and talent to make it happen. I am grateful for each person on each committee as well as the Association staff.

A final thought . . . we are all struggling with this market. It has been one of the toughest years I have ever seen. The work we are doing cannot change what we are currently going through. But it is nice to know that in the midst of our struggles, we can find time to enjoy life, give back to the community, improve our knowledge and make our world just a little bit better.

LETTER FROM THE CEO

D

eveloping An Attitude of Service…

By definition, SERVICE is the work performed by one that contributes to the welfare of others. It is a helpful act… an act that creates a worthiness of reliance or trust.

As REALTORS®, we understand that concept very well! It’s the very nature of our business, and generations of our Association members have provided quality service to our community for the past 107 years. It is true, we are engaged in a very fast-paced, customer-centric profession. However, I’m certain you would agree that our marketplace has never been more competitive or demanding. In light of the exponential advancements in today’s technology, the expectations of our customers/clients have also grown exponentially. The quality of service we provided in the past, is no longer adequate. Every point of contact we have with our customers/clients will influence whether or not they will want to continue working with us now or in

the future. If we fail to deliver a quality of service that is extraordinary and incomparable, we risk losing them!

As we continue to meet the demands and opportunities of our ever-changing marketplace, I want to challenge you with some thoughts as to how to develop and commit to an improved attitude of S.E.R.V.I.C.E. to: OURSELVES: Self-control. Having the discipline to make time to keep yourself healthy; Exercise of your body, mind; R & R– taking time with family and friends to rejuvenate; Values – What really matters to you – refocusing on our values; Influence – How can I improve myself to have a more positive impact on those around me; Change – It is inevitable. Welcome it and make it positive; Enthusiasm – Choose to start and end the day with a positive attitude.

OUR PROFESSIONAL COLLEAGUES Smiles (humor) – Never underestimate the power of a smile; Example -

2012 OFFICERS President Scott Tobias Prudential Tobias, REALTORS® President-Elect David Knoeb Frontier Real Estate Services

Vice President Theresa Olson RE/MAX Magic Secretary/Treasurer Sheri Anthes Coldwell Banker Preferred - Ming

lead by example, with integrity and professionalism; Resolve – to always seek the best in people and situations; Vision – Make a choice to stay focused on the amazing possibilities that lie ahead; Integrity – Essential principal of building trust; Cooperation creates partnerships/teamwork; Experience – We can all learn by each other’s experiences.

TO OUR CUSTOMERS AND CLIENTS Sincerity – showing genuine care and concern to their needs and wants; Expectation – Under promise and over deliver – exceed their expectations; Respect – Extending every courtesy to them; Value – Show them how important they are to you; Integrity – Builds report and trust; Charisma – being a person of positive influence.

Enthusiasm - Going the extra mile.

Remember! There is less to fear from outside competition than from inside inefficiency, discourtesy, and bad service!

— Tom Peters

2012 DIRECTORS Immediate Past President Angie Trigueiro Titan Real Estate

Lezlie Chaffin Premier Realty

Robert Malkin Watson Realty ERA

Athena Collup Watson Realty ERA

Pam Epps EPCO & Associates

Chief Executive Officer Linda Jay

Wayland Louie RE/MAX Golden Empire

John Garone, Jr. Coldwell Banker Preferred - Westwind

Bradley Reese, Jr. Miramar International

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

5

GIVING CHANGES

LIVES Members give from the heart

Theresa Olson RELAY FOR LIFE I have been involved with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life for 21 years. It started with our first relay at Bakersfield College 21 years ago! Relay for Life is a worldwide movement and one of the largest fundraising events in the world. It is an overnight community gathering that gives everyone the opportunity to fight cancer and help save lives.

Teams camp out at local high schools, parks or colleges. Since we have the largest single relay event in the world, we need to find 20 acres or more to accommodate all of our teams and survivors.

I have volunteered in every aspect that one could imagine, from participating on a team to volunteering on several steering committees to chairing the whole event.

Marilyn & Gar McIndoe introduced me to the organization because I lost my grandfather, Uncle Henry, Aunt Ada & Cousin Billy THERESA OLSON to cancer.

I also have friends and family members who have survived - thanks to the research that has been done over the years. I started helping the McIndoes with the luminaries in honor/memory of those that have had cancer. In 2004 and 2005, I cochaired and chaired our Million Dollar Event.

Relay for Life

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BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

Relay for Life

Cooks from th

MIKE & SHARe Valley I GEORGE

Next, I chaired the Survivorship a guardian’s R t O h L g Y i l A Committee. responsibility onoArNFD CHERYL T H In 2011-2012, due to the begins with flight DICK size of our event, we needed a preparation and reviewing five-member executive team that packets of material. Guardians ensure boarding was in charge of overseeing and running the passes and IDs are available, distribute Honor event (with hundreds of volunteers). I was Flight Kern County T-shirts, get the veterans honored to be asked to be on this team. I through security, and assist in boarding. From was responsible for managing the Remember the moment the veterans are in our hands until Group, which included the Survivorship, we return them to their loved ones, guardians Luminaries and Care Takers Committees. Our are asked to treat these heroes as if they are goal was to have 2,000 survivors at the survivor family. We ensure that every veteran has a lap and sell/place 16,000 luminaires around the safe, memorable and rewarding experience. track before the ceremony began. We outdid Guardians are volunteers who are expected to ourselves with 2,936 survivors and 17,328 pay their own way. luminaires! In addition to all that, we raised Our recent trip with Honor Flight was over $2,129,339.76 – an all-time event high! the Memorial Day weekend and involved 21 This just demonstrates that the people of WWII veterans. This experience was easily one Bakersfield have a giving heart, which reaches of the top five greatest things we’ve ever been all-the-way-down to their pocket books. able to do in our lives. Being in the presence of They know what it takes to come together as these fine men, drew our complete admiration. a community, fight one of the most dreaded Our vets ranged in age from 84 to 101 years diseases and come out victorious as well as have old and seemed to have a great love for life. fun doing it.

When we left Bakersfield we had an Relay for Life will always be near and dear outstanding send-off from family and to my heart. With more birthdays for our well-wishers. Our aircraft received a water survivors, we will continue to “Celebrate! cannon arch salute from two fire engines. We Remember! & Fight Back!” Note: Many of our experienced the same type of salute when we members volunteer with this organization. landed at Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI). As our vets walked up the Dick and Cheryl Taylor jetway into the terminal, HONOR FLIGHT they were greeted by Cheryl and I had the distinct honor and hundreds of people who privilege to serve as guardians with an were cheering, clapping organization called Honor Flight. We like to and high-fiving our vets. In give back to our community, which has given addition to this seemingly us so much for which to be thankful. Honor never-ending reception Flight Kern County is part of a national line, there were dozens of organization that sends WWII and other uniformed members of the veterans to Washington D.C. (at no cost to U.S. Armed Forces who them) to see their memorial. saluted our vets.

Even before veterans arrive at the airport, The next day our vets were

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treated to lunch in the office of the Majority Whip of the House of Representatives, our own Congressman Kevin McCarthy.

The Congressman escorted them through a private tour of the Capitol Building, including the House Chambers, Statuary Hall and the Rotunda.

Upon our return to Bakersfield, we were greeted with yet another water cannon salute and an awe inspiring welcome from our community. These WWII vets told us over and over how much they appreciated the experience and the opportunity provided to them. Cheryl and I will remember this trip and the men we had the pleasure to serve for the rest of our lives. Our plan is to continue to serve as guardians on future flights. One of my favorite quotes by Will Rogers typifies these men: “We can’t all be heroes. Some of us have to stand on the curb and clap as they go by.”

DEVIL PUPS CHALLENGE Cheryl and I are involved in the yearly Devil Pups Challenge. It’s basically a Marine Corps-based leadership summer camp for good kids. I serve as the Devil Pups Liaison Representative, or LR, for Kern County.

Cheryl, also plays a big role in supporting that effort. It’s our job to find teens and select the ones who we feel will stickit-out for the duration of the encampment. Preparing young men and women, ages 14 to 17, for what life will bring them may seem like a valuable goal for a summer camp. But it takes on a new meaning when it’s instilled by Marine Corps Noncommissioned Officers (NCOs).

That’s exactly what happens for 600 teenagers from

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Look for “The Heart of Healing” throughout the magazine for more volunteer stories

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California, Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton every summer. The 10-day program ends with an impressive graduation attended by hundreds of family members and friends.

The Devil Pups Youth Program for America was created in 1954 as a way for teens to spend part of their summer in a military environment. Notable Americans who have graduated from the program include, Congressman Elton Gallegly of Thousand Oaks and actor/Coldwell Banker spokesman Tom Selleck.

U.S. Marines were referred to as “Devil Dogs” in World War I by enemy troops for their battlefield accomplishments and ‘never give up’ spirit. The Devil Pups name is derived from this rich Marine Corps heritage.

The program builds self confidence and discipline through a series of mental and physical challenges. Under the watchful eyes of specially selected Marine NCOs, camp participants achieve tasks like beach runs up to 5 miles, tower jumps into a swimming pool and a hike up ‘Ole Smokey,’ a foreboding mountain overlooking the School of Infantry and the Pacific Ocean. They also learn teamwork, and respect for others, their family and their country. Graduating teens have told us that Devil Pups is the hardest thing they’ve ever done; yet, it is the coolest thing they’ve ever done.

Both Honor Flight and Devil Pups are programs that allow us to repay the community that has given us so much. The rewards are immeasurable.

twelve years. I wanted to volunteer with the organization because I was particularly interested in doing something for the children and families of Kern County. The foundation responds to the unmet needs of local children and their families that may be facing cancer or other catastrophic or life threatening issues. I also knew the Mendiburu Family and I trusted them to adhere to their mission.

I served in a leadership role to bring the California’s first St. Jude Dream Home to Bakersfield. I’ve also spearheaded the “Pyrenees’s Fiesta,” which is our annual fundraising event. It is a multicultural celebration of both the Basque and Mexican heritages. We host a dinner featuring both cultures with dancing and a silent auction. It’s held at the Bakersfield City Fireman’s Hall and all proceeds go into our fund for helping the families of afflicted children.

I remember a boy named Justin was diagnosed with aplastic anemia on Christmas Eve. The family still travels back and forth to Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles twice a month. Justin’s parents said, “Without the help of the Mendiburu Magic Foundation, we wouldn’t be able to afford the travel.”

I knew I was making a difference when I was able to visit with an adorable girl, who was once sick, but now is happy and healthy.

Mendiburu funds helped her family get by through her illness.

I’m also a member of Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary. In 2011, I was honored as Rotarian of the Year for my efforts in bringing The Wreaths Across America project to Bakersfield National Veteran’s Cemetery.

Adoree Roberson

These stories came from a small sampling of our members who volunteer. If you volunteer with an organization and would like to share your story, we would love to hear from you.

Please submit your story to Cheryl Huff.

Mendiburu Magic Foundation I’ve been on the Governing Board of Directors for Mendiburu Magic Foundation for

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

7

Behind the Curtain Shed light on your relationships from the beginning Case #5-1: Contemplated Interest in Property Appraised (Reaffirmed Case #12-2 May, 1988. Transferred to Article 5 November, 1994.)

S

eller A and Buyer B were negotiating the sale of an apartment building, but couldn’t agree on the price.

Finally, they agreed that each would engage an appraiser and they would accept the average of the two appraisals as a fair price. Seller A engaged REALTOR® C as his appraiser, and Buyer B engaged REALTOR® D. Both REALTORS® were informed of the agreement of the principals. The two appraisal reports were submitted. The principals averaged the two valuations and made the transaction at the price determined.

Six months later, it came to the attention of Seller A that REALTOR® C was managing the building that he had appraised. Upon making further inquiries, he learned that REALTOR® C for several years had managed five other buildings owned by Buyer B and that he had been Buyer B’s property manager at the time he accepted the appraisal assignment from Seller A. At this point Seller A engaged REALTOR® E to make an appraisal of the building he had sold to Buyer B. REALTOR® E’s valuation was approximately 30% higher than that arrived at six months earlier by REALTOR® C. These facts were set out in a complaint against REALTOR® C made by Seller A to the local Board of REALTORS®. The complaint charged that since REALTOR® C was an agent of Buyer B; since he managed all of Buyer B’s properties; since he had become manager of the property he had appraised for Seller A in connection with a sale to Buyer B;

and since he had not disclosed his relationship to Buyer B, he had acted unethically, and in the interest of his major client had placed an excessively low valuation on the property he had appraised for Seller A. At the hearing, Seller A also brought in a witness who stated that he had heard Buyer B say that he had made a good buy in purchasing Seller A’s building because Seller A’s appraiser was his (Buyer B’s) property manager.

Buyer B, appearing as a witness for REALTOR® C, disputed this and protested that he had paid a fair price. He substantiated REALTOR® C’s statement that management of the building formerly owned by Seller A

was never discussed between them until after it had been purchased by Buyer B. It was concluded by the Hearing Panel that whether or not management of the building was discussed between Buyer B and REALTOR® C prior to its purchase

by Buyer B, REALTOR® C had a logically contemplated interest in it as a property manager in view of the fact that he had served as property manager for all other properties owned by Buyer B. In view of this contemplated interest, he was bound by the terms of Article 5 to disclose this interest to his appraisal client, Seller A. He had failed to do this, and so was found in violation of Article 5 of the Code of Ethics.

2012 Ombudsman Report (May-June) 132 calls were received by our Ombudsman n 57 calls were disciplinary complaints against n

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BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

agents which were resolved n 3 disciplinary packages were mailed to complaining parties

regarding cases that could not be resolved n 59 calls requesting information on real

estate procedures n 2 complaints against a nonassociation member

9 anonymous calls were received n 2 cases were referred for Association mediation n

IN TH E

MORTGAGE FRAUD Press Conferenc e n Jun e 7 , 2 01 2

LeFrancis Arnold, CAR President, spoke directly to Bakersfield’s consumers about the danger of fraud in our distressed market. The Association received valuable media coverage from all three TV stations, multiple radio stations and The Bakersfield Californian. You can view some of the coverage on our website under the Newsroom tab, then select Mortgage Fraud.

Members — Michele Cooper, Tammie Albitre

Harry Clay and Jason Moyer

LeFrancis Arnold, CAR President speaks with Courtenay Edelhart, Californian reporter

KUZZ reporter asks the questions

Members were happy to attend the press conference

Margeaux Esler, Donna Carpenter, Lotus Lou, CAR Scott Tobias, BAR President; Linda Jay, CEO; LeFrancis Arnold CAR President

Members — Jason Moyer, Rommel Givens , Midge Jimerson

Cameramen, reporters and photographers were on the scene

Scott Tobias addresses the media

Waiting for the press conference to begin ® BAKERSFIELD REALTOR MAGAZINE Scott Tobias, Lisa Green, Theresa Olson, Jeanne Radsick

9

Community Spirit

Rolls up their sleeves

I

Helping a War Hero’s Family

Richard Guzman

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Cheri Romero

n early August of 2011, Marine Corps Sergeant Adan Gonzales Jr. called his wife, Catalina, from Afghanistan, where he was assigned to a sniper platoon. This Marine warrior’s mood was joyful as he listened to his young wife describe how his three young children were doing after moving into a new apartment. His last words to Catalina were “I love you.” Sergeant Gonzales was shot in the chest on August 7, 2011, during a firefight in southern Helmand province, a Taliban stronghold. He was only 28 years old.

Catalina and her three children have struggled under this grievous loss and talk about Adan with each other as if he were right there with them. His oldest daughter, Athena, was so special to her father, who gave her the nickname “Cozy.” The nickname comes from her middle name, Cozette, but if you meet her, you will know that the nickname fits this eight-year-old well. While looking at a new home for her family, fiveyear-old Catherine spotted a globe and asked, “Do you wanna see where my Daddy is?” She then pointed to the place where her Daddy was buried and said, “I think he should come home.”

-- Story by Glenn Porter To honor Sergeant Gonzales’ wife and family, Community Spirit and RSVP volunteers gathered to spruce-up the family’s new home.

Members and their teenage children spent the better part of Saturday, June 16th covered in pink and blue paint and sticky masking tape.

Drop cloths were spread out across the entire house. The team also worked hard to clear out dead bushes, weeds and debris from the yard.

Vines were trimmed, lawns were mowed and colorful flowers were planted.

Project Volunteers: Coleen Peters, Mike Daigle,

Ronda and Walt Newport

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BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

Terri Mays, Richard Guzman, Barbara, Lexi & Elle Bogner, Kaylee Duncan, Linda, Jordan & Megan Oliver, Gabby Melendez, JoAnne Martin, Melissa Laughlin, Debi, Kamri & Phil Roberson, Ronda & Walt Newport, Cheri Romero, Jim Winfrey, Gary & Dana Ashbee, Angie Trigueiro, Jamey and Nicholas Lyster

Serving Our Seniors

Every Thursday, Sally’s Place opens its doors to serve seniors a hot meal, provide them with a bag of groceries and create an atmosphere of fun with a few good Bingo games. Sally’s Place was created by the Salvation Army around 2002 as part of their Senior Brown Bag Program.

According to Bob Atkinson, Director of Family Services, Thursdays are a big hit with the community’s senior members.

Dedicated members of Community Spirit started volunteering earlier this year at Sally’s Place - every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month.

Members and team leaders, Misty Jeffries and Sherry Skeels, are serious about their commitments at Sally’s Place. What others consider hard work, these two energetic women think is fun.

They, by no means, do this alone. A strong core of members pitch in with the meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and clean-up. While the meals might not sound fancy to some, an average of 40 seniors are more than grateful for what may be the only hot meal they eat all week. On occasion, Community Spirit members will even donate or pay for the groceries out of their own pockets.

In order to qualify for these hot meals, guests must be at least 60 years old. Sally’s Place draws seniors from nearby apartments and retirement homes. Most often, they are widows and widowers who live alone. There are only twothree couples. Many have physical disabilities and may be using wheelchairs or walkers. Most are making it on their social security alone and have no one else to help them.

Bob Atkinson says “ They look forward to coming for lunch - it’s literally the highlight of their week. They like to socialize with other people and play Bingo. It sure beats sitting in front of the TV or going to the doctor. They really are grateful for everything we provide.”

Our Association is the only organization that prepares meals at Sally’s Place. Ronda Newport, Chair of Community Spirit, is delighted to see so much enthusiasm from our RSVP (REALTOR® Service Volunteer Project) members and says, “It just goes to show, REALTORS® really want to give of themselves.

They want Bakersfield to know they care.

Sometimes they just need us to point the way.”

N OF REALTORS

LD ASSOCIATIO

BIG WITH PRESTIGIOUS AWARD FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE

On Saturday, June 2, 2012 the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® received the coveted Beautiful Bakersfield Crystal Camellia Award in the Humanitarian Group category. The award recognized our 2011 volunteer and community outreach programs. Nine other worthy organizations were nominated. The recognition is further proof that our members, leaders and staff make Bakersfield a better place to live.

Other Nominees in the Humanitarian Group category were: Bakersfield CondorsAnnual Teddy Bear Toss; Bakersfield Elementary Teachers Association-Read Across America Program; Beautologie; Josh Farler Fight Against Cancer; Junior League of Bakersfield-Girls Achievement Program (G.A.P.); Kaiser Permanente Kern County, Staff and Physicians; Rare GEMZ MC/SC; and Valley Bible Fellowship.

Here are a few excerpts from the information we submitted to the judges: GOLDEN EMPIRE GLEANERS - CanTree Committee raised $17,451.72 and gathered 6,872 pounds of food. Members even hand-picked fruit.

50TH ANNIVERSARY GOLF TOURNAMENT Proceeds were presented to two charities: The Ronald McDonald House and the Golden Empire Gleaners. Both organizations received $9,270.20. GIVE A TREE GIFT PROGRAM - Launched program whereby REALTORS® present new homeowners with a tree for their yard. COMMUNITY ACTION PARTNERSHIP OF KERN - Supported the rebuilding of the Friendship House with a donation and planting of 51 trees (cost $3,192.65.) Publicized the grand reopening to our members and to the public with a newspaper ad. FAIR HOUSING ARTS CONTEST - Each April the Association celebrates National Fair Housing Month by having an arts contest for K-12 students.

W

making our community

A better place to live

PHYLLIS OLIVER

The Beautiful Bakersfield Awards Event is presented

Golden Cup

(Clockwise, top

GOLF TOURNAM ENT 50 TH ANNIVERS ARY

Registration Begins Monday,

Cost Per Person

Ceremony: $100 Golf and Awards Only: $15 Awards Ceremony

Sponsorships Benefiting The

by the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce in

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Visit BakersfieldRealtor.o register (Events Tab) to and/or sponsor.

Still Available

Golden Empire

Gleaners & Ronald

McDonald House

PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

U.S. OPEN SPONSOR

SPONSORS

many places.

Seattle area Living in the greater the years, Phyllis had for over twenty with privilege of studying Ron Lucas. filmmaker and painter, studies with of her Due to the influence

these two influential and design became teachers, color work. Phyllis is the focus of her Oils, and proficient in Watercolor, of grandchildren Pastel. The lure retire her husband to induced her and Athens, Greece, to Bakersfield from While for several years. where they lived taught and traveled in Greece, Phyllis at had a solo exhibition extensively and Embassy in Athens. the United States in collections Her work is included

best…

community United in action.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS. nGolden Empire Gleaners nExchange Club of Bakersfield nRotaract Club@CSUB

nBakersfield Chamber of Commerce nCommunity Action Kern Partnership of nCSUB Athletics nThe Ronald McDonald

nKern Economic Development Corporation nBakersfield Symphony Orchestra of nArts Council Kern County

Fund nWounded Heroes nDowntown Business and Property Owner’s

TION PRESERVE YOUR DEDUC

REALTORS Presents…

ASSOCIATION OF BAKERSFIELD Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce with The Greater

Thursday, Novembe

r 17th

5:30pm – 8pm

Share a moment of pure

olate chocindulgen ce ® Stockdale of REALTORS , 4800

advocacy.

altors.org

cindy@bakersfieldre 661-635-2300 Cost: $5

93309 Bakersfield, CA Highway, #100, rg n www.bakersfieldrealtor.o

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BAKERSFIELD REALTOR

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n Increase our n Improve our

Call the Associationtree! your office to order

661-635-2300

PM 3/25/2011 12:23:49

April May.indd

MAGAZINE

11

Featured Artist

CLOSE ON THE AMERICAN

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Questions? contact

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Young Professionals

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of is an organization Network (YPN) focus on the importance The Young Professionals professionals who politics and young real estate community service, so that they can of education, technology, through networking, building relationships leaders. succeed as tomorrow’s rsfieldypn

Chair

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Coldwell Banker

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Jason Rodriguez Co-Vice Chair

Keller Williams Realty/Panama

Aimee Jones

Kassy Miles Towery

& Assoc.

MAGAZINE

Bobby Moreno Coldwell Banker Preferred, Ming

Phone: 661-868-3670

E - LET’S TAK TOG ETHERT OF HUNGER A BITE OU 4th d Bakersfiel ASSOCIATION

®

OF REALTORS

93309 n 661-635-2300 Bakersfield, CA Highway, Suite 100, www.bakersfieldrealtor.com 4800 Stockdale ealtors n Facebook.com/bakersfieldr

DREAM IT’S THE AMERICAN HOME OWNERSHIP:

tradition. community.

previous calendar year.

advocacy.

Celebrity Poker Night

An Evening Neal with Stephen

Club, Stockdale Country Auction Buffet Dinner with 661-587-8157 Contact Janis Varner

BAKERSFIELD

Bakersfield, CA

93309

n

The Aviator Casino Contact Chris Cortez 661-721-7770

OF REALTORS advocacy.

Partner with ONE HOT NIGHT. Live Music, Fun RafflesOF REALTORS and ASSOCIATION

Bakersfield

®

Bakersfield

NIGHTS HOT AUGUST in Bakersfield to Benefit the Hungry A Fundraiser

®

OF REALTORS

community. tradition. community. tradition.

4TH Hwy. AY, AUGUST 8660 Rosedale THURSD - 9pm Chuy’s, of Food

advocacy. advocacy.

Highway 4800 Stockdale Suite 100 93309 Bakersfield, CA 661-635-2300

n

5:30pm = $2 or 2 Cans Cover Charge

ltors

Facebook.com/bakersfieldrea www.bakersfieldrealtor.com

Cage Fights Center

CSUB Icardo Contact Craig Tobin 661-302-4455

Hwy., Suite 100 eldrealtor 4800 Stockdale OF REALTORS n Facebook.com/bakersfi ®

ASSOCIATION

Phone: 661-635-2300

n

BakersfieldRealtor.com

Bakersfield ASSOCIATION

The awards program began

OF REALTORS

. tradition. community

®

advocacy.

in the mid 1980s and honors people, places, businesses and groups who have contributed to Bakersfield’s quality of life.

The awards are presented in 14 categories. A panel of community members entirely separate from the committee, serves as judges. All approved nominees are recognized at the banquet and award recipients are announced for the first time during the televised awards.

The contest was promoted to all area schools. Over 24 students were recognized at an awards presentation and carnival.

SCHOLARSHIP TRUST FUND - We have been longtime advocates of education.

Scholarships are available for qualified students from a Kern County high school, community college or university. In 2011, six area students were selected to receive funds. CONSUMER EDUCATION - The Association frequently contributes articles and advertisements to the newspaper, which are aimed at educating consumers about important information regarding homeownership and property rights.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT n Rotaract Club@ CSUB 2011 Confidence Run n CSUB Athletics n Habitat for Humanity n American Lung Association n JJ’S Legacy Golf Tournament n Bakersfield Symphony Orchestra n Mendiburu Magic Foundation

Bakersfield Homeless Center n Alzheimer’s Day Care Foundation n Casa of Kern County - Wine, Women and Shoes DOWNTOWN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION - We sponsored June’s Faire in the Park. LOCAL ARTISTS - Our magazine highlights the work of local artists with the “Artist’s Corner.” KERN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION - Served as a sponsor for the 2011 Economic Summit. LOCAL GOVERNMENT RELATIONS - Association members are encouraged to attend presentations and events that educate them on the legislative process.

BAKERSFIELD CONDORS - We promoted and attended the 13th Annual Teddy Bear Toss. Numerous members donated stuffed animals that were distributed to over 60 Kern County Agencies. BAKERSFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE - We sponsored the Chocolate Bar Mixer and served as a sponsor for the 2010 and 2011 Beautiful Bakersfield Awards in the Public/Private Partnership Category. EXCHANGE CLUB OF BAKERSFIELD - We served as a retail outlet for Bakersfield-inspired Christmas ornaments. The proceeds benefited this national service organization. COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT - We launched the Young Professionals Network (YPN), which focuses on community service and grooms future community leaders. n

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

FAIR

HOUSING

ARTS

visit For rules and guidelines, . Click www.bakersfieldrealtor.comContest logo. on the ferris wheel April 1, 2011, 5pm.

Deadline: Friday,

the advocacy. tradition. community.

Benefiting Golden Empire Gleaners

ASSOCIATION

2011

Deadline April 1st

NIGHTS us for

Support these self-funded programs.

3RD,

&T

Housin tional Fair April is Na

children Encourage your on create art based participate and theme - “Play Fair.” the Fair Housing eligible.

All school-age children

®

AUGUST tradition. community.

Calling Parents

PARENTS & TEACHERS: to

Annual

Wrestling. Tennis.

TUESDAY, MAY

Phone: 661-868-3650

33

CSUB ATHLETICSGolf

Miramar International

Jon McQuiston

Mike Maggard

PLAYER

Lori Rogers

COUNTY SU

First District Supervisor

Third District Supervis

WE ARE A TEAM

Keller Williams Realty

Senator 18th District Phone: 619-323-0443 Sacramento: 916-651-4018 Email: senator.fuller@sen.ca.gov

20th District U.S. Congressman Phone: 661-869-1620 D.C.: 202-225-9308 Email: www.costa.house.gov

Phone: 661-868-3660

®

Keller Williams Bradford & Associates

Jean Fuller

Jim Costa

U.S. CONGRESSMAN

KEVIN MCCARTHY

A NEW GENERATION YOUNG GUNS: CO-AUTHOR OF LEADERS OF CONSERVATIVE

Zack Scrivner

WHEN THEY WIN, WE ALL WIN.

ASSOCIATION

TODAY!

Second District Supervisor

cause.

6PM plays. One great FRIDAY, MAY 20TH, to call the MAY Arts 19TH, 7PM Three ways THURSDAY, Mixed Martial 5:30PM

Bakersfield

- BUY YOUR TICKETS

by Julian Najera

®

Watson Realty ERA

www.facebook.com/bake

accomplishments from the

U.S. Congressman Phone: 661- 327-3611 D.C.: 202-225-2915 .gov www.kevinmccarthy.house

nd

“in-the-moment” . . . in a playful, being. When this experience of just are released and happens, stressors leaves feeling relaxed the participant on For information and stress free. www.mercy programs, visit bakersfield.org/art.

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR

William Chicas

As P S E a

Assemblyman 30 Phone: 559-585-7170 Sacramento: 916-319-2030 @ Email: assemblymember.valadao assembly.ca.gov

th

or.org (Events Tab) www.bakersfieldrealt or 661-635-2300

Freddy Perez

Julie Domlao Co-Vice Chair

Sh

David Valadaoth District

Kevin McCarthy22nd District

th

Assemblyman

Marriott Hotel Bakersfield, CA 801 Truxtun Ave., th Friday, August 5 Cost: $10 RSVP by

Tempura on paper

by Kathleen Fenn

ceramic and Media used includes: polymer clays, collage-making, in color, creative beading, praying more. All programs writing and much to encourage are free and designed engage in the process participants to focusing on an of creating, without way, they use the outcome. In that brain . . . the center right side of their intuition of imagination and

YPN Advisory Committee Holly Adams Coldwell Banker

11:30 -1pm

House of Representatives, Just in from the will relay breaking Congressman McCarthy affecting our issues news about critical the NATIONAL DEBT industry. How is affecting your business?

SEATING IS LIMITED

Tempura on paper

by Ann Murillo

S

August 10

th

David Valadao 30 District

by Julian Najera

Pastel by Kay Wilson

a program of Art for Healing, – Truxtun Campus, Mercy Hospital for just has been in operation 800 people have 18 months. Over Spirituality Center visited the Art and of art-making to engage in a variety purpose of relieving activities for the by physical or the stress caused of or the care-giving emotional illness, these images were another. Most of participants. created by program offers Art for Healing many programs.

2011 REPRESENTATIVE

STATE

CONGRESS

Wednesday

with Guests

Senator

MEET YOUR

PM 11:30 - 1

Jean18Fuller District

Assemblywoman

R S L E A D E

Jacob Marquez,

H,

STRAIGHT TALK SHOOTER FROM A STRAIGHT

KEVIN MCCARTHY

JIM COSTA: 559-495-1620

IO D ASSOCIAT

0T AUGUST 1

Luncheon

Mill Creek st 19th & 21 Street, WHERE: between just east of R Street

Bakersfield

UPDATE:

SIONAL

Shannon32Grove District

We’re proud to introduce Network

June and recognizes

11

with U.S. Congressman and Majority Whip

Art for Healing

Tempura on paper

Tempura on paper

DON’T LET THE DOOR

Mercy Hospital,

there.

Elimination of the deduction could create a further decline in home prices, up to 15%, resulting in:

advocacy. tradition. community.

Hwy., # 100 4800 Stockdale 661.635.2300

(events tab)

www.bakersfieldrealtor.org

economy.

BakersfieldRealtor.com eldrealtor Facebook.com/bakersfi

property values

air quality

with our neighbors. n Revitalize distressed-looking properties. n Preserve the environment for future generations.

n Connect us

16th DATE: Thurs, June - 8:30 pm TIME: 5:30pm Central Park along WHAT: Faire at

Association of At the Bakersfield for ® REALTORS , advocating and private property homeownership our core values. rights are among the mortgage n Since 1913, is woven interest deduction of into the very fabric our country. n Housing is a powerful engine that drives our

n A slowdown of our economic recovery n Hampering banks’ to ability to lend due more foreclosures economy into n Tipping the losses and further job another recession

Hwy., Ste. 100

®

Chamber and REALTOR members are invited.

RSVP: 4800 Stockdale 661-635-2300

n

Association nFriendship House nHabitat for Humanity

DREAM IT’S THE AMERICAN HOME OWNERSHIP:

tradition. community.

enrich A tree gift will our our community, will: environment, and

Robledo, Nik Boone

Recipients

S Join us at this FABULOU community event!

Expo Buyers & Sellers Park at the Faire at Central Will you?

Protect your Mortgage Interest Deduction

satisying evening Join us for a richly with chocolate of good conversation chocolates. lovers and luscious

Bakersfield Association

ASSOCIATION

Rodriguez, Jose

ASSOCIATION

CONGRES

The

House for you everyday.

Giving thanks

Bakersfield

Cody Brown, Anthony

S TO THE BAKERSFIELD

ARTIST’S CORNER

hocr olate CBa

in conjunction

ide to create the

conjunction with KGET-TV 17.

The event is held each

The arts have been PHYLLIS OLIVER. the Oliver’s life since a part of Phyllis her grandmother, age of nine when became her first a renowned jeweler, Phyllis attended teacher and mentor. and New Hampshire the University of in a Bachelor of Arts graduated with she has lived in 1963. A navy wife,

United States, Canada, throughout the Australia, Kuwait, Denmark, Germany, continues to exhibit and Greece. Phyllis and presently exhibits in the Northwest, Art Art Association at the Bakersfield Gallery, both in Center and at Juliana’s District.

Downtown Arts the Bakersfield has taught privately, As a teacher, she Pacific and for Seattle in public schools, is University. Phyllis at currently teaching the Art Center.

®

Working side-by-s

Blayne Ontiveros,

with obtaining his real estate, along degree, will public education Bachelors of Science goal of starting Real estate and his His summer plans ASSOCIATION help him achieve are his passions.

THE BAKERSFIELD ® is an advocate of for his father’s his own company. include working OF REALTORS for our members, appraisal business. education not only and the youth Nikolas Boone ® the son of but for their children proactively a junior attending is a REALTOR and To Cody Brown is Previously of our community. to pursue an MBA Affiliate Kristy Gannon. Nik will soon support the CSUB and plans encourage and part-time in the of students attending Taft College, degree. He works at at CSUB. His plan educational endeavors Representative begin his studies the Association Member Services in Kern County, Trust Fund. is to achieve a business the Association. formed the Scholarship degree and is the son of is the son of Anthony Rodriguez be further his Max Gradowitz ® Greene and will ® Gradowitz and is REALTOR Lori his mother’s career in REALTOR Kent He is a Pre-Law attending BC. Watching has greatly real estate. attending CSUB. years sites on becoming dedication over the for a successful major and has his and real estate influenced his desire a California attorney real estate career. broker. at BC, is family has been Jose Robledo, previously University. His Blayne Ontiveros’s industry for estate now attending DeVry lending and part of the real He will further his knowledge of mortgage two generations. then on to CSUB. education at BC,

of the Bakersfield

Schedule

Check-in: 9:30am Shotgun Start: 11am : 5pm Appetizers/Awards

left) Max Gradowitz,

2011 Scholarship CONGRATULATION

30 TH RANCH

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER RIVERLAKES THE LINKS AT

2/26/11 issue

AWARD HISTORY

®

g Arts contest

EST ARTS CONT IR HOUSING

2011

The

COMMUNITY

1 1 F A Housin 2 0 Fair 2011

T’S A R T I S CORNER

Print featured in

WIN Our Members

IDE WITH OUR ORKING SIDE-BY-S THE BAKERSFIE

11

OF OUR SPONSORS! BECOME ONESchools Federal Credit Union

Kern Platinum Sponsor: Services, Group, James McEwen-Broker, Sponsors: The Marcom Miramar International, Abbot Appraisal Mortgage, Inc., & Sealing Co., Agape The Mortgage House and Kern Asphalt Paving Kern County Planning Locator Real Estate, Fair Housing Department, Grimmway Farms, City of Bakersfield/ Housing Program, Union Community Development/FairMarriott, Chevron Valley Credit call 635-2300 Bakersfield Sponsorships Frito-Lay, Curves,

BAKERSFIELD ASSOCIATION® OF REALTORS 4800 Stockdale Highway, Suite 100 www.bakersfieldrealtor.com

The A Team

Introducing

TERRI MAYS

FERMIN GALVAN

LISA HOOK

RON VEINER

SAM JABUKA

CHEREYL NUNN

MONA CIMENTAL

MIKE GEORGE

SHERYL GALLION

MICHELE COOPER

First American Title Co. 661.808.7612 tmays@firstam.com www.firstamerican title.com

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 661.664.5300 chereyl.a.nunn@ wellsfargo.com

FRANK ABBOT, JR. Abbot Appraisals 661.338.0803 staff@abbot appraisals.net

Tri Kern Home Inspections 661.327.0626 fermin@ tri-kerninspections.com

Property I.D. 661.220.0159 mcimental@ propertyid.com www.propertyid.com

BARBARA WELLS

Academy Mortgage 661.301.5472 lisa.hook@ academymortgage.com

Agape Mortgage 661.324.2427 mikegeorge@ agapemtgco.com www.agapemtgco.com

San Joaquin Valley Mortgage 661.703.2227 bwells@sjvalleymortgage.com

[

Abbys Photography 661.342.4945 rveiner@sbcglobal.net www.abbys photography.com

Ticor Title CA of America 661.342.7802 sgallion@ticortitle.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact our Affiliate Chair TERRI MAYS, First American Title Company.

661.808.7612 or tmays@firstam.com

Thank you to all of our June - July Sponsors! n Mona Cimental, Property ID n Michele Cooper, Chevron Valley Credit Union

12

n Chereyl Nunn, Wells Fargo n Jim Winfrey, Western Exterminator

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR速 MAGAZINE

n Julene Tudor, Farmers Insurance n Kristi Trahan, First American Home Warranty

n Jeff Foy, S.C. Anderson n Kristi Trahan, First American Home Warranty

n Julene Tudor, Farmers Insurance n Barbara Bogner, Home Preview Magazine

Jabuka Home Inspections 661.664.8629 jabuka@sbcglobal.net

Chevron Valley Credit Union 661.900.2358 mcooper@ chevronvalleycu.com

]

n Mike and Shari George, Agape Mortgage

NEW MEMBERS WELCOME!

TOP PHOTO (L-R): Bradley Reese, Jr., Edward Scott Gregory D. Bynum & Associates Jorawar Sandhu - RE/ MAX Golden Empire Lorraine Luis - 661 Realty Angela Granheim - Keller Williams Realty Marco Gamino Liberty Real Estate Skyla Karraker - RE/MAX Magic Scott Tobias, Nazar Kooner - RE/MAX Magic Melinda Fuller - Urban Land Advisors, Inc. Omid Daragahi - Heartland Realty Susan Potter - Weiss- Fusion Real Estate Network Rachael Newell BOTTOM PHOTO (L-R): Rylan Rozell - Rylan Rozell, Broker Leticia Smith - JZ Realty, Prescott Lieberg Sunbelt Business Broker & Advisors Yan Lahn - Miramar Interntional, Inc. Adam Arriola - RE/MAX Magic Janette Quinn - Tholco Real Estate Group Jared Cope, Jerrold Dockter - Keller Williams Realty, Scott Tobias, Terry Hockins - Prudential Tobias, REALTORS® Kiranbhai Patel - Watson Realty ERA Yvette Craig - Lewis- Coldwell Banker Preferred, Ming Jennifer Marroquin - RE/MAX Preferred, REALTORS® Lindsay Ursery - Coldwell Banker Preferred, Ming

5 1 S T

A N N U A L

GOLF TOURNAMENT Get in the swing of things!

OCTOBER 12, 2012

The Links, Riverlakes Ranch Golf Course

On sale now!

Tournament Tickets It’s always a SELLOUT

BENEFITING THE GOLDEN EMPIRE GLEANERS & BAKERSFIELD’S RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE U.S. OPEN SPONSOR

PGA CHAMPIONSHIP SPONSORS BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

13

Meet Your

2013 Officers and Directors Eligible Voters............................................1,514 Total Ballots Returned.................................... 289 Percent Vote Return....................................... 19.1 Ballots returned, not eligible.............................10 Ballot Statistics as of 12pm, June 22, 2012

THERESA OLSON 2013 President Elect

14

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR速 MAGAZINE

SHERI ANTHES

2013 Vice President

DAVID KNOEB 2013 President

BILL REDMOND

2013 Secretary-Treasurer

SCOTT TOBIAS

Immediate Past President

LINDA JAY

Chief Executive Officer

Mandatory Training

CODE OF ETHICS WAYLAND LOUIE

JOHN GARONE

2011 - 2013 Director

2012 - 2013 Director

PAM EPPS

ATHENA COLLUP

2012 - 2013 Director

2012 - 2014 Director

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® policy requires all REALTORS® to complete an enhanced NAR Code of Ethics training once every four years, meeting specific learning objectives and criteria (adopted by the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® in 2009 [Article V, Section 12]). The current four-year cycle ends this year, December 31, 2012. The ethics training tests REALTORS® on NAR Code of Ethics concepts, identifying code violations, and enforcement of Joe Newton professional standards. Failure to complete the ethics training is a violation of membership, which can lead to suspension of membership and possible termination.

Online ethics courses are offered for free, available seven days a week, 24 hours a day, at http://www.REALTOR.org/ COEtraining.

For those members who prefer a live instructor over an on-line course, the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® is offering free live training classes with Joe Newton.

Ethics Training Course with Joe Newton Date: Tuesday, August 14th Time: 1 - 5pm Place: Association RSVP: 635.2300 or cindy@bakersfieldrealtor.org

MEMBERS WHO ARE EXEMPT:

DARRELL SPARKS 2013 - 2015 Director

DAVID GAY

2013 - 2015 Director

New members who joined and participated in a New Member REALTOR® Orientation between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2012 are not required to take the Mandatory Ethics Training. They will be required to take the next round in 2013 -2016. n Members who have obtained the NAR Emeritus Award are exempt from the Mandatory Ethics Training.

Note: Members who are eligible for the DRE 70/30 Continuing Education exemption are NOT exempt from the Mandatory Ethics Training.

TRAINING OPTIONS:

DAREK SPRAGUE 2013 Director

JACOB MARQUEZ 2013 - 2015 Director

n NAR Ethics training is available on the NAR website.

This is a FREE class; however, NO DRE credits available. n Live FREE instruction with Joe Newton at the Association office NO DRE credit available. n CAR Tabs Program does have an Ethics Training that will meet the NAR Mandatory Ethics Training and will give DRE credits. Link for the course http://goo.gl/7q0Dv . The cost for this program is $19.

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

15

5 pitfalls

The

Heart of Giving

Judy Miller

YOUTH FOR CHRIST I have a heart for today’s young people, many of whom come from dysfunctional families and need to know that there is hope in this life and that God loves them. I have a heart for helping other people and especially today’s youth. I have two grandkids of my own. This is why I volunteer with Youth for Christ (YFC).

YFC is an International nonprofit organization started by the Rev. Billy Graham back in the 1940’s. The mission is to reach non-church, young people to show them God’s love and plan for their life. YFC is on junior high and high school campuses throughout Kern County. Weekly Campus Clubs are directed by students. I attended these club meetings when I was in high school.

I served on the YFC Board Youth for Christ of Directors for approximately 13 years. Prior to being a board member, my husband and I supported the organization financially and attended their annual fundraising Yout h for banquet.

JUD Chr Y M ist At our last board ILLE R meeting, two of the teen Moms fixed our lunch and shared their story. YFC helped them be better moms and gave them hope for their future. It was very touching. Volunteering and giving of my time and resources to help others, brings me a sense of joy and satisfaction like nothing else can.

When I was 16 years old, my parents gave me a Bible (the one I still use) and in it they wrote “Only one life will soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last”.... I feel this is one thing I do that will last for eternity.

16

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

O F D I S T R E S S E D R E A L E S TAT E L I S T I N G S

Don’t let inexperience sink your business

BY BERNICE ROSS

Working with distressed real estate listings is not for the faint of heart. Navigating through the minefield of a short sale or foreclosure takes skill and awareness to avoid having your deal blow up -- or even worse, your business.

Bank-owned (REO) and short-sale transactions will continue to be a major part of the real estate landscape. To avoid being blindsided when working with distressed properties, here are some important pitfalls to avoid.

Are you adequately trained to handle this business? If you lack experience dealing with short sales or REOs, then it’s smart to refer the business to another agent and take a referral fee. Failure to do so may jeopardize your business.

Lack of awareness about the financial ramifications. Suppose a past client is being transferred to another city and contacts you about listing his home. When he sees the comparable sales, he realizes that he is completely upside down in the property. The question is: What do you do next? Do you list the property and hope that you will be able to do a short sale? Do you advise your client to walk away? Do you suggest a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure and possibly getting a reimbursement from a “Cash for Keys” program?

Most agents will make some sort of recommendation. However, that would be a huge mistake because the agent can’t possibly know the seller’s exact financial situation or the tax consequences of the seller’s various choices.

Recourse or nonrecourse loan?

Whenever you begin working with an owner of a distressed property, you must determine how many loans he or she has on the property and whether those loans are recourse or nonrecourse

1.

2.

3.

loans. The challenge you face in terms of advising a client to go through with a short sale or doing a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure is that the owner may have both recourse and nonrecourse loans on the same property. This means one or more loans may be subject to deficiency judgments while other loans on the property are not.

Even if this is not the case, it’s still critical that your clients are fully informed about the tax ramifications of their choice prior to committing to any type of transaction.

Insist that they see their tax professional to determine their exact tax consequences before they make any final decisions.

Have an attorney review all lender listing agreements. Many lenders have incorporated language in both their listings and sales contracts that calls for a “blanket indemnification of the lender.”

In other words, if there is a lawsuit, not only do you have to defend yourself, you also have to defend the lender as well. Because of this, it is critical that an attorney review all lender listing agreements in order to remove any blanket indemnification language.

Unknowingly engaging in property management is especially dangerous. Many agents unwittingly engage in property management. The reason is that in most agent and brokerage “errors and omissions” policies, property management activities are specifically excluded. If you are sued and your errors and omissions insurance policy does not cover property management activities, you and your brokerage could be found responsible to pay for your respective defenses as well as the lender’s defense from your own pocket.

Protect yourself by reviewing your errors and omissions policy and refrain from engaging in property management if you lack the correct coverage.

4.

5.

The power of brevity.

Focus on others, keep them talking and you can gather more useful information.

Use questions to communicate your message.

T

he “gift of gab” may not always be a gift when it comes to working with clients. Pointed and effective communication through the use of questions can often help relay messages and gather information with the greatest impact.

We all spend a large amount of our time verbally communicating with others. We’re trying to get messages across to family, friends, clients, colleagues, employees, or supervisors.

We invest a lot of our time crafting correspondence to be heard and noticed. We plan questions and presentations, construct our delivery and view, develop objectives and expectations. With so much of our time spent communicating, our goal should be to achieve effectiveness with brevity.

Brevity is a skill that far too few people understand. Brevity is the ability to convey your intended message in the fewest words possible to achieve the greatest impact.

Some people have the gift of gab, and many people’s natural reaction to someone who is talkative, or even verbose, is to believe they are a wonderful communicator. It’s the salespeople we meet with a lot of energy and enthusiasm for their product or service, who talk fast and think on their feet. These people have probably had a lot of people tell them that they’re such a good talker that they could “sell ice to an Eskimo.” At times, this gift of gab is disguising the curse of being

overbearing and lacking in listening skills.

Inevitably, the gift of gab will extend meetings, gather less information than we need, and be less effective in listening. We will invest more phone time to achieve the same result. This takes away from time spent working on real goals and objectives.

In order to invest less time in communication, you have to be able to direct the communication through the veritable maze of issues, challenges, and distractions that happen. When we engage in leading and guiding through the use of questions, we can control a conversation. Some might not like the word “control” when linked with conversation, so use the word “guide” if that seems more palatable for you.

Whoever asks the questions and asks more questions is always in control of the conversation. Whoever asks the question is also the one gaining the insight, the edge, the upper hand, and all other factors we all desire.

Some of us struggle with asking the first question, but most of us struggle asking the second, third, fourth, or fifth.

By focusing on someone else and keeping them talking, we can gather more useful information. We use that information to be more effective. We should encourage people to talk through questions. The truth is, people like to talk about their favorite subjects — themselves. When we ask a

simple set of questions, we can glean a large amount of valuable information about them, their business, how they make decisions, what’s important to them, their business relationships, their goals, their objectives, their strategic thrusts, and their projects.

People love to talk about almost anything that is happening in their lives, whether it’s family, business, or leisure activities. By asking questions we can really learn what they are thinking and feeling. We can also learn what their needs, wants, and desires are in life. What motivates them to take action to make decisions a certain way? We can identify problems and challenges that they are experiencing. This creates opportunities for us to solve problems and serve them.

It might help us to discover new business opportunities for ourselves.

The old adage that God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason is true.

We must learn to listen twice as much as we speak. Doing so will reduce the amount of time we invest with others to achieve results for them and ourselves. When we monopolize conversations, we’re often looked upon as boorish. When we ask questions and engage people by getting them to talk about themselves, we are a brilliant conversationalist.

BY DIRK ZELLER, Speaker, Author and CEO of Real Estate Champions BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

17

COVER STORY

TWO GENERATIONS OF FAMILY SHARE PASSION FOR REAL ESTATE

I

t’s all in the genes. We’re over 107 years old. Many men and women paved a road for not only themselves but for their children and grandchildren. The idea for this photo was hatched by mom, Pam Fein, and her son, Wesley Willingham. The idea soon became a giant research project for the Association staff. Just how in the world would we be able to identify families with two or more generations in real estate?! Are those two brothers or father and son? Are they related, really? The beautiful people pictured and listed here by no means represent all of our REALTOR® families but only a small sampling. If history shapes the future, let the tradition continue … and continue… and continue…

Families represented in this photo are highlited in green — Banales Family: Linda Banales, Monique Banales Diaz, Raquel Merrick Rocha Family: Joyce Rocha (deceased), Lisa Brown Busby Family: John Busby, Kim Busby, Jennifer Busby, Jonathan Busby Carter Family: Warren Carter (deceased), Doug Carter, Ken Carter, Renee Carter (Redmond) Redmond Family: Stan

Redmond, Bill Redmond Craig Family: Jeff Craig, Debbie Craig Banducci Dobbs Family: Gayle Dobbs, Kevin Dobbs Garcia Family: Terri Garcia, Joshua Garcia, Veronica Garcia-Batista Garone Family: John Garone Sr., Jan Garone, John Garone Gay Family: Dean Gay (deceased), David Gay, Mark Gay Gordon Family: William Gordon, Sheeza Gordon Gradowitz Family: Kent Gradowitz, Dana

Gradowitz, Max Gradowitz Boydstun Family: John Boydstun, Midge Jimerson-Boydstun Knoeb Family: David Knoeb, JoAnn Knoeb, Misty Knoeb, Scott Knoeb Lara Family: John Lara, Anthony Lara, Vincent Lara Leal Family: Irene Leal, Frances Lea Brook Family: Brook Luter, Marc Luter McKinzie Family: Stephen McKinzie, Karen McKinzie, Mitchell McKinzie

Mora Family: Alejandro Mora, Eric Mora, Samuel Mora Ortiz Family: Carlos Ortiz, Gloria Ortiz, Samantha Oroz Ramos Family: Abel Ramos, Tina Ramos, Abel Ramos III Roberson Family: Debi Roberson, Kamri Roberson Sparks Family: Darrell Sparks, Alicia Angelini Sprague Family: Ron Sprague Derek Sprague Starr Family: Nila Starr, Mike Starr Tibbs Family: Pattie Tibbs,

Tracey Tibbs Trone Family: Sherri Trone, Shaylan Trone Wigley Family: Denise Wigley, Kyle Wigley Willingham Family: Wesley Willingham, John Willingham, Keasha Willingham, Pam Fein Belter Family: Gary Belter, Adam Belter Bynum Family: Greg Bynum, Don Bynum Gibson Family: Gary Gibson, Edith Gibson, Chris Johnston Christensen Family: Mary Christensen, Jennifer Holloway

Sullivan Family: Ron Sullivan, Terri Gamblin, Stephanie Parris Fugate Family: John Fugate, Carlos Fugate Urner Family: Steven Urner, Sherry Skeels Roberson Family: Adoree Roberson, Joe Roberson Norcrosss Family: Barbara Norcross, Laora Norcross Reese Family Bradley Reese, Sr., Bradley Reese Peters Family: Coleen Peters, Kevin Peters

Education = Success Meet the 2012 Scholarship Recipients

Front row (left to right): Alan Perez, Taylor Carter, Servand Rocha, Nikkie Fowler. Back row: Luigi Soper, Will Chandler, Ryan Leonard

Taylor Carter has seen many aspects of the real estate industry by working with her, Dad, Ken Carter. She will attend San Diego State University this fall and major in business administration. Their international business program promises to equip her with some important skills. “I must start out on the bottom floor and prove myself, “ she says.

Will Chandler is much more than an aspiring college student - he is a community leader. He is part of the Black Chamber of Commerce and is a member of Leadership Bakersfield. Will is transferring to Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA where he will major in urban studies. After graduation, he plans to return to Bakersfield and work with the local government on city planning.

Alan Perez is already enjoying success as a REALTOR®. He can often be seen at

20

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

the Association serving as the chair of the Technology Committee and/or helping plan the next YPN event. He is working toward his degree in business administration from CSUB. Alan believes that real estate is very important to the expansion of the U.S. economy.

Nikkie Fowler dreams of becoming the first person in her family to graduate from college. Although she has encountered many obstacles, she has persevered at Bakersfield College. Her broker encouraged her to study real estate and she recently earned her real estate license. She has served in and thoroughly enjoyed multiple roles in the industry. She says, “With hard work, dedication, and passion (for real estate) I know the possibilities are endless.”

Luigi Soper is starting his studies in mechanical engineering this fall at the

University of Nebraska-Lincoln. The son of a local builder, Luigi will also begin Naval Officer Training. He says, “I have always felt a strong sense of loyalty to my country…” He plans to return to Bakersfield, after his service, to work with his family’s business.

Servand Rocha is a sophomore at CSUB. He is focused on earning his degree in computer science. Inspired by his Dad’s (Servando Rocha) real estate career, Servand is interested in developing his skills so he has opportunities to pursue a career in multiple industries. He places a high priority on financially contributing to his family.

Ryan Leonard works under the close tutelage of his Mom, Dana Leonard. He recently earned his real estate license and plans to serve as Dana’s assistant throughout the summer. He attends Bakersfield College and is studying economics.

E D U C A T I O N

A N D

N E T W O R K I N G

A L L

I N

O N E

Commercial Investment Committee Programs

Created for you by the Masters But!…Butt!…Buttt!…Butler!!!

Friday, August 17th, 8am Cathy Butler… President of Downtown Business Association… only for the last 100 years… will bring to us an understanding of what in the “HECK” is a DBA? This Association has been a fixture of our city since the 1950’s!!! That’s even before Harvey Hall was elected “Leader of the Pack”… Those of us who have property and or offices Downtown are well aware of the good deeds… that this Association has been directing for a long long time.

Working in conjunction with the City of Bakersfield… and other Government entities… that be King Tandy and Underlings… The DBA has had its hand in many improvements… Parking (can you believe it?)… Landscaping… Directional right of ways… and… many other items that make our journey into the Downtown realm a more enjoyable experience.

So… Please… join Cathy and “US”… that be you and me… and learn more of what we can do to participate in the betterment (that’s a word?) of “Our” Downtown Area! Bring suggestions and ideas that would make our venture Downtown more enjoyable and knowledgeable.

Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® Office… August 17th… Yes!… 8:00

A.M.orning… A Friday morning! Breakfast

building, Stockdale Towers (formerly the

will be served! Yes!… A sit down

Occidental Petroleum Building, and in my

breakfast! You sit down! Drink Coffee! Eat

mind still the best looking office building in

Doughnuts!… Get juiced!… and turn your

Bakersfield!), the Berry Petroleum building,

cell phones off!!!… Later

the California Triangle building, Paragon

Sponsored by:

Steve Nettles Prime Lending

Spa, the County Public Services building, the Kern County District Attorney’s office and Lab facility… and many, many other buildings that dot the

Darth Vader Lives!!

Friday, September 21th, 8am

Bakersfield landscape.

(In a building designed by David Milazzo)

Rotary (dubious at best!), sat on the City

Formerly of the firm… FATHER, SON and

Planning Commission for 6 years, and to

HOLY GHOST… also known as… BYNUM,

this day has no problem airing his concerns

ANDERSON and MILAZZO!

and advice on what’s right for the City

David Milazzo opened his very own architectural office in September of 1983, after partnering with the late Robert Clement for five years. Graduating from

David was a major mover and shaker of the 2020 Plan, Past President of North

of Bakersfield.

Find out what David has in mind for the “Patch”… that be Bakersfield!!

Mark your calendar for Friday,

Cal-Poly in 1974, David hit the ground

September 21, 2012, at the unholy hour

running and hasn’t taken a slow step since.

of 8 a.m. We will be crunching doughnuts,

He was the “Father” of… Let’s Do A

gobbling coffee, squeezing oranges… and

Water-Themed Project in Bakersfield, and

enjoying YOUR company! Pitch Session to

envisioned something similar to the San

follow… Later, but on time!!

Antonio Riverwalk! Although that entire project never materialized (we didn’t have enough money)… The Mill Creek Project was fast to incorporate many of David’s ideas and designs.

David has designed the Darth Vader

Sponsored by:

Marilyn Graulich Rabbobank Creative writing by Howdy…Howdy…Howdy Miller

RSVP to karen@bakersfieldrealtor.org or call 661-635-2302 E D U C AT I O N A N D N E T W O R K I N G A L L I N O N E BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

21

Pack your bags

We’re moving home.

Gail - STRONG and pretty in pink

A

Check out your new home in mid-October. IT’S YOURS!

s REALTORS®, we have all experienced the excitement of handing a buyer the keys to their new home. There is nothing that quite matches that feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction! In a few short weeks, we – as an Association, will experience the excitement of being handed the keys to our newly remodeled Association HOME! Our targeted move in is scheduled for some time mid-October.

From the entry to the impressive reception area down to the smallest detail, the architectural design of our new building is both aesthetically and functionally amazing!

David celebrates the demolition

It’s all smiles and champagne for Greg Bynum, Scott Tobias, Angie Trigueiro, Linda Jay and Gail Malouf.

Angie — sledge hammer boss

THE RECEPTION AREA

was designed to accommodate a variety of needs. It will offer a library, display store items, brochures and other printed materials.

With a convenient coffee bar nearby, staff will have an opportunity to greet members and answer quick questions. We will have a separate area where members meet one-toone with a staff member.

BAHAMAS BUILDING COMMITTEE

Greg Bynum, Chair n Scott Tobias n Angie Trigueiro n Gail Malouf n Leslie Walters n Jim Knapp n David Gay n Steve McKinzie n Wayland Louie n Linda Jay Contractor: Pyramid Construction Company Architect: Ordiz-Melby Architects, Inc.

22

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

THE TRAINING ROOM

This room will be heavily utilized for classes, special events, guest speakers, monthly programs like Commercial Investment, 1st Thursday Brew & Breakfast, orientations and much more. Capacity: large (left) 176, small (right) 56 people, total 232. There will be a state-of-the-art audio visual system with easy access. To the back of the small training room, you will find a kitchen complete with ice machine, adequate counter space and a staff break area.

THE COMMUNITY ROOM

Our Community Room will serve as an inviting, casual gathering place. Whether you’re waiting for a meeting to start, or in between appointments, we’ll have everything you need. Members can relax by the fireplace, enjoy a cup of coffee, flip through a popular magazine, catch-up on the latest TV news, hook-up a laptop for internet access and/or respond to email.

The room will also be utilized for meetings, workshops and smaller events.

YourInviteSandcastle the best builders

W

BY ANDREW COOPER, Contributing Writer Executive Vice President Arcadia Association of REALTORS®

ho is in your sandbox? I was watching my 18-month-old son play in his sandbox the other day. When my wife or I went over to play with him, he welcomed us in with his big smile and funny, little laugh. By contrast, I remember a time when a neighbor’s child was playing with our son. That child wasn’t being particularly nice that day. As a result, my son was very reluctant to let him in the sandbox to play.

This little story correlates to the way so many wildly successful people conduct their business practices. If they cannot trust the people they are inviting into their sandbox to play, or if they are negative and pessimistic, they simply won’t spend even a minute with them.

So who do you allow in to your sandbox?

Are you surrounding yourself with people of integrity, character and high-ethical standards?

Are you associating with highly infectious, positive people? As REALTORS®, we’re obligated to follow the REALTOR® Code of Ethics in our business dealings, but what if we do the same with the people in our personal lives as well?

Some people may argue that in business you have to deal with people that you don’t enjoy being around or who are negative because of the company they keep. I disagree. We have a choice with whom we associate, and there are hundreds of thousands of people who become successful on their own terms.

After taking a long hard look at who is

presently in your sandbox, ask yourself these questions: Are they the kind of people you really want to be associated with? Who would you most like to be in your sandbox and who would you most like to be out of it? Lastly, what (or who) is keeping you from making those changes?

I can share a personal example of how hard it is to extricate yourself from the wrong people. I severed a longtime friendship with someone I knew since kindergarten.

My loyalty was the only reason I remained friends with him for as long as I did. But after repeatedly asking myself these same questions, and after about the hundredth time of gutwrenching internalizing, I finally accepted the fact that, at the end of the day, he wasn’t adding any value to my life. As a result, I was allowing him to take precious value away.

There are many good, honest, positive and supportive people that I choose to play with.

They are happy to join me in my sandbox. If you try this, after a while, you too will find that the only people who appear in your life are the kind of people you want to be around.

The more you intentionally choose who you spend your time with, the more enjoyable your life will become. I’m proof positive of that fact.

Legendary sportscaster, Charlie Jones, summarized it best, “In five years you will be the same person you are today with the exception of the books you read and the people you hang out with.”

I hope the next sandcastle you build is the biggest and best one ever.

The

Heart of Giving

Mike and Shari George

MENDIBURU MAGIC FOUNDATION We’ve been working with the Mendiburu Magic Foundation (MMF) for three years.

We wanted to join the organization because we wanted to help local families. We think it’s important to keep funds in our community to help our community. There are many other organizations that raise money, but sadly, large organizations don’t keep the money in our city. It’s a great feeling knowing that we can make a difference in one person’s life, if not a whole family!

It’s so easy to help someone when they need it.

The reward is a sense of pride and motivation. We just feel better about life in general when we are helping others.

It’s an added bonus that we usually end up making new friends and contacts!

Mendiburu Magic

Fou COOKS FROM Cooks from the Valleyndation MIKE & SHARI GE THE VALLEY ORGE I (Mike) joined Cooks from the Valley about three years ago.

Along with others, I donate my time and money to grill steaks for our service men and women stationed all over the world. Our son Zack served as my motivation. I didn’t serve in the military so this work allows me to give back to our soldiers and thank them for their hard work and dedication.

I just returned from Bahrain and the Persian Gulf on the USS New York, where on July 4th, 49 people grilled 14,800 Harris Ranch New York steaks. We were aboard 12 ships, dispersed throughout the Sea of Aden and the Persian Gulf. I spent four days meeting and thanking each and every service member for all they do. I simply grilled them a steak and said thank you.

I know my work makes a difference because the organization receives letters from the parents of deployed soldiers. Parents tell us how we impacted their son or daughter’s life by traveling halfway around the world just to bring them a taste of home.

I value giving back to these soliders who on a daily basis - give to us.

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

23

POLITICAL POSTURING

DONNA CARPENTER

What Matters Most

Giving Back to Our Community

REALTORS® in Bakersfield have a rich tradition of volunteerism. We are fortunate to have so many real estate professionals who take time out from their incredibly busy schedules to give back to the community in a host of ways. If you have not had an opportunity to volunteer you are missing a great experience.

Becoming a volunteer can be personally and professionally rewarding. Not only will you be helping our community and gaining new perspectives, you will also be acquiring valuable work experience and forming networks with many new people outside of your current circle of contacts.

REASONS TO VOLUNTEER There are many reasons why you should volunteer. As a volunteer you can:

Help others and give back to your community. n Learn about yourself. n Acquire valuable work experience. n Meet new people and form social/business contacts. n Build self-esteem and confidence. n Share your talents. n

WAYS TO VOLUNTEER One of the most difficult parts of volunteering is narrowing down the many options available to you. To find a volunteer opportunity that fits your personality, consider areas of interest in which you are most passionate.

The City of Bakersfield is currently recruiting for an individual to serve a twoyear term on the Metropolitan Bakersfield Habitat Conservation Plan Trust Group, said term to commence on October 1, 2012.

The Trust Group assists in the implementation of a joint City of Bakersfield/ County of Kern conservation program which addresses State and Federal Endangered

Join us!

n Social

Networking n Property Pitches n Virtual Property Tours

FIRST THURSDAY

BREW & Breakfast

SPONSORS: AUGUST - KRISTI TRAHAN First American Home Buyers Protection Corporation SEPTEMBER - CARRIE WILLIAMS, McMillan Homes

24

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

Species Law. Applications are available at the City Clerk’s Office, City Hall North, 1600 Truxtun Avenue, or on the City’s website at www.bakersfieldcity.us.

The County of Kern also has many Boards, Commissions and Committee vacancies that are listed at http://www.co.kern.ca.us/clerk/ boards/vacancy.asp If you are looking for other opportunities to volunteer, you can check with animal shelters or veterinary offices, environmental organizations, food banks, homeless shelters, hospitals, libraries, nursing homes, senior citizen centers, political campaigns or schools.

When you find something that interests you, be sure to visit before you make a commitment and make sure it’s a good fit.

Also, find out what your duties will involve and be realistic about how many hours per week you are able to volunteer. Other tips include being a responsible volunteer by showing up on time and don’t skip scheduled days. Most importantly, have fun!

THE NEW

Real Estate Agent

DIRECTORY

on Association’s Facebook page.

It’s a FREE service that connects our Facebook members with thousands of potential buyers and sellers who use Facebook every day.

YOU CAN JOIN THE

FREE DIRECTORY

BY GOING TO THIS LINK. http://tinyurl.com/7a6f3lx

Look for the green JOIN button.

It only takes a few minutes. Tell your friends and colleagues!

quick reads Secret Weapon

Boost a Home Price by $7,000

BY MELISSA DITTMANN TRACEY, REALTOR® Magazine

Many critics have long-argued that Walmart’s “always low prices” often stretches to nearby home prices too. When the big-box discount retailer comes to town, some residents have protested, saying that the store had the potential to lower home values close by.

It was dubbed the “Walmart Effect,” and over the years it has made a lot of residents oppose proposed Walmarts coming to town. But a new study finds that Walmart can actually give nearby home values a lift.

Economists Devin Pope at University of Chicago and Jaren Pope at Brigham Young University analyzed more than one million real estate transactions near 159 newly opened Walmart stores

between 2000 and 2006.

The researchers found that homes within a half mile of a new Walmart store saw their home prices increase on an average about $7,000 in the two-and-ahalf years after the store opened.

Homes located a half mile to one mile away saw a $4,000 increase.

Past studies have shown that having “satisfactory shopping” within one mile of housing can increase home values, as more Americans cite quick and easy access to shopping as a perk when looking for a new home.

But the added nearby shopping to neighborhoods also has been criticized for adding traffic, noise, crime, and lighting pollution.

The researchers note that in the case of Walmart the convenience may outweigh any potential negatives to home values.

So when you’re trying to sell a home, does this mean you’ll want to be sure to include the distance to the closest Walmart in your listing ad? Maybe, according to this study.

Walkable Areas Fetch Higher Home Prices

BY MELISSA DITTMANN TRACEY REALTOR® Magazine

More home shoppers say they want to live where there

What Americans Want With Home Exteriors

BY MELISSA DITTMANN TRACEY REALTOR® MAGAZINE

More Americans are showing their love for the great outdoors with their homes. Homeowners are seeking outdoor living spaces that can blend in with their indoor spaces, according to the American Institute of Architects Home Design Trends Survey for the first quarter of 2012. AIA surveyed nationwide architects to discover home preferences.

The first quarter survey focused on home layout and the use of interior and exterior space. “In the last few years, outdoor living spaces have become the new ‘great room’ in terms of musthave items for homeowners,” says Kermit Baker, AIA’s chief economist. “As people are more interested in adapting their property to their long-term needs rather than readying it for sale, we are seeing more attention paid to landscaping and features that have some return on investment, like rainwater catchment systems.”

Nearly two-thirds of the

is walkable space, and they’re willing to pay extra for it.

A new study by the Brookings Institution found that the more walkable an area is, the higher the real estate values and rents are there.

Researchers used Washington, D.C., for testing the walkability impact on home values. They found that “every step up the walkability ladder, the price per square foot jumps more than $300 on average for apartment rents, versus $82 for house values, $9 for annual office rents, and $7 for retail rents. Moreover, with each step up the ladder, the average household income climbs $10,000.”

Areas near other walkable areas, which then form an entire

architects surveyed said that outdoor living space, covered outdoor space and outdoor rooms are increasing in popularity. The most popular outdoor feature is low maintenance, low-irrigation landscaping. Architects also reported higher demand for exterior and security lighting. Americans want to enjoy the outdoors but they also want to be comfortable indoors with a flexible, open space. Architects reported a continued rising demand among

walkable district, had higher rents and home values than standalone walkable places, according to the study.

“While U.S. home values dropped steadily between 2008 and 2011, distant suburbs experienced the starkest price decreases while more close-in neighborhoods either held steady or in some cases saw price increases,” researchers note in the study. “This distinction in housing proximity is particularly important since it appears that the United States may be at the beginning of a structural real estate market shift. Emerging evidence points to a preference for mixed-use, compact, amenity-rich, transit-accessible neighborhoods or walkable places.”

homeowners for open space and flexible home layouts, such as wider hallways and fewer steps.

More than half of the respondents said that open space layouts are increasing in popularity, opposed to separately defined and enclosed rooms in a home.

Our Local

Housing

Market OVERVIEW OF PROPERTIES

Area

Dollar Value

# Sold

Average Sold Price*

2012

2011

2012

2011

2012

2011

DOM* 2012 2011

% of List Price* 2012

2011 96.1

DISTRESSED PROPERTIES Area

#Active Listings

% of REO or Shortsale

10

46

20%

21

28

18%

22

17

24%

23

10

1%

31

33

12%

32

64

27%

10

110

122

$9,977,132

$11,619,413

$97,649

$99,879

47

62

98.48

21

60

83

$3,338,609

$4,178,898

$56,100

$51,875

42

52

98.65 97.02

22

143

133

$14,926,700

$12,746,614

$108,090

$97,035

54

54

97.81 96.92

23

12

7

$2,306,023

$2,017,400

$206,002 $288,200

113

75

95.68 96.13

31

144

156

$11,830,257

$12,019,946

$82,155

$77,229

58

57

98.74 96.49

32

307

335

$35,113,375

$31,742,829

$115,598

$96,066

57

55

97.85 97.12

33

111

110

$14,439,236

$14,600,125

$133,025 $138,201

52

80

97.83 97.57

33

26

12%

34

37

42

$9,042,171

$9,144,355

$258,770 $228,881

69

88

95.23 91.54

34

16

13%

41

95

88

$7,546,432

$6,120,422

$79,436

$69,714

54

55

98.49 98.62

41

19

32%

42

116

123

$10,142,528

$10,840,849

$88,303

$88,040

52

63

98.98 96.84

42

16

13%

43

9

12

$872,699

$1,547,078

$99,650

$135,819

49

56

97.83 91.99

43

6

0%

51

415

489

$35,871,493

$38,880,692

$87,990

$81,200

49

51

99.28 97.15

51

57

26%

52

761

827

$105,802,160 $110,591,024 $144,968 $140,471

53

58

99.31 97.59

52

97

22%

53

370

408

$80,683,517

62

60

98.77

53

76

9%

$87,529,794

$221,043 $217,211

97.5

54

3

5

$710,900

$912,900

$236,967 $182,580

34

57

101.8 100.1

54

1

0%

61

109

108

$20,013,798

$18,137,790

$184,994 $169,000

49

69

98.92 97.89

61

23

39%

62

515

625

$114,275,308 $128,595,119 $221,894 $205,763

57

58

99.06 98.29

62

62

19%

63

199

199

$56,420,705

61

66

98.61 98.32

63

29

10%

65

101.6 97.56

64

3

33% 27%

$52,443,600

$284,887 $264,816

64

8

10

$1,498,550

$2,523,500

$228,500 $252,350

61

80

56

49

$8,117,550

$6,176,083

$148,066 $138,264

78

76

96.03 97.76

80

49

81

6

4

$842,000

$445,000

$140,333 $106,667

110

255

94.26 75.47

81

22

0%

15

33%

82

24

21

$2,173,950

$2,262,902

$94,402

$110,442

69

71

95.84 96.11

82

83

28

24

$2,515,155

$2,927,300

$91,302

$123,150

80

75

88.92 89.45

83

11

45%

98.46

91

75

1%

92

0

0%

93

5

40%

94

5

0%

95

50

24%

96

26

12%

98

31

32%

99

62

39%

91

91

96

$7,253,550

$7,348,917

$79,773

$76,925

58

53

99.2

92

2

13

$260,900

$3,307,125

$130,450 $254,394

263

96

99.62 93.65

93

5

12

$665,400

$1,019,350

$133,875

$89,936

55

86

88.02 98.78

94

8

8

$678,500

$1,065,400

$103,833 $133,175

148

86

98.44 95.84

95

169

149

$19,066,101

$15,361,680

$113,522 $103,687

61

54

97.67 97.09

96

87

91

$6,081,106

$6,127,130

$70,488

$67,709

58

63

97.64 94.43

98

148

145

$17,124,650

$16,920,984

$116,850 $117,142

66

61

96.6

97.17

99

129

247

$23,473,778

$28,062,283

$196,938 $115,112

71

66

97.07

91.8

* Figures from single family homes only. Statistics were run on July 16, 2012.

26

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

Data on 7/16/12 Residential, Single Family

The numbers tell the story

2012 Compared to 2011 by MLS Area Active,2,500Pending and Sold - All Areas

2,500

2012

2,000

2,000

2012

2011

2011

1,500

1,500

1,000

1,000

500

500

0

ACTIVE

CONTINGENT

PENDING

0

SOLD

MAY 2012

CONTINGENT

PENDING

SOLD

2012

2011

% Year over Year Change -56.3%

JUNE 2012

All Areas May

ACTIVE

All Areas 2012

2011

% Year over Year Change

June

876

2,054

-57.4%

Active

850

1,946

Contingent

1,010

905

11.6%

Contingent

961

925

3.9%

Pending

1,338

1,541

-13.2%

Pending

1,268

1,541

-17.7%

726

806

-9.9%

Sold

747

811

-7.9%

0.4%

Total Volume Closed

114,556

117,361,191

-99.9%

135,000

127,500

5.9%

55

57

-3.5%

2012

2011

% Year over Year Change

615

669

Active

Sold Total Volume Closed Median Sales Price *

111,716,703 111,324,779 130,000

127,900

1.6%

Median Sales Price *

58

60

-3.3%

Average DOM *

Average DOM *

Bakersfield May

Bakersfield 2012

2011

% Year over Year Change

June

596

669

-10.9%

Sold

Total Volume Closed

90,462,612

97,205,973

-6.9%

Total Volume Closed

Median Sales Price *

138,500

135,000

2.6%

Median Sales Price *

55

58

-5.2%

Average DOM *

Sold

Average DOM *

99,847,844 102,560,085

-8.1% -2.6%

145,000

140,000

3.6%

53

55

-3.6%

2012 QUARTERLY 1st Qtr 2012

1st Qtr 2011

2nd Qtr 2012

2nd Qtr 2011

New Listings

2,878

3,482

2689

3,523

Contingent

1,581

1,265

1422

1,380

Pending

2,286

2,366

2292

2,459

Sold

1,891

2,015

2195

2,394

262,727,662

267,257,402

332,321,428

332,138,689

122,101

118,500

133,000

125,000

58

62

56

58

85.00

82.00

90.47

83.26

Total Volume Closed Median Sales Price * Average DOM * Average Sale Price/SqFt *

Figures from 1st quarter were run on May 21, 2012 and 2nd quarter on July 16, 2012.

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR速 MAGAZINE

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The

Heart of Giving

SUSAN FERGUSON

BAKERSFIELD BREAKFAST ROTARY “Service Before Self ”. The mission of Rotary International is to provide service to others, promote integrity and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional and community leaders.

I’ve joined Rotary over four years ago. I liked their outreach to children both in our community and throughout the world. We focus on improving conditions in third world countries, like working toward eradicating polio.

We look to help children, especially the forgotten ones, in our local community.

I volunteered to help establish a library for the Rafer Johnson Children’s Center. The Center is part of the Bakersfield City School District’s Special Education Department and is the smallest school in the city. Its purpose is to help children from birth to 5 years of age cope with severe disabilities.

We also became involved in the SEAL Center, which serves children K-8th grade with severe emotional disabilities. These children are primarily from group homes and foster care. They are in need of so much.

Bakersfield Breakfast Rotary was able to set up a computer lab and supply them with backpacks and supplies. For many of the children, son Rafer Johnnt the backpacks Ce er Children’s rg on became a very us Fe n Susa prized possession sometimes the only thing that was truly theirs.

Another rewarding project we undertake each year is taking underprivileged children shopping for their family members’ Christmas gifts.

The thank you letters from the SEAL Center children say it all. These are a couple of notes I received. “The nice things you did for us really made our day.” “You are valuable to us not because of what you do but because of who you are.” The hugs and smiles we receive fill our hearts so completely.

Volunteering is not about the time you spend doing it, it’s about the difference you can make in someone’s life. Seeing a child smile is all that I need …to want to do more.

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BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

Lack of Capital Hinders Commercial Market

NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, presented a modest and hopeful outlook for the commercial real estate market during the Economic Issues and Commercial Business Trends Forum at the recent REALTOR® Midyear Meeting. “The commercial market has displayed modest growth lately,” said Yun. “Commercial real estate is the basis for much of the growth in the American economy, however challenges continue to exist. Despite this, there are hopeful signs that the market might be slowly recovering due to recent job creation and an increase in consumer spending, among other indicators.”

Yun identified a number of areas that showed signs of improvement. Consumer spending has increased slightly, while personal incomes have risen. People also are now able to save money, proving that the savings rate had rebounded. Jobs are also accelerating and the stock market has shown a strong recovery.

“Consumer confidence has yet to return to normal and America still needs to create more jobs,” said Yun. “However, there are signs that show a positive overall financial improvement within the country.”

One major challenge that continues to plague the commercial market is lack of available credit. While there are notable improvements in capital for large commercial transactions, there remain significant challenges for small business. According to NAR’s annual Commercial Real Estate 2012 Lending Survey, a majority of REALTORS® are typically involved in less than $2 million transactions and are usually all cash – both of which make it difficult to obtain commercial lending.

Yun pointed out that this is holding back the recovery potential in the commercial market, as

well as hindering overall economic recovery.

“Since the economic crisis, smaller lenders have been shut out while larger lenders do a majority of the business,” said Yun. “REALTORS® have reported that they typically obtain commercial mortgages from smaller banks.

All major commercial real estate sectors are seeing improvement, but multifamily housing continues to be the healthiest with falling vacancy rates and rising rents. Families who were foreclosed upon and young people who cannot obtain a mortgage are choosing to rent. Based on the demand and lack of new construction on apartment buildings, Yun estimates rents will increase by about four percent next year.

In the office and industrial sectors, vacancy rates are improving and prices are beginning to level off. Retail is showing signs of a slight recovery, which Yun predicts will be a consistent trend. Yun said overall, the commercial market is experiencing a slow healing process.

Jeffrey DeBoer, president and CEO of The Real Estate Roundtable, joined Yun where he spoke to the concerns and challenges that hinder the commercial market. DeBoer reiterated the need for more credit in the market, calling it a short-term problem that needs to be addressed immediately to bring the market back to life. Also identified as critical to the market are the need for more equity and creation of more jobs. Looking long-term, DeBoer also said America needs to take a closer look at tax reform and preserve the mortgage interest deduction. “We have to be vigilant, and talking to Congress – as REALTORS® are doing today – is imperative,” said DeBoer.

Past Presidents’ Luncheon at the Petroleum Club

Jeremey Staat and Aimee Jone s

off the n kicks achigia h K l e M

Brew

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Laora Norcross and Rich ard

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Perez and Freddy

Guzman

arks pp, Darrel Sp James Kna n, he Co Don

ica Espinoza lar and Jess Paula Agui

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

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YPN check presentation to the Jeremy Staat Foundation Darlene Tobias, Debbie Banducci and Scott Tobias

John Machado and Rachael Newell

Susan Trevino, Teresa Perez and friend

Cindy Ho ok

Leslie Walters and Louise Juracek

Melvin Davis, Jack Bailey and Robert Clerico

Helen Patterson and Louise Jurac

Adam Perez, Freddy Perez, D

Clint Bear, Sherry Belcher and Wayland Lo

Bradley Reese, Jr. and Rachae

cek

hachigian, per, Mel K on Michele Cootal and Theresa Ols en Mona Cim John Garone, Scott Tobias

Angie Trigueiro, Darrell Sparks, Bill Redmond

Esteban Solano and Shellie Berlanga

Daniel Estrada and Ricardo Garcia Midge Jimerson, Derek Sprague, Linda Jay, Tony Ayon

Derek Sprag ue, Clint B ear and Ray Watson

ouie

el Newell

Harvest Committee takes part in the KGET Food Drive ka am Jabu bot and S Frank Ab

Harry Clay

Jodi Moore and Marge Fredenberg

Manny Martinez and Michele Cooper

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WHAT IS THE GRI DESIGNATION GRI is the #1 real estate industry designation. It is similar to professional designations in other industries like:

GRADUATE REALTOR® INSTITUTE

CPA (Certified Public Accountant) CESO (Certified Senior Escrow Officer) CLU (Charter Life Underwriter) CFP (Certified Financial Planner).

GRI is available only to members of the local, state and National Association of REALTORS®.

BENEFITS OF A GRI DESIGNATION Use what you learn for business planning, increasing your professional competence and improving your income potential. NAR research shows that sales agents with GRI designations earn at least 35% more than non-GRI agents. Expand your professional network while you earn valuable continuing education credits for your DRE license renewal.

GRI TES TIMONIAL

SCHEDULE You can register for just one class or take several! Classes are held one day each month from 8am - 5pm.

PAYMENT OPTIONS Cost per Course: $149 each or prepay the entire series for $1,625 - save $163.

For more information and to register, visit EDESIGNATIONS.COM Association Contact: Cindy Kiser, 661-635-2300 CAR Education Foundation Program REALTOR® applicants who have completed an advanced professional designation may be reimbursed for a maximum of $1,000 per calendar year, with a lifetime maximum of two awards.

The GRI designation tells other agents that you have taken the extra step to educate yourself in more detailed study of our business.

The GRI Network aligns the designee with like-minded professionals for future referrals. Attending classes locally is a huge benefit, as it eliminates the need to travel into the LA Basin for classes, saving a lot of time and money.

-- WAYLAND LOUIE, RE/MAX Golden Empire

GRI COURSES August 28 - #100/101: Agency/ Ethics September 25 - #102/104: Trust

Management/Fair Housing

October 23 - #105: Legal Issues November 27 - #106: Money Making

Strategies

December 18 - #107:Technology

Applications in Real Estate

The

Heart of Giving Terri Bender

WOUNDED HEROES FUND The Wounded Heroes Fund is in essence a service organization with the specific purpose of assisting the men and women of our armed forces. Those looking for a way to repay the service of our military men and women can come together under the WHF banner.

We’ve been a part of the organization since the beginning, nearly four years. As the founders (a group of friends), we wanted to give back and do something special for the men and women who fight for our freedom and our country. WHF is a 100% volunteer organization.

One of my favorite events honors our local military.

We had our 4th Annual Wounded H Terri Bender eroes “Salute to Our Local Heroes” this past April. It was held at the CSUB Amphitheatre, and I served as one of the event coordinators.

I know our efforts help many people, but I particularly remember, Wesley Barrentios.

He is a double amputee and a local wounded hero. WHF helped him build and furnish a new home.

The WHF has provided numerous grants including, family travel expenses, grocery money for families of deployed heroes and funds to adapt homes for wheelchair accessibility. Each recipient has shared with us, what a blessing and difference our organization has made. One local man was so touched by the work of WHF that he donated his entire estate to the organization.

Volunteering has given me an opportunity to help change lives, including my own.

I refocus on what’s important and realize how fortunate I am and how precious life is.

Whether donating my time, labor, helping raise money, providing meals, or saying “thank you for your service,” it changes my life.

Volunteering is like this - one single person, like one candle, can make a difference. If a whole bunch of “ones” gather together to work on that same problem, they can make it better or even go away. Every person is important, and every person can do some good. Every person - just like you!

NOTE: Many of our members volunteer with this organization.

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Range Hood Basics Range hood ducting must be constructed of single wall material, galvanized steel, stainless steel or copper.

Corrugated flex ducting is not allowed, as it would trap grease and could start a fire.

Wall ducts serving range hoods require a minimum of one inch clearance from combustible materials. Secure ducting with three sheet metal screws at each joint connection. Duct tape or aluminium tape should cover the connections. The hood needs to be the same size as the cook top.

Range hoods should discharge to the exterior of the building through single wall ducting. The duct serving the hood needs to have a smooth interior surface and be air tight. Hoods or microwave ovens with rectangular discharge openings must have a proper transition connection and seal.

Serving range hoods should not terminate in the attic, crawl spaces or inside the building. For more information about this topic, contact your local CREIA/ASHI certified inspector.

COMING IN AUGUST Nominations for 2012 ®

REALTOR & SALESPERSON

of the Year Awards

The Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® started these prestigious awards in 1955. They continue to provide special recognition for REALTORS®, who demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism and service in our industry, community, state and nation. We will recognize the 2012 recipients at the January 18, 2013 Inaugural Gala.

The nomination process for this year’s deserving REALTOR®, Salesperson, Rising Star and Affiliate of the Year will begin in early August. Members from any office may nominate an individual for the first three awards.

Only brokers may nominate for the Rising Star Award.

Please look for the nomination forms in our upcoming Connections Newsletter.

REALTOR® AWARD n SALESPERSON AWARD AFFILIATE AWARD n RISING STAR AWARD

NOMINATION DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 28TH

BAKERSFIELD ASSOCIATON OF REALTORS ®

ADVERTISING

“X” marks the spot

Hit your target market with the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® The Association has over 1,700 REALTOR® and Affiliate members. We offer many ways for you to actively communicate your company’s brand and marketing message directly to our members. Reach your target market in smart, effective and affordable ways.

Please consider one of these advertising opportunities.

For your personal marketing consultation contact:

Cheryl Huff

Director of Communications, 661.635.2305 cheryl@bakersfieldrealtor.org nNonmember

advertising rates also available

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BAKERSFIELD REALTOR MAGAZINE ®

AD VER TISING RAT ES REALTOR ® MAGAZINE Affiliate Members 1/4 page............................................ $150 1/2 page............................................ $250 Full Page............................................ $350 Inside Front Cover............................. $450 Inside Back Cover............................. $450 Back Cover......................................... $550

CONNECTIONS NEWSLETTER

Affiliate Members Only Once each week for 4 weeks....$200/mo

PUBLIC WEBSITE* BANNER AD Member Advertising Rates

Feature Ad (1 month)........................ $125 Home Page (1 month)....................... $100 *www.bakersfieldrealtor.com

Make it happen! Call now

661-635-2305

For once, Bad handwriting is ok

Sign Here, Here and Here…

BY ALYSSA KNIGHT, Keller Williams Realty Technology Committee Member

You will save time. You will save gas. You will save money. You will save trees. You will stand out from other agents. Your clients will love it, and so will you! That is, if you use a Digital Signature program on your next transaction.

With all the obvious benefits of the electronic signature programs, why are so few Bakersfield agents using them?

Some REALTORS® have objected: n They are not Alyssa Knight “Techy” and don’t want to learn in front of a client n Digital Ink was too hard to use, or was “buggy” n They don’t want to incur another cost n A seller may not accept a digital signature DON’T LEARN IN FRONT OF A CLIENT! Check out the C.A.R. webinars on zipLogix Digital Ink™. This offers step by step training so that you’ll be more comfortable with this electronic signature service before you’re in the middle of a transaction. Visit our “Did You Know” technology page on the Association’s website (bakersfieldrealtor.org) for a direct link.

FEWER “BUGS” AND EASIER TO USE While in the Beta testing, Digital Ink™ did have a number of issues. Most of those “bugs” have been worked out, and there have been some great improvements since then. June 2012 updates include: n Tabbed Interface. This makes the signing process easier! n Clients can now sign at the same time. No more waiting for a previous party n Larger screen for easier placement of signature tags n Executed contracts are emailed to the agent upon completion n Drop-down navigation allows easier viewing of the documents

CAN YOU SAY FREE? zipLogix Digital Ink™ is a member benefit for Realtors. It offers unlimited signatures and is already integrated into our Zip Forms account. www.zipformsonline.com/ Docusign offers a FREE account for REALTORS®. This includes 5 envelopes (signings) per month. An upgraded account is only $20.00 per month. www.Docusign.com “Sign Now” is also Free. This program is quick and simple to use. Best of all, it allows the signer to create a realistic signature by either selecting from a template, or drawing their own signature. www.SignNow.com

SELLERS MAY REFUSE A DIGITAL SIGNATURE: Many REO Asset Managers and Short Sale Negotiators still balk at digital signatures. In some cases, once an offer is accepted, you may have to obtain an original “wet ink” signature above the digital signature. It’s a good idea to ask the Listing Agent what the seller’s preference is before sending in the offer. You will find that many sellers welcome the digital signature.

A WORD FOR THE WISE Practice the signing process a few times before you are with a client. Send a contract to yourself as a “Buyer” and sign, sign and sign again.

Do NOT input the signature date, as the program will automatically post the date when the signing process is completed.

CHANGE IS GOOD! Freddie Mac released a new loan service bulletin on May 15, 2012 announcing

changes to its underwriting requirements that expand the use of electronic signatures.

Although this applies to loan applications, it’s expected that the trend will include acceptance of Digital Signatures on the Purchase Contracts too.

Visit our “Did You Know” for a direct link.

More agents are using the Digital Signatures. Alan Perez said: TECH “I am more productive now that I TI DBI TS use Docusign, and my clients love it!

It has unlimited signatures, no contract, and only costs $19.99 a month.”

Shari Borton has been using digital signatures for years. She commented: “I have had very little resistance from clients or other agents. Take advantage of this great tool. My clients love it! It will change the way you do business for the BETTER!” Andres Banuelos uses digital signatures for the entire transaction, including all disclosures. He said:”Digital signatures make good sense for his business. And it’s easy! In the few times, when a bank requires a live signature, they use a signature stamp.”

Digital Signatures for your Tablet: Zip Form Mobile Edition Touchsign™ is easy to use! Annual Cost is only $12.95 www.car.org/tools/zipForm6/zfmobile Help is on its way! Or is just a phone call away: Contact the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS®, who may be able to put you in contact with other agents now using the Digital Programs.

Call the Zip Form Tech Support Line at 586-840-0140 with any questions. Not only will they walk you through your question, but will often send a PDF with a “how to” on it. The Technology Committee can arrange for hands-on training on Digital Signatures, or any other techy subject where you need help.

Thank you to the sponsors of the recent Tech Savvy Agent luncheon training. They helped make it a huge success! Amanda Wood, Old Republic Home Protection and Wells Fargo Home Mortgage BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

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Prsrt Std U.S. Postage PAID Bakersfield, CA Permit #70

TOUR SLOTS ARE LIMITED, RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW!

Don’t miss it!

Join all of us! Tour the

EMERGENCY Operations Center Date: Tuesday, Sept. 11th Tour Start: 9am sharp Location: 2601 Panorama Drive,

Building B, near Bakersfield College The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is a centralized location to support multi-agency and/or multijurisdictional disaster response coordination and communication.

The EOC is broken into these sections: Management, Operations, Planning/Intelligence, Logistics and Finance/Administration.

PRESENTED BY: Local Government Relations, Commercial Investment, The Edge, YPN & Community Spirit

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BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE