REALTY~BUILDER FEBRUARY 2017 C O N N E C T I O N
Vol. 17 • No. 2
Inside Builders Care had successful 2016, looking to help more in 2017. Page 27
Married couples find working together is good for them, good for business. Page 2 Carlotta Landschoot is the oldest of William Watson Jr.’s three children. But that didn’t give her an automatic job in his real estate firm. She proved herself at an accounting firm before joining Watson Realty Corp.
Building a career before joining family business
Did you make your company’s list of top producers? Page 10
Landschoot proved herself elsewhere before joining Watson By Clifford Davis, Contributing Writer With her soft-spoken, almost meek manner, it seems unlikely Carlotta Landschoot would become a driving force behind a sprawling real estate corporation. But her outer deference belies an inner tenacity, fondness for number-crunching and keen business sense. “I’m so glad she’s on my team,” said her brother, Bill Watson III. “When it comes right down to looking at the details, she’s a grinder and she’s going to win. I can’t imagine having to compete against her.”
A 1980 graduate of The Bolles School who is executive vice president of Watson Realty Corp., she began life as an admittedly dutiful child who made her bed every morning and caused few problems for her parents. “From a parental standpoint, the rules were a little more stringent for me,” she said, alluding to her position as the oldest of three children of William Watson Jr., the founder of the company. “Mom and Dad wouldn’t let me go to a concert. They would drive Bill to them. I guess they were tired by then.” But the eldest Watson was tireless in his See Landschoot, Page 8
Landschoot holding the Diamond Award the company received in 2014.
Cornerstone of strategy: customer service
Downturn spurred new business philosophy
By Wesley LeBlanc Contributing Writer
Mark Downing’s CornerStone Homes evolved into a semi-custom homebuilder.
Before the recession of 2008, CornerStone Homes was like most homebuilders in Florida. They built homes in subdivisions, often 60, 70 or even 100 lots at a time. It wasn’t until after the recession that CornerStone grew into the business it is today. Founded by Mark Downing, CornerStone Homes now offers customers a unique homebuilding process. Downing refers to CornerStone Homes as a semi-custom homebuilder, which means it designs the plan but allows cus-
tomers to make changes as they see fit. While not completely custom, this environment offers customers the opportunity to be a part of the building process. When the market corrected itself following the 2008 crash, CornerStone Homes positioned its model to be a process that can operate on a lot less cash, according to Downing. “This method revolves around a construction-perm loan, which means the bank pays us directly as we’re building the house,” said Downing. “This means we don’t have to fund everything up front.”
Downing said the model allows CornerStone Homes to be a flexible homebuilder, and subsequently, a success with customers. But that’s not the only reason Downing believes CornerStone Homes is effective in the eyes of customers. In fact, he attributes a lot of the success to the company’s customer service and has the awards to prove it. The company has won five consecutive Golden Laurel Service awards from the Northeast Florida Builders Association. “These are the awards I’m most proud of,” said Downing. See CornerStone, Page 7
NEFAR course gives agents tips on little-known loans for distressed sites. Page 16 Watson Realty expanding into Ocala market. Page 22
New leadership installed for NEFBA. Page 24
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February 2017
‘With us, one plus one equals three’ For some couples, being in the real estate business together adds up By Maggie FitzRoy Contributing Writer
In the depths of the recession Watson Realty agent Elise Beard was so busy she thought about quitting. It wasn’t a happy time to be in the business. “Everybody was angry. Buyers were vultures, circling. Sellers were angry, upset and losing money,” she said. “It was an emotional time.” Worrying about — and juggling — the details of every transaction was causing her to lose sleep and lead to heart palpitations. Then her husband, Murray, came to the rescue. “I said, ‘I’ll get my real estate license and I’ll do anything you don’t want to do,’” he said. Murray had been a banker until the bust, which sent his builder and developer customers into bankruptcy. So in 2010, he was looking for a new career. “I knew the real estate market was going to get much better,” he said. “I told her, ‘you can’t quit now.’” Murray joined Elise, now in her 12th year with Watson, five and a half years ago. They became a successful team at their Ponte Vedra Beach office. At the time, they were the only husband-and-wife team there. From the get-go, it worked for them, although they work apart much of the time, which Elise said helps keep their marriage “healthy.” Murray, who mostly works from home, handles the day-today details of their transactions. He schedules showings, negotiates transactions and handles marketing details for listings. When they get a listing, Elise, who mainly works out of their Watson office, hires the stager and goes with them to make sure
the house is presented in the best light. She also does most of the marketing and prospecting. “We work as a true team,” Murray said. “With us, one plus one equals three.” Real estate teams are growing in popularity. In a story in RealtorMag, the official magazine of the National Association of Realtors, international real estate coach Tom Ferry said 68 percent of agents work on a team. He describes four types, one of which is the “family team.” And for some married couples in Northeast Florida, teaming up with your spouse makes great sense. Kathie and Neil McGuinness have been a team with Keller Williams for four years. She went into real estate as a career change from nursing years ago, when they lived in Boston. In 2000, when they moved to Atlantic Beach, they bought and flipped houses. Neil had done extensive marketing and sales with Fortune 500 companies and had a brokerage business, for which he had a real estate license. But he had not considered becoming a real estate agent until Kathie did. She joined Keller Williams in 2011 and “after watching me for a year, he decided to join me,” she said. “For us, it really does work — we have complementary skills,” Kathie said. Having been a nurse, Kathie is good at being highly sensitive to people’s needs, Neil said. His business background gave him marketing, advertising and technology skills. “We’ve been going great guns since 2012 pretty consistently,” he said. They were invited to become
Neil and Kathie McGuinness at their Keller Williams Southside office, in front of a mock-up of the cover of a book written by Neil, who writes history books as a hobby.
Elise and Murray Beard share a corner office at the Watson Realty Corp. office in Ponte Vedra Beach, although Murray usually works from the couple’s home office. Photos by Maggie FitzRoy
See Couples, Page 10
REALTY~BUILDER C O N N E C T I O N
Realty-Builder Connection is published monthly and serves the real estate and construction industries of North Florida. This is an independent publication mailed monthly to licensees in the professions and is the official publication of the Northeast Florida Builders Association.
How to contribute news and top producers Realty-Builder Connection encourages the submission of news and photographs of interest to real estate and construction industries. Deadline is the 20th of each month for the next month’s edition. Real estate agencies may submit names of their top producers by 3 p.m. on the fifth of that month’s publication. Submissions can be made via email, editorial@realty-builder.com; fax, (904) 353-2628; or mail, 10 N. Newnan St., Jacksonville, FL 32202. Matt Walsh James F. Bailey Jr. Marilyn Young Publisher Publisher Emeritus Editor
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February 2017
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February 2017
How to navigate the fast-changing skies Technology and regulations consistently shifting for drones By Maggie FitzRoy Contributing Writer
One of the first things agents learned at the Real Estate and Drones presentation last month was much of what was being shared would probably become obsolete. Perhaps within six months because of the ever-changing technology and regulations, said Robert Jex, a representative from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Orlando Flight Standards District. Jex also told attendees to become aware of the regulations if they planned to hire aerial drone videographers for their real estate business. Federal regulations that went into effect in August required commercial drone operators to be licensed by the FAA. In addition, all drones must be registered. The law was passed after a drone landed on the White House lawn, he said. Drones have landed in the middle of races and tennis matches, leading the government to be increasingly concerned about public safety. “If you are hiring an operator, ask them about their compliance,” Jex said. “Ask, ‘Have you registered your drone?’ And if they have, ask if they will share their registration numbers with you.” The course was offered as a way to raise awareness for real
estate because drones outnumber all other types of aircraft. They have become so popular that “as of a week ago,” 7-Eleven stores were selling more drones than any other retailer, Jex said last month. The FAA defines drones as unmanned aircraft that weigh just over a half-pound to 55 pounds. They can be used in one of three ways: by governmental agencies, including police and disaster response teams; businesses for commercial use, such as those hired by real estate agents; and hobbyists. People who fly a drone for a hobby do not need to be licensed, but once they start making money from it, they are considered commercial. If someone wants to become licensed to fly a drone, they need to pass a written test, but do not have to demonstrate they can fly one. That is one reason the laws are likely to change before long, said Obie Young, president of the National Aviation Safety Foundation. The advent of drones is not new, he said at the NEFAR session. There have been remote-controlled aircraft for many years. What’s new, Young said, is the flight control systems are simplified so that just about anyone can fly one. “That is putting more of them See Drones, Page 5
Emmy Awardwinning videographer Dan Foard flies one of his drones around the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors’ auditorium classroom last month.
Photos by Maggie FitzRoy
A screen shot from Foard’s video presentation captures an owl in flight.
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February 2017
DRONES from Page 4
in the air, which is causing privacy concerns, as well as safety concerns,” Young said, adding commercial airline pilots are increasingly worried about colliding with one. “We all know what birds can do,” when they fly into an aircraft, said Dan Foard, an Emmy Award-winning videographer. He flew drones around the NEFAR classroom, shooting footage of attendees from slightly above their heads and projecting it onto a screen. As a professional aerial videographer, Foard volunteers his time to teach drone safety awareness. “We try to teach common sense,” he said. “How to be a courteous drone pilot.” He also treated the class to videos he’d shot around the world, including stunning aerials of boat races, fish hatcheries and
people water skiing. “This is a wonderful platform,” Foard said. “If we all just stick to the rules.” The penalty for violating those rules is a civil fine, said Jex. “Liability can be shared. So my advice is to make the contractor liable in your contract with them,” he said. Jex also advised aerial videographers contact local police before they film an area to make sure they are in compliance with local laws as well as federal. Jay Manno, a broker associate who owns his own business, said he has never used a drone photographer, but plans to for future higher-priced listings. “I learned a lot that I can use,” he said. Eleana Carrion, with Watson Realty, said she came to the class because luxury property owners who plan to put their home on the market are starting to expect drone photography. Aerial videos of a home, especially one in a community of
Workers’ comp issues key for state’s builders Realtors focusing on property tax cap in legislative session
Jex
homes priced at $750,000 and above, are valuable marketing tools. And Realtors who hire drone videographers to create them have a competitive advantage. Carrion said she learned from the course that “we have to know who we hire.” Her next step: research area drone videographers who specialize in real estate.
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By Clifford Davis Contributing Writer
Though the Florida Legislature’s session doesn’t begin until March 7, Realtor and builder associations are busy laying the foundation for the agenda’s they’ll promote in 2017. The chief concerns in the state’s real estate and construction industries focus on taxes, workforce and, of course, regulations. “Workers’ Comp. Workers’ Comp. Workers’ Comp,” said Douglas Buck, the director of governmental affairs for the Florida Home Builders Association. “Any insurance rate increases are a real, direct cost to everyone.” Since 2003, the construction industry has seen its workers’ compensation rates trend downward after the Legislature passed a bill to base lawyer fees in cases on the amount of the defendant’s award. But that changed after an April ruling by the Florida Supreme Court that awarded attorneys an hourly rate for their work. The state assigns individual workers’ compensation rates to more than 600 professions. Construction workers consistently fall among the most expensive for employers to cover, just under steelworkers and some agricultural jobs. Now, the FHBA is looking to change the law. Workforce development has been a major push for builders in the state the last few years and will be a significant part of their legislative agenda. “Expanding the workforce is an issue that’s been around a while, but this year it’s higher up on the list because we’re seeing a recent surge in demand,” said Felix Beukenkamp, chair of the National Home Builders Association’s governmental affairs committee and manager of BBG Design-Build LLC. He and others have formed a workforce taskforce, including lawmakers, to tackle the task of rebuilding the residential construction workforce after what he said was an exodus of qualified labor following the housing market collapse in 2008. Builders associations also are seeking a reform of how the state adopts its building code, known as the International Building Code. Every three years, the code must go through a laborious process to be amended. “We’ve got a dilemma here in Florida because of our large coastline and geography, we need special codes,” Beukenkamp said. “A lot of that is driven by codes that reflect our exposure to natural disasters, winds, water and rain.” The builders association is also eyeing changes to homeowners’ association regulations, as well as a process known as “assignment of benefits.” That is where a homeowner can designate a third-party contractor — such as a water mitigation company after flood-
ing — be paid directly by the insurance company. The process is susceptible to fraud, Beukenkamp said. As for Real- Beukenkamp tors, their agenda has three main points, according to Florida Realtors President Maria Wells, of Lifestyle Realty Group. The group’s first priority is the property tax cap on second homes. “The Legislature passed a bill in 2007 that created a 10 percent cap on increases to assessed values of non-homestead properties,” she said. “We want to make that permanent.” The second priority is what is known as the commercial lease tax or, as Wells calls it, “the business rent tax.” In this effort, Realtors have been joined by a large coalition of chambers of commerce and port groups. The tax charges a 6 percent fee on any business leasing commercial property. Buck Florida is the only state in the country with such a tax. It’s been in effect since 1969. The elimination of the tax, Wells said, would allow small businesses to flourish and create more jobs by decreasing overhead. Finally, Florida Realtors is targeting estoppel certificates. The certificates serve as a certified promise the property has no outstanding fees against it, such as liens or association fees. “It’s something that is now required to be at the closing table to make sure the buyer isn’t inheriting any unknown fees — which is fair,” Wells said. “The problem is, Florida law says that you can charge a ‘ r e a s o n a b l e Wells fee’ to prepare it. “However, we are now seeing that some associations are charging the seller up to $1,000 for this piece of paper,” Wells said. The beginning of the legislative session, like baseball season, abounds with hope for those seeking to have their agendas at least make the playoffs. And for those involved in industries that have been as volatile throughout the last decade as the state’s real estate and residential construction markets have been, hope truly springs eternal. “I wouldn’t say we’re more optimistic or less this year,” Beukenkamp said. “I think we have to be perpetually optimistic because we’re builders and it’s a tough business.”
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February 2017
Laughs and food for St. Johns Builders Council
St. Johns Builders Council Chairman Shaun Junker, left, Dennis Ginder and Aaron Kenney have some fun talking about the rivalry between the organizers of the council’s fishing and golf tournaments.
Council members gathered last month for a social evening at Caddy Shack restaurant near the World Golf Village.
Aaron Kenney, center, chats with new members Jon Woods of 84 Lumber and Ginger Borgman of Ready Seal Inc.
Rebecca Schaffer of Davidson Realty and Meghan Besore of the Northeast Florida Builders Association decide which sandwiches they’d like to try.
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CORNERSTONE from front page
View of some of the houses built by CornerStone Homes in Northeast Florida.
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“They’re given out by the industry to the builder who proves that they do the best job at taking care of customers.” Downing himself is no stranger to awards. While working his way up to NEFBA president, Downing received an award for outstanding leadership. Two years later he was heading the association. “You’re the industry spokesperson at that point,” said Downing. “Our industry is affected a lot by government and it’s always important to keep it updated on what changes are coming.” Downing founded CornerStone Homes but feels it’s the team he’s built that keeps the wheels turning, a team that thrives on customer service. “The problem with customer service is that it’s easy to talk about it, but tougher to deliver,” said Downing. When selecting new team members, Downing looks for people who are first and foremost, customer driven. He also wants employees who will provide equal respect to everyone involved, from plumbers and builders to fellow teammates. “If you can’t do these things, you’re not a good fit for CornerStone,” said Downing. At the company, it’s not about being better than others on the team, but rather, recognizing everyone’s strengths and respecting their differences. “I always give a sports analogy,” said Downing. “If you have someone who is seven feet tall, you’re not going to make them point guard. You’re going to make them center, because that’s where they’ll be good.” Downing strives to put those on his team where they best belong. CornerStone Homes can be found mostly in St. Johns County, but also in Nassau and Duval counties. The average price point is about $400,000, though some reach the $1 million mark. “While our building process, prices and other things makes us different, what really sets us apart is our commitment to the customer,” he said.
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February 2017
LANDSCHOOT from front page
insistence that his children make their own way. For Landschoot, the drive seemed to come naturally. From college sororities to her business career, she took on leadership roles wherever she went. It’s not necessarily a drive for success, she said, but a drive to make a difference. “It makes me feel really good when someone asks me to be a part of their team because they know I’m going to do something that needs to be done,” she said. Landschoot knew her strength was in numbers and data from an early age, so there was no hesitancy when she chose accounting as her major at Clemson University. After graduating in 1984, she earned a Master in Business Administration from Florida State University in 1986. The choice most college graduates face of whether to go home or strike out on their own never was a question for Landschoot. “Dad didn’t want to give us anything we didn’t earn,” she said. “He wanted us to go out and prove ourselves. And I’ll tell you, that was the best thing I ever did.” Landschoot landed a position as a certified public accountant with Price Waterhouse in Orlando. Though the pace was hectic, she cut her teeth in the business world by auditing companies from Disney to Universal Studios. “I’d call her on Saturdays when she was down in Orlando and she’d be working,” her father said. “I’d call her on Sundays and she’d be working. “I told her, if you’re going to work that hard, you need to be working for the family,” Watson said. Landschoot was living the young, unmarried professional life. Her car was brought to her at airports along with all the other perks that come with working for one of the largest auditing firms in the world. But the breakneck pace was hitting her where it hurt. “One Thanksgiving — I was closing on her — I got a lucky break,” her father said. For the second year in a row, she had tickets to Clemson’s football bowl game and would again be unable to attend due to work. “I said, ‘I can guarantee you that you will get to go to your bowl games,’“ Watson told his daughter. Many fathers could be expected to do everything in their power to have their daughters home. That was not remotely the elder Watson’s reasoning, according to his son. “That’s not his style,” Bill Watson III said. “If he didn’t think he was going to get a tangible benefit — not just that she was going to help — you’re not coming.” Though a desire to have his daughter back in Jacksonville was not a major factor for Watson, the move, of course, was perceived as such by some employees. At the time, Landschoot was still Carlotta Watson and the nepotism discussion was unavoidable, she said. “Absolutely, there was that perception,” she said. “On the front end, a lot of people thought I got the job because of my heritage. “So you have to prove yourself and our father helped us do that,” she said. Landschoot joined the company as the assistant comptroller
William Watson Jr., center, and Landschoot, to his left, were among Watson Realty Corp.’s representatives who accepted the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World’s Diamond Award in 2014. The company has received the award four times.
working for the chief financial officer. When he retired a year later, she moved to that position. However, where she hit her stride was in the real estate company’s relocation services. When large corporations pay for their executives to move, it can be a huge undertaking. The moves can include guaranteed buyouts of the employee’s home, moving household goods, househunting trips, cost of living adjustments and tax preparation. That’s where a relocation service like Watson’s steps in. Her name came with scrutiny, but it also came with clout. The head of the company’s relocation services found he had much more influence by bringing along someone with the last name Watson when he talked with companies about doing business with the firm. In addition, Landschoot had managed to turn Price Waterhouse on to Watson’s relocation service when she was employed there. “When the head of the department made a lateral move, he recommended that I replace him,” she said. During her 10-year tenure as head of relocation services, Landschoot grew the department and instituted several initiatives, including information phone lines and, later, e-business. Finally, she made the move to upper management. For her father, it was an easy decision. “She’s very conscientious, dependable, but that is combined with a softness to be very concerned about who she’s working with,” her father said, echoing a philosophy for which he’s known. “She can be tough. She will hold to standards, but she’s also very nice. “If you’re nice to people, you can be a little tougher,” he said. Landschoot said her proudest achievement has been lifting the company’s profile through Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, an organization with more than 550 member companies in 60 countries. Watson Realty has won the organization’s highest award four times. One other company has won it five times, with no other firm winning more than once. At the organization’s convention in Las Vegas a few years back, Landschoot found herself sharing podiums with her father. Watson was chairman of the board and she was head of the advisory council. “No one knew we were father and daughter until he told them and flashed a picture of me as a toddler at a parade in Downtown Jacksonville up on the big screen,” she said. At heart, there is a certain portion of that dutiful young girl that remains. “I still make my bed every morning,” she said.
The Watson family on a float in the 1968 Duval County Consolidation parade. Pictured are William Watson Jr., his wife, Janelle, and Landschoot, who is the oldest of the couple’s three children.
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We are a network of successful RealTORS,® advancing women as professionals and leaders in business, the industry and the communities we serve.
“
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My goal for 2017 is to provide member value at each and every event, whether through education, network, or support of each other, everyone will walk away with something that they can use in their business to grow their business.
Diane Cook, President
DID YOU KNOW? COME CHECK US OUT!
One of WCR’s strategic goals is to be a magnet for career-focused REALTORS® with diverse backgrounds and high levels of integrity, collaboration, a commitment to excellence and professionalism. Contact Cynthis Givens, VP Membership for more information. (904) 444-9784
2016 Calendar of Events FebRuaRy 16
Business Resource Meeting at Deercreek Country Club 11:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m. • Preregistration is required
MaRCH 8
Governing Board Meeting at NEFAR 9:00-10:00 a.m. • All members are welcome
MaRCH 14
Annual Women’s Council Golf Tournament Tuesday, March 14
Deercreek Country Club • 7816 McLaurin Road North Noon Golf Registration • 1 p.m. Shotgun Start • $85.00 per player Awards & Dinner to follow
Go to events at www.wcrjax.org to register for golf.
Annual Women’s Council Golf Tournament at Deercreek Country Club Start planning your 4-somes now! Sponsors needed. Contact Marc Jernigan for more information at MarcSellsJax@gmail.com
MaRCH 28 – 29
Great American Realtor Days in Tallahassee
apRil 6
April Social 5:00-7:00 p.m. • Blue Fish Restaurant (Avondale)
apRil 12
Governing Board Meeting at NEFAR
We are looking for sponsors for this huge event. Contact Marc Jernigan for details of sponsorships. MarcSellsJax@gmail.com or (904) 662-3400.
9:00-10:00 a.m. • All members are welcome
February Member Spotlight
Business Resource Meeting at Deercreek Country Club
Missi Howell, Watson Realty Corp.
A little known or unknown fact (past or present) about yourself? I played piano for 12 years and sang in a gospel quartet when I was 13. What is your passion in the office? Outside the office? Inside the office I like getting things done. Outside I enjoy traveling, exploring new places, people and cultures.
Missi Howell Watson Realty Corp.
How has WCR benefited you personally and professionally? WCR is an excellent organization to find people who work and think like I do. Full-time professionals who seek to increase their sphere, their knowledge and leadership skills and opportunities. It’s a one-stop shop for anyone in the real estate business who wants to be successful.
apRil 20
11:15 a.m.-1:00 p.m. • Preregistration is required Business Resource Meeting Reservations MUST BE MADE by the Friday before the event due to final count needed for the venue.
Visit www.wcrjax.org to register. Or contact Diane Cook at (904) 773-3894.
facebook.com/ groups/wcrjax/
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COUPLES from Page 2
part-owners of the Keller Williams Southside office two and a half years ago. Together they have seven websites and a video channel, and they recently hired an executive assistant as well as Neil’s sister as a buyer’s agent. Even though they work as a team, they don’t work together most of the time. Neil works in an office at their home, while Kathie and their employees work out of the Keller Williams office. He belongs to the Ponte Vedra Rotary; she to the Oceanside Rotary. They do generally go on listing appointments together. And sometimes they jointly hold open houses. They typically have two to four open houses a weekend, so it depends on how busy they get. Being in business together as a married couple, “there are no disadvantages for us,” Kathie said. Neil agrees. “Kathie started the business and did the hard work of getting started, so she is the senior partner,” he said. “If there is a disagreement, she is
the decider.” Paula and Kevin Fallon have been selling real estate with the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty’s St. Augustine office for a year. “The beauty” of the business is that “we can collaborate,” Paula said, although they are still fine tuning how they work together. Kevin joined the SeaGrove Main Street Berkshire Hathaway office in January 2016 at the prompting of Paula. She started there in 2013 soon after they moved to the area from Pennsylvania, where Kevin had a design and build company. Paula had once owned and managed commercial and residential properties in the Northeast, but had grown tired of being a landlord. Even though she knew no one in St. Augustine, she decided to go into real estate sales “to help other people live the lifestyle of their dreams.” “Delivering your lifestyle dreams” is the tagline for both of them. But they don’t consider themselves a team. They both maintain desks at the Berkshire Hathaway office, across from each other. But they each have their own websites and business. At home, she uses the Florida room
February 2017
for an office; he takes the kitchen table. “It’s Kevin Fallon and Paula Fallon, not the Fallon team,” Kevin said. They co-market, with their photos and names on the same fliers, but separately. They have a blog on their websites, where the articles he writes appear on hers and vice versa. They share an assistant and together just hired a man to push their websites. “It was important to me when Kevin came onboard that he had his own presence in the industry,” said Paula, who was “rookie of the year” her first year in the business. “We just thought that was in the best interests of both of us.” Kevin said even though they often work apart, being in the same business has allowed them to spend more time together as a couple. They determine their schedules, so they can travel and bring work with them, if necessary. During a December vacation to Key West, Paula wrote up a contract on Christmas Eve. Kevin understood. Being in real estate together has “been challenging but extremely rewarding,” Paula said. “It’s helped us grow in our marriage in ways we would have never done otherwise.”
Photo by Maggie FitzRoy
Kevin and Paula Fallon, in front of the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine, co-market their businesses but operate them separately for SeaGrove Main Street Berkshire Hathaway.
Top Producers
Sponsored by:
Watson Realty Corp. Top salesperson for Jacksonville region: Jan Shields, Atlantic Beach Top lister for Jacksonville region: Lynnette Piper, Hidden Hills Top sales team for Jacksonville region: Debbie Shagnea Associates, Mandarin South Top listing team for Jacksonville region: Palmer Marketing Group, Atlantic Beach Top salesperson for North Central region: Holly Peters, Middleburg Top lister for North Central region: Idy Rodriguez, Middleburg Top sales and listing team for North Central region: CrumGachet Team, St. Augustine Beach Intracoastal: Evelyn Martin (top sales) and Paula Powell (top lister); teams: Sandy Miller Team (top sales) and Sherwood-Molly Team (top lister) Atlantic Beach: Jan Shields (top sales and top lister); teams: Palmer Marketing Group (top sales and top lister) Hodges: Sharon McEleny (top sales); teams: Paula Pou Team (top sales) and Sharon Mills Team (top lister) Mandarin South: Joanie Heighes (top sales and top lister); teams: Debbie Shagnea Associates (top sales) and Randy Martin Team (top lister) Ponte Vedra: Suzanne Schinsing (top sales) and Kay Kennedy (top lister); teams: Murray & Elise Beard (top sales) and Atkins/Leapley Team (top lister) Mandarin North: Darlene Joseph (top sales) and Renea Downes (top lister); teams: David and Clair Team (top sales and top lister) Fleming Island: Joyce Smith (top sales) and John Warner (top lister); teams: Pat LeRoy Team (top sales) Sunbeam/Baymeadows: Pat Crossen (top sales) and Marilyn Stewart (top lister); teams: The Get Smart Team (top sales
and top lister) Hidden Hills: Lynnette Piper (top sales) and Lynnette Piper (top lister); teams: DeCastro/ Erickson Team (top sales and top lister) Orange Park Blanding: Ellen Dittman (top sales) and Mark Feagle (top lister); teams: Holm Team (top sales and top lister) Fort Caroline: Rick Beeson (top sales); teams: FosterNelson Team (top sales) and Foster-Nelson Team (top lister) Duval Station: Sara McGraw (top sales) and Kay Stalvey (top lister) Avondale/Ortega: Corinne Grant (top sales) and Jon Singleton (top lister) St. Johns: Angela Tharp (top sales) and Stephanie Olsen (top lister); teams: MentonBallou Group (top sales and top lister) Southside: Regina Sooey (top sales and top lister) San Marco/San Jose: Joseph Poletto (top sales) and Michael Pringle (top lister); teams: Dream Home Team Jax (top sales) West/Chaffee Road: Susan Krawczyk (top sales and top lister) North Jacksonville: Debbie Miller (top sales) and Antonio Spence (top lister) Orange Park Oakleaf: Gerard Nicholson (top sales and top lister) South Beach: Lee Buck (top sales) and David Gatto (top lister); teams: Impact Team (top sales) Middleburg: Holly Peters (top sales) and Idy Rodriguez (top lister) Keystone Heights: Melissa Pellerito (top sales and top lister) Putnam County: Brenda Bond (top sales) St. Augustine: Bob Million (top sales) and Cheryl Dziurzynski (top lister); teams: Jacalone Team (top sales) and Dawn Gaffney Team (top lister) St. Augustine Beach: Debbie
Krantz (top sales) and Elaine Wallace (top lister); teams: Crum-Gachet Team (top sales and top lister) Amelia Island: Angela Garcia (top sales) and Sam Sell (top lister); teams: Preuss Team (top sales) and Farnsworth Team (top lister) St. Marys: Rita Hall (top sales) and Brandi Burton (top lister) Palm Coast: Richard DeCeglie, Chris Kaufman and Brandon Canipelli (top lister); teams: Megan Farrell Team (top sales) and Team Green (top lister) Gainesville: Jonathan Colon (top sales and top lister) Tioga: Larayne Wilson (top sales) and Shelley Chappell (top lister) Nocatee: Judy Lassiter (top sales); teams: Pondo/Miller Team (top sales)
Davidson Realty Margherite Myers (top producer) and Tayler Quick (top lister and top sales)
Norville Realty David Taylor (sales leader)
The Legends of Real Estate East Coast
ERA Davis & Linn
Hallie Satkoff (top lister), Buzz Thomas (top sales) and Cindy Bethel (top producer)
Jan Stringer (top producer), Tara Braithwaite (top agent), Mary Walker Miller (top lister) and Drew Andrews (top sales)
Keller Williams Jacksonville Sellin’ With CC Team (most listings team), Brandon Fruscella (most listings individual), The Welch Team (most closings team) and Cara Ferreira (most closings individual)
Discover Realty Charleen Henshaw (top producer) and Barry Hart (top lister)
Century 21 Coastal David Ott (top sales) and Chris Ray (top listing)
Century 21 St. Augustine Properties Bill Crosby and Jerry Folckemer (top producer) and Vicki Brown and Jerry Folckemer (top lister)
Century 21 Lighthouse Realty Melissa Lenertz (top sales and top listings)
Brag about your firm’s top agents
Let everyone know who your top producers are. Submit names by 3 p.m. on the fifth of the month by email, editorial@realty-builder.com, fax: (904) 353-2628 or mail, 10 N. Newnan St., Jacksonville, FL 32202.
Keller Williams Realty Atlantic Partners Amelia Island: Tracy Fendig (top lister), Brett Aroneck (top producer) and The Miller Group (top producing team) Jacksonville Beach: Cyanne Goodwin (top lister), Jaqui Allen (top producer) and Margi Petitt and Tom Gibbon (top producing team Jacksonville Southside: Amy Williams (top lister), The Edge Group (top listing and top producing team) and Shanon Voce (top producer) St. Augustine: Pete Kuc (top lister), Dawn Humphrey (top producer) and The Whitesell Group (top producing team)
From the Mid $300s COMING SOON
From the Mid $400s
Coldwell Banker Premier Properties Crickett Huff (top lister), Dottie Lay (top sales) and Robin Rawald and Mark and Tonya Schoonover (co-top producers)
From the High $500s
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February 2017
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February 2017
#NocateeNews Welcome to the Monthly Section of “What’s Happening at Nocatee.” Below are insider’s tips and resources for our valued Nocatee agents. As always, feel free to stop by or call the Nocatee Welcome Center if you have any questions! Best, Donna Lundgren Nocatee Welcome Center Manager 904.924.6863
Neighborhood Updates
Town Center Updates Five new retailers are opening in the ever-expanding Nocatee Town Center in Summer 2017. Artsy Abode, Gwen Berlin, GNC, Jersey Mike’s Subs, and Orangetheory Fitness will be located at the intersection of Capital Green Drive and Settlement Drive, just southeast of Publix. The building, owned by Regency Centers, is currently under construction.
There is lots of activity happening across the Nocatee neighborhoods! Here are a few highlights: New Nocatee neighborhood, The Junction at Twenty Mile, is the newest addition to the Twenty Mile collection of neighborhoods!
These stores are a welcome addition to the growing community of Nocatee. With approximately 100 families moving to the area each month, the Nocatee Town Center is a premier location. Nocatee is the first Electric-Vehicle Community in Northeast Florida, and boasts one of the most extensive Greenway Trails and biking systems. Residents never have to get in their car for neighborhood shopping, dining, healthcare, events, and more. South Kitchen and Spirits will open its second location in a new retail building being built by Skinner Brothers Realty, east of Crosswater Parkway and behind Dunkin’ Donuts and MShack. The new restaurant is scheduled to open December 2017 and build-out will begin this summer.
Priced from the Mid $400s, The Junction will feature single-family homes by David Weekley Homes and Dostie Homes. New home-designs will range from 2,450 to 3,500 square feet. Builders anticipate opening for sales this March. The Palms at Nocatee, developed and built by Dream Finders Homes, will be hosting a realtor event to present their final few homes in the neighborhood. Mark your calendars for February 15th from 4:30-6:00pm. Take a tour of up to 6 homes at their event, while dining on hors d’oeuvres and unlimited beverages in new Orleans style! Live music will be in full swing as we celebrate the afternoon with a jazz filled model. To RSVP, please email Jenn.Stewart@DreamFindersHomes.com. To view an interactive map of the neighborhoods in the Nocatee community, visit www.explorenocatee.com.
The 4,050 square foot restaurant will include a covered patio, as well as a large bar area with hand-crafted cocktails, local beer and wine.
Nocatee Spray Park and Major Amenity Expansion The PARC Group has unveiled plans for the expansion of the Nocatee amenities. This will be the largest addition to Nocatee’s world-class amenity offerings since the addition of the Splash Water Park. Nocatee Spray Park As part of the planned expansion, The PARC Group is unveiling its newest water amenity, a four-story above ground interactive spray playground — the first and only of its kind in Northeast Florida. Instead of swimming in water, park-goers will be sprayed with water while sliding, climbing and playing with friends. A large deck, food court and bar are being added to allow family members to relax nearby. Funded and constructed by The PARC Group, construction is set to begin this summer. The Nocatee Spray Park, slated to open Summer 2018, will be located between
the Nocatee Community Park and Nocatee Swim Club, on the western side of Crosswater Parkway. Expanded Activities Field To provide for the community’s expansive and growing range of entertainment and activities, a large outdoor area located south of the Nocatee Swim Club will be developed to host events held currently at the Town Center, such as the Nocatee Farmers Market, festivals like Roscolusa, and Nocatee Drive-in Movie Nights. The new event field will be more than twice the size of the current event area and will include a new band stage for concerts and expanded parking. It is expected to be completed by summer of 2017.
Thank you all for everything you do to contribute to the success of Nocatee. We value our Realtors! Nocatee Welcome Center 245 Nocatee Center Way Ponte Vedra, FL 32081 904.924.6863
Welcome Center Hours Monday-Saturday 10 AM - 6 PM Sunday 12 PM - 6 PM
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Leap of faith led to successful career Bracken is consistently among area’s top agents By Carrie Resch, Contributing Writer
Sometimes in life, taking a leap such as making a career change, can lead to success beyond expectation. That was the case with Jane Bracken, a Jacksonville native who blossomed into not only one of her real estate company’s top producers, but one of the area’s, as well. Bracken is a broker associate with ERA Davis & Linn. A multimillion-dollar producer, Bracken’s accolades include the ERA Leaders Circle award, the company’s highest honor, designating her in the top 10 percent of ERA agents in the country. She also has received the ERA Momentum award for the past three years, an honor based on an agent’s ability to maintain or increase production. Bracken’s production has been on the rise each year. But she didn’t always aspire to have a career in real estate. See Bracken, Page 18
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February 2017
Rookie Realtors selling like veterans Hard work and the right mindset help agents have great first years By Maggie FitzRoy Contributing Writer
When Realtors Oksana Pondo and Marnie Miller list a home, they often hire a drone videographer to create a narrated seeit-through-the-air property tour and a 3-D still photographer to create a virtual interior walkthrough. They then post the videos and photos on the internet, making them available to potential buyers worldwide. The video and photo services don’t come cheap. But they do pay off for Pondo and Miller, who are both relatively new to the real estate business. A $468,000 home that the Watson Realty Nocatee office team recently listed sold in 29 days to a cash buyer in China. A neighbor on that street was so impressed he listed his home with them. “We don’t mind spending the money on the best marketing to accomplish the seller’s needs,” Pondo said. “We also stay on top of all the new technology.” Pondo got into real estate in the summer of 2015 and Miller in March 2016. By the end of 2016, they had a combined $3 million in closed and pending sales. For newbies, that is “blowing it out of the park,” their broker, Phil Lamb, said. “In the real estate world, they tell us it takes a long time to build your business,” said Lamb, a 20-year veteran. “And if you come in with that mindset, it takes a long time. But if you come in with the idea that ‘I can make this happen in the first six months,’ you can do it in the first six months.” Pondo and Miller earned prestigious office space in their company’s Nocatee office six months after it opened. Both live in Nocatee, which is an advantage for selling there. But they also look for properties to list in surrounding areas, including Ponte Vedra Beach. One of their 2016 listings was for a $1.25 million home on San Juan Drive, which had previously been for sale by owner. They make it a point to contact every For Sale By Owner home they can find and homeowners whose listings with other Realtors have just expired. They find buyers and sellers through social media, direct mailings and newspaper and magazine ads.
Pondo, who is from Ukraine, speaks Ukrainian, Russian and Bulgarian, so she markets herself to immigrants and foreign buyers, who connect with her. Pondo and Miller “have every day planned,” Lamb said. “I get here early and they get here before me. They treat it as a fulltime job.” Jessica Pettry, a rookie with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Florida Network Realty in Ponte Vedra Beach, also treats her business as a full-time job. She became a Realtor in June 2015 after leaving a career in fundraising and corporate marketing that required frequent travel. She and her husband planned to start a family, so she wanted something with a flexible schedule that didn’t require frequent flying. She found it in real estate, and almost immediately secured buyers and sellers by contacting nearly everyone she knew about her new career. Pettry’s “sphere of influence” was wide because she grew up in Clay County, has lived in the Jacksonville region her entire life and now lives in Ponte Vedra Beach. By the end of 2016, she’d exceeded her business goals for the year, despite being pregnant for much of the time. She had $2.5 million in closed sales, with 10 business transactions, half of which were listings. Pettry “farms,” or works a neighborhood, where she once lived: Oxford Chase, near Gate Parkway, doing a lot of direct mailings there. “But I don’t farm extensively because my business is not geographically limited,” she said. “It’s important to know the city, know every pocket of it. Know what areas are moving.” She studies the Multiple Listing Service daily, including the “hot sheet” that lists new inventory, price changes. Pettry, 30, also posts real estate-related news extensively on her personal and professional Facebook pages, which she says is a “huge” inexpensive marketing tool for reaching others in her generation. And she uses her Instagram account to post pictures of homes she visits on open houses and real estate agent caravan tours, highlighting home decor trends and ideas. Above all, “in this business See Rookies, Page 20
Cara Ferreira of Keller Williams Realty in her car, with its custom-made sign letting people know she’s a Realtor.
Photos by Maggie FitzRoy
Jessica Pettry of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty in Ponte Vedra Beach says real estate will give her the flexibility she will need as a mother.
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February 2017
Several loans available for distressed properties NEFAR course teaches real estate agents a reconstructive approach
By Maggie FitzRoy Contributing Writer
They learned how to turn any house into a customer’s potential dream home. They learned how to accomplish that by providing options for purchasing homes that otherwise wouldn’t be eligible for financing. And they learned how to do that by providing loan options that include the purchase price and repairs in one loan, one closing, and one monthly mortgage payment. Realtors packed the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors auditorium classroom last month for a three-hour continuing education course called Distressed Property Solutions, taught by renovation loan specialist John Adams. Just about every seat was filled and attendees listened intently during his PowerPoint presentation. “I have skated around distressed properties, but now is the time to learn about it,” said Realtor Brett Watkins with Magnolia Properties. “At one point it was a niche market,” but no longer. As a real estate agent, he said,
“You need to be available for any phone call.” Adams started by laying out facts about the current real estate market: half of the existing buyer pool is government loan based, about 52 percent of home sales are to first-time buyers and there is a shortage of available homes to buy. Due to the recession that began in 2008, 80 percent of U.S. homes are at least 20 years old, he said, since not many were built during the bust years. And many of those have features that are no longer considered desirable. For example, 25 years ago, it was fine to have vinyl floors in kitchens and bathrooms, but now people want tile, he said. “We have a lot of aged stuff out there. We didn’t build houses for a long time, so there will be shortages for a few years,” he said. “We have to build new ones and we have to renovate the old ones.” Adams laid out the details on how to use renovation financing to rehab old homes, using types of loans he said most Realtors have no idea even exist. Doretha Washington of
John Adams, regional renovation sales manager for imortgage, teaches the Distressed Property Solutions course for the Northeast Florida Association of Realtors.
See Distressed, Page 17
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Adams outlined a series of mortgages specifically available for renovations.
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MODEL HOMES NOW OPEN IN THE LAST OF THE ESTATE-HOME NEIGHBORHOODS: COSTA DEL SOL CONTACT PALENCIA REALTY TODAY (904) 810-0500 v VIVAPALENCIA.COM Brett Watkins, foreground, of Magnolia Properties, said he had avoided distressed properties in the past but took the course because it was time to learn about them.
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DISTRESSED from Page 16
Florida Home Realty said she was glad she signed up for the course. She is a real estate investor and works with investors. “I didn’t know about half these programs,” she said during a break. “It’s good information. I love this class.” Distressed properties, as described by Adams, are not necessarily falling down fixeruppers. For him, “distressed” is a much broader term, referring to houses that might just need repairs or renovations to modernize them, literally turning them into a customer’s idea of a dream home that looks like new. He outlined five types of renovation mortgages and provided a packet listing the specifics of each. All the loans are eligible for one- to four-unit primary residences, with appraisal values based on completed repairs. • FHA 301K (standard): Minimum down payment is 3.5 percent of the purchase price. No maximum renovation amounts as long as the mortgage is within county guidelines for FHA loans. Allowable repairs range from complete rehab, including structural changes, to new appliances. • FHA 203K (limited): Minimum down payment is 3.5 percent of purchase price plus total renovation amount up to $35,000, including fees and contingency reserve. Allowable repairs including flooring, painting, remodeling the kitchen and bath and buying appliances. • VA Renovation: Zero down payment for primary residence on a one- to four-unit properties. Maximum renovation amounts are up to $35,000 including fees and contingency reserve. Allowable repairs include flooring, painting, remodeling the kitchen and bath and appliances. No structural or major repairs or additions. • Fannie Mae Homestyle (full): Minimum down payment
on a one-unit primary residence is 5 percent. Maximum renovation amount is 50 percent of the home’s completed value. Repairs must be affixed and add value to the property. • Fannie Mae Homestyle (streamline): Minimum down payment for one-unit primary residence is 5 percent. Maximum renovation amounts up to 50 percent of the home’s completed value, up to $50,000 including fees and contingency reserve. Repairs must be affixed and add value to the property. The perception of many real estate agents is homes in need of repair cannot be financed through FHA, which is not true, Adams said. They also fear they are too expensive, take too long to get approved or are too complicated. “They are not that complicated,” in the hands of a competent renovation loan officer, he said. Renovation loans are one transaction, repairs are done after closing, which can take place in 45 days. Only one appraisal is needed, however, he recommends it be done by professionals who are also licensed as HUD experts. There is no contractors’ list that homeowners must choose from, although they must be licensed and insured. Adams, who is regional renovation loan sales manager for imortgage based in Jacksonville Beach, gave examples of the types of renovations and repairs that can be included. They ranged from new roofs to new floors to renovated pools and he provided tables for each. He also showed before and after photos of his own dream home in Amelia Island, which he purchased and renovated using the techniques he taught the class. Many lenders don’t know about these loan products, he said. And they are not for every buyer. But Realtors should know about them, so they can give their customers options. Watkins agreed. “Real estate agents need to know this,” she said. “So we can better help our clients.”
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BRACKEN from Page 13
Taking a leap Bracken took a calculated risk when the broker who was listing her home convinced her she needed to be in the real estate business. With a little nudge from her broker-turned-friend, Bracken focused her energy on her new career path. That was almost 13 years ago. At the time, Bracken was in the insurance business — working in corporate management and claims administration for a large financial company in Jacksonville. It was a career she enjoyed for two decades and one in which she utilized her degree in finance from the University of Florida. Bracken, who also holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Florida, was flirting with the idea of becoming a financial planner. She actually had two job offers from financial institutions on the table when she decided to try her hand at real estate. “I was on the three-month plan with it being commission only — I either made money or I couldn’t afford to do it,” Bracken said. If during that time she was not successful, Bracken would have turned her focus back to a career in financial planning. But as she soon discovered, she had both a knack and a passion for real estate.
A desirable career At the time, Bracken’s two children were still in school. Her son, Chris, was in ninth grade, and her daughter, Emily, was in middle school. The prospect of
a flexible schedule that would permit her to spend more time with them was alluring. Setting her own hours freed her up to drive Emily to and from school and allowed her to be in the stands, cheering her daughter at every track and cross country meet. It usually meant working nights or weekends to make the time up, but Bracken said it was worth it. However, she said, don’t kid yourself about the hours. But, you do have the flexibility to balance your personal and professional life. “It can work well for whatever your phase of life is, that’s how I feel about it it,” Bracken stated. “It’s a great business; I love it.”
Staying on top Because buying a home is usually the biggest purchase people make in a lifetime, Bracken said she always tries to make sure her customers are making a really good financial decision. Treating people with honesty and respect has built her a positive reputation. In turn, having a good reputation brings repeat clients and referrals. “In Jacksonville, real estate is a small circle, like a lot of businesses are,” Bracken said. “I think your reputation over time precedes you.” Her boss, Jim Linn, vice president at ERA Davis & Linn, agrees. “She’s got a great reputation of doing the right thing,” Linn said. Bracken has never considered herself a sales person, rather she simply enjoys working with people. In December, she closed on a house for a young, newly married couple she met when she sold them a home in 2007.
February 2017
They became like family to Bracken, and over the years, they’ve kept in touch. So they reached out to her when they decided to look for a new home.
Learning the value of social media Technology also plays a big role in Bracken’s business. She uses social media platforms as a marketing tool, something imperative to succeed in this business, she maintains. She recently integrated Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram, so she can post across all platforms. At age 62, she feels a bit like a fish out of water when it comes to using social media, but she’s having a lot of fun with it. Social media and the arsenal of technology tools ERA offers are a “game-changer, Bracken said. The company uses a program that helps agents track and stay in touch with clients. She also benefits from another program the company uses called LeadRouter, which generates leads for Bracken based on people who inquire about her listings. In turn, she can reach out to those people and see if they are looking to sell their home. “What our brokers provide, I really think that’s what’s taken my business to the level that it is,” Bracken said. And technology works both ways; that’s where a good reputation comes into play. Before ever arriving at a meeting with a buyer or seller, most of the time the clients have already scoured the internet to review her personal or company website. “They know a lot about me before I ever walk through the door,” Bracken said.
Special to Realty-Builder
Jane Bracken, center, with ERA Davis & Linn broker/owner Jim Linn and Carole Davis at the 2016 ERA Broker Council Awards.
Work-life balance As busy as Bracken has become in her professional life, it’s important to her to maintain a personal life. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her children and friends. Both of her children reside in Jacksonville. Her daughter works for the Department of Health and her son is an attorney. Bracken usually ends her evenings reading on her Kindle to help wind down. She typically reads fiction, best-sellers and at least one biography and classic per year with her book club. Giving back also is important.
Bracken enjoys volunteering with the American Cancer Society and Community Hospice. “My mother at age 80 was diagnosed with breast cancer, so it just hits home,” she said. Being in the industry is not for everyone. Like many things in life, you get out of it what you are willing to put into it, and Bracken believes in hard work. She’s also grateful she works for ERA, surrounded by broker and office support, something else she credits for her success. Bracken has been with ERA since 2012. “I have a lot of blessings in my life now is how I look at it, and being here is one of them,” she said.
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS AS JACKSONVILLE'S HOMETOWN BUILDER Thank you for being a part of our success!
Learn more about Providence Homes at MyProvidenceHome.com Marketed Exclusively by Providence Realty LLC
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February 2017
Realtors celebrate Professionalism in Paradise
Photos by Fran Ruchalski
Attendees were treated to a lunch that included cheeseburgers in paradise, swordfish steaks and fried chicken.
Newly elected Northeast Florida Association of Realtors President Marc Jernigan, at the podiuim, talks about what members can expect in the coming year during the Professionalism in Paradise gala, luncheon and awards ceremony. New officers also were installed. Newly elected NEFAR officers applaud immediate past President Terrell Newberry, left, for his efforts in 2016.
Newberry presents Lisa Andrews with the award for Affiliate/Business Partner of the Year.
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Janna Thomas received a plaque for her Circle of Honor award from Newberry.
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Newberry presents Gonzalo Mejia with the award for Realtor of the Year.
NEFAR CEO Glenn East served as master of ceremonies for the event.
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February 2017
P o n t e Ve d r a . N a t u r a l l y.
Photos by Maggie FitzRoy
Watson Realty Corp. agents Oksana Pondo, left, and Marnie Miller at a model home in The Island at Twenty Mile in Nocatee.
ROOKIE from Page 14
you need to be creative and flexible,” she said. During Hurricane Matthew in October, she listed a home in Lake Asbury in Clay County. The homeowners rode out the storm, which was a good thing, because they almost immediately got an offer. Pettry drove there and negotiated the price during the storm, “because in this business you don’t want to miss an opportunity.” The day the sale closed, she got a phone call from a neighbor interested in selling, too. “Listings are a force multiplier,” she said. “A way to potentially get new business.” Cara Ferreira, who started with Keller Williams in March, has been so successful her first year that she had 14 closings by the end of December, about 40 percent of which were listings. She also promotes her business on social media, as well as through her sphere of influence, direct mailings, involvement in a moms group in her neighborhood and by driving around with a large sign on her car, with
her photo and contact information prominently displayed. She hires an interior designer for every listing to help homeowners show their house to its best advantage. Ferreira also uses professional photographers and videographers. She had $4.5 million in sales by the end of December, which CC Underwood — a Realtor with Keller Williams who has her own team — said is “exceptional.” What Ferreira is doing is difficult, Underwood said, because she is working with buyers and sellers on her own. An agent with that much business must sooner rather than later form a team or join one because even working full time there are not enough hours in the day, she said. Whether you use print advertising, social media, video or 3-D virtual photography, “you have to market the seller’s home in the best light to the most buyers,” Underwood said. Most customers are real estate savvy before contacting a Realtor because they study the market online first. “So now your job is not to be the market expert,” she said. “It’s to be the marketing expert.”
A few changes when renewing your license From floridarealtors.org
There are changes when it comes to renewing a Florida real estate license. The 14-hour requirement hasn’t increased, but a threehour ethics and business practices course will become mandatory Oct. 1. Licensees who must renew in the first cycle next year — the one ending on March 31, 2018 — will be impacted first in the continuing education requirement addressed in 3.009(2)(b), but the requirement is ongoing and applicable to all license renewals after that date.
Once effective, a real estate license renewal must include a three-hour core law course; three-hour ethics and business practices course; and eight hours of specialty courses. The change does not impact post-education requirements, which apply to renewal of an initial license. In some cases, the National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics requirement every two years can do double-duty as an ethics course for license renewal. Schools or providers are urged to review the other rule changes as they also cover the course submission and approval process.
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saVE THE DaTE! Friday, March 10th sMC Breakfast
Speaker: Rayonier Developers, Wildlight Development Sponsors: Homebridge and Two Men & a Truck
Tickets available & Entry Form online at nefba.com Entry Deadline – February 15th
SMC Member Spotlight
2017 Upcoming Calendar of Events
Alaina Record, Dostie Homes As a Jacksonville native, I am thrilled to have a career that allows me to stay so connected to the Jacksonville community and to be raising my family in the city that I love.
March 10
sMC Breakfast
I have enjoyed watching Jacksonville prosper over the years of my career in the home building industry, but I am even more excited to be a part of that growth now as the Marketing Director of Dostie Homes. I know that I am incredibly fortunate to be able to work with such an amazing group of individuals every day, only to come home to my beautiful family every evening.
March 17
22nd annual laurel awards
april 14
sMC Breakfast
As I have evolved in my career, my participation with the Sales & Marketing Council of the NEFBA has been a consistently positive part of my professional life. I am honored to be serving as Second Vice Chair this year, but have enjoyed all my previous positions including Public Relations, Parade of Homes, Laurel Awards Chair and Third Vice Chair. I can say with full confidence that one would be hard pressed to find a group of individuals who whole heartedly help one another in accomplishing professional goals. I have personally benefited from the strong business relationships formed over the years from the copious networking opportunities provided by SMC. However, it is the lifelong friendships formed through SMC that I cherish most.
8:00-9:30am • UNF/University Center Speaker: Rayonier Developers, Wildlight Development
6:30pm • Alhambra Theater “There’s No Place Like Home”
8:00-9:30am • UNF/University Center Speaker: Meredith Oliver, Sales Training
Please prepay for all events on our website
www.nefbasmc.com.
Contact Palmer Kuder for reservations & information Palmer@nefba.com
Mission
Vision
Goal
To enlighten, motivate and educate NEFBA members through dynamic programs and networking opportunities so more new homes are sold.
To be the most effective resource for selling and marketing new homes in Northeast Florida.
Bring members and guests together in fun, informative, rewarding events and activities to stimulate networking and business relationship building opportunities.
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February 2017
Industry News
Sponsored by:
Watson expanding to Ocala market
After years of analyzing the Ocala market, Watson Realty Corp. is expanding into the area. The company bought the Real Living All Florida Realty’s Ocala office from David Bessette, who owns the firm. The office is a full-service property management company offering services to commercial and residential condominiums and homeowners associations in the Ocala area, according to a news release. William Watson Jr., founder and chairman of the board of his namesake company, said the firm has been looking at the area for quite some time. “I have always liked the Ocala market, but the time, from a Watson standpoint, hasn’t fit until now,” he said. The property management services will be managed by Susan McQuillan from Watson’s office in Gainesville. The brokerage also will expand the services in Ocala to include a real estate sales office that will be led by Jeffrey Fagan, regional vice president. The Ocala office is the 48th for Watson.
Architects group has ideas for Downtown Want to draw more people to Downtown Jacksonville? The Jacksonville chapter of the American Institute of Architects has an idea. The continued redevelopment of Downtown will open opportunities for thoughtful design, said Christopher Allen, president of the local AIA chapter. He shared ideas for addressing an upcoming architectural challenge at an AIA Jacksonville meeting at The Haskell Co. Allen announced a River of Lights initiative, which an AIA panel plans to present to City Council and the Downtown Investment Authority. The recommendations include the creation of activity nodes, which are objects that naturally attract groups of people. Examples include the Southbank’s Lone Sailor statue, Friendship Fountain and the Jacksonville Landing. While Downtown has several activity nodes, they are isolated from one another, Allen said. The AIA’s vision is to create more and connect them for a contiguous Downtown experience. In support of its members, the group’s educational theme will be the practice of architecture in the age of digital simulation. Digital simulation is a new class of software that uses whole elements — such as pipes for plumbing, windows and insulation — instead of line drawings, when designing a building. Preston Haskell, left, founder of The Haskell Co., and AIA Jacksonville Chapter President Christopher Allen at the chapter’s January meeting where members toured Haskell’s extensive collection of abstract expressionist art.
The system allows for engineering analysis and contractor engagement much earlier in the process, and it is fast revolutionizing the way architects do their jobs, he said. At the same time architects are learning new digital tools, they need to stay grounded in some old principles. Creativity is still the foundation of all good design, he said. Preston Haskell, founder of The Haskell Co. and an avid art collector, spoke at the meeting about the value of art in the workplace and throughout the city. “Art is a stimulus, especially for people working in a creative field,” Haskell said. “It gets people thinking outside the box. That’s certainly what architects need to do.” After the meeting, he invited members to tour his collection of 20th century abstract expressionist art collection, which hangs on the company’s walls.
TrailMark hires lifestyles director Lynzi Chambers has been hired as lifestyles director for the TrailMark community in northern St. Johns County. Chambers is planning a variety of activities, such as pool parties, movies under the stars, beer and wine tastings and cookouts. There also will be Fourth Fridays, which will include food trucks and music; a summer luau; music in the park; Chambers and trivia night. Since joining TrailMark, she has organized several gatherings, including Cookies with Santa and a chili cook-off.
Perron earns senior housing designation Cynthia Perron, an agent with Keller Williams Jacksonville Realty, earned the certified senior housing professional designation from the Seniors Real Estate Institute. The designation helps agents serve seniors and their families, which is critical as the need for senior Perron housing is on the rise. They can assist as seniors decide where they want to live and unravel the complexities involved in downsizing and selling a family home, according to a news release.
Berkshire Hathaway hires two new agents Nancy Daniels and Angela Eckton have joined the Ponte Vedra/Nocatee office of Berk-
Shearwater launches certification program
Special to Realty-Builder
The Shearwater community in St. Johns County held its first living certification program at its Kayak club amenity. The day included an overview of the neighborhood’s lifestyle programming and amenities in addition to the advantages of being a Shearwater-certified agent. Those benefits include having access to a private landing page with materials, photos and upcoming event information; early-bird access to Shearwater’s keynote speaker events; and a certification concierge. More than 170 agents registered to take part in the inaugural event. Shearwater is located off County Road 210, east of Interstate 95.
shire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty. Daniels previously worked for Citi, with teams handling multiple Daniels projects. Eckton started her real estate career in property management, working as a leasing consultant for five years. Eckton
She later worked for Kraftmaid Cabinetry, which allowed her to be part of several projects, including the television show “Extreme Home Makeover.”
KB Home opening Southshore at Bannon Lakes KB Home’s Southshore at Bannon Lakes is in St. Johns County off International Golf Parkway. The community will have a 6.9-acre amenity center, featuring a 4,000-square-foot club-
house and 5,000 square foot swimming pool and kids’ splash pads. Other amenities include a fitness center, playground, dog park and tennis and pickle ball courts. KB Home is offering 13 oneand two-story floor plans in the executive and classic series, ranging from 1,342-3,052 square feet. They can include up to six bedrooms and four bathrooms. Prices start in the low $200,000s. For more information, visit kbhome.com.
FIDELITY BANK MORTGAGE OFFERS SOLUTIONS TO FIT YOUR CLIENT’S NEEDS
Fidelity Bank Mortgage is one of the leading mortgage lenders in Jacksonville with in-house processing, underwriting and closing. We are committed to providing the Realtors and builders of Jacksonville with a variety of financing options and a history of excellent service.
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TRMK-16001 TRAILMARK_GRAND OPENING AD No1_REALTY BUILDER_10.125X15.5_REVISE.qxp_Layout 1 1/25/17 realty-builder.com February 2017
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YOU’RE INVITED TO
EXPLORE TRAILMARK
Amenity Center and Pool
TRAILMARK GRAND OPENING COMING MARCH 2017 — STAY TUNED!
Discover a new concept in recreation-rich living, a new community that offers residents the opportunity to live life connected — connected with nature, and connected with the neighborhood. Beautiful new homes from the mid-$200s Hiking, running and bike trails St. Johns County School District Live oak groves, natural waterways, nature preserves Easy access to shopping, St. Augustine, Jacksonville
JOIN US In March! Model home tours Food & refreshments Site Tours Welcome Center, Pool, Fitness Center & Amenities Center open to the public Live radio remote & prizes Family events & entertainment throughout the day
805 TRAILMARK DRIVE, St. Augustine Florida — off Pacetti Road 2.5 miles south of The King and The Bear
Visit TrailMarkLiving.com. Site plans, community maps, photos and depictions are for illustration purposes only, are conceptual in nature, and should not be relied upon. GreenPointe Communities, LLC reserves the right to make changes to the foregoing at any time without notice. Home design, pricing, terms and offers are subject to change. See Home Builders’ Sales Consultant for details.
TRAILMARK / LIVE LIFE CONNECTED / “ROAMING” AD
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BE A PART OF RIVERTOWN’S BIG REVEAL Grand Opening on Saturday, February 25TH
Publication: Realty Builder Connection DPI: 300 Built: 17/01/2016 – JND
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February 2017
We can’t wait to reveal RiverTown’s new and exciting features to you and your clients. At our Grand Opening, you’ll experience RiverTown’s unique charm as you view our new community entry, Welcome Center and tour our six new model homes. You’ll also find out more about our highly anticipated, state-of-the-art RiverClub amenity center located on the St. Johns River. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to tour the most affordable community on the river with the best value in St. Johns County from the $240s. Let your clients be the first to select their new home at RiverTown - including brand new floorplans, homesites and pricing. GRAND OPENING Saturday, February 25TH 12 PM-6 PM
Welcome Center 90 Lanier Street, St. Johns Florida 32259
REGISTER TODAY FOR UPDATES AT MATTAMYRIVERTOWN.COM
Mattamy Jacksonville LLC: Richard Egger – License No. CGC1523769, Scott Paige – License No. CGC1523142, David Koon – License No. FRO6526 Mattamy Rivertown LLC: D.J. Smith – License No. CGC1517223 All illustrations are artist’s concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. Builder #CGC1523769
MATJACKSON-Rivertown-Realtor-Ad-Realty-Builder_News.indd 1
2017-01-19 10:30 AM
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection realty-builder.com
February 2017 Builders Care helped a lot of people in 2016, looking for even better 2017. Page 27
25
Growth trend continues as building permits increase again in December, bringing annual total to 7,906. Page 32
Arsenault say NEFBA members working together will help association grow. Page 26
Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
Celebrating 2017, honoring 2016
Excitement and optimism filled the air early Wednesday, Jan 18, at the Adam W. Herbert University Center at the University of North Florida as some 200 members and guests filled the room in anticipation of the installation of NEFBA’s 2017 roster of officers and the presentation of awards for 2016. Jerry Linder, former president of the Florida Home Builders Association and past president of NEFBA, proudly installed Lee Arsenault as NEFBA’s new president. The board of directors was installed as a body. (See list on Page 33.) Installation Continued on page 29
Glenn Layton, 2009 NEFBA president, presents outgoing President Chet Skinner with the traditional past president’s gavel in appreciation of a year of leadership and dedication.
With his wife, Diane, by his side, Lee Arsenault is installed as 2017 Northeast Florida Builders Association president by 2006 NEFBA President Jerry Linder. See more photos on Pages 29 and 34.
Announcing Emerald Homes at
Grandholm Point ABERDEEN ESTATES AT
Luxury Homes in Northern St. Johns County From The Mid $300’s*
• Secluded enclave offering a small number of oversized homesites with lake and preserve views available • Established community minutes from shopping & dining in the Julington Creek area & Mandarin • Resort style amenities featuring two pools, water slide, clubhouse, fitness center, playgrounds, basketball • Highly rated St. Johns County Schools**
Model Home Now Open!
Directions: From Racetrack Rd take Veterans Pkwy south approximately 1.8 miles. Turn right onto Longleaf Pine Pkwy and proceed 1.1 miles, then turn right into Grandholm Point at Prince Albert Ave. Continue through community to the Estates, model home will be on your immediate left.
For more information please call (904) 251-5258
a D.R. Horton Company *Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. See your new home consultant for details. **Rating based on 2015-2016 Florida Department of Education school accountability report. http://schoolgrades.fldoe.org/ Photographs, pictures, elevations, features, sizes and colors are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. CBC058997 ©2017 Emerald Homes, Inc. All rights reserved. JAN 2017
Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
26
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection
Working together is key to growing NEFBA What a great beginning to what promises to be an exciting year for the industry and our association. The installation of officers on Jan. 18 set the tone and served as a call to action. I am deeply grateful for the support and encouragement I’ve received since being installed as your president and I look forward to working with the executive committee, the board of directors, the members and the staff of our great association. Our executive committee works primarily behind the scenes and its influence on NEFBA’s success is not always apparent. The expertise and experience represented in this group is responsible for making measured, well-considered decisions. The committee also serves as a training ground for NEFBA’s leadership. This eight-member board includes the president, three vice presidents, the training vice president, secretary/ treasurer, the immediate past president and our association’s executive officers, giving continuity and assuring smooth transitions each year. Each new president has served on the committee in different positions prior to being named president. I want to acknowledge, too, the contributions of all our members, particularly those who serve on the board of directors and as chairs of our councils and committees. These members are role models for all of us when it comes to commitment and participation. I look forward to getting to know you better and to finding ways to enhance your membership experience. Beginning with our Executive Officer Corey Deal, NEFBA’s staff is second to none. Top-notch men and women fill the staff positions with commitment, knowledge, exemplary work ethic and dedication to the members.
FROM THE PRESIDENT
February 2017
ATTENTION BUILDERS & REMODELERS
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES EXPO
SEE WHAT’S NEW! MARCH 23, 2017 ● FREE REGISTER TODAY NEFBA.COM
THANK YOU
WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND? 70+ EXHIBITORS
See Northeast Florida’s latest products & services
Lee Arsenault
New Leaf Construction Running the day-to-day operations of the state’s largest and the nation’s fifth largest homebuilders association is no small task, and they plan and coordinate education, social, fundraising, awardspresenting events and seasonal celebrations on a weekly basis. I am grateful to them and place my confidence in them for helping accomplish another successful year. As we work together this year, please know that your participation, your suggestions and your voice are critical to the growth of the industry and the strengthening of NEFBA. Help us monitor market conditions, new technologies, proposed legislative changes and all matters of concern to builders and associates. I look forward to hearing from you and working with you to accomplish our goals. Sincerely,
EDUCATION SESSIONS
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If you’re a Builder, Remodeler, Developer, Architect, Interior Designer or Building Official
SEE OLD FRIENDS & MAKE NEW CONNECTIONS Network with your peers, prospective partners and do business with a member
Builder Finance, Inc. Construction Solutions & Supply DuPont Tyvek Entegra Roof Tile Florida Custom Marble HomeBridge Financial Services
VISIT WWW.NEFBA.COM TO REGISTER Contact chacker@nefba.com with questions
CONSTRUCTION TO PERM, FHA, VA, CONVENTIONAL
HOME FINANCING OPTIONS*
Lee Arsenault Founder, president of New Leaf Construction
Wendy Hilton
Becky Cooper
NMLS ID: 263101
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(904) 568-8161
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Jen Chaney
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NMLS ID: 649666
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YOUR FIRST COAST LENDING TEAM
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*Subject to credit underwriting and approval. Please see a mortgage originator to see if you qualify.
LENDER
Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection
February 2017
27
Builders Care did a lot of good work in 2016 In December, Builders Care Executive Director Justin Brown reflected on the challenges and successes of the charitable arm of the Northeast Florida Builders Association. In a letter to the board of directors, Brown began with a discussion of Builders Care’s mission. “Even as it was necessary to change our model as we adapt to functioning with minimal staff and overhead, in true Builders Care fashion, we have been able to stretch our resources to maximize the number of people we were able to help,” Brown wrote. “As our focus is on critical home repair, most every homeowner we help is living in a desperate situation. Our work restores peace of mind and, for many, their dignity. On behalf of every family we have been able to help in 2016, let me thank you all for your prayers, resources, service and compassion,” he continued. Brown provided statistics to describe the impact Builders Care had on the community: • Repaired roofs on 39 homes • Installed four new roofs • Built 18 wheelchair ramps (about half with volunteers and the other half with contractors) • Helped five families with critical HVAC repairs • Assisted four families with critical plumbing issues • Widened bathroom doors for a man recently diagnosed with ALS
• Created a roll-in shower for a paraplegic who had been showering out of his sink for two years • The 2016 Veterans Project, led by Lennar Homes, turned over the keys to a handicap-accessible home to an injured Marine and his family. Brown also recounted the successful partnerships Builders Care has established with other community agencies serving Jacksonville’s most vulnerable citizens. “Builders Care successfully managed six HabiJax rehabs. The majority consisted of roof replacements, plumbing repairs and HVAC issues,” he said. “Those numbers are not included in the Builders Care totals, but we were blessed to be able to help restore these six homes and bring them back into livable condition.” Brown said Builders Care worked with several other nonprofits to help them complete their missions: Angelwood, the Independent Living Resource Center, Five Star Veterans Center, Mission of Mercy, Epoch Church, City Rescue Mission, Truway Church, the Nest, Pulse Ministry and the Disabled American Veterans. Looking at 2017, Brown is excited about projects already in the works. “Providence Homes will be completing the Home from the Heart project, with the benefits to go to Builders Care. This should be wrapped up in February/March,” he said.
KITCHEN BEFORE
KITCHEN AFTER “We are going to aggressively move forward with the Caring Members Campaign. Our goal will be to secure 10 percent of NEFBA’s membership as a Caring Member,” Brown said. “Having 125 companies pledging $100 a month will meet our annual overhead and give us enough money to repair two roofs and build one
“Quote Challenge”® Jacksonville’s Premier Agency for Home Owners Insurance
ramp per month.” Brown expressed his gratitude for support from the 10 board members who have become Caring Members. “Thank you to the board members who have signed up so far and I look forward to having 100 percent participation from the Builders Care board of directors by next year,” he said. The letter closed on a personal note from Brown. “I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all of you. I am so proud of the work Builders Care does within our community and I am deeply honored to be able to serve in this capacity. I welcome all of your ideas and constructive critiques,” he said. “Builders Care definitely fills a critical gap in our community and is truly a force for good, spreading God’s love and compassion to our most vulnerable citizens. Thank you to each of you for making this possible,” Brown said.
KITCHEN AFTER This recent project illustrates the difference Builders Care makes in a family’s life with volunteer labor, donated materials and a heart for the mission. While building a wheelchair ramp, a group of volunteers who were students in a class taught by David Hacker, a NEFBA board member and president of Construction Specialties of North Florida, discovered extensive damage to the interior of the home. The student who made the discovery, Ben Wood, volunteered to come back on the weekends to work on the kitchen. The family initially declined the assistance, but as it deteriorated, they reached out for help. Builders Care fixed the floor and installed four donated cabinets and a donated sink, completing the project for a few hundred dollars. And, the family received a kitchen they could actually use.
FACT: WE OFFER THE LOWEST OVERALL AVERAGE HOME INSURANCE PREMIUMS IN FLORIDA FLOOR DAMAGE
Thank you, CARING MEMBERS HOME
AUTO
LIFE
Call Today! 904-281-0231 FirstFloridaInsurance.com • Jane@FirstFloridaInsurance.com Member Board of Realtor • Member NEFBA
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
Providence Homes LENNAR Eagle View Windows & Doors Wells Fargo CSX Chet and Sarah Skinner Miranda Contracting Matovina & Co. MasterCraft Builder Group Wood Development Synovus Bank McAneny Builders First Coast Supply
• • • • • • • • • • • •
LP Building Products New Leaf Construction Corner Lot Properties John Owen, Movement Mortgage Judith Sisler Johnston Aurora Custom Homes Pro-Tile & Marble Hillcrest Title & Trust TD Bank 84 Lumber Beson4 Media Ian McDonald, Regions Bank
Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection
28
Upcoming events
g n i d uil
B n i n C e L m L of ning, Wo l s a e n al Lear o r s i o s d s M s n e Amyovation l Mi cess Prof u f c i Inn t u u S a r d e o n f a B ed n e m Wir o Help Wttoer t r Be s e i rs e g e h b t e e t hO fic mem a f r t O c S Ea A : Non B d F e s tand NE , $10 a e allyies B h u s T t s r n Brain Under ry 28th 7a:t Membe d that’seamc ysvteer f $ a n ck th pro ng o u a r Me t b n im e M di lo
Local events are listed first, then NEFBA events. Council and committee events are listed in alphabetical order by event name for convenience in tracking your area of interest.
NEFBA Lunch & Learn with Beson4
Professional Women in Building luncheon
Feb. 22, 11:30 a.m. NEFBA office Topic: Shrimp tacos & big ideas Learn digital and video marketing strategies. RSVP: Michelle Glass, MGlass@nefba.com
Feb. 28, 11:30 a.m. NEFBA office Cost: $7 PWB members, $10 nonmembers Contact: Corey Hacker, CHacker@nefba.com
NEFBA Membership Committee March 2, 11:30 a.m. NEFBA office RSVP: Hans Krieg, HKrieg@nefba.com
NEFBA Lunch & Learn with Ray’s Solar Security March 8, 11:30 a.m. NEFBA office Topic: Sun-controlled window film RSVP: Michelle Glass, MGlass@nefba.com
NEFBA Trade Expo/ board meeting March 23, 3-7 p.m. Adam W. Herbert University Center, University of North Florida, 12000 Alumni Drive Contact: Corey Hacker, CHacker@nefba.com
Builders Care board meeting March 14, Noon NEFBA office RSVP: Justin Brown, JBrown@builderscare.org
Clay Builders Council breakfast March 8, 8:30 a.m. Island Life Grill, 2245 Plantation Center Drive, Fleming Island Cost: $10 Contact: Jessie Spradley, JSpradley@nefba.com
Government Affairs Committee meeting Feb. 23, 8:30 a.m. NEFBA office Contact: Jessie Spradley, JSpradley@nefba.com
Remodelers Council luncheon March 16, 11:30 a.m. NEFBA office Cost: $7 Remodelers members, $10 nonmembers Contact: Corey Hacker, CHacker@nefba.com
Remodelers Council social March 2, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Donna Mancini Interiors & Flooring, 141 Hilden Road, Unit 202, Ponte Vedra Contact: Corey Hacker, CHacker@nefba.com
Sales & Marketing Council breakfast
e , F :00 P y fer ill un lp us rstan with e f a i d 1 d y w s rs de he Thu 30AM — men areoralesder to tter unalk awaincrea n M e W an d . 11: a n d my d g e a b r s . s s
March 10, 8 a.m. Adam W. Herbert University Center, University of North Florida, 12000 Alumni Drive Speaker: Rayonier Developers of Wildlight Development Sponsor: Homebridge and Two Men and a Truck Cost: $15 in advance for SMC members, $20 at the door Contact: Palmer Kuder, Palmer@nefba.com
d en ing! A in an gain tome loyee ines oun m r s a d o s a h p W at t e br , an r cu em r bu ly ces ien local n u d e u n h u r o i o t o 0a ork of icati and reta e of y ag er 7 ent w k with v n o p r to rec Tal m u o th e o h e l m - l i n ken most Teen guars m o t o o p n s t Ja er e c ach ies has try. H tured o nville oniqu bot e te g y n e o a Am cou th a cks he M ion s fe wa the Ja with t undat the s tr o
St. Johns Builders Council social Feb. 21, 5:30 p.m. Location: TBD Sponsor: TBD Contact: Leona Brown, sjbcouncil2@aol.com Please call the NEFBA office at (904) 725-4355 to confirm details of any NEFBA calendar event, or contact the event coordinator by email. Check the NEFBA website calendar at www.nefba.com.
New member spotlight Horizon Promotional Products, Jack Boyd Horizon Promotional Products selects top-quality items from its best suppliers and at negotiated bulk-purchase pricing. Horizon is one of the largest promotional firms in the U.S. with products worthy of the most important signature — yours! Call Jack Boyd at (904) 727-7724 or visit horizonpromotional.com.
February 2017
and
Bur
rF
The Original Green Building Material...
Brick.
Sponsor spotlight BrandMortgage, Ben Stephens
Hanley Home Team Kevin Hanley
Special thanks to these members for recruiting and sponsoring a new member: AJ Beson, Ben Stephens, Jim Mangus, Jim Romeka, Lee Arsenault, Levi Ritter and Nate Day. For more information about the benefits of membership and how to become a NEFBA member, contact Hans Krieg at (904) 725-4355 or HKrieg@nefba.com.
Located in the OakLeaf Area in West Jacksonville. 904-528-6991
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MIDDLEBURG Longleaf Ranch from the $180’s
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WEST JACKSONVILLE Dawson’s Creek from the $230’s
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OPEN Residents amenities center. SELLIN & Located on Braddock Rd. off of G! Dunn Ave. Short commute to Downtown, the beaches and the airport. 904-214-9895 •
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The Alterra Group
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Villages of Westport from the $170’s
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Doug Smiley
Jack Boyd
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Horizon Promotional Products
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New Leaf Construction
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Chris Arsenault
Asa Gillette
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Gillette and Associates
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ONLY 1 HOMESITE LEFT. Located on Garden St. just east of Jones Rd. in Northwest Jacksonville. 904-625-4303
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Construction Solutions & Supply
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NORTHWEST JACKSONVILLE Sierra Oaks from the $190’s CLOSEOUT COMMUNITY
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Mike Gay
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Harley Bryan
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M. Gay Constructors
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H. Smith Inc.
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Abdul “Rico” Chatila
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Located close to I-95 and Hwy. 17, on Harts Rd., near the new courthouse and college campus. 904-910-2605 •
The following individuals became a NEFBA affiliate member in December Toria Hale
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Lumber Creek Starting from the $180’s
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The following companies became NEFBA members in December. Cedar Development Group
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Located on Chester Rd. approx. 4 miles north of SR-200 in Yulee. 904-225-8251
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Welcome, new members
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NASSAU Oaks at Bristol from the $190’s
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When you choose BrandMortgage, you are choosing a lender that can provide you with unprecedented results and a company with a long history of proud mortgage bankers. BrandMotgage’s goal is to be a true partner and adviser throughout the home-buying process, providing exemplary service from the first conversation to well beyond the closing table. Call Ben Stephens at (904) 301-4496 or visit brandmortgage. com.
Located on SR-21 (Blanding Blvd.) just north of SR-16 in Middleburg. 904-291-9312
Open 24 Hours at www.adamshomes.com Nothing Matches the Long Lasting Beauty of Brick
CRC1330146
Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection
February 2017
INSTALLATION Continued from page 25
MOVE-IN READY HOMES
The following award presentations were made for performance in 2016: • Builder of the Year: Dream Finder Homes • Fred King Associate Member of the Year: Sherwin Williams (Mike Atzert, Glenn Greathouse and Chris Hussey) • Leadership Award: Leed Silverfield, Silverfield Development • Arnold Tritt Lifetime Achievement Award: Curtis Hart, Hart Resources • Good Government Award: Florida Sen. Travis Hutson • Spike Award: AJ Beson, Beson4 Media • SMC Bob Ransom Chairman’s Award: Katrina Watkins, Glenn Layton Homes • Apprenticeship Employer
29 of the Year: Keith Campbell, Campbell Plumbing
2017 Executive Committee President: Lee Arsenault, New Leaf Construction First vice president: Chris Dostie, Dostie Homes Second vice president: Harlan Bost, Florida Custom Marble Third vice president: Gene Rover, B&G Plumbing/B&G Heating & Air-Conditioning Training vice president: Keith Ward, Thomas May Construction Secretary/treasurer: Jerry Dean, Vintage Estates Homes Immediate past president: Chet Skinner, Skinner Bros. Realty Executive officer: Corey Deal, Northeast Florida Builders Association
For over 34 years, we have been building homes for thousands of First Coast families. We offer the largest selection of quality Move-In Ready Homes that showcase thoughtful design and superior craftsmanship. Visit our SEDA model homes and you’ll understand why we are a trusted name among the realtor community.
NEFBA award winners and newly installed President Lee Arsenault celebrate the success of 2016 and look forward to another great year: From left are Curtis Hart (Lifetime Achievement award winner); Keith Campbell (Apprentice Employer of the Year); Leed Silvrefield (Leadership Award); AJ Beson (NEFBA Spike Award); Arsenault; Glenn Greathouse, Mike Atzert and Chris Hussey of Sherwin Williams (Associate Member of the Year); and Jenn Stewart of Dream Finders Homes (Builder of the Year). Winners not pictured are Katrina Watkins (SMC Chairman’s Award) and Florida Sen. Travis Hutson (Good Government Award).
NASSAU COUNTY
ST JOHNS COUNTY
5. Floridian Enclave
1. Sandy Creek 904-998-3628 lot 2A-10 lot 2A-39 lot 2A-42 lot 2A-112 lot 2A-114 lot 2A-19 lot 2A-48
4 bd/3 ba 4 bd/3 ba 4 bd/3 ba 4 bd/3 ba 3 bd/2 ba 4 bd/3 ba 4 bd/3 ba
904-696-3483 lot 13 lot 42 lot 19 lot 37 lot 18 lot 27
316,800 $ 318,900 $ 315,900 $ 325,000 $ 296,900 $ 313,400 $ 360,400 $
904-491-1955 lot 7A-246 lot 7A-257 lot 7A-252 lot 7A-263 lot 7A-260
2. Howards Run 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba
202,900 195,700 $ 198,200 $ 217,800 $
$
4. Rouen Cove 904-365-4860 lot 7 lot 27 lot 38 lot 20 lot 21 lot 10
4 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 4 bd/2.5 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba
904-225-2734 lot 2-188 lot 2-171 lot 2-199 lot 2-61 lot 1A-25
214,700 208,500 $ 211,300 $ $
$
329,100 353,600 $ 293,600 $ 338,100 $ 318,600
$
3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba
194,700 198,900 $ 199,100 $ 200,800 $ 210,800 $
$
8. Woodbrier 904-365-5565 lot 25 3 bd/2 ba lot 28 3 bd/2 ba lot 34 3 bd/2 ba
212,800 $ 220,600 $ 241,100 $ 224,500 $ 213,400 $ 228,500
$
Outgoing President Chet Skinner reviews the year, expresses gratitude for NEFBA members and staff as he relinquishes the gavel to the new president and begins his year as immediate past president on the Executive Committee.
203,200 202,200 $ 222,300
$
$
7 568
* 500 REALTOR
$
www.SEDAnewhomes.com
3 bd/2.5 ba 4 bd/4 ba 4 bd/3 ba 4 bd/3 ba 4 bd/3 ba
$
7. The Hideaway
3. Yellow Bluff Estate 904-309-5992 lot 4 3 bd/2 ba lot 8 4 bd/2 ba lot 27 3 bd/2 ba
334,900 312,000 $ 336,200 $ 350,900 $ 345,100 $ 312,800 $
6. Flora Parke
OCEANWAY 904-829-5041 lot 25 lot 17 lot 26 lot 23
3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba 3 bd/2 ba
3 24
BONUS
Dated 1/16/17. CGC020880. SEDA Construction Company. Price & availability subject to change without notice. Prices in MLS supersede prices listed herein. $500 realtor bonus for every SEDA home sold between 2/1/17-2/28/17. See agent for details.
1
NEFBA past presidents, members, guests and staff greet the new year with 2017 President Lee Arsenault and 2016 President Chet Skinner.
Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
30
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection
February 2017
Where are you on this month’s Spike list?
ALL-TIME BIG SPIKE 1,500+
John Cogdill Jr Cate McCauley
“Buddy” James
1,965
BLUE SPIKE 6-24.99
Doug Wenzel
1,450
GRAND SPIKE 1,000-1,499 STATESMAN SPIKE 500-999 Omar Farhat
905
SUPER SPIKE 250-499
Richard Dostie Bryan Lendry Carmel Morris Ray Inman Rita Williams Glenn Harrell Vicky Zelen Tony Raso Ron Coppenbarger Joan Pattison Bobby Walton Jonny Moore J.D. Collins
462.5 424 418.5 405 366 330 317.5 313.5 312.5 303 299 290 268.5
ROYAL SPIKE 150-249
Curtis Hart Marie Griffith William Cellar Rick Morales III Gregory Matovina Robert Porter Glenn Layton Richard Browdy Raymond Nasrallah Walter Williams
248.5 240 218 187.5 183 179.5 175 158.5 153.5 152
RED SPIKE 100-149.99
Dennis Ginder Hawley Smith Judy Hicks Andy Chambers R. Lamar Johnson Keith Ward Warren Powers
141.5 139 132 123 120.5 116 113
GREEN SPIKE 50-99 Sean Junker Bill Wilson Mark Downing Margaret Arrowsmith Jerry Agresti Elwood Collier Matt Devereaux Robert Marshall Jack Demetree Sr Barbara Moore Sandy Semanik Jon Lyon Lee Arsenault Gene Rover Maxine McBride Robert Anderson Jeffrey Brecko Deryl Patterson
98.5 96.5 91 86.5 80 79.5 72.50 67 66.00 65.75 64.5 60.5 58 55.5 55.5 52.5 51.5 51
LIFE SPIKE 25-49.99
Christopher Dostie Herbie Wiles Leed Silverfield Harlan Bost Theresa Swanson John Molyneaux Chet Skinner Gerry Boeneman Charlie Arnold Keith Graves Arnold Tritt Jr Ross McWilliams Lawrence Murr Dan Dekay Tom Trout III AJ Beson David Hacker Brad King Matt Carlton Tyrone Alexander Tom Dodson Fitzhugh Powell Nathan Day Steve Johnson Tobi McGuigan Edward Burr
49.5 47.5 45.5 44.75 44.75 43.5 43 43 42.5 41.5 41 41 38.5 36.5 36.25 36 34.75 33.5 31.5 31.5 29 28.5 28.5 28.5 28 27.5
Larry Wittmer Peter Steinmetz Joseph Blanco Michael Bourre James Lamoureux Daniel Blanchard Jerry Linder Jason Dugger Susan Beaugrand Lockwood Holmes Ron Harris Mike Lilly Katrina Hosea Tim Adkinson Bill Genovese Bill Lazar Crystal Coons Cole Slate Chris Shee Bruce Gartley Mike Atzert William Jackman Ryan Davis Nathan Moore Glenn Miller Deborah Anderson Chris Kinley Michael Munn Bill Lisecki Charles Jimerson Howard Sheffield Howard White Pud English Tim Deck Mike Bianchi Mike James Scott Kassel Denise Patricolo Fred King Justin Hart
27 26.75 24.75 23.5 22 22 21 19.75 19 16.5 16.5 15 14.25 14 13.5 13 13 12 11.5 11.5 11 10 10 9.5 9 9 9 8.5 8 8 7.5 7 7 7 7 7 6 6.5 6.5 6 6 6
SPIKE CANDIDATES 1-5.99 Denise Wallace Franchesca Swierz Harry Trevett Roger Day Christopher Iseley David Wakefield Jeff King Jim Doyle Joshua Garrison Linda Keith Mark McGuigan Sharon Davidson Patricia Kolosky Victoria Robbins Joseph Labrato Mitchell Montgomery Shawn Starr Trudy Clark Ross Fanti Amelia Sterling Chip May Dale Hewett David Edwards Gary Silverfield Kristi Wyndham Matthew Birdwell Mike Bianchi Andy Fremento Andy Reynolds Brian Paul Charles Atkerson Jr Jerry Dean Leonard Mcaneny Charles Smith Cheryl Graham Chris Cazzolli Chris Jonsson Chris Rusbuldt Donna Van Puymbrouck Henry Bachara Jr Herb Morris John Myers Lee Morris Sr Linda Hutchins Rodney Christensen Ronnie Fussell Timothy Whitehurst Victoria Ashcraft Beverly Smith
5.5 5.5 5.5 5.5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.5 4.25 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 3.5 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2.5
Cora Johnston Dan Gordon Gary Gray Jeff Ferguson John Long Ken Whyrick Nancy Love Naomi Lumley Patrick McManamon Rick Welch Seward Broussard Susan Landreth Tiffany Galione Bill Auclair Brian Register Chuck Horn David Hobbing Donald Ster Janie Ade Jody Phillips John Unkefer Julie Fernandez-Close Michael Osteen Mike Murphy Paul Axtell
Mary Holcombe NMLS#371871 (904) 403-6303
2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
Carrol Leonard NMLS#623238 (904) 303-0728
@NEFBAMembership
Nichole Smith NMLS#665295 (904) 316-5292
Holly Yelton NMLS#656722 (904) 302-0853
2 2 2 2 2 1.75 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.25 1.25 1.25 1 1
Burnie Burnsed NMLS#1012448 (904) 403-6304
Barry Darnell Brandy Agee Bruce Wehner Bruno Silva Carole Hendricks Cristian Moore Del Baggs Jay Hall Jerome Davis Jim Sumner John Griffin Jr Rob Kearney Steve Auld Tim Robinson W. Garrett Pepper Will Krieg Ricki Taylor Bill Oxley Christina Welch Dhen Bulatao Mike Sandifer Quinton Harris Reginaldo DaSilva Wendy Chandler
Wendy Moatz NMLS#623211 (904) 403-6314
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 0.75 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Shea Williams NMLS#30972 (904) 629-7176
We’ll pay up to
$5,000
of your client’s closing costs for purchase or refinance.
Ask us how.
We never forget that it’s your money.
SERVING ALL RESIDENTS OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA. Certain restrictions and limitations apply. All loans are subject to credit approval. No Closing Costs offer available only when obtaining a VyStar Credit Union First Mortgage Loan and is not available on VA, FHA & Reverse Mortgages. Available for purchase or refinance. VyStar will pay borrower closing costs up to a maximum amount of $5,000 excluding origination fee, discount points, private mortgage insurance, prepaid interest or funds to establish the member’s escrow account. If the borrower pays off the mortgage within the first 36 months, they will be required to reimburse VyStar for a portion of the closing costs paid by VyStar. Offer available for a limited time and subject to change without notice.
SOME TITLES REQUIRE LONG HOURS OF BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS.
OURS DON’T.
VyStar Title Agency* knows that closings can be exhausting. So, whether you’re a buyer, broker, Realtor, or lender, we’ll be there step-by-step to help make the process as fast and painless as possible. You’ll get the personal attention you deserve from the moment the file is opened until the last document is signed and delivered. Rely on VyStar Title Agency for precise, prompt, and professional service until you cross the finish line.
About NEFBA
The Northeast Florida Builders Association provides industry-wide representation to strengthen and foster the continued growth of construction trades and services in Northeast Florida. Serving the region since 1944, NEFBA is an affiliate of the Florida Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders. Builder News is a newsletter for and about NEFBA members and industry issues at local, state and national levels. The newsletter is published and distributed monthly by Daily Record & Observer, LLC in Realty-Builder Connection. For membership information or to contact NEFBA, call (904) 725-4355. Follow us on:
Scott McLaughlin Seymoine Schmidt Steve Grigsby Todd Willis William Powell Rose Bock Barbara Moore Chuck Powell Dale Crisp Donna Bavier Ian MacDonald John Ruggeri Joseph Pellegrino Katrina Watkins Mark Knowles Michael Lenahen Randall Smitty Smith Raymond O’Steen Robert Weeks Veronica Della Porta Jim McDade Ken Mccauley Linda Sherrer Andy Allen Angie Michalak
phone: 904-908-2874 • fax: 904-908-2873 • vystarcu.org *VyStar Title Agency, a division of VyStar Financial Group, LLC is a subsidiary of VyStar Credit Union and an agent of First American Title Insurance Company, which is a registered service mark of The First American Financial Corporation, its parent company.
bit.ly/FacebookNEFBA
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Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection
February 2017
31
Government advocacy update duval
NEFBA’s Government Affairs Committee: The next Government Affairs meeting is 8:30 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 23, at the NEFBA offices (103 Century 21 Drive, Suite 100). Atlantic Beach: The city of Atlantic Beach has seen several major changes to its staff recently with the departure of City Planner Andrew DeCandis and City Manager Nelson Van Liere. Atlantic Beach also is without a police chief, after the former chief took a job with Winter Park. Duval County issues: Jessie Spradley, JSpradley@nefba.com and (904) 725-4355
NEFBA special interest councils
Sales & Marketing Council Director/Nassau Builders Council/E-Council Palmer Kuder Palmer@nefba.com and (904) 725-4355
clay
Comprehensive plan review: Clay County is reviewing the county’s 2025 Comprehensive Plan to update it for the next 25 years. Public input is being sought through an online survey and a series of public meetings. The survey and meeting locations can be found at claycountygov.com.
Baker County issues: Jessie Spradley, JSpradley@nefba.com and (904) 725-4355
baker
CHacker@nefba.com and (904) 725-4355
Builders Council: Jessie Spradley, JSpradley@nefba.com and (904) 725-4355
. Johns St
School Choice: St. Johns County has begun to prepare for out-of-county student applications thanks to last year’s HB 7029 School Choice bill. The bill was passed by the Florida Legislature with the intent of allowing students in Florida to attend any school of their choice. The application window begins Feb. 13 and continues through March 10, with separate lotteries for in- and out-of-county residents. Out-of-county applicants will be considered only if there are remaining seats after the in-county lottery. Builders Council: Leona Brown, sjbcouncil2@aol.com and (904) 725-4355
Events Coordinator/ Remodelers Council/ Education Corey Hacker
Member Services Director Hans Krieg Urban density: The Fernandina Beach City Commission approved a density increase for the Central Business District on first reading with a unanimous vote. After months of study by city staff, a recommendation from the Planning Advisory Board and public input, commissioners voted to approve Ordinance 2017-2, a comprehensive plan amendment to increase downtown residential density from eight dwelling units per acre to 34 units per acre. The ordinance will be submitted to the state for comment and approval.
nassau
HKrieg@nefba.com and (904) 725-4355
Governmental Affairs Director/Clay Builders Council/Young Professionals Jessie Spradley JSpradley@nefba.com and (904) 725-4355
Builders Council: Palmer Kuder, Palmer@nefba.com and (904) 725-4355
BUILDING COMMUNITIES WITH 30 YEARS OF ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE
AVAILABLE SOLUTIONS DAY TO DAY COMMUNITY OVERSIGHT Common areas, landscaping, amenity centers, maintenance and compliance administration
ACCOUNTING Billing, budgets, collections, accounts receivable and general accounting
VENDOR MANAGEMENT Procurement, bid selection and contract management
CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS Community development, landscape design and management
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW SOLUTIONS Consistent aesthetics aimed at maintaining home values
SERVICING ALL AREAS OF NORTHEAST FLORIDA
Duval – St. Johns – Clay – Nassau & Flagler Counties Call 904.273.9832 Email sales@mayresort.com Visit our website www.MAYMGT.com
MAY MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC. EST. 1988
Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection
32
February 2017
Area maintained growth trend in December
The end of 2016 continued its growth trend in the Northeast Florida housing market since 2009, when the total permits issued was 3,256. With 7,906 permits issued in 2016, the local industry demonstrated a steady increase last year. Totals for 2014 and 2015 were 6,076 and 6,725, respectively. Builder and consumer confidence are on the rise and forecasts of sustainable growth bode well, while keeping in mind factors that may affect growth this year, such as the recent increase in interest rates and the ongoing shortage of skilled construction labor. 120 90
C lay C ounty permits 2015-2016 64
60 30
114
89
103
96
93
90
90 66
41
70
57
66
104
90 45
68
2015
92
76
66
63
54
48
44
2016
0 J an
400 300
Mar
Apr
May
J un
J ul
Aug
S ep
O ct
Nov
Dec
193
237 142
251 184
208 178
255 187
236 207
Aug
S ep
O ct
Nov
Dec
97
92
Duval C ounty permits 2015-2016 214
200 100
F eb
269 132
161
244
227
214
224
324
273
267 202
2015 2016
153
0 J an
160
F eb
Mar
Apr
122 51
40 0
38 J an
400 300
64 62 F eb
J ul
82
79
50
52
2015
115 56
Mar
Apr
279
306
262
289
77
78
May
J un
J ul
Aug
323
321
328
354
170 222
177
145
J an
F eb
216
170
2016
72 45
327
292
77
51
46
S t. J ohns C ounty permits 2015-2016
200 100
J un
Nas s au C ounty permits 2015-2016
120 80
May
67
64
58
S ep
O ct
Nov
35 Dec
255
258
216
243
254
243
191
188
Nov
Dec
2015 2016
0
900 750
Mar
Apr
Total permits 2015-2016 751 645
572
741
May
J un
804
788
J ul
689
Aug
S ep
751
O ct
2015
677
622
567
529
564
523
523
J an F eb Mar Apr May J un J ul Aug S ep O ct *The NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index is strictly the product of NAHB Economics and is not seen or influenced by any outside party prior to being released to the public. HMI tables can be found at nahb.org/hmi. More information on housing statistics also is available at housingeconomics.com.
Nov
600 450 300
407 453
737
498 539
516
Earn Up To
6%
*
On Select Quick Move-In Homes!
LEGACY TRAIL AT WORLD GOLF VILLAGE
6%*
(3% Commission PLUS 3% Bonus!)
SUMMERVALE
KING & BEAR AT WORLD GOLF VILLAGE
LAS
T HO
ME!
GRAND ARBOR
Lot 5 / 4 Bed plus Bonus / 4.5 Bath / 3 Car plus Cart 4,118 Sq. Ft.+ / MLS# 165686
Gourmet Kitchen, Granite Counters, Plumbed for Summer Kitchen
Heavily Upgraded Former Model Home - Too Much To List!
$333,269** SALE PRICE $314,990**
$947,002** SALE PRICE $799,990**
Coastal Themed Architecture with Stunning Golf Course Views! Call (904) 417-0939 for details or to make an appointment.
North Florida’s Premier Master Planned Golf Community! Call (904) 417-0939 for details or to make an appointment.
ISLE OF PALENCIA
Please visit us online at www.emeraldhomes.com/nfl for more information!
*3%, 4% (3% commission plus 1% bonus), 5% (3% commission plus 2% bonus) & 6% (3% commission plus 3% bonus) available on select inventory homes only in Emerald Homes North Florida communities. Offer valid for new buyers only on new contracts written on 1/1/17 through 02/28/17 and must close. Total commission paid is subject to limitations, if any, on total broker compensation imposed by homebuyer’s lender. Real estate agent must be present on first visit. Total commission/bonus earned and paid at closing. See a sales representative for a complete listing of qualifying homes. **Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. See your new home consultant for details. +All square foot dimensions are approximate. Photographs, pictures, elevations, features, sizes and colors are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. CBC058997 ©2017 Emerald Homes, Inc. All rights reserved. JAN 2017
3%*
Dec Source: Permit data provided by Wolfe Jackson, The Resource Group LLC
Lot 21 / 3 Bed / 2.5 Bath / 2 Car 1,861 Sq. Ft.+ / MLS# 812995 / 163076
4%*
a D.R. Horton Company
606
592
536
2016
MAHOGANY
4%*
ISTORIA
LAS
T HO
ME!
GRAND CAYMAN
Lot 44 / 3 Bed / 3.5 Bath / 3 Car 2,828 Sq. Ft.+ / MLS# 788098 / 158136
Lot 2 / 4 Bed / 3 Bath / 2 Car 3,080 Sq. Ft.+ / MLS# 805849 / 160669
Granite & Quartz Countertops, Paver Driveway & Lanai!
Heavily Upgraded Former Model Home - Too Much To List!
$495,626** SALE PRICE $489,990**
$582,553* SALE PRICE $509,990**
Beautiful Marsh Front Home Sites Overlooking The Intracoastal Call (904) 679-4676 for details or to make an appointment.
Secluded Community in Natural Setting minutes from Historic St. Augustine Call (904) 417-0939 for details or to make an appointment.
5%*
AMELIA RIVERWALK CLARE
Lot 78 / 5 Bed / 4 Bath / 3 Car 3,161 Sq. Ft.+ / MLS# 70105 / 860074
New Model Home
NOW OPEN!
Heavily Upgraded Former Model Home - Too Much To List!
$462,863* SALE PRICE $429,990** Gated community in a natural setting overlooking the Amelia River & Marshfront Call (904) 310-9033 for details or to make an appointment.
Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection
February 2017
33
2017 NEFBA board, council and committee members Board of directors Mike Atzert Sherwin Williams Paint
9th Annual SJBC Fishing Tournament Northeast Florida Marlin Assoc. Camachee Cove
Wells Fargo Bank
A.J. Beson Beson4
Joe Blanco ICI Homes
Carrie Budds
Awards
iMortgage
Matt Carlton
FISH CATEGORIES (ANGLER COMPETITION)
Carlton Construction
Redfish, Sea Trout & Flounder $1000 Each 1st Place $500 Each 2nd Place
Trudy Clark TECO Peoples Gas
Roger Cortie
$250 Each 3rd Place
TRIPLE CHALLENGE
Susan Beaugrand
HabiJax
(BOAT COMPETITION)
Ryan Davis
Heaviest total weight of one of each fish in above categories wins
1st Place - $1500
CornerStone Homes
2nd Place - $1000
Nathan Day H. Smith Development
3rd Place - $500
Tim Deck
YOUTH DIVISION—14 YRS AND UNDER
Call or email to reserve your spot asap, they go fast!
FISH CATEGORIES
Matt Devereaux Lennar Homes
(If captain is under 18, Parent must sign release/waiver)
Redfish, Sea Trout & Flounder $200 Each 1st Place $125 Each 2nd Place
Keith Donnely David Weekley Homes
Jason Dugger
$75 Each 3rd Place
Scapes of North Florida
Donate your Promotional Items! Captains Bags Items for Captains Bags Prizes for Raffle
REDFISH WITH MOST SPOTS—$550 All awards are based on entries and Sponsorship participation
Contact Leona Brown if you would like to provide any of the above. 904-540-8151
Schedule of Ev ents CAPTAINS MEETING AT NORTHEAST FLORIDA MARLIN CLUBHOUSE (DOWNSTAIRS) CAMACHEE COVE FRIDAY, APRIL 21ST 2017
First Coast Supply
Entry Fee: $250 per boat
6-8 P.M.
Captain’s can launch their boat from anywhere but fish to be weighed in must be brought to the NEFMA clubhouse by boat.
For more information please contact Leona Brown at SJBC 904-540-8151 sjbcouncil2@aol.com. To download boat registration or sponsor form Visit www.stjohnsbuilderscouncil.com
Jeff Ferguson
John Griffin American Electric Co.
David Hacker Construction Specialties of North Florida
Chris Hagan
H. Smith Development Harris Realty
Curtis Hart Hart Resources
Peter Helton LMH Solutions
Charlie Jimerson Jimerson & Cobb
Sean Junker Providence Homes
Brad King iMortgage
Todd Knowles Quick Tie Products
Trish Kolosky Kirk’s Framing
Howard Sheffield Sheffield and Boatright
Leed Silverfield Silverfield Development
Cole Slate Exit Realty
Pete Steinmetz Turner Pest Control
Ben Stephens
EverBank Mortgage
Bobby Walton Insuramerica of Florida
Doug Wenzel Bonded Builders Home Warranty
Bill Wilson Bill Wilson Inspections
Larry Wittmer Woodsman Kitchen & Floors
Chris Wood Riverside Homes
Patrick Zalupski Dream Finders Homes
Second vice president: Harlan Bost, Florida Custom Marble Third vice resident: Gene Rover, B&G Plumbing/B&G Heating & AirConditioning Training vice president: Keith Ward, Thomas May Construction Secretary/treasurer: Jerry Dean, Vintage Estates Homes Immediate past president: Chet Skinner, Skinner Bros. Realty Executive officer: Corey Deal, Northeast Florida Builders Association
Council and committee chairs Apprenticeship Executive Committee: Keith Ward, Thomas May Construction Builders Care Executive Committee: Gene Rover, B&G Plumbing/ B&G Heating & Air-Conditioning Codes & Standards Committee: Jerry Dean, Vintage Estates Homes Government Affairs Committee: Nathan Day, H. Smith Development
Doug Maier
Political Action Committee: Curtis Hart, Hart Resources
Lenny McAneny
Professional Women in Building Council: Toria Hale, H. Smith Development
Maier Development Solutions McAneny Builders
Jim McDade Tidewater Homes
Ross McWilliams Fidelity Bank
Steve Merten Toll Brothers
Michael Mitchell
Servpro of Mandarin, Beaches/ Ponte Vedra, St. Augustine
Michael O’Steen The Parc Group
For more information, contact us: (904) 861-2547 www.ashleyhomesjax.com
MasterCraft Builders
First vice president: Chris Dostie, Dostie Homes
Lumber Unlimited
Linda Hutchins
Call us or stop by our Inventory Home MLS #830340
Chris Shee
Kip Gleckler
HW Contracting
Located: 14501 San Pablo Road North • Hours: Saturday 10-5 Sunday 1-5 Monday 10-5
D.S. Ware
President: Lee Arsenault, New Leaf Construction
Aldea at San Pablo
Model Grand Opening March 2017
Tony Raso
Miranda Contracting
Ron Harris
Priced in the $300’s
D.R. Horton
Executive committee
Toria Hale
• 3 out of a total of 11 new homesites boast intracoastal marsh views • Left side of this new street backs up to Castaway Park and a gorgeous, natural preserve • Luxurious appointments and outstanding construction make Aldea an ideal choice for you and your family
Bob Porter
Josh Garrison
New Community! Now Selling!
• Located 3 miles from the ocean • Steps from the intracoastal waterway • Blocks from Beach Blvd. • This location and brand new street is a unique addition to San Pablo Road • Old oaks and new construction blend to create a coveted new home community in an established area of Jacksonville Beach
Housing Design Matters
Drees Homes
Republic Services
We are currently offering a pre-construction incentive of $15,000 in free upgrades.
Deryl Patterson
Remodelers Council: Peter Helton, HW Contracting Young Professionals Group: Cole Slate, Exit Realty Clay Builders Council: Jeff Ferguson, Drees Homes Nassau Builders Council: Ben Stephens, EverBank Mortgage St. Johns Builders Council: Sean Junker, Providence Homes
Did You Make the Headlines? Customized article reprints and photo releases.
CRC# 1330797
Call (904) 356-2466 for a quote.
Builder News N o r t h e a s t F l o r i d a B u i l d e r s a s s o c i at i o N
34
A publication of Realty-Builder Connection
February 2017
NEFBA installs Arsenault, honors members
Lee Arsenault, center, accepts the symbolic “claw hammer” from Jerry Linder as Arsenault is sworn in as president of the Northeast Florida Builders Association. At left is Arsenault’s wife, Diane. Linder was NEFBA president in 2006.
Rick Morales, 2015 NEFBA president, presented the Good Government Award to state Sen. Travis Hudson.
NEFBA Executive Officer Corey Deal at the ceremony, which was held at the Adam W. Herbert University Center at the University of North Florida. Katrina Watkins, Melissa Matthews, Judy Hicks and Tiffany Meyer enjoyed catching up over breakfast before the program began.
Photos by Bobby King
Curtis Hart, a past president of NEFBA, received the Arnold Tritt Achievement Award.
AJ Beson, left, of Beson4 Media, received the Spike Award from NEFBA board member Doug Wenzel. The award is given to the person who displayed a commitment to growing the association by recruiting the most members.
When Time and Urgency Matter Most It’s Time for the Masters We Deliver Accuracy and Urgency During Every Transaction Putting the Needs of the Clients First • TRID/ALTA Compliance, Staff Attorney, Legal Guidance • Direct Line Of Communication, Urgent Customer Response NEFAR/ WCR • Mobile and On Site Closings – Your Clients Affiliate Closing Their Terms d • Serving Realtors, Buyers, Sellers, Mortgage Lenders and Builders • Title & Escrow Services with Low and Reasonable Fees
904.371.3313 Former NEFBA President Glenn Layton served as master of ceremonies for the event.
10151 Deerwood Park Blvd. Building 200 Suite 250 Jacksonville, FL 32256
Critical When Time is ERS ST CALL MA
realty-builder.com
February 2017
35
Enjoy outdoor Living PErsonaLizEd For you
TrailMark is a new secluded community in St. Johns County with 1,300 acres of natural beauty, exceptional amenities and distinctive homes. A thoughtfully planned community with so much to offer. Take a scenic stroll through preserved oak hammocks, discover the winding waterways, or relax by the pool overlooking the sparkling community lake. Enjoy all nature has to offer with winding cycling and walking trails and kayak launches.
Andrea Johnson | Ph: 904.567.3430 | Cell: 904.813.9783 | andreaj@Landon-Homes.net ADAMS LAKE
Jacksonville Homes from the $150s 904.900.3499
CEDAR POINT
Saint Johns Homes from the $300s 904.710.3636 or 904.716.1872
KENDALL CREEK
Saint Johns Homes from the high $200s 904.679.4787
ARBOR MILL
COQUINA RIDGE
MAKARIOS
ASHFORD LAKES ESTATE AT HUNTERS RIDGE
CORONADO
MARSH LANDING
St. Augustine Homes from the $260s 904.217.7439
Ormond Beach Homes from the $300s 386.265.0686
BEACH HAVEN Flagler Beach Homes from the $300s 386.225.4516
CRC1326780
St. Augustine Homes from the $240s 904.679.4787 St. Augustine Homes from the $280s 904.900.0798
DEER CHASE
St. Augustine Homes from the $200s 904.900.0798
Coming Soon St. Augustine Beach 904.567.3430 Ponte Vedra Beach 904.606.3550
MOSES CREEK ESTATES St. Augustine Homes from the $270s 904.217.7402
PRAIRIE LAKES St. Augustine Homes from the $200s 904.460.2177
BUILD ON YOUR OWN LOT 904.606.3550
RIVERTOWN
Saint Johns Homes from the $250s 904.679.4343
TRAILMARK
St. Augustine Homes from the $200s 904.679.5191
TREATY OAKS Coming Soon St. Augustine 904.567.3430
No CDD Fees on alley load homes
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Homes from the $245s to $710s+ in the Jacksonville area 904-416-0041
See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2016 David Weekley Homes - All Rights Reserved. CBC1257289 Weekley Homes, LLC. Jacksonville, FL (JACA83728)
As we celebrate our own blessings from the past year, we would like to express our gratitude for all of your hard work. We appreciate all that you do for David Weekley Homes and hope that you have a wonderful holiday season and a healthy New Year!
That’s why we stake our reputation on helping you enhance yours. Selling a new David Weekley home to your Clients means more than simply giving a family a place to live. It means providing a rewarding home building journey and creating an inspiring space where their dreams can come true. That’s how reputations are built – one exceptional experience at a time – and it’s why we make our Team a seamless extension of yours. That’s The Weekley Way!
When it comes to selling homes, your name matters.
New homes from the $245s
Building on your reputation
Page 14
Rookie Realtors learn early on how to get listings against tough competition
Page 17
Jane Bracken of ERA Davis & Linn left insurance career to sell real estate and is consistently one of the area’ s top agents
Page 26
New NEFBA President Lee Arsenault says growth of association is tied to members working together
Page 1
William Watson’ s daughter had to prove herself before joining firm
Earning spot in family business
February 2017