Feeling Empowered
In celebration of Women’s History Month, STAR hosted the sold-out EmpowerHER Masterclass Brunch this March at our Pinellas office. The event brought together a vibrant group of attendees for an inspiring morning filled with empowering conversations, meaningful connections, and a dynamic keynote from the incredible Dr. Jennifer Keitt. See more photos on page 14.
SUNCOAST TAMPA REALTOR®
Volume 1 | Issue 2 tamparealtors.org/magazine
813.879.7010 | 727.347.7655
2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Co-Presidents: Adam Grenville & Tom Steck
Co-President-elects:Tina Marie Eloian & Corina Silva
Co-Vice Presidents: Keianna Carty & Mark Middleton
Co-Secretaries: Jennie Restrepo & Tahisia Scantling
Co-Treasurers: Lea Lagueux & Linda Wilson
Co-Immediate Past Presidents: Jay Quigley & Michael Wyckoff
Co-CEOs: David Bennett & Jason Outman
2025 DIRECTORS
Sheila Calistri, Ollie Green, Stephanie Joines, Candice Kelly, Megan Lacombe, Sharonda Lawrence, Chrissy Nieves, Melanie Norris, Elaine Pumarejo, Xina Rim, Katherine Sakkis, Tom Scaglione, James Schanz, Marcus Scott, Phillip Wade, Mollyana Ward, Sandy Waterbury, Michael Webb
EDITOR/DESIGNER
A.J. Hlavac, Design Mgr. ASSISTANT EDITORS
Kim Simmons, VP of Communications
Parker Lewis, Dir. of Marketing & Communications
Kimberly Chin, Marketing & Communications Mgr. ASSISTANT DESIGNER
Odessa Conner, Graphic Designer
STAR represents over 24,000 REALTORS® in the Tampa Bay area, empowering real estate professionals through advocacy, innovation, and valuable growth opportunities, while strengthening communities and shaping the future of real estate across the region. For more information, please visit tamparealtors.org or pinellasrealtor.org.
REPRODUCTION
Suncoast Tampa REALTOR® magazine is published quarterly for members of STAR in the interest of informing, promoting, and improving the real estate industry. With the exception of articles and materials from other publications reprinted in this magazine, members of STAR are hereby authorized to reproduce articles appearing in this publication, provided each such reproduction gives the following credit: Reprinted from the Suncoast Tampa REALTOR® magazine, Suncoast Tampa Association of REALTORS®.
ADVERTISING INFORMATION
For advertising information/sales, please contact partnerships@suncoasttamparealtors.org or 813.879.7010. All advertising is subject to the approval of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officers.
Register for classes
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Leading Through Change and Challenge
As your Co-President, I am delighted to share some insights with you that I believe are vital not only for our professional growth but also for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of real estate.
“The law of the harvest” - a timeless principle that applies beautifully to our professional field. The law is simple: you reap what you sow. In real estate, much like farming, there are seasons of planting and seasons of harvesting. For various reasons, we find ourselves in difficult times, and it’s during these times that our resilience and foresight are truly tested. Imagine a farmer looking out at a barren field. It’s tempting to throw in the towel, but they know better. They understand that the seeds they plant today, even in the toughest conditions, will sprout when the rains come. It’s this long-term vision, this faith in future growth, that guides their actions.
largest REALTOR® association in the U.S.? WE are ALL farmers!
Sometimes you can’t tell by the temperatures outside,
I hope you are aware of the important updates to the Clear Cooperation Policy announced by NAR in March. For all the details, check out page 37.
Occasionally, we must remind ourselves about where we live. There are plenty of folks who drive hundreds of miles to get here, or who wedge themselves into the tiny seats on airplanes and then play “Guess the Gate” during layovers on the way here. We are a “destination” and sometimes we get so busy we forget that! At the risk of giving some brokers heartburn, take a slow afternoon and sneak off to play tourist and remind yourself what it is like for folks visiting here. Go to the beach during the week, when you can find a parking space and a couple of yards of sand and even stay and watch the sunset. Go online and search for festivals celebrating just about everything from your
For years St. Pete held the “Festival of States” towards the end of spring. (The date was set purposely to keep the snowbirds and their wallets from going back
We must constantly be planting seeds. This means building relationships, nurturing leads, investing in our education, and staying engaged with our community.
The moral of the story? Don’t wait for the perfect conditions to start planting. The seeds you sow during difficult times are the ones that will yield the greatest rewards. When the rains arrive, you’ll be ready. Plant the seeds now, in the dusty field, because it will be too late if you wait for the rain.
Let’s remember the law of the harvest and embrace the planting season with enthusiasm and optimism. Together, we can cultivate a thriving real estate community, ready to reap the rewards of our hard work and dedication. Let’s keep planting those seeds!
Adam Grenville left 2025 Co-President of STAR
home early!) Or simply stop by that beautiful local park that you drive by every day at the speed of light on the way to work. Find a bench and force yourself to sit still and let your mind unscrew itself.
Bonus – doing these things gives you a host of new suggestions for when you are talking to your next client about how wonderful it is to live here in Tampa Bay!
Tom Steck right 2025 Co-President of STAR
ASSOCIATION NAME
In Case You Missed It: We Have a New Name
NOW INTRODUCING: SUNCOAST TAMPA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® — OR STAR.
This change reflects the vibrant communities we serve and brings fresh energy to our mission and identity. While our full brand roll out is still in development, you’ve likely already seen the new name in action and we encourage you to start using it, too For now, we’re using a temporary logo (seen on this page). Please note: this is not our official logo. Later this year, we’ll unveil our full visual identity, including a fresh logo, updated colors, and more. We can’t wait to share it with you.
Your MLS Local Service Center ID (“TB”) remains the same, and our social media channels will soon reflect our new name as well.
We’re proud to embrace this exciting new chapter and we’re glad you’re part of it. Here’s to a bright future with STAR!
PHOTO BY ADAM GRENVILLE VIA FACEBOOK
PHOTO BY MOLLYANA WARD VIA FACEBOOK
Drive Your Benefits Further
NISSAN OF CLEARWATER
We’ve partnered with Nissan of Clearwater to provide our REALTOR® members with an exceptional, cost-saving vehicle purchasing experience. Enjoy unbeatable fleet discounts, a 100% pressure-free transaction, and no hidden market adjustment fees. The program also includes a concierge sales process, exclusive discounts on all services and maintenance at Nissan of Clearwater, a lifetime power train warranty, and more, ensuring long-term value and support.
• GET ACCESS: Contact Vince Smith at 727-204-2401 or vsmith@nissanofclearwater.com
PARTPAL
PartPal is your vehicle’s best friend — a personalized car care solution that connects members with trusted auto service providers while offering exclusive benefits and savings. Through this partnership, members gain access to premium services not available to the public.
• GET ACCESS: thepartpal.com/pages/star-login
BENEFITS
Check out even more travel benefits including Avis, Budget, and Hertz rentals, and your full list of member benefits by scanning the QR code or visiting tamparealtors.org/memberbenefits
POWER BRIEFING
A quarterly meeting with Representative Kathy Castor was organized by member Jack Rodriguez, her Federal Political Coordinator (FPC). The first one brought together members of the Government Affairs Committee and RPAC Major Investors. Representative Castor shared updates on her current legislative initiatives in Congress, followed by an open discussion on the state of the real estate market within her Congressional District. It was a valuable opportunity to engage with a key decision-maker on the issues that matter most to our industry.
Tina Darling Founder/CEO
LOCAL LEADERS
At the Florida REALTORS® Mid-Winter Meeting, Mindy Rovillo was elected as the 2025 Treasurer of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Florida, and Katherine Sakkis was elected as Vice President.
SUBMIT YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENT
Scan or visit bit.ly/starshoutouts
GRAPHIC DESIGN
LOGOS & BRANDING
POSTCARDS / DIRECT MAIL
PRINTING SERVICES
WEBSITE DESIGN
SOCIAL MEDIA
BROCHURES / FLYERS
REALTOR ® EBLASTS
BUSINESS CARDS
RACK CARDS
PROMOTIONAL ITEMS
APPAREL
BANNERS
SIGNAGE
TRADE SHOW PRODUCTS & MUCH MORE!
Hitting a High Note for Advocacy
RPAC X YPN DARE-OKE
STAR’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) hosted RPAC + YPN Dare-Oke— a high-energy night of karaoke, networking, and REALTOR® Party spirit in support of the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC). The twist? Without a “Get Out of Dare-Oke” wristband, attendees could be dared to sing, unless they opted out with a donation. Every performance raised funds and awareness for RPAC. With music by DJ Vega, photo booth, and a lively crowd, the night proved that advocacy can be fun, impactful, and a little bit daring.
PHOTOS BY ODESSA CONNER
Become a Star in Tampa's Real Estate Market on ABC TV!
"Our listings and brand have gained incredible exposure through Tampa’s Real Estate Essentials! The increased visibility has attracted more buyers and showcased each property's best features This platform has truly amplified our marketing efforts, and we couldn’t be more pleased!"
-Quenton & Vanesha Richardson from The Florida Lux Group
Tampa’s Real Estate Essentials is new to Florida, and we're here to help you get your listings on TV! We film your properties and air them locally on ABC Action News every Sunday at 5:30pm, right before the 6pm evening news.
As a REALTOR®, you know that credibility and exposure are key to standing out. Our show gives you a powerful tool to:
Add massive value to your listing presentations
Build your social media following Find buyers to double side deals
Build trust and credibility with potential clients
Get massive exposure for your properties on ABC and Hulu+Live.
Check out Tampa’s Real Estate Essentials on ABC and Hulu+Live. You can also explore our sister shows in Utah and Arizona for inspiration!
Want to become a real estate TV personality? Call (813) 787 3820
Find out more about Tampa’s Real Estate Essentials at Tamparealestateessentials.com
Tampa’s Real Estate Essentials x Suncoast Tampa Association of REALTORS®
In April, we joined Tampa Bay Real Estate Essentials to kick off our sponsorship of the show. REALTORS® from Hillsborough to Pasco to Pinellas gathered at Common Dialect Brewing to launch the new show.
The Tampa’s Real Estate Essentials TV show takes viewers inside some of the most stunning homes and vibrant neighborhoods across the Tampa Bay area. Tune in every
Sunday at 5:30 p.m. on ABC Action News and Hulu Live
The show features local REALTORS® (yes, our members!) leading exclusive tours of waterfront estates, historic gems, and hidden neighborhood treasures, showcasing the unique lifestyle that makes Tampa Bay a real estate dream.
EmpowerHer + Business and Beads
Earlier this year, STAR hosted EmpowerHER, a morning dedicated to inspiring conversations, meaningful networking, and personal growth. Attendees enjoyed complimentary headshots, a delicious brunch, and a dynamic keynote from the phenomenal Dr. Jennifer Keitt, leaving everyone energized and motivated.
We also kicked off our first affiliate expo of the year with Business & Beads, a lively Mardi Gras-themed
event filled with connections, giveaways, and community spirit. Proceeds supported four incredible organizations—Clothes to Kids, Brookwood Florida, Small But Mighty Heroes, and R2 Factor—highlighting our ongoing commitment to making a meaningful impact.
PHOTOS BY ODESSA CONNER & A.J. HLAVAC
NOC has teamed up with Suncoast Tampa Association of REALTORS® to offer a seamless, cost-saving vehicle purchasing experience tailored for licensed Realtor members. This initiative is designed to reward your hard work with elite savings, concierge-level service, and long term perks. For complete details please go to: www.nissanofclearwater.com/realtors
A Housing Needs Assessment
STAR partnered with Bowen National Research to produce 'A Housing Needs Assessment’ –a nearly 300 page report on the Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas area.
Why is this information important to our REALTOR® and Affiliate Business Partner members? As demographic and employment trends continue to evolve in the coming years, it is crucial for real estate professionals, developers, investors, residents, and other stakeholders to stay informed about current market conditions and anticipated changes that will shape future housing needs. The overall region is expected to add 63,234 (nearly 5% more) households over the next five years, contributing to the need for additional housing.
THE FULL REPORT
What’s in the report?
• An overview of the present-day 3-county area
• Past, current, and projected details on demographics
• Employment characteristics and trends
• Economic drivers impacting our area
• Characteristics of major housing components within the market
• Housing gap estimates by renter vs. owner, and by income segment
This report is a must-read for REALTORS®, developers, and policymakers shaping the future of housing in Tampa Bay. Scan to download.
DID YOU KNOW earning designations and certifications are a way to stand out to prospective buyers and sellers as a professional with expertise?
See our full professional development calendar by scanning above or visiting calendar. tamparealtors. org
Professional Development Opportunities
NAVIGATING REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS: INSIGHTS FROM INDUSTRY EXPERTS
May 29 | 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Pinellas - Brown & Kimpton Auditorium
Join us for a panel discussion with top experts in mortgage, title, insurance, and home inspection, offering key insights to help agents and buyers navigate real estate transactions smoothly.
CLARIFYING SERVICE ANIMALS
(3CE)
June 13 | 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Tampa - Computer Learning Lab
Have you had tenants or buyers run into no-pet policies—whether renting, buying a condo, or staying short-term? If not yet, chances are you will. Take this class to be prepared.
HOME FINANCE RESOURCE (HFR)
(6CE)
NAR Certification
June 17 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Pinellas - Brown & Kimpton Auditorium
Learn how to guide buyers through mortgage preapproval with a document checklist, explore credit resources and financing options, and avoid common mortgage pitfalls.
SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST (SRES) (8CE)
NAR Designation
July 17 & 18 | 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tampa - Auditorium
The two-day SRES® course teaches REALTORS® how to ethically and effectively serve clients aged 50+, while gaining valuable tools, resources, and networking opportunities.
REAL ESTATE NEGOTIATION EXPERT (RENE) (7CE)
NAR Certification
July 25 & 26 | 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Pinellas - Suncoast Room
The 2-day RENE course is perfect for those who want to sharpen their negotiation skills and take them to the next level. You’ll learn how to handle a wide range of personalities and situations, how to deal with behind-the-scenes issues, and more.
Unlocking Homeownership:
Navigating Florida’s Legal Landscape by
Barbara Brown, Esq.
Homeownership in Florida comes with legal responsibilities and considerations that protect both clients and their investments. As REALTORS®, understanding title insurance, property rights, deeds, and inheritance issues helps you better support your clients and avoid potential pitfalls.
Title Insurance
Title insurance protects buyers and lenders from legal issues tied to the property’s title. It ensures the title is clear of liens, encumbrances, or defects. While exceptions may apply—like encroachments or association claims—it provides peace of mind by covering legal expenses and potential losses in the event of a dispute.
Property Rights
Florida property owners have the right to use, rent, sell, or modify their property, subject to local zoning laws. Educating your clients about these rights helps prevent future legal complications.
Types of Deeds and Considerations
Florida recognizes several types of deeds, each with unique implications:
• Tenants by the Entireties: For married couples only, this deed offers protection from creditors, as property cannot be seized to satisfy one spouse’s debts without the other’s consent.
• Joint Tenants with Rights of Survivorship (JTWROS): Common among spouses and joint owners, this deed passes the property to the surviving owner(s) upon death. However, all owners must agree to sell or refinance, which can create issues if one party is uncooperative.
• Life Estate & Enhanced Life Estate (Lady Bird) Deeds: These deeds transfer property after the owner’s death while allowing them to retain control during their lifetime. Standard life estates require the consent of remaindermen to sell or refinance, while Lady Bird deeds offer more flexibility.
• Quit Claim Deeds: Often used in transfers between family members, these deeds offer no guarantees. They transfer only the grantor’s interest, if any, and provide no assurance of clear title, posing risks for the new owner.
Inheritance & Family-Owned Property
Family-owned properties can lead to legal challenges. Florida law allows heirs to claim adverse possession under strict conditions, including seven years of possession and proper tax payment. Land Trusts also provide an option for private, probate-free property transfers.
Being informed about these issues allows you to better advise their clients and guide them through complex transactions.
Law & Ethics Resources
FEBRUARY
FEBRUARY
TAMPA, ST. PETE, CLEARWATER MSA
SINGLE FAMILY STATS
See
TAMPA, ST. PETE, CLEARWATER MSA
MULTI-FAMILY STATS
Commemorate the Fair Housing Act—advocate for accountability, culture change and training.
Elevate your business, advance homeownership and expand opportunity.
Closing Doors on Discrimination, Opening Doors to Equality
21ST ANNUAL TAMPA BAY FAIR HOUSING SYMPOSIUM
This April, the Tampa Bay Fair Housing Consortium hosted its 21st Annual Fair Housing Symposium, bringing together housing professionals, legal experts, and advocates for a day of education, discussion, and inspiration. The event covered key topics like fair housing fundamentals, recent legal updates, fraud prevention, and the growing role of AI in housing. Attendees
also enjoyed a thought-provoking panel discussion and a showcase of student artwork highlighting the importance of equal access to housing.
Special thanks to our sponsors LMCU, Habitat for Humanity of Hillsborough County, Pinellas County Finance Authority, and Third Federal for making the event possible.
PHOTOS BY ODESSA CONNER
Moderator: Tim Baldwin Panelists: Kristie Storer and Margaret Jones
The Tampa Bay Fair Housing Consortium’s mission is to affirmatively further fair housing through quality fair housing education and outreach in all Tampa Bay communities and to celebrate the right of all persons to live in a strong, sustainable and inclusive community.
Brian Battaglia, Mayor Ken Welch, Councilperson Brandi Gabbard and County Commissioner René Flowers
1st Place Winner: Megan Galvin – “Behind the Door”
Megan Galvin, “Behind the Door” ; Milla Warren – “Alien Needs a Home Too ; Asijah Scott – “Homes for All”
Do You Know Today’s Homebuyers?
TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE WITH THIS FAIR HOUSING QUIZ
Dive into the latest stats about buyer demographics, household trends, and the evolving face of homeownership. From age and family status to race, ethnicity, and LGBTQ+ identity, see how much you know about the diverse buyers shaping today’s housing market.
1 5 2 6 3 7 8 4
__% of Asian/Pacific Islander and __% of Hispanic/Latino and Black/African American home buyers purchased multi-generational homes.
A. 3%; 9% B. 58%; 69% C. 26%; 22%
TRUE OR FALSE? The median first-time buyer age increased to 38 years old this year from 35 last year.
TRUE or FALSE
___ % of recent home buyers identified as gay or lesbian, while ___% as bisexual.
A. 3%; 2% B. 7%; 5% C. 13%; 10%
TRUE OR FALSE? Florida was not one of the top three states with the highest homeownership rates for Asian Americans in 2023.
TRUE or FALSE
____ % of recent buyers did not have a child under the age of 18 in their home. This is the highest share recorded.
A. 73% B. 30% C. 89%
The share of married couples increased to ___% of all buyers, while the share of single females slightly increased to ___%.
A. 62%; 20% B. 72%; 30% C. 83%; 40%
TRUE OR FALSE? The ages of home buyers reached all-time highs. The median buyer age increased to a peak of 56 years old, up from 49 last year.
TRUE or FALSE
Senior-related housing remained at __ % of buyers over the age of 60 in 2024.
A. 11% B. 19% C. 22%
FAIR HOUSING REQUIREMENT
REALTORS® stand apart from non-member agents in many ways, including required specialty training in the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. NAR recently added another required training - a minimum of 2 hours of Fair Housing/Anti-Bias instruction every 3 years. This current deadline is December 31, 2027. Good news - there are many options to fulfill this requirement. Here are two coming up:
BE THE CHANGE - FAIR HOUSING AND YOU (2CE) May 28 | 10 a.m. to noon | Virtual July 23 | 10 a.m. to noon | Pinellas
Wellness & Work-Life Balance
ESSENTIAL SELF-CARE TIPS FOR REALTORS®
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect on well-being and recognize the importance of mental health in both personal and professional life. Real estate is a fast-paced, high-pressure field that often comes with long hours, client demands, and constant connectivity. Maintaining a healthy work-life
STRESS MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
You may face constant pressure, but managing stress is essential for both mental and physical health. Here are some quick tips:
• Set Clear Boundaries: Stick to designated work hours and protect your downtime.
• Master Time Management: Use task lists or apps to stay focused and organized.
• Mindfulness: Take 5-minute breaks throughout the day to meditate, breathe deeply, and reset to focus and reduce anxiety.
• Seek Support: Connect with peers or mentors for guidance and encouragement.
FITNESS TIPS FOR BUSY AGENTS
Easy ways to stay active:
• Desk Stretches: Relieve tension with stretches for your neck, shoulders, and back, especially after long hours of sitting.
• Take Walks: Squeeze in short walks between appointments to refresh your mind and keep your body moving.
• Stretch Bands: Use resistance bands for a quick and effective strength workout—perfect for busy schedules.
FINDING BALANCE
balance isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential for longterm success. While May shines a spotlight on mental health, it’s something REALTORS® should prioritize all year long. Here are some practical tips to help manage stress, stay active, and make self-care a regular habit.
Staying balanced is key to avoiding burnout. Here are ways to prioritize self-care:
• Schedule Personal Time: Just as you would schedule meetings with clients, block off time for yourself. Treat it as non-negotiable.
• Prioritize Sleep: Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. It’s essential to stay sharp and energized throughout the day.
• Celebrate Wins: Acknowledge your success no matter how small – and celebrate them. This boosts motivation and keeps you feeling fulfilled. TIPS
Guiding Clients Through the Stress of Buying or Selling a Home
Buying or selling a home is a major milestone, often filled with uncertainty. As a REALTOR®, you can ease client stress by setting clear expectations, keeping them informed, and providing expert guidance.
Set Expectations & Communicate
Clearly explain each step of the process from the beginning. Provide a timeline, outline key milestones, and prepare clients for potential challenges. Keep them informed with regular updates, even when there’s no major news.”
Solve Problems & Provide Insights
Approach hurdles with solutions, reassuring clients that you have strategies in place. Share market
trends, comparable sales, and expert insights so clients can make informed decisions.
Offer Support & Reassurance
Acknowledge your clients’ concerns and offer Reassurance when they need it. Introduce them to trusted professionals like our Affiliate Business Partners to provide them with reliable support.
Celebrate Milestones:
Remind clients to appreciate key moments, submitting an offer, receiving an accepted contract, or closing on their home. Shifting focus to achievements reduces stress.
With a proactive approach, you can create a smooth, stress-free experience while building trust and lasting relationships.
community mental health resources
LEARN IT LEAD IT LIVE IT
Build practical leadership and personal development skills to better handle stress and challenges. These upcoming classes will help you grow with purpose.
RESILIENCE RESET: TURNING STRESS AND SELF-DOUBT INTO STRENGTH
May 27 | Virtual June 12 | Virtual
TURN SETBACKS INTO SUCCESS: RECLAIM YOUR CONFIDENCE AND REBUILD YOUR BUSINESS
May 29 | Pinellas
June 26 | Tampa
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN ACTION: MASTERING THE HUMAN SIDE OF REAL ESTATE
June 5 | Virtual
BODY LANGUAGE FOR REALTORS®: MASTERING COMMUNICATION THROUGH BEHAVIOR SCIENCE
Learn
Learn More: CareAboutMe.org
Learn More: CrisisCenter.com
June 10 | Pinellas
Hot on the Market
A GUIDE TO TAMPA BAY’S VIBRANT COMMUNITIES
Looking to market a home in one of Tampa Bay’s hottest neighborhoods? These top-selling communities in their respective counties offer a blend of charm, convenience, and sought-after amenities. Whether your clients are drawn to waterfront access or natural beauty, these neighborhoods are in high demand. Here’s what makes each one stand out.
Sun Bay South – Hillsborough County
AVERAGE VALUE: $523,06 | AVERAGE PRICE PER SQ. FT.: $348
This neighborhood offers a mix of rentals and singlefamily homes in styles like ranch, Spanish, and midcentury modern. There is also a 55+ community that appeals to military retirees, many nearby shopping options, and easy access to St. Petersburg via the Gandy Bridge.
Disston Heights – Pinellas County
AVERAGE PRICE: $376,066 | AVERAGE PRICE PER SQ. FT: $290
This quiet St. Petersburg neighborhood, popular with medical professionals, is near a hospital and public transportation. Homes range from mid-century ranches to modern bungalows, and is named after Hamilton Disston, who founded Disston City (now Gulfport). Just 6 miles from St. Pete Beach and 12 to downtown St. Pete, the area offers many recreational activities, small lakes, ponds, and parks.
Seven Springs – Pasco County
AVERAGE PRICE: $370,515 | AVERAGE PRICE PER SQ. FT.: $220
A historic community known for its natural beauty and golf club, Seven Springs is popular for both retirement and vacation homes and offers everything from condos to homes on acreage. It’s conveniently located near some of our area’s biggest cities. With its proximity to countless rec centers, camping, hiking trails, and preserves, it is a true representation of why this area of the state is referred to as the “Nature Coast.”
Source:
Kevin Byrne David Sigler
Kelly Lee McFrederick
Tina Marie Eloian
Linda Goldfarb
Brittany Livingston
Jay Quigley
Sonya Madden
Sandy Waterbury
Melanie Chadwell Norris Jacob Bruynell
Ellie Lambert
Darlene Sheets
Mike Wyckoff
Barbara Jordan Mary McCall
Ollie Green
Paul Hendricks Candice Kelly
John Ricker
HALL
$1,000 INVESTMENT
PRESIDENT'S CIRCLE INVESTORS WHO CONTRIBUTED $2,000 OR MORE DIRECTLY TO REALTOR®-FRIENDLY CANDIDATES.
YPN PLEDGE INVESTORS WHO COMPLETED THE YPN PLEDGE - CONTRIBUTING $10,000 OVER 10 YEARS.
RPAC HALL OF FAME
This frame designates members of the RPAC Hall of Fame with an aggregate lifetime investment of $25,000 or more.
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE
This icon designates an influential group of REALTORS® who contribute $2,000 or more directly to REALTOR®-friendly candidates.
Ruth Bryson Marlene Cambronero
Elena Chinea Ivani Mari Colgan
Diane Acken
Alma Alexander
Kim Barker Alberto Baalbaki Vince Arcuri
Shane Barker Marie Betlow
Scott Teal Mollyana Ward Jason Will
Linda Wilson
Cyndee Haydon Frank Gregoire
Fred Hintenberger
Barbara Jordan Kent Rodahaver Mark Middleton
Mark Middleton
David Bennett
David Bennett
Jo Easton
Maria Elena D’Amico Tina Darling Andrew Dougill
Brandi Gabbard Patricia Gaskin Adam Grenville
Angela Emerson Sammy Haji Manuela Hendrickson Yolanda Hodges
Kathleen Razzano
Anand Patel Elaine Pumarejo
Cassandra McSherry Lea Lagueux
Millie Jackson Jason Outman Travis Norton Brad Monroe Aimee Millan
Corina Silva Tom Steck Tim Snelgrove Grace Smith Tom Shelly
Katherine Sakkis Kent Rodahaver Marcus Scott Stephanie See Quan Remmer Brenda Rider
Stephanie See
Brandi Gabbard
Great American REALTOR® Days
TALLAHASSEE, FL
This year’s GARD was an incredible success, with over 1,000 REALTORS® making their voices heard at the Florida Capitol. They advocated for key issues that impact Florida’s real estate market, and this year’s event was particularly impactful for the association.
Throughout the day, STAR leadership and REALTOR® key contacts engaged in a total of 18 meetings with legislative offices. These discussions were crucial in advocating for issues like attainable workforce housing, property insurance reforms, condo safety, and much more. When REALTORS® speak, legislators listen, and our presence will positively affect the future of real estate policy in Florida.
With a united front, our efforts at GARD ensured that the concerns of the real estate industry were front and center in the minds of lawmakers. The event not only highlighted the importance of real estate advocacy but also showcased the strength and influence of the Florida REALTOR® community.
PHOTOS BY JOE FARRELL
Your trusted partner for Down Payment Assistance
NAR Offers New MLS Option for Sellers
The National Association of REALTORS® recently ruled that the Clear Cooperation Policy will stay with one new option.
After many months of analysis and deliberation across the industry, NAR has adopted a new MLS policy, Multiple Listing Options for Sellers, which exists in conjunction with the Clear Cooperation Policy and other MLS policies to provide sellers and their agents more options and choice when marketing a property, while also supporting fair housing by providing buyers and their agents with equal access to important MLS property information.
NEW MLS POLICY: OPTIONS FOR SELLERS
Office Exclusive: This is an exempt listing where the seller has directed that their property not be disseminated through the MLS and not be publicly marketed.
The office exclusive listing shall be filed with the MLS but not disseminated to other MLS participants and subscribers.
Delayed Marketing: This is an exempt listing where the seller has directed the listing broker to delay the public marketing of that listing through IDX and syndication for any period as allowed by the local MLS in its unfettered discretion.
A delayed marketing listing shall be filed with the MLS and does not preclude the listing firm from
marketing the listing in a manner consistent with their seller’s choice.
Exempt Listing Disclosure: The filing of an exempt listing (office exclusive or delayed marketing) with the MLS must be pursuant to a certification obtained by the listing broker from the seller which includes:
• Disclosure about the professional relationship between the participant and the seller;
• Acknowledgment that the seller understands the MLS benefits they are waiving or delaying with the exempt listing, such as broad and immediate exposure of their listing through the MLS;
• Confirmation of the seller’s decision that their listing not be publicly marketed and disseminated by the MLS as an office exclusive listing or that their listing will not have immediate public marketing through IDX and syndication as a delayed marketing listing.
Multiple Listing Options for Sellers requirements only apply to listing types that are subject to mandatory submission pursuant to the MLS local rules.
For more information, go to tinyurl.com/MLS-options-forsellers
WEDNESDAYS FROM 5:30 - 7 P.M.
5 REALTORS® WILL WIN A $25 GIFT CARD AT ALL EVENTS
AFFILIATE DIRECTORY
STAR Affiliate Business Partners are trusted local businesses and service providers who offer exclusive value and support to STAR REALTOR® members and their clients— helping you get the job done, every step of the way.
Young Professionals Network
The Young Professionals Network (YPN) is a community created for real estate professionals at the start of their careers, as well as those looking for fresh insights and connections. Through YPN, members gain access to exclusive events, networking opportunities, and essential industry resources that support career growth.
For many, real estate is a second career, and YPN offers newer agents a dedicated space to connect with peers, share experiences, and develop the skills needed for long-term success. Since their launch in 2010, STAR YPN has empowered a new generation of REALTORS® to build relationships within the Association and confidently navigate the real estate industry.
20 25 EVENTS & PROMOTIONAL WEEKS
FRI. FEBRUARY 21
F LORIDARAMA
ST. PETERSBURG
Your favorite cocktail competition is back for another round of tipsy fun
SAT. APRIL 26
LE MERIDIAN TAMPA
A unique opportunity to sample brunch bites by Tampa Bay area restaurants with an epic Bloody Mary Battle
THU. JUNE 12SUN. JUNE 22
For a limited time, enjoy prix fixe menus and exclusive drink specials at top Tampa Bay restaurants!
FRI. AUGUST 1
AMALIE ARENA
Celebrate your favorite hockey team, the Tampa Bay Lightning with everyone’s favorite craft beer event
FRI. NOVEMBER 7
THE JAMES MUSEUM
ST. PETERSBURG
Kick up your heels at Whiskey Business while we celebrate all things boots, brews, & bourbon
THU. APRIL 10SUN. APRIL 20
10 days of exclusive tacos, drink specials, and more at some of your favorite Tampa Bay area restaurants
JUNE 12 & JUNE 19
THE VAULT / THE COMPOUND TAMPA / ST. PETERSBURG
Now in Tampa & St. Pete! A rare chance to mingle and savor small plates from Tampa Bay’s top chefs!
FRI. JULY 18
THE JAMES MUSEUM ST. PETERSBURG
Sip and judge margaritas from 21+ top Tampa Bay mixologists to crown the Ultimate Margarita!
WED. SEPTEMBER 24
SEMINOLE HARD ROCK TAMPA
PARTY WITH THE BEST. SAMPLE THE BEST. CELEBRATE THE BEST... with the 35th Anniversary of Best of the Bay!
MON. NOVEMBER 17THU. NOVEMBER 27
10 days of exclusive burger, drink specials, and more at some of your favorite Tampa Bay area restaurants
ONLY A REALTOR®
In November 2024, we launched a consumer marketing campaign emphasizing that Only a REALTOR® is the true real estate expert and are as invested in their clients’ future as they are. The campaign ran across Google Search, Facebook, Instagram, display ads, and connected TV. The numbers below reflect the full campaigns data resulting in excellent engagement and a broad reach within our target audience.
tampabay.onlyarealtor.com
12,204,804 impressions
