{RE}source | Winter 2010 / 2011

i. 12 / vol. III

Winter

2010/2011 Monthly Newsletter of the San Mateo County Association of REALTORS®

www.samcar.org

in this issue...

SAMCAR Message from the 2010 President page 1 Message from the Executive Officer page 2 Message from the incoming 2011 President page 3 SAMCAR Installation “Celebrates Success!” pages 3 & 4 SAMCAR members bring cheer to San Bruno residents pages 7 & 8 Affiliate Spotlight: Marat Shub page 8

Legislative Legislative Update: Mortgage Interest Deduction pages 5 & 6 Point of Sale Policy Defeated page 7

Education “Future of the Housing Market and Real Estate Technology” event slated for February 17 page 10 Lunch & Learn free technology courses in January/February page 9 Mobile Marketing Made Easy page 10

Foundation Foundation Update page 9

Message from your 2010 President

monthly newsletter of the

San Mateo County Association of realtors®

Jennifer F. Tasto

2010 SAMCAR President

www.samcar.org tel. (650) 696-8200 fax (650) 342-7509 2011 Board of Directors 2011 President President-Elect Region 25 Chair Director Director Director Treasurer Director Director Director Affiliate Director Director Director Director Director

Sue Vaterlaus Anne Oliva Jennifer Tasto Robert Brisbane Bobbi Decker Suzan Getchell-Wallace Phillip Houston Karon Knox Dennis Pantano John Prouty Corrin Trowbridge Michael Verdone Frank Vento Diane Wilson David Zigal

Editorial Contributors Steve Blanton SAMCAR Executive Officer Michon Coleman Director of Government Affairs Julie Ziemelis Director of Public Affairs Alex Khalfin Government Affairs Coordinator Art Direction / Editorial design Dalen Gilbrech

Publications Designer

T

his year has been challenging in so many ways. Yet, I am proud of so many of you, for rising to the challenge and fulfilling our theme for 2010, “RealtorS® Make a Difference.” To each of you, I want to express my sincere gratitude for your participation in SAMCAR and our San Mateo County community.

You have made a difference in the lives of your clients and significantly, our fellow Realtor® members.

SAMCAR is an association of members, for the members. Each of you, whether it is through participation in a committee, attending association events, or sharing your knowledge through our education programs, has strengthened us.

For these reasons, I am humbled and truly honored to have served as your 2010 President.

I ask that you join me in supporting Sue Vaterlaus, our incoming 2011 President. As we move forward, she will need the same enthusiasm and commitment from each of you that helped carry me through this year.

Together, we can continue to make a difference with Our 2011 President, Sue Vaterlaus.

Be a part of YOUR ASSOCIATION in 2011

2011 SAMCAR Committees

Become a leader in YOUR association, join a SAMCAR Committee.

For a list of committees and to download the application form

www.samcar.org/Committees Our Vision The Voice for Real Estate Professionals and Property Owners in San Mateo County.

SAMCAR {RE}source is published monthly by the San Mateo County Association of REALTORS®, 850 Woodside Way, San Mateo, CA 94401 and distributed to more than 4,000 recipients. E-mail samcar@samcar.org your questions or comments.

Copyright © 2011

2011 Association Dues

2011 REALTOR® Dues invoices have been posted to your accounts and can be paid online by clicking the “Pay Your Dues” banner at www.samcar.org Thank you for your continued membership!

To log in to pay your Association dues you will need your NAR ID (NRDS number) and the last four digits of your Social Security Number (SSN). Your NAR ID can be found on the cover of your REALTOR® magazine or on your NAR membership card. If you have any questions please call SAMCAR at (650) 696-8200.

Please remember to pay your dues today.

A late fee will be assessed as of February 1, 2011

Message from the Executive Officer

WINTER 2010/2011

Welcome New Members

2

The following members joined in NOV/DEC 2010

Steve Blanton, RCE, CAE SAMCAR Executive Officer

A Look Back As We Move Forward

I

think it is important to highlight and share some of the key successes SAMCAR enjoyed in 2010 so that you, our members, can be assured we continue to remain a strong, vibrant and innovative organization striving to meet our members’ needs.

Wireless Internet Connection

SAMCAR listened to our members who wanted WiFi access in our building so they could remain connected while they were volunteering at SAMCAR or attending events and classes. By providing free WiFi to our members, we also have opened the door to live on-line classes for you to receive the training you need.

REBarCamp San Mateo County

SAMCAR implemented one of the first association-led free social media unconferences in the country. Over 100 members received free internet marketing education and collaboration during the day long event. The feedback was so strong for this “open discussion” type of education, that we are holding a similar type of event on February 17.

Delayed Matrix Cutover Listening to our members concerns with the speed in which the Matrix cutover was occurring and not quite feeling ready for the brand new technology, SAMCAR worked with MLS to delay the cutover until the end of 2011. We will continue to offer classes and training so you will be ready next Fall!

Office Visits No one can operate in a

void. The Board of Directors and I have been scheduling office visits to meet with the SAMCAR brokers and members in their offices to listen and learn about how we can help you do your business better and how we can help.

Please contact me if you would like for

us to come out and meet with your office. Steve@samcar.org San Bruno Fire Relief When tragedy hit San Bruno in September, SAMCAR members sprang into action. Together they helped raise over $7000. The efforts of the North Tour folks were especially commendable for the effort they put into reaching out to elected officials, holding an auction and then hosting a “Holiday Burger Feast” to lift the spirits of the victims. I am so very proud of the spirit of our REALTOR® community.

Education Due to the recession SAMCAR reacted with free or low cost classes from a variety of experts from our Affiliate members, the real estate technology field and the banking and legal community. Dozens of classes hosted hundreds of SAMCAR members. We invite you to take advantage of these classes in 2011, the feedback on the topics and speakers has been excellent!

SAMCAR Staff We welcomed a new

Events Manager, Nasreen Wills to the SAMCAR family. As you may know I am a relative newcomer too, and it has been a pleasure and an honor to lead our staff. Your SAMCAR staff members shined in 2010 to serve you, to implement the ideas and projects from the Board of Directors and by offering their ideas about how to create more benefit for you, our members. Big KUDOS go to them!

I look forward to leading SAMCAR forward with our new President, Sue Vaterlaus and our dedicated Board of Directors. I wish for you all a very successful and happy New Year!

Realtors® Shauna M. Banks, Intero Real Estate Services Neil Brandom, Brooks Street Property Inc. Shirley Brown, Coldwell Banker Sandra Davis, BHG J.F. Finnegan REALTORS® Daniel Ding, Century 21 Realty Alliance Avelino Duarte, Intero Real Estate Services Kathy Goodell, Intero Real Estate Services Mita R. Kapadia, RE/MAX Star Properties Marcia Kimball, Coldwell Banker Yvonne Lee, Compass Real Estate Eric Ma, Bay one Realty Larry Pamplin, Century 21 Realty Alliance Mercedes D. Pinkard, C & R Realty, Inc. Susan Price, Carrick & English Real Estate Paul Safavi, Alain Pinel Realtors Roger Siu, Financial United Realty Lorraine Smith, ZipRealty, Inc. John So, New Star Realty & Investment

3

Message from your 2011 President

Winter 2010/2011

installation officer

Steve Goddard, 2010 C.A.R. President from visiting associations

our elected officials

California State Senator Leland Yee Representative David Baruto California State Assembly Member Jerry Hill San Mateo County Supervisor-Elect, Don Horsley City of Pacifica Councilmember-Elect Len Stone City of Pacifica Mayor pro Tem Maryann Nihart SMCCCD Trustee, Richard Holober Millbrae City Council Members Gina Papan, Daniel Quigg, and Nadia Holober Redwood City Council Jeff Gee San Bruno Vice Mayor Rico Medina

Sue Vaterlaus

2011 SAMCAR President

As your incoming 2011 SAMCAR President, I would like to thank everyone who attended the Installation event on December 9. It was an honor to be surrounded by so many people who are passionate about the real estate industry and support our Association. On behalf of SAMCAR and myself, I want to say thank you to everyone who attended and made it such a fun and successful celebration. A special thank you to our Master of Ceremonies, Steve Titsworth, who kept the evening rolling along with high spirits and humor.

I would additionally like to thank many special guests and elected officials for their support

and attendance, and to recognize all the people who have served as President of our Association over the years and provided sound leadership (see list at left) Thanks to the people who made it happen: Steve Titsworth, who drove all the way from Lincoln to be the MC; Alan Louie and N. Kameron Flores-Maxfield for each of their great photography; Marsetti Landscape for the wonderful event decorations; Chobe Tunes for the excellent music; The entire Special Events Committee, and the SAMCAR staff, especially, Nasreen Wills, Event Coordinator. You are all wonderful!

samcar past presidents

Gary Meyer, 1995 Jerry Girouard, 1996 Allan Bernardi, 1997 Larry Franzella, 1998 Marianne Zanone Rush, 1999 Claire Earley, 2000 Jim Meader, 2001 Dennis Pantano, 2002 Jeanne Garde, 2003 David Zigal, 2004 Melanie Hildebrand, 2005 John Gieseker, 2006 Geoffrey Craighead, 2007 Sue Walsh, 2008 Olivia Edwards, 2009 Jennifer Tasto, 2010

REALTOR® of the Year, Geoff Craighead (right)

Nearly 220 real estate professionals and invited guests enjoyed an elegant holiday event, ceremony, and networking opportunity at the 2011 SAMCAR Installation on December 9.

REALTOR® Emeritus honorees Carol Bullock • George Edsell • Kaye O’Halloran • Juliette Silver-Goldman

www.samcar.org/awards

Photography by N. Kameron Flores-Maxfield, Senior at UC Berkeley

Don Faught, 2010−2011 Treasurer for C.A.R. Christina Chung CREAA, 2010 President Amy Kong, CREAA 2011 President Michelle Velez, 2011 CAMB President Fel Anthony Amistad, 2011 FAREPA President Rob Platt, 2010 President of the Alameda AOR Tricia Thomas, CEO, Bay East AOR Kevin Brown, 2010 Director, Bay East AOR Darnella Barnes, Past President, Delta AOR Ralph Garrow Jr 2011 President, Delta AOR from santa clara county association of realtors® Gene Binsbacher, CEO Karl Lee, 2010 President from silicon valley association of realtors® Paul Cardus, Executive Officer Jeff Bell, 2010 President Gene Lentz, 2011 President Suzanne Yost, 2012 President-Elect

Community Service Award recipient, Judy Ploshay

overview of the 2011 Installation

WINTER 2010/2011

2011 Installation Event

“Celebrates Success!”

The buzz of 220 real estate professionals enjoying the advent of the holiday season and the joy of celebrating with their peers and colleagues hung in the air at the elegant Green Hills Country Club in Millbrae on December 9 for the 2011 SAMCAR Installation event.

Congratulations to the REALTOR® of the Year, Geoffrey Craighead (Craighead Associates), Affiliate of the Year, Ed Bright (State Farm Insurance) and Community Service Award, Judy Ploshay (Coldwell Banker).

2010 C.A.R. President, Steve Goddard, installed the 2011 SAMCAR President, Sue Vaterlaus, RE/Max Star Properties and the 2011 SAMCAR Board of Directors.

The incoming Board of Directors are . . .

Sue Vaterlaus, President (RE/Max Star Properties); Anne Oliva, President-Elect (Marshall Realty); Jennifer Tasto, Region 25 Chair (Property Services); Phillip Houston, Treasurer (Coldwell Banker); Robert Brisbane (McGuire Real Estate); Bobbi Decker (Intero Real Estate); Suzan Getchell-Wallace (Coldwell Banker Fahey Properties); Karon Knox (Prudential California); Dennis Pantano (Pantano Properties); John Prouty (Prudential California); Corrin Trowbridge (Trowbridge Insurance); Michael Verdone (Economic Concepts); Frank Vento (Dolphin Real Estate); Diane Wilson (Prudential California); David Zigal (David Zigal REALTOR®)

ary Member-for-Life and NAR Emeritus designations. Additionally, Steve announced and recognized the outgoing committee chairs from all the committees.

Sue Vaterlaus officially accepted the position of SAMCAR President where she announced her theme for 2011, “Celebrate Success”. She challenged the audience to think positive and look toward a bright 2011. Her goal is for the SAMCAR membership to take a positive approach, which in turn, will spark positive results and therefore generate a more productive year.

The event was crackling with energy throughout the evening, with networking continuing in-between presentations. Johnny Marshall, Marsetti Landscaping and Design, provided the décor, which filled the room with the scent of cinnamon from the amazing table arrangements. The group enjoyed the hot passed appetizers, the sit down dinner of a duet of Beef Wellington and prawns and a decadent dessert buffet. Dancing to the music, provided

by D.J., Chobe Oliva, concluded the evening’s festivities.

“The event was a great success!” Ann Palermo, Event Committee Chair, stated. “We are extremely thankful to our sponsors who made the event possible and to the Events Committee for their volunteer help in creating an extremely fun and memorable event!”

4

On behalf of SAMCAR and President, Sue Vaterlaus, we wish to thank the following sponsors and volunteers for their help. corporate sponsors diamond

The Examiner gold

Carr, McClellan Professional Law Corp.

MPF Builders and Consultants Property I.D. event sponsors installation sponsor ($1000) MLSListings, Inc. event sponsor ($600) Bank of America friends of samcar ($200) Baker Brothers Chobe Tunes Décor Staging Ed Bright Insurance, State Farm Hisco/CRES Home Warranty Marsetti Inc. Trowbridge Insurance Company Special Events Committee committee chair

Ann Palermo, Old Republic Title Company, special events committee members

Peter Ahern, Coldwell Banker Denise Baker, Marshall Realty Khristina Berquist, Old Republic Home Protection Maryann Bologna, The Examiner Toni Burrows, Hisco/CRES Home Warranty Alex Castillo, BHG J.F. Finnegan Realtors Olivia Edwards, McGuire Real Estate Suzan Getchell-Wallace, Coldwell Banker Fahey Prop.

Marlin Handley, HomeGuard Incorporated Val Hardwick, AMS Bekins John Marshall, Marsetti Inc. Anne Oliva, Marshall Realty Gary Pellegrini, RoofRX Brian Persons, San Francisco Chronicle Craig Thorson, Century 21 Realty Alliance Virginia Trowbridge, Trowbridge Insurance Susan Vaterlaus, RE/MAX Star Properties Cid Young, Bay Area Real Estate Services

Steve Titsworth, Master of Ceremonies, also recognized the recipients of the C.A.R. Honor-

Affiliate of the Year, Ed Bright (center)

C.A.R. Honorarary Members-for-Life Claire Earley • George Edsell • Robert Marshall • Don McFarland

www.samcar.org/events

2011 SAMCAR President, Sue Vaterlaus

5

Government Affairs

WINTER 2010/2011

Mortgage Interest Deduction Pays Dividends for Homeowners

Now that the report has been published, it is reviewed by members of Congress who will decide if they want to incorporate any recommendations into legislation, although they are not required to do so. If altering the MID ever becomes a discussion point in Congress, the REALTOR® community stands ready to defend it. The MID is both a powerful incentive for home ownership and one of the simplest provisions in the tax code.

The MID allows an individual to deduct mortgage interest paid on mortgage debt of up to $1 million. The deduction is available for interest on mortgages for a principal residence and one additional property. Individuals claiming the MID also must itemize their taxes.

The ability to deduct the interest paid on a mortgage can translate into significant savings at tax time. For example, a family who bought a home this year with a $200,000, 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage, assuming an interest rate of 4.5 percent, could save

REALTORS® Need to Help Protect This

MID continued on page 6

Homeownership Benefit Although recent reports of plans to eliminate or modify the mortgage interest deduction are widely exaggerated, the National Association of REALTORS® will remain actively engaged to ensure that the nation’s 75 million home owners will continue to receive this important benefit.

The Deficit Reduction Commission has released its recommendations toward reducing the U.S. deficit, which include modifying a number of popular tax breaks, including the mortgage interest deduction. President Obama created the 18-member, bipartisan commission earlier this year to identify ways to balance the budget by 2015. The commission does not have any legislative power, and the commission’s report is just the first step of a lengthy process.

MID in action: A family who bought a home this year with a $200,000, 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage, assuming an interest rate of 4.5 percent, could save nearly $3,500 in federal taxes when they file next year.

ADVERTISEMENTS

If you’re looking for someone who knows mortgages, here’s someone to know.

Jean Lu Mortgage Loan Officer 650.346.7720 jean.lu@bankofamerica.com http://mortgage.bankofamerica.com/jeanlu Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender © 2009 Bank of America Corporation. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. 00-62-0290D 04-2009 AR72866

Government Affairs

MID continued from page 5

nearly $3,500 in federal taxes when they file next year.

According to the most recent IRS tax return data available, 65 percent of families who claim the MID earn less than $100,000 per year. “Homeowners already pay 80 percent to 90 percent of U.S. federal income tax, and among those who claim the MID, almost two-thirds are middle-income earners,” said NAR’s Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “If the tax break is modified or eliminated, home values could fall 15 percent nationwide, as buyers discount the value of the MID in their purchase offers.”

The MID saves the average homeowner thousands of dollars at tax time and helps American homebuyers get into their first house.

WINTER 2010/2011

6

Ask your Senator to defend the

Mortgage Interest Deduction

SAMCAR will continue to monitor this issue closely. In the meantime, please call your Senators to ask their help in defending homeownership and the Mortgage Interest Deduction. They need to hear from YOU today!

Senator Dianne Feinstein (202) 224-3841

The [Mortgage Interest Deduction] allows an individual to deduct mortgage interest paid on mortgage debt of up to $1 million. The deduction is available for interest on mortgages for a principal residence and one additional property. Individuals claiming the MID also must itemize their taxes.

In today’s market, eight out of 10 homebuyers must borrow money to buy a home. For aspiring home owners who don’t have hundreds of thousands of dollars in savings to buy a home outright, tax benefits like the mortgage interest deduction help them begin building their future through homeownership.

ADVERTISEMENTS

Senator Barbara Boxer (202) 224-3553 Talking points to tell them: - I am a constituent and a REALTOR®.

- I have been on the front lines of the housing crisis. I can assure you that even talk of changing MID harms an already fragile market.

- I am strongly opposed to the Deficit Commission’s proposal to either limit or eliminate the Mortgage Interest Deduction.

- News reports saying that Congress threatens to repeal or limit MID will keep potential buyers on the sidelines and further delay the housing recovery.

Reserve your ad spot today! Contact Dalen Gilbrech at SAMCAR: dalen@samcar.org or (650) 696-8206

Your ad Here!

Newsletter ads are just $150 per month (or $75 per month with a concurrent Tour Sheet ad) and provide great exposure to your fellow REALTOR® and Affiliate members, and industry professionals.

Questions and reservations: Dalen Gilbrech (650) 696-8206 or dalen@samcar.org

7

WINTER 2010/2011

1-2-3 SAMCAR

REALTORS® and Affiliates

Bring Cheer to San Bruno Residents

your association in the Community

Congresswoman Jackie Speier, both of whom willingly came to the auction and REALTOR® meeting to share an update with the attendees. The Congresswoman even created a coveted auction item by offering to have lunch with the winning bidder and three guests. This item, along with many others, helped the organizers raise a whopping $5,300 within 90 minutes!

san bruno continued on page 8

The plan seemed pretty ambitious . . .

ONE Hold an auction to raise monies to have a free holiday feast and get together for the residents of the Crestmoor Park area to lift their spirits after the September tragedy. Then invite some notable politicians to drive attendance to the meeting. Then, personally invite the residents of the neighborhood to a feast to help them heal financed by the funds raised at the auction. Finally, invite a few local celebrities and let the residents socialize in a comfortable atmosphere and let them begin their healing by sharing stories with each other. 1,2, 3, right?

Well, as a matter of fact, that is exactly what happened and it all worked out beyond expectations! Members of the San Mateo County Association of REALTORS® North Tour meeting reached out to their local politicians, San Bruno Mayor, Jim Ruane and

Mike “The Murph” Murphy (left) from the San Francisco Giants visited tables of children at the event, talking to them about baseball and asking how they were doing.

Government Affairs

Point of Sale Policy Defeated

The State of California requires every

city and county in California to adopt and periodically update a Housing Element as part of its General Plan. The purpose of the Housing Element is to ensure that local governments adequately plan to meet the housing needs of all people within the community.

The County of San Mateo is currently in the process of updating its Housing Ele-

ment. As originally drafted, the San Mateo County Housing Element included a point of sale inspection program. If adopted, this program would have required that all multi-unit rental property being transferred to new owners undergo presale code inspections, and that all necessary repairs, rehabilitation, and other actions required to comply with building, safety, and other codes be completed before title to a multifamily rental property may be transferred to new owners.

At the November 2 San Mateo County Board of Supervisors hearing, the County Planning staff presented the Board with a draft Housing Element which included a presale code inspection program as described above.

SAMCAR strongly opposed the pre-sale code inspection program, pointing out to the Board that it was an inefficient way to address the unsafe conditions of rental property, as less than 1 percent of rental properties sell each year in San Mateo County. SAMCAR members also pointed

out that point of sale inspections are inequitable since it places a community-wide problem on the shoulder of a small group: those buying or selling a home. We asked the Board to look at other more proactive ways to address the health and safety of rental property in the County.

The Board of Supervisors heard SAMCAR’s concerns and at the December 7 hearing voted unanimously to take out the presale code inspections program from the draft Housing Element and directed staff to submit the Housing Element to the State of California without the point of sale requirement.

Government Affairs staff would like to thank all SAMCAR members who called or emailed the Board of Supervisors to voice their opposition to the point of sale inspection policy. We would like to thank Sue Vaterlaus, Geoff Craighead, David Zigal, Michael Verdone and Dave Blewett for attending the hearing and speaking on behalf of SAMCAR.

your association in the Community

WINTER 2010/2011

8

san bruno continued from page 7

TWO REALTORS® and Affiliates walked the Crestmoor neighborhood with invitation fliers for the residents and reached out to them directly to let them know about the holiday meal. Meanwhile, other REALTORS® were reaching out to Mike “The Murph” Murphy from the San Francisco Giants who resides in San Bruno and was too happy to come to the Big Mouth Burger to speak to the children and residents.

THREE 150 people showed up to share in the feast at Big Mouth Burger on Monday, November 29. The restaurant was a meeting place immediately after the explosion and gave residents a place to watch the news and get updates.

150 people − including many SAMCAR members and volunteers − showed up to Big Mouth Burger in San Bruno on Monday, November 29 to provide a holiday meal and a supportive community gathering.

The first to show up was a Crestmoor resident who picked up burgers to-go so he could share it with his son, who is still recovering from his burns at St. Francis hospital. The other residents came in and in no time, stories, hugs and smiles were being shared along with burgers and fries. “The Murph” quietly visited tables of children and discussed baseball and asked them how they were. Volunteers at the event were in agreement that his presence was a great gift to the residents and it was wonderful to see him come out and support his San Bruno neigh-

bors in such a humble and giving way.

“This was such a great way for the residents of Crestmoor to come together for a social event. It was an opportunity for people to smile a little bit”, Anne Oliva, Marshall Realty, and one of the event organizers, stated. “I am so proud to be a part of the real estate community.

Everyone came together to raise the funds, deliver the invitations and be here tonight to help these folks have a great time. This is truly what community is all about,” Oliva concluded.

Affiliate Spotlight

FEATURING

Marat Shub, 2011 Affiliate Council Chair Bank of the West Marat Shub is the incoming 2011 Chair of the SAMCAR Affiliate Council. As a home mortgage consultant at Bank of the West since 2006, Marat has donated numerous volunteer hours this year. As the Affiliate Committee vice-chair, he helped develop and promote the “Anatomy of a Transaction” series and many of the other educational seminars that the Affiliates Committee co-sponsored with SAMCAR in 2010. “I look forward to the increased responsibility next year on a personal and professional level,” Marat stated.

Marat enjoys being involved with SAMCAR and attends many of the functions that SAMCAR creates and volunteers to help make them successful. He helped at the Holiday Season Auction to raise funds for Second Harvest Food Bank and the SAMCAR Foundation and spoke on a lending panel to educate RE-

ALTORS® about current mortgage news and products.

Born and raised in Ukraine (the former Soviet Union), Marat came to the US when he was 13.

He joined the United States Coast Guard as a means to thank his parents and his new country for the freedom he enjoyed. He served for over nine years in active duty and served as a Russian translator, performed aviation maintenance and was involved in rescue missions.

From his time serving with the Coast Guard, Marat says that he strives to always pay attention to the smallest details, as those small details could always change the flow of the transaction.

“My motto is: Always be ready, whatever life/work throws my way,” he added. “I enjoy helping people achieve homeownership

and helping REALTORS® close their transactions successfully. Bank of the West mortgage products are tailored to fit a wide range of borrowers; most of our customers brag about our great jumbo rates and we have won a JD Power Award 3 years in a row for fantastic customer service. Whether it is a purchase or a refinance, or simply listening to the needs of the customer and giving them mortgage advice, my goal is to prepare the borrower for a successful financial transaction.”

Although he enjoys helping his clients, “Family is always number one for me. Our new baby girl is our latest priority and she joins our first child, Tyler, who is almost 3.”

You can reach Marat at (650) 579-4997 or marat.shub@bankofthewest.com

9

WINTER 2010/2011

free software training courses Microsoft POWERPOINT January 14 / 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at SAMCAR

Learn to design and enhance your slide show presentations. We’ll work with presentation designs, bulleted lists, inserting photos and clip-art; apply animation effects and how to present a slide show manually and automatically.

Microsoft POWERPOINT Next Steps February 11 / 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at SAMCAR

Transform basic presentations into a powerful means of communication. You’ll create dynamic and visually appealing slides by inserting photos, logos, graphs and tables as well as learning special animation affects such as playing music and videos.

Foundation Update

SAMCAR Foundation Update Thanksgiving was made more festive for community members needing a good meal when the SAMCAR Foundation delivered a $2000 check to the Second Harvest Food Bank on November 23. The donation was made possible by the generosity of our members during the Holiday Season Auction on November 2.

Holiday Auction “On behalf of the SAMCAR Foundation, I would like to thank all those who participated in SAMCAR’s 2nd Annual Holiday Season Auction. Whether by providing auction items or bidding, you have made a difference. The fact that we could help ensure 4,000 meals were served to families and people in need for Thanksgiving is so gratifying,’ Suzan Getchell-Wallace, 2010 Foundation Chair said. “When we think of the assistance we were able to offer to our neighbors, we should be proud of the work that the real estate community can offer together.”

Thank you to the SAMCAR membership for volunteering, supporting and attending the events that provided the funds this year to make a difference in the lives of hundreds of people in need in 2010.

2010/2011 Leadership A special “thank you” goes to outgoing Foundation Chair, Suzan GetchellWallace. We appreciate her dedication, volunteerism, and tireless enthusiasm for leading the Foundation. The SAMCAR staff, volunteers and the countless people her efforts helped, are deeply grateful. Thank you, Suzan! We welcome, Eric Berggren, as the 2011 Foundation Chair.

Outgoing 2010 Foundation Chair Suzan Getchell-Wallace (left) with 2011 SAMCAR President Sue Vaterlaus

learn more about SAMCAR’s Charitable Foundation and download the grant application online at

2011 Foundation Chair Eric Berggren

www.samcar.org/Foundation

Upcoming Educational Event

WINTER 2010/2011

Get A Glimpse Into the

Future of the Housing Market

and real estate technology Start your year off with a strong picture

of the local and state housing market and the trends for real estate marketing and technology in 2011. SAMCAR is hosting a “Future of the Housing Market and Real Estate Technology” conference on February 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

(Location TBA)

Presentations

Come hear an economic outlook report from C.A.R. Chief Economist, Leslie Appleton-Young, and learn how national forces are affecting the housing market and what can you expect in the next few months.

Mike Simonsen, CEO, Altos Research will share a local housing trend report using real time statistics and predictive analytics to tell you exactly how the market is performing and where the market may be heading and why.

“My Tech Opinion”, will share her insights about real estate tech trends, tools you need to have to compete in the industry and tips on applications and sites that will help you rock your business in 2011.

Open ended discussion sessions will take place in the latter part of the afternoon to include topics on lifestyle marketing, mobile technology, broker tools and more.

Seeking Exhibitors

Exhibitors will showcase innovative products and services to help you streamline and grow your business in 2011.

Exhibitors and sponsors are now being sought. Exhibit tables are $150. Please contact Nasreen Wills at (650) 696-8220 or Nasreen@samcar.org. Contact Julie Ziemelis at juliez@samcar.org for more information about the program and speakers.

Nicole Nicolay, Agent Revolution and

Thursday

January 20

1 to 2 p.m. / located at SAMCAR cost: Free Instructor Shashank Shekhar, Arcus Lending and social media trainer, will help you greet 2011 by getting the basics on going mobile to attract and communicate with today’s consumer.

You will learn: — Why you should focus on mobile marketing?

— QR codes – what are they, how to

SAVE the DATE

Future of the Housing Market and Real Estate Technology Thursday, February 17, 2011 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Location: TBA

SEEKING EXHIBITORS

Exhibit tables are $150

For more information please contact Nasreen Wills at SAMCAR (650) 696-8220 nasreen@samcar.org GENERAL INFORMATION For information about the program and speakers, contact Julie Ziemelis juliez@samcar.org

create one and Top 10 ways to use them to get more eyeballs for your listings and your website — How to use “text to get more info” to get more buyer leads for your listings — Top 10 mobile apps for Realtors® — Developing a mobile friendly website – why it’s critical and how to do it

To sign up, please call

(650) 696-8200 Check online for a schedule of upcoming meetings, events and classes

www.samcar.org/Calendar

Space is limited, registration required.

10

JanuaRy 2011 Weekly Education, Events & Tour Calendar Classes & Events January 5 10 – 11:30 a.m. (also January 26)

the new PRdsforms.com online

The new PRDSFORMS.COM is an Instate Solutions that provides PRDS with a solid platform for technology growth.

Location: SAMCAR | Cost: Free | Registration: (650) 696-8200

GRi 109: Residential Real estate finance

January 14 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

MLsListings: essentials of Matrix

January 14 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

LunCH & LeaRn: Hands-on Microsoft PoWeRPoint

Location: SAMCAR | Cost: $149 Registration: http://www.eDesignations.com or 888-785-4800 Cost: FREE | Location: SAMCAR | Register: (650) 696-8200 Slide show presentation basics: presentation designs, bullet lists, photos and clipart, animation effects and how to present a slide show.

Location: SAMCAR | Cost: Free | Register: (650) 696-8200

January 14 1 – 2:30 p.m.

MLSListings: Mastering Matrix

January 20 1 – 2 p.m.

Mobile Marketing Made easy

January 27 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

tax strategies for Real estate Professionals

February 9 10 – 11:30 a.m.

the new PRdsforms.com online

Location: SAMCAR | Cost: Free | Register: (650) 696-8200 Shashank Shekhar, Arcus Lending and social media trainer, will help you greet 2011 by getting the basics on going mobile to attract and communicate with today’s consumer.

Location: SAMCAR | Cost: Free | Registration: (650) 696-8200

Learn about new deductions, based in tax LAW, but presented in simple English that all of us can easily understand.

Location: SAMCAR | Cost: $10 | Registration: (650) 696-8200

GRi 110: Marketing, financing & Managing Commercial Properties

February 11 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

LunCH & LeaRn: Hands-on Microsoft PoWeRPoint next steps

February 17 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

the future of the Housing Market and Real estate technology

January 19 9:30 – 11 a.m.

Tu 28 04

We Th 29 30 05 06

Fr 31 07

Sa 01 08

Marketing Meetings Tuesday, January 4 8:30 a.m.

January Combined Tour Elks Lodge 229 West 20th Avenue San Mateo Presentation:

Marc Weissman, Attorney Legal Update 9 a.m. Half Moon Bay Tour Community Center 535 Kelly Avenue, Half Moon Bay 9:30 a.m. Pacifica Tour Community Center 540 Crespi Drive, Pacifica

Location: SAMCAR | Cost: $149 Registration: http://www.eDesignations.com or 888-785-4800

Transform basic presentations into a powerful means of communication.

Location: SAMCAR | Cost: Free | Register: (650) 696-8200

Exhibitor information: Nasreen Wills, nasreen@samcar.org General information: Julie Ziemelis, juliez@samcar.org

Legislative Committee Meetings

January 12 9 a.m.

Mo 27 03

The new PRDSFORMS.COM is an Instate Solutions that provides PRDS with a solid platform for technology growth.

Location: SAMCAR | Cost: Free | Registration: (650) 696-8200

February 10 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

January 6 9:30 a.m.

Su 26 02

www.samcar.org/calendar

January 13, 2011 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

(also February 23)

DECEMBER 31 – JANUARY 7

www.samcar.org/legislativecommittees

PaCifiCa Legislative Committee Meeting Location: 450 Dondee Way, Suite 7, Pacifica Coastside Legislative Committee Meeting

Location: Half Moon Bay Coastside Chamber of Commerce & Visitor’s Bureau - 235 Main Street, Half Moon Bay

PeninsuLa Legislative Committee Meeting

Members welcome to attend these monthly meetings. | Location: SAMCAR

MLS Tour Sheet Deadline Reminder Broker/Property tours Tuesdays 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. deadline to add tours in MLs Mondays, 11 a.m.

Deadlines subject to change for holidays. deadline for Monday holidays prior Friday at 11 a.m.

View tour sheet by Monday afternoon

www.samcar.org/tour