Sarasota / Manatee Realtor Magazine - RASM - September 2016 Issue

Sarasota/Manatee

REALTOR The Official Publication of the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee

The Global Marketplace

®

September 2016

THE HOME OF

MORE MONEY FOR MOMENTS THAT MATTER.

Our homes have more than just a low HERS score (we average 61, thank you very much). Our ENERGY STAR®–certified building practices have been known to lower heating and cooling costs up to half on average, which means you can afford to do more living. And just wait until we tell you about the low-E windows, allergy-reducing air filtration and sound-blocking wall insulation that we build into every home. Visit us today. Whether you want to build it from the ground up or need the keys ASAP, your dream home is a Meritage home.

L I F E . B U I LT. B E T T E R .

Your dream home is waiting. Call: 8 5 5 - 6 7 9 - 9 9 4 5

visit m e r i tag e h o m e s . c o m / TA M PA

Features performance claims are created exclusively by applicable governmental agencies, third party suppliers, rating services, utility companies, and/or certified auditors, and are based on U.S. Department of Energy methodology (where applicable) and average usage and scores. See, for example, http://www.resnet.us/hers-index, with respect to HERS savings when compared to the average existing home, http://www.energystar.gov/ia/new_homes/ features/Appliances_062906.pdf, with respect to ENERGY STAR®, http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs/airclean.html and http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/residential/hvac.html, with respect to clean air management, and http:// epb.apogee.net/res/reevair.asp, http://web.ornl.gov/info/reports/1993/3445605888000.pdf, and http://www.sprayfoam.org/ with respect to spray foam insulation,. Actual performance of any home or any of its features may vary widely depending upon a variety of factors, and Meritage does not guaranty the features performance claims or actual performance of any specific home. All URLs valid as of January 20, 2016, when last accessed, but subject to change without notice or obligation. Features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes and/or communities are subject to change, and homes to prior sale, at any time without notice or obligation. Features may not be applicable or available in, and energy claims and estimates may exclude, attached product communities, communities in Tennessee, communities acquired in connection with Meritage’s acquisition of certain assets of Legendary Communities in the Charlotte, North Carolina and York County, South Carolina markets, and homes in certain existing communities in Georgia, and Greenville and Spartanburg, South Carolina. Pictures and other promotional materials are representative and may depict or contain floor plans, square footages, elevations, options, upgrades, landscaping, pool/spa, furnishings, appliances, and designer/decorator features and amenities that are not included as part of the home and/or may not be available in all communities. Not an offer or solicitation to sell real property. Offers to sell real property may only be made and accepted at the sales center for individual Meritage Homes communities.

See sales associate for complete details. Meritage Homes® is a registered trademark of Meritage Homes Corporation. ©2016 Meritage Homes Corporation. All rights reserved. FL ROC #CQ1042273

REALTORS Conference &Expo ®

November 4 - 7 | Orlando, Florida

Don’t miss this opportunity!

The 2016 REALTORS® Conference & Expo is THE place to get EDUCATED on the latest market trends from 100 education sessions – discover new INNOVATIONS changing real estate from 400 exhibitors – and CELEBRATE with 19,000 of the best and brightest minds in our industry.

Better still, this year’s conference is in Orlando and Florida REALTORS® can attend the REALTORS® Expo for FREE! Choose the “Expo-Only” pass option, and then enter ORLANDO16 in the promo code box!

Register today at REALTOR.org/Conference

Sarasota/Manatee

REALTOR

®

Visit our website at www.MyRASM.com for Association news, events and services.

table of contents 6

Cover Story

Exploring our Global Marketplace and understanding its effect on the local real estate market.

12 Beware of Freeboard David M. Levin, explains “Freeboard”, the additional height above the FEMA mandated minimum elevation in flood prone areas.

6

17 Market Analysis

Median sale prices continue to increase in both Sarasota and Manatee County.

22 CID Update Tony Veldkamp, CCIM, provides us with important upcoming CID events in September and October.

31 Neighborhood Spotlight Barbara Edwards takes us on a tour of the quaint neighborhood, Village Green of Bradenton.

In Every Issue 14 - Governmental Affairs 23 - Global Business Council 24 - Education Programs 32 - Membership 35 - WCR Report 36 - Calendar of Events/Education

On the Cover Global Business Council Committee Members, from left to right: Front Row: Zulay Gallagher, Wagner Realty; Barbara Clemann, Keller Williams on the Water (Vice Chair) Second Row: Surenu Jayaram, Coldwell Banker; Elizabeth Anzellini, Keller Williams Realty Select; Marie Avery, RE/MAX Alliance Group (Chair); Li Kong, Florida Realty BZ LLC; Rita B. Smith, Coldwell Banker Back Row: Catherine Filarski, Florida Move Management, Inc; Andrew Batty, RE/MAX Alliance Group; Randy Schweitzer, RE/MAX Alliance Group; Tasha Miller, Keller Williams on the Water; Tonya Merrill, University Park Lifestyles Inc. We are sorry to report that Randy Schweitzer, with RE/MAX Alliance Group, passed away after the cover photo was taken. Randy was a true professional, loved by many and is sorely missed. Our sincere condolences go out to his family and friends.

4

SEPTEMBER 2016

12

31

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor®

Volume 13 • Issue 9 • SEPTEMBER 2016 Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee South Office - 2320 Cattlemen Road Sarasota, Florida 34232 North Office - 10910 Technology Terrace Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211 Phone: 941-952-3400 FAX: 941-952-3401 www.MyRASM.com 2016 Association Officers: President Linda Formella, Michael Saunders & Company President-Elect Xena Vallone, Xena Vallone Realty Secretary Amy Worth, RE/MAX Platinum Realty Treasurer Greg Owens, Keller Williams on the Water Immediate Past President Stafford Starcher, RE/MAX Alliance Group Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roberts Mission Statement: The mission of the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee is to keep the Realtor® central to the real estate transaction by advancing members’ professionalism and expertise while upholding the Realtors® Code of Ethics. We are committed to protecting private property rights in the communities we serve. The Sarasota/ Manatee Realtor® Magazine is published monthly by the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Inc.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

Editorial Staff: Director of Membership & Broker Services: Dan Andrews Director of Information Technology: Jesse Sunday Director of Professional Development: Catherine McCaskill Governmental Affairs Director: Adam R. Davis Magazine Editor: Beth Sunday Production: Coastal Printing, Inc. Subscriptions: The annual dues of every member of the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Inc., includes a one-year subscription to Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® magazine. Editorial ideas and manuscripts are welcome.

Byline articles and columns express the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the policies or sentiments of the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Inc. All submitted copy is subject to editing. 2016 Copyright© by the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

For information on advertising rates and deadlines, contact Beth Sunday at 941952-3417 or email Beth@MyRASM.com.

www.MyRASM.com

A Celebration of Life: Remembering our Friend and Colleague, Jay Wiley It is with heavy hearts and deepest sorrow that we inform our members of the death of our dear colleague and friend, Jay Wiley. Jay has been a constant fixture at the Association for the past 21 years. He was the first to pitch in when needed, the first to stay late or arrive early to get the job done. He took great pride in his work, and everyone who knew him was proud to call him a friend.

He loved to tease and cause trouble. His smile was contagious and constant. If there was a job to be done, no matter how big or small, Jay was willing to help. He was a member of our RASM family and will be deeply missed.

Jay impacted so many lives. Please join us as we celebrate his life, on Wednesday, September 7 from 5:00 to 7:00pm, at the RASM South office.

There will be some funny videos you may have never seen, and a time to share stories and heartfelt memories and reflect on the life of our dear friend.

Light refreshments will be served.

www.MyRASM.com

Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016

5

COVER STORY The Global Marketplace

The NAR 2016 Profile of International Activity in U.S. Residential Real Estate, covering U.S. residential real estate sales to international clients between April 2015 and March 2016, found that foreign buyers purchased $102.6 billion of residential property, a 1.3 percent decline from the $103.9 billion of property purchased in last year’s survey. Overall, a total of 214,885 U.S. residential properties were bought by foreign buyers (up 2.8 percent), and properties were typically valued higher ($277,380) compared to the median price of all U.S. existing home sales ($223,058).

Although foreigners purchased property nationwide, five states accounted for 51 percent of total residential property purchases: Florida (22 percent), California (15 percent), Texas (10 percent), Arizona (four percent), and New York (four percent). (Source: www.Realtor.org).

“The unrest in many countries is a huge driver for our Florida marketplace,” said Carla Rayman, President’s Liaison, NAR’s Regional Coordinator to North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. With worldrenowned beaches, a thriving arts community, and an abundance unmatched in other cities, our area is guaranteed to offer something for everyone.

“The good news for Florida real estate is that many foreign nationals from all around the world will continue to want to visit and live in Florida. They will need residences and hotels to stay and live in and commercial properties to work, shop, eat and play in. They will continue to bring investment into Florida and make both direct investment into real estate and also support the values of the real estate required to provide the accommodation and services they require.”

Andrew Batty, RE/MAX Alliance Group.

While there is continued interest in property and investment in our area, the other side of the coin is the currency market… (pun intended).

“Events over the past months have sent shock waves through the currency markets. Now we’re over the initial surprise of the Brexit referendum result, leadership race and subsequent economic insecurity, we look to the future and how we can support businesses who are trading internationally. Since events of June 23, the currency markets have seen sterling weaken 10% against the euro and 14% against the Dollar, which has fallen to rates not seen since 1985.” Darren Connor, Senior Account Manager, Moneycorp.

In the near future, the intensified coverage and subsequent outcome of the US elections in November will have global implications on the currency and real estate markets as each leader has differing views on international policy. We are likely to see the dollar unsettled closer to the time, while safe havens such as the Swiss Franc and Gold will strengthen. Both residential and commercial markets will be effected.

Another key issue to address in foreign investing is the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which is designed to stimulate the U.S. economy through job creation and capital investment by foreign investors. According to NAR, in exchange for making 6

SEPTEMBER 2016

a minimum investment into a new U.S. business that results in the creation of at least 10 jobs, foreign investors may secure legal residency for themselves and their families. On average, foreign investors find it beneficial to participate in the program by means of an authorized Regional Center (an economic entity) that promotes growth and job creation and complies with the terms of the EB-5 Regional Center Pilot Program.

“In order to have a healthy economy and sustain the recovery that we’ve experienced over the past five years in the commercial real estate sector, we need to be looking at any and all opportunities – ‘the more the merrier’”, said Tony Veldkamp, CCIM. “That means doing all we can to encourage foreign investment and accommodate foreign companies to expand in the United States. Reauthorizing the EB5 program would be part of that. There does need to be more oversight and controls in regards to implementation of that program, but it could certainly help some projects in our area get the financing they need to move forward.

With all of the issues going on worldwide and the instability in some areas due to terrorism, governmental structure, or financial issues, U.S. real estate is still seen as a safe and secure investment.”

According to NAR, another major factor to keep in mind when dealing with International transactions is the potential risk of real estate money laundering. The April, 2016 issue of NAR’s Global Perspectives magazine examines the “red flags” that real estate professionals should be aware of, which may indicate illegal financing or other suspicious activity. The presence of one, or even multiple factors, does not necessarily mean the purchaser or seller is engaging in money laundering activities, but they do warrant investigation.

Some of these risk factors include: • Geographic Risk: Is the customer and/or the source of funds located in a jurisdiction with weak anti-money laundering regulations, supports or funds terrorism, or has a high degree of political corruption?

• Customer Risk: Is there unusual involvement by third parties? Will residential title be held by a corporation that obscures the owner’s identity, without a legitimate business explanation?

• Transaction Risk: is the owner selling for significantly less than the purchase price, or seems disinterested in obtaining a better price? Is the buyer interested in immediate resale, especially at a substantially higher or lower price, without reasonable explanation?

Should you suspect illegal activity, NAR suggests referring to the voluntary guidelines concerning anti-money laundering available at www.narfocus.com//billdatabase/ clientfiles/172/4/1695.pdf. For more information on money laundering, including the full issue of Global Perspectives magazine, visit http://goo.gl/XSioik.

To hear all the latest updates on the Global Economy and how to best position yourself, be sure to attend the 10th Annual Sarasota/Manatee International Real Estate Conference, on September 28, details on page 10.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.MyRASM.com

Your imagination knows no bounds.

Now there’s a name for it.

PrivateLabelLiving.com

Luxury Living from $1 Million to One of a Kind

NAPLES

l

FT. MYERS

l

SARASOTA

l

LAKEWOOD RANCH

EXCLUSIVE F O R E X C L U S I V E I N C E N T I V E S , B E C O M E A P R E F E R R E D R E A LT O R ® .

You don’t have to wait for your commission! Earn a 3% commission paid in full at the closing of the home site (if lot and home purchase). Commission will be paid in full on total contract price including options. You’ll also have the opportunity to attend invite-only events and be eligible for grand prizes in our sales promotions.

• Luxurious, semi-custom move-in-ready and to-be-built homes

• Distinguished gated communities in picturesque natural settings

• Sites in Sarasota, Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch and South Tampa

• Award-winning designs owners can customize and personalize

Call 844.720.3817 today to learn more about our Realtor Rewards For buyers seeking luxury beyond the expected, turn to Neal Signature Homes.

Visit our sales centers to learn more about us and current incentives. nealsignaturehomes.com Commission: 3% payable to your office for a sale provided that you are the Procuring Cause. Commission will be paid on total contract price including options.

For completed inventory, commission will be paid on net contract price, exclusive of merchandising and furniture. Payment of Commissions: Commissions will be paid as follows: 1. In full at lot close (if a lot and home purchase) or 2. In full after home closing if an end close. CBC1257901

RASM Employee Anniversaries: Pat Walker and Tim Benzel R ASM happily recognizes the workplace anniversaries of our dedicated and professional staff. The “behind the scenes” efforts of the staff, in conjunction with committee volunteers, keep the Association operating like a well-oiled machine.

Pat Walker works part time in the RASM North Office in the Member Services department. This September, Pat celebrates 9 years of dedicated service with RASM. The Association congratulates her on her achievements and long-term commitment to our members.

Pat moved to Florida from Delaware 11 years ago after working in Advertising. Prior to the Association merger, Pat worked in the MAR Education and Events department and she was the Administrative Assistant to the AE. Pat’s current responsibilities include answering phones, meeting with members, providing support with Supra, administrative duties, assisting with front office sales and events, and she serves as an Assistant for the CID’s Board.

Pat and her husband John have two adult children, Susan

and John Jr., and four grandchildren.

Thank you for your service, Pat! Tim Benzel, RASM Facility and Membership Coordinator, celebrates his 1 year anniversary with the Association this month.

Tim grew up on horseshoe island in NY, spending most of his days fishing, four wheeling and boating. Tim graduated from JCB High School in Phoenix, NY. Tim works at the RASM North office. His primary responsibilities as Facility Coordinator include setting up for events and providing AV assistance. He also assists with membership, provides Supra support, and enters/edits MLS listings.

What Tim loves most about his job is interacting with the members and meeting new people from all over the nation, sharing their many stories about the fascinating real estate industry. Tim looks forward to many years ahead serving the Association.

Tim enjoys spending his free time with his beautiful wife, Courtney, and their two boys. RASM thanks you, Tim!

NEIGHBORHOODS TO FIT YOUR

lifestyle

from the $200s to over $2,000,000!

Homes available NOW in Parrish, Bradenton and Sarasota

www.MedallionHome.com • 866.486.2900 www.MyRASM.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016

9

Business Partner Spotlight: Shana Hamel Meet Shana Hamel. She is one of the newest additions to Ruoff’s Sarasota branch.

She uses her experiences in real estate and property management, as well as her MBA training to continue to build relationships and help homebuyers achieve their home financing goals. She works hard to get your clients the loan product that best suits their needs with the most competitive rates.

As a Sarasota/Manatee County resident for more than 25 years, Shana has been active in the community as a volunteer, small business owner and RASM Business Partner.

She is also a member of the WCR Manatee Chapter. Because of her commitment to giving back to the community, Shana has recently started a campaign in which she is donating $100 of every loan closed to one of three charities she is involved with. When you choose Shana, you have the advantage of working with a true professional who knows the community inside and out, AND of working with an established company that has been providing bestof-service results for more than 30 years.

Ruoff offers conventional, FHA, VA, USDA and Jumbo loans. They have in-house underwriting, processing, and closing departments. Their automatic Milestone Update emails give the buyer, buyer’s agent and listing agent real-time information every step of the way. Stop by their office or go online to www.ruoff.com/ shanahamel to learn more.

Real Estate Closings

The 10th Annual Sarasota/Manatee International Real Estate Conference

Presented by the Global Business Council and the CID September 28, 2016, 9:00am to 5:00pm (8:30 - 9:00 am: Registration and Networking) Location: RASM South Office Please join us for a day of International Real Estate Education, Networking, and Relationship Building. Register

by September 14 to be eligible to win a $400 Gift Certificate from Best Buy and many other great prizes!

Featured Speakers:

9:00am - 10:00am: Dr. Brad O’Connor, Ph.D., Keynote Speaker 10:20am - 11:00am: Janet Case, Proxio 11:00am - 11:45am: Clark W. Toole III, Coldwell Banker 11:45am - 12:00pm: Kelly Cutchin, Moneycorp 1:00pm - 1:30pm: Alain Forget, USA RBC Bank (GA) 1:30pm - 2:15pm: Richard Silver, Sotheby’s International Realty Toronto 2:30pm - 3:15pm: Rhett Damon, Move, Inc. 3:15pm - 4:00pm: Cindy Fauth, National Association of Realtors®

Lucy McC

Sarasota | Venice | Lakewood Ranch

Deed in Lieu Foreclosure Defense

Title Insurance Buyer/Seller Representation

Bankruptcy Probate

Contract Preparation Short Sales

A Special Thanks to our Sponsors:

Attorney Cynthia A. Riddell criddell@rlglawrm.com 941-366-1300

1031 Exchanges

www.rlglawrm.com 10

SEPTEMBER 2016

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.MyRASM.com

$5,000 Bonus! a n Realtors Ear ®

FOUR MODELS NOW OPEN

at Country Club East in Lakewood Ranch Introduce your clients to Stock Signature Homes, Florida’s luxury homebuilder of choice.

For more than fifteen years, Stock has built an enduring legacy of quality construction and design excellence in select communities throughout Southwest Florida. Now, Stock is expanding its reach, bringing exciting new choices to Lakewood Ranch. Discover the exceptional selling opportunity of a Stock Signature Home, offering: • 3% commission • $5,000 Realtor® bonus for a limited time* • 45 new floor plans, 10 models and 19 move-in-ready homes in 3 distinctive neighborhoods • Free Gold Membership ($6,000 value) for your client with any Stock Signature Home purchase** Find out more about our luxury residential offerings at Lakewood Ranch.

SALES CENTER AND FOUR MODELS NOW OPEN IN COUNTRY CLUB EAST Call for your personal appointment at 941.208.3940.

STOCK... when quality matters COUNTRY CLUB EAST from the $600s | LAKE CLUB from the $620s ESPLANADE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB AT LAKEWOOD RANCH from the $700s DIRECTIONS: Exit-I-75 at University Parkway East. Left on Lorraine. Follow the signs to Country Club East.

SALES OFFICE: 16703 BERWICK TERRACE | LAKEWOOD RANCH, FLORIDA 34202 | 941.208.3940 | StockDevelopment.com STOCK REALTY, EXCLUSIVE SALES AGENT, LICENSED REAL ESTATE BROKER BROKER PARTICIPATION WELCOMED. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. NOT AN OFFERING WHERE PROHIBITED BY STATE LAW. PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.

FLStockDevelopment

*CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS APPLY. BONUS PAID AT CLOSING OF THE HOME. SEE SALES ASSOCIATE FOR DETAILS. **OFFER EXPIRES 9/30/16. TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE OFFER, YOU MUST EXECUTE YOUR MEMBERSHIP PACKAGE WITHIN 60 DAYS OF YOUR NEW HOME/LOT RESERVATION. NEW CONSTRUCTION HOMES ONLY. NO OTHER PRICE INCENTIVES OR DISCOUNTS APPLY. DEVELOPER INCENTIVES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. PROMOTION SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. THIS OFFER CANNOT BE SUBSTITUTED FOR DISCOUNT ON PRICE OF HOME. GOLD MEMBERSHIP $5,000 INITIATION FEE PAID BY THE PARTICIPATING BUILDER (TOTAL WITH SALES TAX = $5,325.00).

Realtor Attorney Joint Committee ®

Beware of Freeboard

By David M. Levin

“Freeboard”, in the context of minimum flood elevation requirements, is an additional height above the FEMA mandated minimum elevation in flood prone areas to afford an extra measure of protection from storm surge and flooding. While the term sounds beneficial, it must be noted that “freeboard ain’t free”. It comes with a penalty to existing and prospective owners of property located in FEMA “A” and “V” Zones.

The National Flood Insurance Program (“NFIP”) includes provisions called the “Community Rating System” (“CRS”). This system is designed to award points to local governments participating in the NFIP. The more points a community gets, the greater a discount the residents of that community may be eligible for in their Federal Flood Insurance premium. While the discount is not great in the terms of dollars, elected officials think that qualifying for discounts is a worthy objective.

One popular means to get CRS points towards a discount is to make the local Flood prone Area Ordinance more stringent than FEMA’s minimum standards. A means to make local codes more stringent than the minimum standards is to adopt “freeboard” requirements.

FEMA develops Flood Insurance Rate Maps (“FIRMs”) which establish flood zones based upon the risk of areas to hurricane related storm surge (“V” Flood Zones) or flooding (“A” Flood Zones). Associated with each Flood Zone is a Base Flood Elevation (“BFE”) which is the predicted height of either the storm surge or flooding during a “100-year storm” (approximately a Category 3 hurricane).

By amending its Flood prone Area Ordinance, a local government can require “freeboard”, i.e., additional height above the BFE shown on the adopted FIRM. For example, the Town of Longboat Key requires the minimum floor elevation for residences in FEMA “AE” Flood Zones which are not seaward of the State’s Coastal Construction Control Line, to be 1 foot higher than the BFE shown on the current FIRM. The Town of Longboat Key requires the minimum floor elevation for residences in FEMA “AE” Flood Zones which are seaward of the State’s CCCL, to be 3 feet higher than the BFE shown on the current FIRM. There are similar “freeboard” requirements in the Town’s FEMA “VE” Flood Zones.

12

SEPTEMBER 2016

Note however, substantial improvements to existing residences constructed before December 31, 2006 which, at the time of construction met the then applicable flood minimum elevation requirements, would not be required to elevate above the BFE shown on the current FIRM. This means any existing residence built after December 31, 2006 would be considered a legally non-conforming structure for FEMA 50% Rule purposes, even if it meets the BFE shown on the current FIRM, but does not meet the “freeboard” requirements indicated above.

Therefore, the costs of any proposed improvement to an existing residence built after December 31, 2006 which does not meet the “freeboard” requirements, must be less than 50% of the fair market value of the structure before the improvement.

The probable effect of the Town of Longboat Key’s “freeboard” requirement is a lowering of the marketability and value of residences built after December 31, 2006 since it is likely those structures do not conform to the Town’s “freeboard” requirements that went into effect in 2014.

Other local governments, such as Manatee County, Bradenton Beach, and Anna Maria, also have “freeboard” requirements in their Flood prone Area Ordinances.

Experience has shown that “freeboard” requirements are added to local Flood prone Area Ordinances when the local government amends such ordinances to adopt revised FIRMs. Sarasota County’s new FIRMs are scheduled to take effect November 4, 2016. The Board of County Commissioners will consider its Flood prone Area Ordinance amendment on September 7. We all must be vigilant to ensure that Sarasota County does not include “freeboard” in that amendment. Otherwise, it is probable the marketability and value of properties on Siesta, Casey, and Manasota Keys will be adversely affected.

David M. Levin is a Shareholder of the Icard/Merrill law firm. His practice is concentrated in the area of environmental and waterfront property law.

This article is not intended to serve as legal advice and should not be used as a substitute for consultation with an attorney.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.MyRASM.com

When a community is this thoughtfully planned, you get much more than a luxurious custom home. You get an elegant setting where like-minded people come together effortlessly. Whether on the picturesque trail, in the Clubhouse or on our Robert Trent Jones, Jr. golf course, The Founders Club is where it all comes together. And lasts a lifetime.

LUXURY HOMES FROM THE $900s TO OVER $5 MILLION SARASOTA, FLORIDA

941.315.8679 | 3001 FOUNDERS CLUB DRIVE, SARASOTA | VisitFoundersClub.com

Governmental Affairs

How to Add Your Voice to the Process by Serving on an Advisory Board/Council

By Adam R. Davis Governmental Affairs Director - 941-952-3410 John F. Kennedy famously stated, “my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” This is a quote that has always resonated with me and has driven me to personally get involved in government and community to help be a part of the solutions.

We are fortunate to live in a democracy, where every individual can help shape policies and direction. Another famous quote that sums up our style of government is from President Abraham Lincoln, “government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the Earth.”

So what does all this mean? It means that if you want to be a part of the solutions, you can! One option that I want to focus on is by serving on Citizen Advisory Boards/ Councils for your respective municipality and/or county.

These Boards/Councils are comprised of residents and will focus on specific issues or topics and provide input on the decision making process. For example, I serve on the Public Facilities Financing Advisory Board for

Sarasota County (PFFAB). Our purpose is to advise and make recommendations to the County Commissioners on impact fees, other funding sources, the fiscal impacts of levels of service and other issues relating to the provision and financing of public facilities.

All Boards/Councils have different purposes, requirements, terms, and meeting schedules, so you’re able to find the best fit for you. What drove me to want to serve on this Advisory Board, was that I’m deeply concerned with how governments spend money and how those decisions can impact the affordability of housing. You may not find this topic interesting but your passion may be parks, historic preservation, tourism, or countless others, and you’re in luck because again, you can find what best fits you.

Serving also opens you up to better understanding the process of how government bodies and entities work.

You will gain firsthand knowledge of the intricacies while connecting and forging relationships with policy makers and fellow residents.

If you feel the drive or have further questions, you can visit your local government website and search Advisory Boards or connect with me personally.

You can’t spell ‘school’ without C-O-O-L Saint Stephen’s is the only area school with direct access to coastal waterways and a dedicated marine science facility where we teach One Ocean, a custom-designed Pre-K3 through grade 12 curriculum.

Now that’s cool!

Dive in and explore at www.saintstephens.org/marinescience

Saint Stephen’s is an independent, college-preparatory school providing a world-class education for students in grades Pre-K3 to12. Schedule a tour today.

315 41st St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209 | (941) 746-2121 | www.saintstephens.org 14

SEPTEMBER 2016

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.MyRASM.com

REALTORS REALTORS

®

WCI is Stepping Up Commissions!

WCI 3-4-5% Commission Plan The more sales you make in 2016 the higher commission rate you can earn!

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Get credit for sales you already made in 2016!

3%

Commission

5%

Commission

4%

Commission

THREE OR MORE SALES!

SECOND SALE!

FIRST SALE!

On Any WCI New Home Sale Contracted April 22 – December 31, 2016* at these WCI Communities.

Tampa

Westshore Yacht Club

Bradenton Lakewood The Links at Rosedale Country Club East at Ranch

Tidewater Preserve

For information on all of our communities and Quick-Delivery Homes visit wcicommunities.com

Lakewood Ranch

Venice

Venetian Golf & River Club

*To qualify for the offer, the contract must be out of rescission, if applicable, with all contingences met and all required deposits paid in full and cleared. Offer expires 12/31/16. Stepped up commissions will not be paid retroactively on qualifying contracts executed prior to 4/22/16. However, all qualifying contracts executed between 1/1/16 and 4/21/16 will be counted toward attainment of the appropriate commission level, so that subsequent qualifying contracts executed between 4/22/16 and 12/31/16 will step up to the higher commission rate. All commissions shall be paid to the applicable broker provided all terms & conditions of the co-broker commission agreement have been met. The commission shall be calculated and paid in accordance with WCI’s Co-Broker Commission Program Agreement. Contact WCI Sales Director at Community Sales Center for specific closing requirements. Pricing and availability subject to change without notice. Void where prohibited. Offers are subject to change or cancellation without notice. ©2016 WCI Communities, Inc. All rights reserved. CGC 031523

Sarasota National

Suncoast Regional YPN YPN Stock is Running!

Brenton Cloud, YPN Chair It’s hard to believe the third quarter is almost over and the end of 2016 is fast approaching. If the YPN were a publicly traded company, our third quarter earnings report would far exceed analysts’ expectations and the stock would be running!

We have achieved so much this year and yet we have barely scratched the surface. The YPN keeps amazing me with its leadership and ability to inspire both young and seasoned professionals.

Coming Up: We are currently preparing for Realtor® Bowling day, one of the most important charity events of the year. The event is on Friday, September 23 from 11 am – 3 pm at AMI Gulf Gate Lanes. All funds raised will be donated to the Boys and Girls Club of Sarasota and Venice. Last year we raised more than $10,000 for charity and this year we hope to beat it.

The problem is we can’t do this alone and we need your help!

PLEASE JOIN US'

friday

september 23 11am - 3pm amf gulf gate lanes 7221 SOUTh TAmiAmi TRAil SARASOTA, Fl 34231

event hosted by

SUNCOAST

YPN

Network.

Lead.

VoLuNteer.

Grow.

YOUNg PROFESSiONAlS NETwORK

Realtor® Bowling day raises money through general admission to the tournament, sponsorships, raffles and generous donations. This year’s general admission is $28.00 which includes 3 games of bowling, shoes, one drink ticket, pizza, unlimited fountain drinks and the most fun you will have all Summer!

Sponsorship options are selling out fast but we still have some great marketing options available for you.

• A $300 sponsorship investment will get you 2 free team players, your team name on the lane, your company’s name announced over the loud speaker and your logo on all e-blasts.

• A $500 sponsorship investment will get you 4 free team players, your company’s name announced hourly at the event and your logo will appear on all e-blasts. Your logo will also appear on a large banner at the event and will also appear on a poster in lobby at both RASM locations and VABR. • If you’re interested in becoming the highlight of the event and stealing all the thunder, then the title sponsor is the way to go. For more information on the title sponsorship please reach out to me personally: Brenton@CloudPestControl.com.

• Donations are also a fun way ® to get your company noticed. We auction off donations at the event, such as gift baskets, and it offers you the ability to provide a personal touch.

At the end of the day the goal of featuring a 50/50 this event is to raise money for The and Girls Club of Sarasota and raffle Boys proceeds to benefit Venice.

The YPN is about giving and back and we couldn’t think of a better chinese way to give back than to bowl with auction our favorite Realtor® and business partners. So block out your calendar, bust out your retro bowling outfit only $28 per person includes and come join us for some fun.

realtor

BOWLING tournament

shoes | three games | one drink ticket UNLImItEd SOdA ' twO SLIcES Of PIzzA

event chairs ' Amanda Durbin, Event Chair

941.894.1255 $ Communications Committee Survey 1,500 Amanda@KeySolutionsRE.com

$ 1,000 In July, the Communications Committeedrink conducted a survey for shoe feedback on all communications to continue to Jeffery Twigg, Event Co-Chair sponsor provide quality service to members. Over 500 members completed the survey, indicating email as a preferred source sponsor 941.412.6505 ofJefferyTwigg@yahoo.com RASM news and Facebook as the strongest social media platform among members.

Congratulations to Beverly Petz with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, winner of the $100 gift card. Gift card KEY SOLUTIONS was provided Stewart? Title. If you wishREAL to know more details from the survey, please contact Committee Chair, want to be abysponsor ESTATE Michelle Crabtree at michelle.crabtree@sothebysrealty.com. please contact

16

Elizabeth Reynolds

SEPTEMBER 941.921.50272016

Elizabeth@floridaassistant.com

500

$

sponsors

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine berlin patten ebling

www.MyRASM.com

Market Analysis Hesitant Sellers Leave Buyers with Fewer Choices Median sale prices for condos and single family homes continue to increase in both Sarasota and Manatee County.

Sarasota County single family homes are up 10.5 percent from 2015 to $242,500, while Manatee County experienced an 11.7 percent jump from 2015 to $279,250. Year over year, condo median sales prices rose 7.9 percent from 2015 to $205,000 in Sarasota and 21.9 percent to $185,250 in Manatee.

Fortunately, inventory is on a steady rise. Single family homes in Manatee and Sarasota each showed a 19.5 percent increase from July 2015, with a 4.2 months’ supply of inventory in Sarasota and a 4.4 months’ supply in Manatee.

Condo inventory is also on the rise in both counties, with Sarasota County up 44.5 percent and Manatee County up 12.2 percent from last year. Sarasota has a 5.1 months’ supply of inventory and Manatee has a 4.1 months’ supply.

The months’ supply in both counties remains under the sixmonth benchmark, indicating a seller’s market.

Editor’s Note: For comprehensive statistics dating back to 2005, visit www.MyRASM.com/statistics.

Open 7 days. Locally Owned and Operated

Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee

Units A/C & Non - Month to Month Secured Shredding Services Free Electronic Recycle Drop-Off Boxes and Moving Supplies

Exclusive offer for RASM members & clients only.

50% Off First Month 10% Realtor Association Discount 10% Boxes and Moving Supplies

“While we continue to see a climb in median sales prices in both counties, I believe we will see this trend level off in the coming months,” says Linda Formella, 2016 President of the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee.

Over the past year, Manatee County increased in sales from 2015, with a 0.7 percent increase in single family homes and an 11.5 percent increase in condos. Sarasota County single family home sales decreased by 21.7 percent and condos sales are down by 24.6 percent.

Pending sales can be an indicator of potential future closed sales. In 2015, pending sales were strong through August, whereas this year, pending sales started to decline in May. New pending sales for both condos and single family homes in Sarasota and Manatee County are 18.5 percent lower than last July.

“July marks the seventh month this year where pending sales are down. This is also the sixth month where listing inventory has been higher than the same period last year. It’s reasonable to expect that the prices will adjust to the slowing demand,” says Formella.

According to a recent report from Jonathon Smoke, Realtor. com®’s chief economist, 40 percent of buyers surveyed by Realtor.com® said the main obstacle in purchasing a home was finding one that met their needs. If there were more inventory available to buyers, sales would be higher. Many buyers are more willing to risk the sale of their home if they are able to find and purchase a new one.

“I recently reviewed a contract where the sellers made the sale contingent upon their successful purchase of another home. This is the first time I have seen or heard of this type of contingency. It’s always the other way around - buyers purchase contingent upon the sale of their current home,” adds Formella. www.MyRASM.com

New Rentals Only

www.BudgetSelfStorageFlorida.com

Bob

Chuck

Jim

George

Robert Burbeck, Owner 1342 N. Lime Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237 (941) 953-3773 • (941) 713-4348 www.sarasotalockandkey.com Bonded and Insured Safes • Locks • Keys • High-security Locks • Multi-lock • Medeco Largest selection of Key Blanks in Area

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

Chamber Member since 1964 Associated Locksmiths of America Safe & Vault Techncians Association SEPTEMBER 2016 17

Monthly Market Summary - July 2016 Single Family Homes Sarasota County July 2016

July 2015

Percent Change Year-over-Year

680

868

-21.7%

233

343

-32.1%

Median Sale Price

$242,500

$219,500

10.5%

Average Sale Price

$335,617

$308,356

8.8%

$228.2 Million

$267.7 Million

-14.7%

95.2%

95.5%

-0.3%

Median Time to Contract

45 Days

41 Days

9.8%

Median Time to Sale

97 Days

88 Days

10.2%

New Pending Sales

460

606

-24.1%

New Listings

757

835

-9.3%

Pending Inventory

764

923

-17.2%

Inventory (Active Listings)

2,797

2,340

19.5%

Months Supply of Inventory

4.2

3.3

27.3%

Closed Sales Paid in Cash

Dollar Volume Med. Pct. of Orig. List Price Received

1,000

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Closed Sales

800 600 400 200 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

Median Sale Price

$300K $250K $200K $150K $100K $50K $0K

Inventory

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J 4,000 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

by Florida REALTORSÂŽ Statistics for each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the www.MyRASM.com following month.

18ProducedSEPTEMBER 2016 with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services.

Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine Data released on Wednesday, August 24, 2016. Next data release is Thursday, September 22, 2016.

Monthly Market Summary - July 2016 Single Family Homes Manatee County July 2016

July 2015

Percent Change Year-over-Year

578

574

0.7%

158

200

-21.0%

Median Sale Price

$279,250

$250,000

11.7%

Average Sale Price

$355,374

$296,373

19.9%

$205.4 Million

$170.1 Million

20.7%

96.0%

95.6%

0.4%

Median Time to Contract

40 Days

43 Days

-7.0%

Median Time to Sale

95 Days

90 Days

5.6%

New Pending Sales

376

446

-15.7%

New Listings

594

601

-1.2%

Pending Inventory

649

698

-7.0%

Inventory (Active Listings)

2,194

1,836

19.5%

Months Supply of Inventory

4.4

3.6

22.2%

Closed Sales Paid in Cash

Dollar Volume Med. Pct. of Orig. List Price Received

700

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Closed Sales

600 500 400 300 200 100 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

Median Sale Price

$300K $250K $200K $150K $100K $50K $0K J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

Inventory

3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

2012

2013

2014

2015

Produced

by Florida REALTORSÂŽ with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for eachMagazine month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month. www.MyRASM.com Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ SEPTEMBER Data released on Wednesday, August 24, 2016. Next data release is Thursday, September 22, 2016.

2016

2016 19

Monthly Market Summary - July 2016 Townhouses and Condos Sarasota County July 2016

July 2015

Percent Change Year-over-Year

255

338

-24.6%

151

203

-25.6%

Median Sale Price

$205,000

$190,000

7.9%

Average Sale Price

$325,238

$275,700

18.0%

$82.9 Million

$93.2 Million

-11.0%

95.0%

94.7%

0.3%

Median Time to Contract

58 Days

49 Days

18.4%

Median Time to Sale

105 Days

99 Days

6.1%

New Pending Sales

205

255

-19.6%

New Listings

316

256

23.4%

Pending Inventory

371

409

-9.3%

Inventory (Active Listings)

1,504

1,041

44.5%

Months Supply of Inventory

5.1

3.4

50.0%

Closed Sales Paid in Cash

Dollar Volume Med. Pct. of Orig. List Price Received

500

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Closed Sales

400 300 200 100 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

Median Sale Price

$250K $200K $150K $100K $50K $0K J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

Inventory

2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

by Florida REALTORSÂŽ Statistics for each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the www.MyRASM.com following month.

20ProducedSEPTEMBER 2016 with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services.

Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine Data released on Wednesday, August 24, 2016. Next data release is Thursday, September 22, 2016.

Monthly Market Summary - July 2016 Townhouses and Condos Manatee County July 2016

July 2015

Percent Change Year-over-Year

214

192

11.5%

110

109

0.9%

Median Sale Price

$185,250

$152,000

21.9%

Average Sale Price

$230,839

$212,125

8.8%

$49.4 Million

$40.7 Million

21.3%

94.6%

95.0%

-0.4%

Median Time to Contract

59 Days

45 Days

31.1%

Median Time to Sale

107 Days

87 Days

23.0%

New Pending Sales

157

163

-3.7%

New Listings

215

222

-3.2%

Pending Inventory

241

240

0.4%

Inventory (Active Listings)

876

781

12.2%

Months Supply of Inventory

4.1

4.0

2.5%

Closed Sales Paid in Cash

Dollar Volume Med. Pct. of Orig. List Price Received

350

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Closed Sales

300 250 200 150 100 50 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

Median Sale Price

$200K $150K $100K $50K $0K

Inventory

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J 1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000 800 600 400 200 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

2012

2013

2014

2015

www.MyRASM.com Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ SEPTEMBER Produced

by Florida REALTORSÂŽ with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for eachMagazine month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month.

Data released on Wednesday, August 24, 2016. Next data release is Thursday, September 22, 2016.

2016

2016 21

Commercial Investment Division September/October CID Events – Mark your calendar now!

By Tony Veldkamp, CCIM, 2016 CID President

For some reason September and October needs and enrich the lives of children in foster and state wind up being busy months here at CID, care in Florida’s 12th Judicial Circuit, which spans Manatee, and this year is no exception. Please Sarasota and DeSoto Counties. We are looking for players, mark your calendar and plan to attend the sponsors, raffle prizes and give-away items, and 100% of our following great educational and networking proceeds go to our charity. Please contact any CID board opportunities: member or Barbara Williams at (941) 266-6701 to play and see what sponsor levels are remaining. But hurry! Every year Downtown Horizons Breakfast – we sell out!

Tuesday, September 20th, 8 am to 10 am at The Francis: We have assembled RASM CID Scholarships: Don’t forget that every year another great panel discussion regarding the CID Scholarship Committee gives 50% scholarships, up Tony Veldkamp 2016 CID President new development projects, future plans, to a $500 maximum, for approved commercial real estate and development trends for you to hear education courses. So sign up for that CCIM course and get about. This year we have on our panel; Marlon Brown, started on your designation! To find out more information, Deputy City Manager for the City of Sarasota, Joel Freedman please call Susan Goldstein, CID Scholarship Chair at (941) with Freedman Consulting Group, a land planner and 350-9747. development consultant, and Jim Bridges, a prolific developer Due to all of the commercial real estate educational in Atlanta and Sarasota currently constructing the Embassy opportunities at the NAR Realtor® Conference & Expo Suites Hotel on Tamiami Trail in downtown Sarasota. Cost being held this year November 2-7th in Orlando, the for this event is $20 and you must sign up beforehand. No CID Board has voted to apply the 50% scholarship to the tickets will be sold at the door. However, this event is open conference fee for existing CID members. However, we only to the public and all are welcome to attend! have a limited number and they will be on first come first 10th Annual International Real Estate Conference– serve basis. Call Susan for details.

Wednesday, September 28th, 9 am-5 pm, RASM South We are very fortunate that the national conference is being Office: Once again the Commercial Investment Division held in Florida this year. It is a great opportunity to go when is a major sponsor and participant in the Global Business you can drive over, and you don’t have to attend the entire Council’s annual International Real Estate Conference. This week. Pick and choose the days and events you want to event is discounted to $35 to all CID and Global members attend. and covers topics such as conducting real estate deals in To become a CID member or affiliate member please foreign countries, how to attract those foreign investment contact our CID Liaison and RASM Government Affairs dollars to purchase commercial real estate, and how to director Adam Davis at (941) 952-3410. convert foreign funds into U.S. dollars the most economical way possible.

SRQ Tour with Global Business Council – Thursday, October 13th, at the Airport: Do you SRQ? Following the success of last year’s Port Manatee tour which was a joint event between CID and the Global Business Council, we have a joint tour and reception of the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport scheduled to hear more about what SRQ has going on and their plans for the future. The speaker of course will be Fred Piccolo, President and CEO of SRQ. 2016 Annual RASM CID Golf Get Rid of the Cluttered, Tournament – Monday, October Oil-Stained Mess in Your Garage.

24th - The Founders Club: Last but certainly not least, we have our annual • Hot tire/chemical & stain resistant • No-slip textures CID golf tournament and charity fund Ask About • Elegant & easy-to-clean advanced epoxy coating our referrAl raiser coming up in October at The • Full range of color & design options ProgrAm! Founders Club. Our charity this year • Heavy-duty storage units, cabinets & racks is the Children’s Guardian Fund. The Children’s Guardian Fund partners 941.223.2084 with the Guardian Ad Litem program GarageKingInc.com to provide resources that fill the basic

a garage your car Is Happy to call Home.

22

SEPTEMBER 2016

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.MyRASM.com

Global Business Council Go Global: Working with Foreign Investors

By Tonya Merrill, University Park Lifestyles Go Global: Tips to get started working with foreign investors that want to lease their homes during Season or Off-Season while they or their families are not in their vacation home. Are you prepared to help your clients?

• Educate yourself. Real Estate Professionals need to pay close attention to the yearly trends of foreign buyers and sellers. You must be familiar with what is happening domestically and internationally. Know that International buyers love Florida’s real estate market. It’s an attractive vacation destination with convenient air access from Canada, Europe and Latin America. Florida is multifaceted offering many different types of vacations from the Gulf Coast to Orlando to the East Coast and Miami. Florida vacations and vacation homes have a lasting appeal for foreign buyers and investors. It is important to educate yourself on the cultures of those you are working with, and a wonderful book to keep on hand is “Kiss, Bow, or Shake Hands” by Terri Morrison.

Utilize your clients’ language when possible. There is free translation software available like Bing or Google Translator for your use as well.

• Build your Strategy. Determine your mission, goals and objectives for being in this market. The Mission is the purpose for doing what you are doing and the reason for existing in this global market. The Goals are statements of desired achievements, and the Objectives are specific steps or actions to be taken to attain your purpose or mission. For example, an “out of the box thinking” objective by Patricia Cliff, author of the book, “The Art of Selling Real Estate”, says she has the best luck working with luxury vendors rather than luxury agents.

When she travels she schedules appointments with a luxury jeweler, a luxury car dealer, and private bankers. Her goal is to make three to five worthwhile connections each vacation or trip she takes.

• Educate your Clients. Keep informed for your nonresident vacation rental property owners, buyers, and sellers on the ever changing U.S. Real Estate systems. Many foreign vacation home owners are not familiar with our systems, which presents an opportunity for real estate professionals to get involved and educate those nonresidents. Those investors that want to offset the cost of their vacation home by leasing while they are away need to know that under current Florida tax law, nonresident owners may choose to not file an income tax return to the U.S. to report the rental income.

In this case, 30% of the gross rental income must be remitted to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If the rental is handled by a rental agent, the agent must withhold and remit the 30% as rent is collected. If no rental agent is involved the nonresident owner is obligated to remit the 30% to the IRS. The other option is to report the rental income on a U.S. Form 1040NR and in order to avoid the 30% withholding on the gross rental income, the nonresident owner must provide a Form W-8ECI to the rental agent to avoid the 30% withholding. www.MyRASM.com

• Provide your foreign investor with a list of “Things to know for Property Investors.” For example: - Utilize the numbers and keep the emotion out - Treat the investment as long term rather than a quick flip - Get involved with professional services (an accountant, an attorney, a property manager, and a lender) - When borrowing consider a fixed interest rate on the loan - Don’t stop at one rental property as it gets easier • Get Certified: The Certified International Property Specialist designation prepares Realtors® to serve the growing international market. You don’t want to miss the upcoming International Conference September 28, 2016 at the RASM South office. See page 6 for details. Be on the lookout for additional classes and seminars for you to become more knowledgeable about the ever changing Global Buyer and Seller’s impact on Florida’s Real Estate market.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

Marie Avery 2016 Global Business Council Chair

SEPTEMBER 2016 23

Education Programs

Newly Licensed? Now What?

Catherine McCaskill Director of Professional Development 941-952-3404 Register for all classes at: www.MyRASM.com/Register South Office: 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota North Office: 10910 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch

License Information Attention New Licensees!

All newly licensed sales associate and broker licensees must take required post-licensure education before the end of the first license renewal period. Your license will become null and void if you fail to take the post-licensure education within the initial licensure renewal period, as mandated by Florida statute.

Sales Associates who fail to complete the post-licensing education must re-qualify for licensure by meeting all current licensing criteria. Brokers and Broker Associates who fail to complete post-licensing education may request to revert to Sales Associate status within six months following expiration, but must have complied with the applicable continuing education requirements before their new Sales Associate license can be activated.

It is your responsibility to ensure that DBPR has your correct mailing address. You may update your address online at www.MyFloridaLicense.com or by calling the DBPR Customer Contact Center at 850-487-1395.

Date: September 19, 2016 Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

CE: 4 Hours in the “Specialty” area Cost: $15 (Members) $25 (Non-Members) Instructor: Denise Oyler Location: South Office You have done it. You have passed the state exam that allows you to practice Real Estate. So what is next? This course is designed to ensure your success by answering some of the most important question: “what’s next?”

The information will be divided into five sections: • Corporation Entities and the Business Plan • Mortgage Financing 101 • Home Construction, Architecture and Inspections • The Art of Working with Sellers and Buyers • Title 101 Objectives: • Gain an understanding of real estate terms • Understand the choices when setting up a personal business • Explore the benefits of a business plan • Utilize proven steps to avoid pitfalls in the financing process.

• Learn the basics of architectural features • Understand the inspection process and how it affects the client.

• Obtain an overview of working with Sellers and Buyers • Understand the title process • Understanding what takes place after an executed contract

Work Smarter to Earn More CRS 201: Listing Strategies for the Residential Specialist From the Council of Residential Specialists October 4 & 5, 2016 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Course location: RASM South Instructor: Gee Dunsten, CRS Cost: All Realtors® before September 21, 2016: $275 After Sept. 16: $300

Listing Strategies provides students with the important skills necessary to conduct successful listing presentations, price a home to sell, close the transaction and market and promote effectively. The course takes students through an actual listing presentation that helps you understand the key steps in this process and create a system for success. In the two-day course, you’ll meet other top agents for prime networking opportunities. Individuals who take this course will earn 16 EC towards the CRS Designation.

Course Content: • Conducting an effective listing presentation • Seller guidance and counseling • Pricing a home to sell • Closing techniques • Marketing plans and servicing systems • Sellers’ needs and motivations 24

SEPTEMBER 2016

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.MyRASM.com

2 Hour: Real Estate Safety Course

Second GREEN Tour of 2016!

September, 13, 2016 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Cost: $5 Realtors®

September 22, 2016 Location: North Office Instructor: Andy Tolbert Cost: FREE for RASM Members; $15 Others 2-hour CE class

Starting Location: Riverfront Blvd. Skate Park in Bradenton

Realtor® Safety is a growing concern in our marketplace.

Whether it’s showing a rental home or protecting your customers from identity theft during the transaction, agents have more to think about than ever before. Let Andy and the SaferAgent program show members how to make simple tweaks to their daily routine that will eliminate most of the potential dangers they may face.

Topics Covered Include: • Confirm the identity of potential customers • Identify questionable situations • Safely operate a “mobile office” including where to park • Avoiding road rage and preventing carjackings • Protecting customers’ identity and financial records • Things to consider before deciding to carry a gun • Alternative, non-lethal weapons and how to use them • Finding a good self-defense class and why it’s important • Recognize vulnerabilities in office safety plans

Tour Locations: Mirabella at Village Green Harbour Isle on Anna Maria Sound Historic Green Village Sponsored by: RASM and Inspections, Inc Learn what it means to be LEED Certified vs. GREEN! Join your fellow Realtors® for a three-stop tour (by bus) encompassing two different price points for residential and also a commercial development.

Have lunch on your own after in the Historic Green Village before being bused back to your car at the Riverfront Skate Park. We will meet at the Riverfront Blvd. Skate Park in Bradenton. The bus will leave at 10 a.m. and return at 12:30 p.m.

Register early, as there are only 30 seats on the bus! Register Online: www.MyRASM.com under “My Account”

Waterfront and Near Waterfront Property What You Need to Know: A presentation based on 30 years of war stories Thursday, September 15, 2016 RASM Members $10, Non-Members: $20 (Advance registration required) Program: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. plus Q&A Presentation by: David M. Levin, Esq. Key building questions addressed such as: • Construction of a boat dock or expansion of an existing dock • Construction of a swimming pool • Construction standards for adding on to an existing property • Discussion regarding federal, state, and local permitting, siting, and design regulations/requirements • Discussion regarding use of “freeboard” and FEMA Flood Elevation Requirements David M. Levin is a senior partner of the Icard/Merrill Law Firm. Mr. Levin earned his law degree from Cumberland School of Law, Birmingham, Alabama and attended The University of Miami School of Law, earning a Master of Law Degree in Ocean and Coastal Law. Prior to joining Icard/Merrill, Mr. Levin was the Assistant General Counsel of the Florida Department of Environmental Regulation, Environmental Prosecutor for the State Attorney for the Twelfth Judicial Circuit (Sarasota, Manatee & Desoto Counties), and served as Assistant Director of the Sarasota County Legal Department. He is the current City Attorney for the City of Punta Gorda. www.MyRASM.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016 25

The more you sell,

NEAL

REALTOR

EARN UP TO

4%+$2K

BONUS

Rewards

THE MORE YOU EARN!

You’ll find Neal Communities in these areas: • Tampa • Bradenton

• Sarasota • Lakewood Ranch

• Venice • Englewood

• Fort Myers • Naples

844.712.5053 | NealCommunities.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S MOST EXPERIENCED HOME BUILDER FOR OVER 40 YEARS Commission: 3% payable to your office for a sale provided that you are the Procuring Cause. Commission will be paid on the base home, home site and home site premium.

For completed inventory, commission will be paid on net contract price, exclusive of merchandising and furniture. Payment of Commissions: Commissions will be paid as follows: 1. In full at lot close (if a lot and home purchase) or 2. In full after home closing if an end close. CBC1256375

MLS Education Registration is required for all MLS classes. To register, visit gopherit.mfrmls.com. Classes are held at both the South and North Offices; some classes are also available online at www.mfrmlsuniversity.com.

South Office: 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota North Office: 10910 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch If you cannot attend, please cancel to release your spot by calling MFRMLS at 800-686-7451 MLS Basic Sept 6 or Sept 15 - 9 a.m. to Noon - South Sept 28 - 9 a.m. to Noon - North Mandatory session for all new users, to be completed within 60 days of joining.

This class gives new MFRMLS subscribers a basic overview of MFR products and services, along with a general tour of the various functions of Matrix.

MLS Compliance 101 Sept 6 or Sept 15 - 1 to 2:30 p.m. - South Sept 28 - 1 to 2:30 p.m. - North This is a mandatory class for all new members to be completed within 60 days of joining. Existing members must complete the class every two year period.

This class will cover MFRMLS’ rules and regulations along with the compliance procedures for accurately listing data.

MLS Adding & Editing Listings Sept 6 or Sept 15 - 3 to 4:30 p.m. - South Sept 28 - 3:00 - 4:30 p.m. - North This class is mandatory if you will be adding and modifying listings in the MLS (but all agents are welcome to attend!) This class offers a comprehensive overview of the process to properly add a listing to the MLS and walks through each part of the add/edit tab in Matrix.

Advanced Matrix Sept 20 - 9 a.m. to Noon - South CMA Tools Sept 22 - 9 a.m. to Noon - South Sept 14 - 9 a.m. to Noon - North Introduction to Transaction Desk Sept 22 -1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. South Sept 14 - 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. North iMapp Sept 20 -1 p.m. to 3 p.m. South Searching, Reports & Contact Management Oct 18 - 9:00 a.m. to Noon - South Oct 12 - 9:00 a.m. to Noon - North The Mobile Agent Oct 18 - 1 to 3 p.m. - South

GRI Course 100 Series: Attention New Licensees!

Earn your 45 Hours Sales Post-License Here:

Module 101: Oct. 24-25 ($115) Module 102: Oct. 31-Nov. 1 ($115) Module 103: Nov. 7-8 ($115) Location: South Office Cost for all: $345 (14 Hours CE or 45 Hours Salesman’s Post-License Credit) Registration deadline is October 10, 2016

New licensees should check the expiration date on their license - it may be sooner than you think! You need to schedule your course well before the expiration date on your license. If you should fail the exam, you have to wait 30 days to retake the exam, per state law. If you are a new salesperson, the GRI Course 1 will offer the 45 hours of Post-License education you need during the first salesperson license renewal cycle. For brokers and salespeople not in their first renewal cycle, the course offers 14 hours of continuing education (includes Core Law). Instructors are all screened and approved by the Florida Association of Realtors®.

Topics Included: Module 101: Professional Standards - 7 hours Fair Housing & Diversity - 4 hours; Law - 4 hours Module 102: Goal Setting and Business Planning - 7 hours Contacts to Contracts - 8 hours Module 103: Negotiating/Counseling - 3 hours Finance - 8 hours; Law - 4 hours You can also take your GRI online by visiting the Florida Realtors® Education page. Just go to www.floridarealtors.org/ education. The GRI Online program is now approved for CE and post license credit. www.MyRASM.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016 27

Education Programs Congratulations!

Dedication and hard work pay off We congratulate our members who have successfully achieved the following designations: Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Linda Reynolds, Reynolds Realty Gulf Coast Inc. Graduate, Realtor® Institute (GRI) Nancy Barden, Coldwell Banker Res RE Melissa Bietsch, RE/MAX Alliance Group Chandra Boone, Barrett Realty, Inc Brenda Garland, Select Properties LLC Kylie Jackson, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService David Jacobs, Coldwell Banker Res RE Mackenzie Longueuil, Michael Saunders & Company Ana Machado, RoseBay International, Inc Janelle Malrick, Coldwell Banker Residential RE Patricia McMillan, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService James McElhinney, Michael Saunders & Company John Norwood, Charity & Weiss Int’l Realty Edward Pandos, Coldwell Banker Res RE James Portman, Keller Williams Realty Select Linda Reardon, Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Anna Regnander, Coldwell Banker Res RE Deborah Rempert, Premier Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Tina Renta, Coldwell Banker Res RE Annette Santiago, Keller Williams On The Water Christine Spelman, RE/MAX Alliance Group Eric Teoh, Mangrove Realty Associates Brian Tresidder, Key Solutions Real Estate Group Vatsala Visvalingam, RE/MAX Alliance Group Ulrike Wills, Premier Plus Realty Militza Zaa, Coldwell Banker Residential

Continuing Education and Designation Courses in 2016 Core Law September 8 at Lakewood Ranch Listing Strategies for the Residential Specialist (CRS 201) October 4 & 5 at Sarasota GRI 100 Series October 24 & 25 GRI 101 at Sarasota Oct. 31 & Nov. 1 GRI 102 at Sarasota November 7 & 8 GRI 103 at Sarasota Resort and Second Home Property Specialist November 21, 2016 at Sarasota 28

SEPTEMBER 2016

RASM Annual Tech U Seminar Date: October 11, 2016 Location: Fête Ballroom at Polo Grill, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Time: 11:30am - 5:00pm Table Service Lunch: 12:00 Sharp Vendor Expo: 11:30-5:00pm Educational Seminars: 1:00pm - 4:30pm RASM Member Cost: $30 (includes lunch at Polo Grill) Non-Members: $50 RASM’s annual Tech U seminar is back and better than ever!

We’re bringing in great techie minds from around the country to show off the impact cutting-edge technology can have on your business. Don’t miss RASM’s biggest tech event of the year!

Speakers: Keynote Speaker: Imran Poladi, NextHome Connecting A Country: Using Social Media to Create A Lasting Impression Learn how NextHome’s Vice President of Business Development uses social media to meet and maintain relationships with brokers across the country. This session will cover social media etiquette, strategies for growing your sphere of influence, and the critical contribution social media gives to any successful online business.

Megan Farrell, Watson Realty Corp URL to IRL: Using Technology To Strengthen Your Online Connections in the Real World Learn how to leverage the programs you’re already using to create raving fans who WANT to refer your business! This session will cover tools like video messaging, social media platforms, and CRMs that can cover the shift between transactional and emotional business.

Craig Grant, The Real Estate Technology Institute Run A Successful Realty Website Most Realtors® have a website but few actually generate business from it. In this session you will learn all the keys to running a successful realty website including what kind of content and tools it needs to have, design factors, how to set it up for good user-ability, stickiness and lead capture, how to promote and drive traffic and have good search engine optimization.

For more information, contact Catherine McCaskill at Catherine@MyRASM.com or call 941-952-3400.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.MyRASM.com

OWN IT. ENJOY IT. RENT IT. Award-Winning Resort Lifestyle.

Income Opportunity For Owners Through Short-Term Rentals.

Actual View from Marina Walk

Located on Florida’s last private island just moments from the world-famous beaches of Anna Maria Island, Harbour Isle is one of the Sarasota area’s most unique waterfront communities. Our elegant new Marina Walk residences offer you all the luxuries of the award-winning Harbour Isle lifestyle with the option to place your Resort Home with our preferred rental agency for short-term rentals. Don’t miss your chance to own a vacation home that can work for you year round!

New Models Open Daily

AWARD-WINNING RESORT AMENITIES

Private Gated Community • New Beach Club with Private Clubhouse • Sky Bar • Resort-style Pool & Spa • Cabana Bar • Fitness Center & Yoga Lawn • Sandy Beach • Kayak Launch • Planned Marina with Wet and Dry Storage, Restaurants and Shops

5 minutes to world famous Anna Maria Island Beaches

WATERFRONT RESORT HOMES FROM THE $500s 12300 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton, FL 34209

Located on SR-64 West, just before the Anna Maria Island Bridge

(888) 798-8826 | MarinaWalk.com To learn more about our award-winning communities throughout Florida, visit mintofla.com. © Minto Communities, LLC 2016. Not an offer where prohibited by state statutes. All rights reserved. Content may not be reproduced, copied, altered, distributed, stored or transferred in any form or by any means without express written permission. Artist’s renderings, dimensions, specifications, prices and features are approximate and subject to change without notice. Minto, the Minto logo, Harbour Isle and the Harbour Isle logo are trademarks of Minto Communities, LLC and/or its affiliates. CGC 1519880. 8/2016

NOW PRE-SELLING!

GRANDE LIVING AT LAKEWOOD RANCH

INTRODUCING

Gated Neighborhoods | Private Amenities | Exceptional New Home Values

Now Pre-Selling CalAtlantic Homes in Lakewood Ranch CalAtlantic Homes, one of the nation’s largest homebuilders, is pre-selling homes in its first new community in Lakewood Ranch. Arbor Grande is being designed as a gated residential enclave offering private, resortstyle amenities. With an ideal location convenient to the attractions of Sarasota, the Gulf beaches, I-75 and the Greater Tampa Bay area, Arbor Grande will offer “Grande Living on an Intimate Scale.”

A Limited Collection of Luxury Villa & Single-Family Homes from the $300s (941) 202-6505 | ArborGrande.com | Brokers Welcome

Be among the first. Join our VIP list at ArborGrande.com Persons in photos do not reflect racial preference and housing is open to all without regard to race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin. Prices, plans, and terms are effective on the date of publication and subject to change without notice. Map is not to scale. Square footage/acreage shown is only an estimate and actual square footage/acreage will differ. Buyer should rely on his or her own evaluation of useable area. Depictions of homes or other features are artist conceptions. Hardscape, landscape, and other items shown may be decorator suggestions that are not included in the purchase price and availability may vary. Plans to build out this neighborhood as proposed are subject to change without notice. Standard Pacific of Florida (CQ1038741)

Neighborhood Spotlight Village Green of Bradenton

Village Green of Bradenton

By Barbara Edwards, Certified Residential Specialist, Scholfield Realty, Inc. Village Green of Bradenton is an established West Bradenton community which offers whatever lifestyle you seek, located within the City limits of Bradenton. Village Green provides convenient access south of Manatee Avenue at Village Green Parkway and also has several entrances east off of 75th Street West between Manatee Avenue and Cortez Road.

The neighborhood has 55+ villa type condos and all-age single family homes on tree lined streets and open green spaces.

Single family homes are self-maintained and the floor plans range from two to three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two car garages, some have private swimming pools. It is a deed restricted community.

There are no mandatory HOA fees. The fee is low and optional but most people participate as they like living in a well maintained community. You will find a variety of styles, some with shingle roofs and others with barrel tile roofs. A total of 575 units comprise the single family homes.

Many people like to down size before they retire and enjoy living in the villa type condos which is a 55+ community and is maintenance free. There are 426 condos. You will find 12 different sections each having their own associations, rules, regulations and fees. Come enjoy the lifestyle this community offers with lots of activities and each section has their own swimming pool.

You will find two bedroom units with two baths, one car carports, others with one or two garages.

You may bring your small dog or cat to some of these sections. This outstanding community has NO CDD fees and is not located in a Flood Zone. There are approximately 2000 residents that make Village Green of Bradenton their home.

The stability of this community is evidenced by the fact that most residents do not move or sell until they are forced to move by health or family responsibilities to do so; thus there are rarely more than a few properties available for purchase at any time.

Prices for single family homes over the past year have ranged from $192,000 to $299,000. Condo sale prices over the past year have ranged from $140,000 to $220,000.

Travel to the intercostal Waterway and Anna Maria Island is less than 5 miles away; and all the desired amenities and services that enhance the Florida lifestyle. Stores, restaurants, churches, medical facilities, banks and accredited hospitals are within two or three miles when you make this community your home. You will be within minutes of GT Bray Park, Robinson Preserve (great for kayaking), walking trails, DeSoto monument and the YMCA. www.MyRASM.com

Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016 31

Membership News Dan Andrews Membership Director 941-952-3408

Editor’s Note: The “Now With” update is included in the magazine PDF, located at www.MyRASM.com/resources/magazine.

New Brokers: Cochran, Jonathan, JL Cochran Real Estate Co Dillon, Donald, Gulf Coast Rental Homes&Condos Douglas, Jim, Jim Douglas LLC Harris, Gary, Florida Int’l Reaty Group Hawthorne, Ann, Ann Hawthorne Lic. R.E. Broker Johnston, David, The Listing Outlet LLC Lambert, Kenneth, Lambert Realty Company Stephens, John, Pinnacle Properties Realty LLC

New Members:

Adkins, Shannon: Keller Williams Realty Select Amraoui, Mohamedamine: Keller Williams On The Water Anderson, Terry: Coldwell Banker Res R E Archer-Skinner, Angela: Mangrove Realty Associates Barrett, Kelly: Barrett Realty, Inc Bosco, Roseann: Keller Williams Realty Select Braden, Brenda: Big Fish Real Estate Inc Brown, Susan: Medway Realty Caballero, Tomas: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises Cadavid, Jordan: Keller Williams Realty Select Calderaro, Danielle: Allison James Estates & Homes Callahan, Kathleen: Michael Saunders & Company Caron, Cory: Bright Realty Carter JR, Coy: Wagner Realty Claxton, Christine: Big Fish Real Estate Inc Contreras Bonilla, Marco: Exit King Realty Corcoran, Daniel: Coldwell Banker Residential RE Croyle, Marilyn: Azure Tide Realty Cruz, Billi Jo: Coldwell Banker Res R E Davis, Mary Lou: PalmerHouse Properties De Stefano, Joseph: Coldwell Banker Res R E Diederich, Tracy: Weichert Realtors® Hallmark Pro Digati, Lori: Keller Williams Rlty Manatee Dolan, Matthew: Exit King Realty Edalgo, Chantelle: Michael Saunders & Company English, James: Keller Williams On The Water Fetterly, Jim: Coldwell Banker Residential RE Guadagnini, Marco: Worthington Property Group Inc Harles, Gerald: Exit Sunset Realty Inc Harris, Chase: Allison James Estates & Homes Hill, John: Suzanne Hill Realty Hollingsworth, Craig: Andrews & Associates Realty Howard, Steven: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises Hughes, Leonard: Boca Executive Realty Kenney, George: Coldwell Banker Res R E Kirrane, Thomas: Coldwell Banker Lattuga, Deborah: Keller Williams On The Water Levin, Sheryl: Keller Williams On The Water Lim PLLC, Stephanie: Keller Williams Realty Select Lips, Margaret: Sarasota Real Estate Group Mast, Ruth: Coldwell Banker Res RE Mathern, Amanda: Keller Williams Island Life RE 32

SEPTEMBER 2016

The Association is pleased to welcome new members!

McKay, Irina: SRQ Real Estate Advisors Corp McMillan, Summer: Coldwell Banker Residential R. McMullen, Nicholas: Century 21 Dockside Rlty Assoc Meholchick, David: Coldwell Banker Residential RE Mei, Lea: James Buchanan Realty Mendez, Mark: Keller Williams On The Water Mooney, John: Coldwell Banker Res RE Moore, Matthew: Bright Realty Moots, Nancy: Keller Williams On The Water Moss Reed, Ada Ava: Keller Williams Realty Select Mueller Reinisch, Stefan: Gulfcoast Holiday Homes & R.E. Osteen, Malgorzata: O’Steen Group Inc Payson, Rosa: Keller Williams On The Water Petriccione, Joanna: Keller Williams Realty Select Poole, Andrea: Keller Williams Realty Select Pratt, Matthew: Wagner Realty Rebey, Robert: Lalande Properties Ricker, Eric: Shirley International Realty Rowland, Deborah: Michael Saunders & Company Russell, Claudette: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises Schwager, Jason: Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT Schwager, Lindsay: Chapman & Associates Inc Seamon, Michael: Wagner Realty Smithey, Michael: WorldOne Realty Steward, Anka: Coldwell Banker Residential R. Stokes, Ashley: Exit Sunset Realty Inc Sutton, Lloyd: Bright Realty Swain, Gail: Coldwell Banker Swim, Melinda: Wagner Realty Tanguay, Keith: Coldwell Banker Res RE Urow, Zachary: Premier Plus Realty VanDorne, Norma: White Sands Realty Group FL Veenstra, Marianne: Leslie Wells Realty, Inc. Veitkus, Hannah: Wagner Realty Wilcock, Carole: Keller Williams On The Water Williams, Pamela: Keller Williams On The Water Wright, Andrew: Alert Real Estate

New Business Partners: David Weekley Homes 2511 Prospect Street Sarasota, FL 34239 813-786-8566 Representative: Melissa Dermosheghian Specialty: What Makes David Weekley Homes Such a Great Home Builder? Our People. Custom Choices™ that makes David Weekley Homes who we are… it’s our people! Our secret to success is making this an extraordinary place to work. Happy Team Members mean delighted Customers, and you know how we feel about delighting our Customers – we wouldn’t have it any other way. Your job is making Clients happy. Ours is keeping them that way. At David Weekley Homes, we take Customer Service seriously. Our Team is here to serve you, from Sales Consultants who will work with you and your Clients to find the perfect new home, to our Personal Builders who guide your Clients from contract to closing. Our focus is always on offering the very best home building experience and developing lasting Homebuyer and Realtor® relationships.

Email: mdermosheghian@dwhomes.com

Continued on page 33

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.MyRASM.com

New Business Partners Continued:

Doody Free 941 5320 Angeles Avenue Sarasota, FL 34235 941-232-7318 Representative: Dave Karshick Specialty: We provide Pet Waste Removal services to Counties, Dog Parks, Condos, Apartment Complexes, Residential Complexes, Events, Home Owners Associations and Realtors®. Prospective tenants with pets sometimes may set alarm bells ringing with owners. Generally the owners’ main concern is the upkeep and maintenance of their yard. Renters Service provides a peace of mind to the owners that at least the dog poo side of things is taken care of on a regular basis. This type of service is contracted to the specified time usually coinciding with the length of the lease. Real Estate Agents can incorporate our weekly service fee into the property’s rental price and Doody Free 941 will invoice your Real Estate office monthly.

Call our office for wholesale pricing for this unique service. We provide services to sporting fields, dog parks, playgrounds and reserves on a fixed regular basis.

Email: doodyfree941@yahoo.com Home & Design 2908 Seasons Blvd Sarasota, FL 34240 941-400-0181 Representative: Deidre DiTaranto Specialty: Home & Design is content is 100% focused on building, buying or improving luxury home. We are an indispensable resource of information on architecture, custom building, fine communities, interior design, home furnishings, the latest trends & innovations for luxury living and the leading companies that deliver the highest quality. Home & Design delivers your message to an affluent audience that is actively purchasing products and services for luxury homes.

Home & design also provides opportunities to network with other businesses servicing the luxury home market. The right image, the right audience, and the lowest CPM of any comparable media has made Home & Design the area’s undisputed leader in luxury homes for 16 years. Home & Design needs to be an integral part of any marketing plan designed to reach that market.

Email: deidre@homeanddesign.net Home Styling by Denise 15628 Trinity Fall Way Bradenton, FL 34212 941-405-9569 Representative: Denise Dienna Specialty: Home Staging is ... Just the Beginning. There are so many factors www.MyRASM.com

involved in selling, buying, and owning homes. Home Styling by Denise understands this and provides the following additional services to make your home ownership as enjoyable as it should be: Sorting and packing, Coordinating the sale of unwanted items, Coordinating moving & storage, Coordinating vendor visits (handyman, cleaners, carpet cleaning, etc.), Preparing for your open house Previewing homes with your Realtor®, Design planning for your new home, Redesigning for your current home, Shopping for furniture & accessories, Unpacking, Vacation rental staging and Holiday decorating Email: denise@homestylingbydenise.com Hotel Indigo® Sarasota 1223 Blvd of the Arts Sarasota, FL 34236-5949 941-487-3810 Representative: Shauna Ruby Specialty: Welcome to Hotel Indigo Sarasota. Travelers to Sarasota, FL Enjoy Hotel’s Decor and Charm. Situated adjacent to the beautiful Sarasota Bay, the Hotel Indigo® Sarasota hotel is a peaceful and unique alternative to the typical stay.

With a distinct, boutique-style atmosphere and locally refreshing decor, you’ll feel the difference as much as you’ll see it during your visit to Sarasota. The hotel’s location is perfect for tourists as we’re situated in the heart of the arts district. We’re within walking distance to downtown, and popular destinations like Siesta Key Beach, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and the Ringling Museum of Art are just a short drive from this hotel’s address in Sarasota, FL. We’re located just three miles from Sarasota - Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) and near several area companies and Sarasota Memorial Hospital. We even have three on-site meeting facilities. The H2O Bistro and Lounge provides a warm atmosphere for drinks and socializing, and free high-speed, wireless Internet access.

Email: Shauna@srqhotel.com M Interior Design 7361 International Place #403 Sarasota, FL 34240 941-960-2401 Representative: Michael Perkinson Specialty: Michael Perkinson, one of Florida’s most versatile and multitalented interior designers, has 35 years of comprehensive experience designing & renovating residential & commercial projects for clients in Florida, and around the world. An award winning full service interior designer based in Sarasota, Michael is known for his design expertise, his attention to detail and his problem solving skills. He specializes in creating custom and individualized projects. Clients use Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

terms like “fabulous taste”, “keen sense of style” and “creative yet functional design” to describe his work. Michael has served hundreds of clients over a highly successful career during which he has worked on the interiors of everything from lavish Middle East palaces to a 25 square foot gourmet donut kiosk. Highly skilled at designing new residences and reimagining existing ones, Michael’s services range from space planning and project management to power and lighting as well as the selection and installation of all products and finishes for interior and exterior spaces.

Email: michael@midsrq.com Sarasota Interior Design Group 2545 Bispham Rd Sarasota, FL 34231 941-544-3628 Representative: Connie Allegra Specialty: Connie Allegra is a Florida licensed Interior Designer and the owner of Sarasota Interior Design Group. SIDG provides residential and commercial interior design and interior decorating services, including all phases of design from programming to project management.

Specializing in space planning, color and finish selection, AutoCAD drawings, construction documentation. Complete start to finish projects as well as hourly design consultations.

Email: connieallegrasrq@gmail.com Servicemaster by Wright 3947 Clark Road Sarasota, FL 34233 941-356-9201 Representative: Linda Denise Springer Specialty: Since 1978, the team at Service Master by Wright has been a pioneering and trusted source for the fire and smoke restoration and water restoration solutions for homeowners and businesses. We offer a large variety of quality services beyond just fire and water, to include hoarder clean up, carpet cleaning, mold remediation and inspection, trauma and crime scene clean up, and much more.

ServiceMaster by Wright has offices located in Fort Myers FL, Naples FL, Sarasota FL, and Manatee FL. Our Emergency and Disaster Service Division is on 24/7 and responds quickly to any Commercial or Residential Disaster caused by fire or water.

From Water Removal, Dehumidification, Structural Drying to Smoke and Soot removal our team responds within 15 minutes to your call. Our Licensed General Contractors and Certified Technicians provide professional damage evaluations, determine the services needed, mitigate the claim severity, and give you peace of mind.

Email: dspringer@svmaster.net.

Continued on page 34

SEPTEMBER 2016 33

New Business Partners Continued: Suncoast Pix Address: 4256 Reflections Parkway Sarasota, FL 34233 941-840-1749 Representative: Rich Fagan Specialty: Professional photos help sell properties and make you, the agent, look good in the process. In today’s market, leveraging compelling imagery and enticing videos has become absolutely essential to successfully introducing and promoting properties, thus increasing the importance of having a professional real estate photographer as part of the listing agent’s marketing team. It’s Good for Your Business. As a real estate professional, the return on investment you get from using professional photos makes the decision to hire a professional photographer a ‘no-brainer’. When you wow your client with fantastic photography, they are going to share the results with friends… on Facebook… in emails… and tell people they work with “My agent has done a great job of marketing my property. Look at the professional photos and virtual tour of my property. Doesn’t my home look beautiful?” Your clients will be impressed with the level of professional completeness you’ve demonstrated in marketing their property, and they will tell their friends. Your business will definitely benefit. We’ve seen it again and again.

Email: rich@suncoastpix.com

Tiny Little Hands Foundation Back-to-School Backpack Brigade The Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) supported the Tiny Hands Foundation at the 2016 Backto-School Backpack Brigade on August 6. Nearly 40 members from RASM volunteered at the event to fill backpacks for community school children.

According to Tiny Hands Foundation, more than 500 volunteers helped pack 1,638 backpacks with school supplies and kid-friendly food packs. At the event, over 500 backpacks were passed out to requests from local families. Tiny Hands is also working with over 10 children’s organizations to distribute the remaining backpacks to community children in need.

Each year, the RASM Community Outreach Committee selects community projects to partner with. The Tiny Hands Foundation is a 2016 project along with Manatee County Habitat for Humanity, project, along with Habitat for Humanity Sarasota, Feeding Empty Little Tummies (F.E.L.T), The Blessing Bags Project, and Special Olympics. For more information about the partnership between RASM and Manatee Habitat for Humanity as well as the RASM Community Outreach Committee, contact Gina White at gina@ myrasm.com or (941) 952-3405.

SWF HOME INSPECTIONS

Experience The Difference...

• • • • •

Home and Commercial Pre-Build & Final Walk Through Insurance Inspections Mold, Radon & Meth Testing Well Water Testing

941.493.4334 info@SWFHomeInspections.com

Certified • Insured • Bonded • Licensed

SWFHomeInspections.com 34

SEPTEMBER 2016

O U R P O S T

FREE RIDERS

YOUR PANEL

SignTraker of SWF Professional Real Estate Sign Post Installations

Online Ordering We Inventory and Install Your Post We Keep Track of Your Inventory

$

32

orders@stofswf.com Offer expires 12/31/2016.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

IN AND OUT

941.493.4334 stofswf.com

www.MyRASM.com

Sarasota Chapter

Manatee Chapter

By Alfredda Smith-Odato 2016 WCR President Sarasota Chapter It’s CRUNCH TIME! Our Fashion Show committee members are working like busy ants. Have you ever noticed that everything an ant does is for the benefit of the colony? Our Fashion Show members aren’t any different from the colony of ants.

Each and every one of them is working feverishly, selling last minute sponsors, ads and vendor tables, determined to get everything finalized before the deadline date that our program book has to go to print. As if on autopilot, each member knows exactly what to do, making sure to get their portion of the task in hand finalized so the next step will run smoothly and efficiently. They are running from office to office to pick up auction items, goodie bag samples and contacting the hundreds of people willing to give donations and sponsorships for our event every year. Year after year, our members, like those worker ants, make sure that no stone is unturned in their quest to make this year the best year yet! Teamwork! Working together because we are BETTER TOGETHER! Building ENERGY, PASSION & EXCITEMENT – that’s exactly what WCR is all about.

In our organization, every contributing member is a hero.

Not one person or committee can complete the task at hand without the others. We build bridges from one sub-committee to another, making sure that each member is supportive of the other and each committee supports the other. This is just an example of why I am so very proud to say that I am a member of the Women’s Council of Realtors®, Sarasota. It doesn’t get any better than this for making friendships and business partners. There are so many people to thank – I don’t want to forget anyone. Of course, I would be remiss if I didn’t take this opportunity to personally say “THANK YOU” to all of our 2016 DIAMOND Fashion Show Sponsors this year.

By Robin Wentz 2016 WCR President Manatee Chapter Hello from Women’s Council of Realtors, Manatee Chapter!

This month, our business Resource Meeting will be held Thursday, September 8 at 11am-1pm at Pier 22 in downtown Bradenton. Our speaker will be County Property Appraiser, Charles Hackney. He will be talking to us about property taxes in a rising market! Reservations are required and must be made by September 6th (Lunch included) through Eventbrite: https://goo.gl/Mz0LcV. It will be a great meeting!

Thursday, October 6, will be our big fundraiser and our 3rd Golf Scramble to be held at the Esplanade at Lakewood Ranch. All experience levels (including none!) are invited, and there is still time to sign up to be a sponsor at all levels and to donate silent auction items. We hope you’ll come to have tons of fun! A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Manatee Children’s Services. To sign up to play, become a sponsor or to just join us for dinner please register: https://goo. gl/GBMqOM. Any questions can be directed to Chair, Christy May, at 781-258-6022. Please note: there will not be a Business Resource Meeting in October because of our Golf Scramble.

HOMES BY TOWNE BERLIN PATTEN EBLING, Attorneys at Law SABAL PALM BANK RIDDELL LAW GROUP BERT RODGERS SCHOOLS INNOVATIVE INSURANCE, LLC NICOLE L. JORDAN, ESQ COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE

We offer digital and offset printing with in-house foil stamping, embossing, and die cutting to meet all of your printing needs.

Your unwavering support over the years has been remarkable and has not gone un-noticed. A special “Thank You” to my Fashion Show Committee Chair, Carrie Starr Rummery, Vice Chair, Michelle Crabtree and all the other committee members: CJ Coury our Treasurer, Julia Montei, Rebecca Dalton, Jackie Polino, Kitt Kearney, Maria Masucci, Cathleen Acosta, Whitney Pieterse, Peter Salefsky, Kathy Collums, Tina Darling, Linda Martin, Jacqueline Mazur, Denise Courtney and Lacey Faris. So please, don’t forget to purchase your tickets at www.wcrevents.com. Fashion Houses: Foxy Lady and Martin Freeman with a special live auction on a custom pendant by Vanessa.

My Line Officers and I along with the Committee Chair, Vice Chair and all of the committee members look forward to seeing you at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Sarasota on September 7th! www.MyRASM.com

• Brochures, Sell Sheets & Rack Cards • Newsletters, Postcards & Direct Mail • Business Cards, Promotional Products & Product Packaging • Portfolios & Pocket Folders • Annual Reports & Manuals

It’s that time of year to start planning your Holiday cards & 2017 calendars!

Coastal Printing has the expertise to deliver exceptional quality every time and on time!

941-351-1515 Ryan@CoastalPrint.com

CoastalPrint.com *Ask about a RASM discount.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

*,"1 Ê ,

2016 Member

Strengthening Your Business and our Community National Chamber of the Year Four-Time Winner Florida Chamber of the Year U.S. Chamber 5-Star Accredited

1730 Independence Blvd.

Sarasota, FL 34234 SEPTEMBER 2016 35

YPN Celebrates 2nd Anniversary

Membership Update Continued Now With: Abbe, Steve: Coldwell Banker Res R E Arbogast, Patricia: Exit King Realty Barlan, Gyongyi: One World Realty of Sarasota Birge, Joya: Lambert Realty Company Bonilla, Carlos: Exit King Realty Bretoi, Gene: Coldwell Banker Res R E Brummitt, Daniel: RE/MAX Fine Properties Callan, Jody: Keller Williams Island Life RE Carroll, Linda: Premier Plus Realty Codella, Carolyn: Wagner Realty Conway, Dianna: Exit Dream Team Realty Coughlin, Janet: Bright Realty Deme-Fulcher, Kimberly: Keller Williams Realty Select Donovan, Diana: Premier Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Ebert, Joseph: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Egan LLC, Mitzi: Keller Williams Rlty Manatee Elario, Robert: Ascendia Real Estate England, Tobin: Hembree And Assoc Inc Fieberts, Theresa: RoseBay International, Inc Glantz, Sandra: Wagner Realty Hanley, Kevin: Keller Williams Island Life RE Harvey, Angela: Allison James Estates & Homes Hernandez Pozo, Belen: White Sands Realty Group FL LeRoux, Fran: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Lucchesi, Alex: Florida Resorts Realty Malickson, Frank: Wagner Realty Matheson, Glenda: Realty Partners LLC Mooney, Kelly: Premier Sotheby's Intl. Realty Moore, E Georgie: Allison James Estates & Homes Mullinnix, Betty: Coldwell Banker Res R E Murrell, Dorothy: Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc Nanfelt, Stephen: Medway Realty O’Steen, Rebecca: O’Steen Group Inc O’Steen, Jonathan: O’Steen Group Inc Palmeri-Bates, Patricia: Pinnacle Properties Realty LLC Patton, Janice: Dolphin Bay Real Estate LLC Popovic, Charles: List N Sell Realty LLC Pozzi, Liselotte: Coldwell Banker Res R E Pozzi, Luis: Caballero Realty Services Randall, Kenyatta: Keller Williams On The Water Rosenberg, Kelly: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Santana, Angel: Yorkshire International R.E. Sindoris, Chris: Vantage Real Estate Smith, Kathleen: Jennette Properties Inc Smith, Helen: Dolphin Bay Real Estate LLC Sokolov, Sergei: Medway Realty Swierkowska, Dorota: Keller Williams On The Water Thelen, Diann: Gulf Coast Rental Homes&Condos Toale, Suzanne: Allison James Estates & Homes Todoroff, Michelle: Bright Realty Varnadore, Raymond: Pinnacle Properties Realty LLC Ware, Curtis: Bright Realty Wentzel, Thomas: Keller Williams On The Water Wisz, John: Keller Williams On The Water 36

SEPTEMBER 2016

The 2016 Business Partners of the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee held their Summerfest Trade Show on August 16th from 4-7pm at the Manatee Technical College. With hundreds of members in attendance, great food and refreshments and over $2,500 in door prizes, a good time was had by all!

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.MyRASM.com

On the Scene The RASM Business Partners hosted the August “After Hours Networking Event” at Gecko’s Grill & Pub on Hillview Avenue in Sarasota. Come, relax and enjoy free appetizers, happy hour prices / specials, and lively conversations with your fellow members! This monthly event is always a fun night of socializing and networking.

All RASM members, and future members, are invited and encouraged to attend and enjoy networking! Please make sure to join us next month!

www.MyRASM.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016 37

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID MANASOTA, FL PERMIT NO. 451

Education & Events Calendar September 2016

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

My Florida Regional MLS Training To view and register for upcoming webinars, go to the GoPher It Portal, and click on the webinar classes link.

You can also view and register for MFR webinars directly at webinars.mfrmls.com.

For all Non-MLS classes, register at: www.MyRASM.com

DATES SUBJECT TO CHANGE

38

SEPTEMBER 2016

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

Realtor®Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Inc. 2320 Cattlemen Road Sarasota, FL 34232

South Office - 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 North Office - 10910 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

www.MyRASM.com

Expanded Statistical Report Sarasota and Manatee Counties July 2016 For more detailed reports, visit http://www.MyRASM.com/statistics/

www.MyRASM.com

Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2016 39

Monthly Distressed Market - July 2016 Single Family Homes Sarasota County

Closed Sales

July 2016

July 2015

Percent Change Year-over-Year

629

723

-13.0%

$250,000

$237,500

5.3%

41

125

-67.2%

$165,000

$130,200

26.7%

10

20

-50.0%

$181,325

$196,500

-7.7%

Traditional Median Sale Price Closed Sales Foreclosure/REO Median Sale Price Closed Sales Short Sale Median Sale Price

2012

2013

Traditional

2014

Foreclosure/REO

2015

2016

Short Sale

100% 90%

Closed Sales

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

$300,000

Median Sale Price

$250,000

$200,000

$150,000

$100,000

$50,000

$0 J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

2012 40

SEPTEMBER 2016

2013

2014 Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine

2015

2016 www.MyRASM.com

Produced by Florida REALTORSÂŽ with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month.

Monthly Distressed Market - July 2016 Single Family Homes Manatee County

Closed Sales

July 2016

July 2015

Percent Change Year-over-Year

552

492

12.2%

$281,000

$265,000

6.0%

18

68

-73.5%

$187,250

$143,750

30.3%

8

14

-42.9%

$235,500

$148,000

59.1%

Traditional Median Sale Price Closed Sales Foreclosure/REO Median Sale Price Closed Sales Short Sale Median Sale Price

2012

2013

Traditional

2014

Foreclosure/REO

2015

2016

Short Sale

100% 90%

Closed Sales

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

$350,000

Median Sale Price

$300,000 $250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

2012 www.MyRASM.com

2013

2014

Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine

2015

2016 SEPTEMBER 2016 41

Produced by Florida REALTORSÂŽ with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month.

Monthly Distressed Market - July 2016 Townhouses and Condos Sarasota County

Closed Sales

July 2016

July 2015

Percent Change Year-over-Year

248

315

-21.3%

$207,500

$199,900

3.8%

5

21

-76.2%

$100,000

$84,900

17.8%

2

2

0.0%

$126,500

$407,500

-69.0%

Traditional Median Sale Price Closed Sales Foreclosure/REO Median Sale Price Closed Sales Short Sale Median Sale Price

2012

2013

Traditional

2014

Foreclosure/REO

2015

2016

Short Sale

100% 90%

Closed Sales

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

$450,000 $400,000

Median Sale Price

$350,000 $300,000 $250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

2012 42

SEPTEMBER 2016

2013

2014 Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine

2015

2016 www.MyRASM.com

Produced by Florida REALTORSÂŽ with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month.

Monthly Distressed Market - July 2016 Townhouses and Condos Manatee County

Closed Sales

July 2016

July 2015

Percent Change Year-over-Year

207

178

16.3%

$192,000

$157,450

21.9%

7

12

-41.7%

$125,000

$94,983

31.6%

0

2

-100.0%

(No Sales)

$245,000

N/A

Traditional Median Sale Price Closed Sales Foreclosure/REO Median Sale Price Closed Sales Short Sale Median Sale Price

2012

2013

Traditional

2014

Foreclosure/REO

2015

2016

Short Sale

100% 90%

Closed Sales

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

$300,000

Median Sale Price

$250,000

$200,000

$150,000

$100,000

$50,000

$0 J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

2012 www.MyRASM.com

2013

2014

Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine

2015

2016 SEPTEMBER 2016 43

Produced by Florida REALTORSÂŽ with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month.