Sarasota Realtor Magazine - Sept. 2012

SEPTEMBER 2012

The Official Monthly Publication of the Sarasota Association of Realtors速

REAL Tech Make technology work for you!

Page 6

Supra Keybox Exchange Slated Sept. 18-20

See Page 11

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Contents

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine Volume 9, Issue 9 SEPTEMBER 2012

Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. 3590 South Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34239 Phone: 941/923-2315 FAX: 941/923-0191 www.sarasotarealtors.com www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

6

High Tech

Technology and real estate go hand in hand. and the symbiotic

relationship has grown even more apparent in 2012 with the

advent of amazing new devices and date-sharing methodologies.

10 Top RPAC Contributors

Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield salutes SAR’s top contributors to the Realtor® Political Action Committee fund, a very important source of support for Realtor® rights.

Volume 9 • Issue 9 •SEPTEMBER 2012

12 Portability Primer

President Laura Benson Michael Saunders & Company President-Elect Roger Piro Town & Country Realty Secretary Stafford Starcher RE/MAX Alliance Group Treasurer Peter Crowley RE/MAX Alliance Group Immediate Past President Michael Bruno Michael Saunders & Company Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roberts

Sarasota County Property Appraiser Bill Furst explains

the newly adopted state legislation that impacts homestead

exemptions and portability.

Mission Statement The mission of the Sarasota Association of ® Realtors is to advance members’ professionalism through delivery of education and resources while upholding the Realtors® Code of Ethics.

15 Sales Remain High

We are committed to be the leading advocate of real estate in the communities we serve by protecting private property rights and expanding relationships with individuals and organizations both locally and worldwide.

Property sales in July 2012 in the Sarasota market dropped off slightly as expected from the second-quarter surge, but remained above the 2011 totals in sales and prices.

18 Back Amendment 4

CID President Brad Lindberg gives the logical arguments in favor of the proposed Amendment 4, coming up for vote in the November general election.

In every issue 15- Sales and Listing Statistics 18- Commercial Investment Division Visit SAR on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors See a few of the photos this month on Page 24!

29- Global Business Council

Director of Professional Development Catherine McCaskill Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield

Subscriptions: The annual dues of every member of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc., includes a one-year subscription to Sarasota Realtor ® magazine.

A yearly subscription for Sarasota Realtor ® magazine is available to non-members for $25, plus Florida sales tax.

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 Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All submitted copy is subject to editing.

2012 Copyright© by the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

30- Membership

SEPTEMBER 2012

Director of Information Technology Jesse Sunday

Sarasota Realtor® Advertising: For information on advertising rates and deadlines, contact Ray Porter at 941/328-1168 or ray@sarasotarealtors.com.

12- Property Appraiser

24- On the SAR Scene

Editorial Staff Director of Communications Ray Porter

Production Coastal Printing, Inc.

10- Governmental Affairs

20- Education Programs

Sarasota Realtor® is published monthly by the Sarasota Association of Realtors® Inc.

Director of Membership and Administrative Services Dan Andrews

32- Calendar of Events/Education 4

2012 SAR Officers

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

SAR Annual Meeting set for Sept. 14th SAR Officers and Directors for the 2013 Board of Directors will be up for election at the SAR Annual Meeting on Friday, Sept. 14 at Dutch Heritage Restaurant, 3713 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota. We urge members to register now for the event at www.sarasotarealtors.com Officers: President: Roger Piro, Town & Country President-Elect: Peter Crowley, RE/MAX Alliance Group Treasurer: Stafford Starcher, RE/MAX Alliance Group Secretary: Xena Vallone, Xena Vallone Realty Directors to serve a 3-year term: Steve Bailey, Coldwell Banker Residential Marianne LeBar, Michael Saunders & Company Brad Lindberg, Sperry Van Ness Commercial Renee Marquiss, Xena Vallone Realty

Christina Pitchford, Allen Real Estate Services Director to serve a 1-year term: David Clapp, RE/MAX Alliance Group Roger Piro, Town & Country, who served as President-Elect in 2012, will automatically become President on January 1.

2012 President Laura Benson, Michael Saunders & Company, will continue on the Board as Immediate Past President.

Directors whose terms continue in 2013 are: Michael Davenport, King Realty; Joe C. Hembree, Hembree & Associates; Debbie Judge, Michael Saunders & Company; Bob Milhoan, Hembree & Associates; Carla Rayman, Coldwell Banker Residential; Drayton Saunders, Michael Saunders & Company; Bob Stanley, Coldwell Banker Residential; Kristin Triolo, Atchley International; and Amy Worth-Paul, RE/MAX Alliance Group.

SAR joins coalition supporting Amendment 4

SAR is proud to join the broad coalition of groups voting YES on Amendment 4. Chambers of commerce, trade associations and lawmakers from both parties have announced their support of Amendment 4, which will create tens of thousands of jobs and promote a healthier Florida housing market.

Amendment 4, on this November’s ballot, does three basic things: 1. Creates an additional homestead exemption for first-time homebuyers for five years.

2. Protects Floridians from increased property taxes when their home value has declined.

3. Lowers the assessment cap for non-homestead properties, including small businesses, from 10 percent to 5 percent.

We hope that you will join SAR in spreading the word about Amendment 4 by alerting all your contacts. If you would like more information about joining our movement, please visit www.taxyourassetsoff.com/volunteer and someone from the YES on Amendment 4 campaign will contact you directly.

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Before you decide, ask us to send you free, written information about our qualifications and experience.

Cover Story 6

REAL High Tech

T

New iPhone, Windows 8, Surface, much more on tap This month and the next quarter is shaping up as an exciting time for the technology watchers among us, including real estate professionals who rely so much on the latest, greatest gadgets, software, apps and solutions.

In late September, the launch of the latest Apple products is expected, including a larger, faster iPhone, a smaller version of the iPad, along with the latest operating system for the iPhone and iPad. Microsoft will unveil Windows 8 and the new Surface tablets in October. Google recently released the Nexus 7 tablet. The second generation of the Kindle Fire is almost here. Apple and many other providers of Cloud techology are preparing the next versions of the popular net-based data interfaces.

Android products continue to pop up left and right to compete with Apple, and RIM remains a player with their latest Blackberry devices.

So, faced with all this change, and even more in the months ahead, what is a Realtor® to do in order to stay competitive and remain ahead of the curve?

The answer, as always - GET EDUCATED! The REAL Tech Expo, slated for Friday, Sept. 21, is the perfect place to start. Register now at www.realtechexpo.com With top national speakers, seminars, programs, and valuable breakout sessions, all for only $25 for SAR members, you can truly stretch your education dollar and get the most bang for your buck! The event takes place at the Sarasota Bradenton International Convention Center, 8005 15th Street East in Sarasota.

Here’s the agenda: 8:30AM-9AM REGISTRATION AND CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST 9AM WELCOME: Laura Benson, SAR President 9:05AM-10AM KEYNOTE #1: The Top Ten Smart Phones Apps to Use Now! Joe Sesso, Homes Media Solutions (parent company of Homes.com SEPTEMBER 2012

As national spokesperson for Homes.com, Joe is often asked, “What are the best real estate apps for smart phones?” Read about Joe’s choices in the September issue of Florida Realtors® magazine.

10AM TRADE EXPO OPENS 10:15-11:15AM BREAKOUT SESSIONS ROUND #1 Main Auditorium: Joe Sesso, Homes Media Solutions - More on the best smart phone apps for real estate professionals.

Conference Room #1: Chris Griffin, National Sales Director for Realbiz Media, integrating listing data feeds for automatic media conversion or tours to YouTube videos.

World Map Room: Sam Herrera, Partner Relations Manager, Zillow The Zillow/Yahoo! Real Estate Network is a powerful marketing platform, transforming the way consumers make home-related decisions and connect with real estate professionals.

Gold Room: Denise Whitty, VP of Business Development, OwnAmerica: Supplying Real Estate Professionals with everything you need to compete for and win the residential investor market in one simple, affordable package.

LUNCH BREAK - 11:30AM to 12:15PM 12:30PM WELCOME: Laura Benson, SAR President 12:35PM-1:30PM KEYNOTE #2: The Top Ten Google Tools for the Real Estate Professional Brad Andersohn, creator and founder of Agent Assist, Real Estate411, Real tools for Realtors, and Zillow Academy 1:45PM-2:45PM BREAKOUT SESSIONS ROUND #2 Main Auditorium: Video as a Marketing Tool, Brad Andersohn Conference Room #1: Sarasota Property Appraiser staff representative: Free Map App

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Free Tech Support

World Map Room: Free MFRMLS Tools & Services that Can Make You $$$$ Gold Room: How Listing Book Can Increase Your Bottom Line, Lisa Turner, Senior Marketing Director, Listingbook 3PM-4PM BREAKOUT SESSIONS ROUND #3 Main Auditorium: OwnAmerica: Tools for the Investor Market, Denise Whitty, VP of Business Development Conference Room #1: Using YouTube Video to Showcase Listings Worldwide, Chris Griffin, National Media Sales Director for Realbiz Media World Map Room: Free MFRMLS www.sarasotarealtors.com

Tools & Services that Can Make You $$$$ Conference Room #1: Evernote: Remember everything, capture anything, access anywhere, find things fast!

Free! Kim Long, Intuitive Technology Coaching 4PM-4:15PM WRAP-UP AND DRAWINGS So, what are real estate professionals doing today with the technology that is available to them?

According to the most recent NAR survey, more than in past years, colleagues are seen as a good source for information

The Florida Realtors® Tech Helpline is available to answer members’ questions Monday Friday from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Just call 407-587-1450 and have your membership information handy (either your FREC license number or NRDS number). Or you can access this free service via email for computer support questions or chat for live computer support. Also, to ensure the Technology Helpline is just a click away, download the new desktop widget for computer support and tech help. You can get expert assistance and support. The Tech Helpline team handles a variety of questions and problems, including the following: - Florida Realtors® members can utilize the business tools and support features on floridarealtors. org, including setting up free member websites and configuring property functions such as IDX. - Get advice on shopping for hardware, software or digital equipment.

- Get Advice on installing and configuring new hardware and software.

- The team diagnoses computer hardware malfunctions.

- The team helps you get the best performance from your equipment.

- They work through system failure of basic hardware and software components.

- They recommend the most current software for your computer system.

- The team troubleshoots Local Area and Dial-Up Networking configuration and connectivity.

- They consult with members about networking opportunities.

Read more about the Technology Helpline’s technical support and computer repair services at www. floridarealtors.org.

Continued on P. 8, See HIGH TECH Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2012

7

HIGH TECH From Page 7

on technology for real estate.

Tablet computers like iPad are at the top of mind with respondents.

When asked to list the three most valuable tools they have started using in the last year, tablets like the iPad, Galaxy tab, etc. were mentioned most often. Mobile and desktop tools, and CRM solutions like Top Producer followed closely behind.

Because these tools keep respondents connected, save time, and increase productivity over one-third indicate they will purchase or replace a tablet like the iPad, Xoom, PlayBook, Galaxy, or G-slate in the next 12 months.

Smartphones continue to be the top item respondents will replace or purchase in the next year. Currently, 35% own a smartphone that runs Android’s operating system (OS) followed by the iPhone OS (28%) and BlackBerry OS (18%).

In 2008, 67% of survey respondents did not engage in social media. This year, 90% of brokers and 91% of agents report that they use social media. Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube lead the way as most used social media tools among respondents.

For the first time Facebook was included and selected by 48% as a place where listings are placed.

REALTOR.com (87%) remains the top site where listings are displayed. Data from NAR shows that nine out of 10

Darlene Martin SAR Affiliate of Month Darlene Martin of Regus Management has been named SAR Affiliate of the Month for September 2012.

Darlene is the General Manager of Regus Executive Office Space in downtown Sarasota. The Regus centre offers executive offices that are fully furnished, telephone and internet connectivity in each office, daily office cleaning and 24 hour access to your office.

Services at the Regus location include the usage of 2 conference Darlene Martin rooms, video conference equipment, professionally staffed team and a Business Café.

If you would like to schedule a tour or learn more about Regus, please contact Darlene Martin at (941) 309-5200 or by email - Darlene.Martin@regus.com. You can also visit their website at www.regus.com

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SEPTEMBER 2012

buyers use the Internet in their home search. About the same percentage use a real estate pro.

What Apps are helping Realtors® do their job more effectively and efficiently? According to Todd Carpenter of Realtor® Magazine, these are the top current picks: - Wunderlist: Among all the to-do applications out there, Wunderlist stands out for its ability to sync across multiple platforms and with multiple people. Tasks you enter using Windows or Mac OS X programs can be checked off on your iPad, iPhone, or Android device, or vice versa.

Everything syncs in the cloud. Create a list of properties for a client to view, or share sales meeting updates with your agent team. Since the app works across many different platforms, everyone can easily participate.

What’s lacking? For a real estate team, the ability to assign items to specific team members would make the app even better.

- DocuSign: While DocuSign (a Realtor Benefits® Program Partner) has a robust subscription service for generating and managing contracts, this simple app is a great solution for signing almost anything from a smartphone or tablet. Using an iPhone, you click on the attached PDF in your e-mail. Select Open In… and choose DocuSign Ink. Then, touch spots on the contract that need to be signed.

DocuSign Ink adds your signature.

What’s lacking? During setup, the app asks you to draw your signature with your finger. It’s a little cumbersome. It would be nice to have the option to provide a scanned copy of your signature instead (Note: My Florida Regional MLS also offers the non-app solution - Authentisign - for $29 per year).

- Trulia for Agents: This agent-specific app allows you to manage incoming leads from Trulia and to have your contacts accessible wherever you are. The ability to check into a listing and share your observations with clients offers a great branding opportunity for agents seeking to become a local neighborhood expert. Consumers can view the listings an agent has checked into from that agent’s profile on Trulia.

What’s lacking?The app could benefit from a sharing feature that ties to broader networks, such as Facebook and Foursquare, so agents could show their business-related check-ins as well as their stops at Starbucks or the golf course.

- iAnnotate PDF: A superb tool for editing, highlighting, organizing, and sending PDF files, iAnnotate makes it easy to work with contracts and other documents in the field.

This easy-to-navigate iPad app lets you scroll continuously through a document. Choose from a plethora of functions: pen, highlighter, typewriter, notes, underline, strike­through, photography, voice recording, and date stamps.

What’s lacking? More platforms. The biggest downside is that it’s available only on the iPad for now. Similar solutions for Android are much less versatile.

This is just the tip of the technology iceburg. Register for the REAL: Tech Expo and you’ll get the full picture!

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Tuesday-Saturday 10:30AM- 5:30PM Monday by Appointment 1540 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 941.366.0941 BlackBirdHomeGallery.com

Governmental Affairs

SAR salutes RPAC 2012 Major Investors

R

RPAC’s Major Investor Program consists of an elite group of Realtor® contributors who partner with NAR, Florida Realtors® and SAR to shape the political future for the real estate industry. RPAC is the only political group in the country organized for Realtors®, run by Realtors® and exists solely to further issues important to Realtors®. On behalf of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® we thank these individuals shown below for their dedication and continued support of RPAC. For information on how you can become an RPAC major investor please contact Marc Mansfield at 3281159 or email marc@sarasotarealtors.com.

Clark Toole, Coldwell Banker Real Estate - Golden R Clark Toole was named President of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, Florida’s largest residential real estate company, in May 2007.

He oversees operations of more than 80 offices and nearly 4,600 sales associates across Florida, as well as Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT. Previously he was regional president of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate in Tampa Bay and Sarasota.

Clark began his real estate career in Florida in 1975, selling homes to pay his way through graduate school, where he earned an MBA in real estate and marketing Bill Furst,William C. Furst Real Estate – Golden R-President’s Circle Currently the elected Sarasota County Property Appraiser, Bill has over 38 years of experience in the Florida Real Estate industry as a Real Estate Broker, Building Contractor and Mortgage Broker. Bill has been active with local, state and National Association of Realtors®. He is a past President of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, the past Secretary of the Florida Realtors® and past National CRB President. He has served on the Board of Directors at the National Association of Realtors® since 1996. Bill holds a Coast Guard captain’s license, is also a pilot and an avid runner having completed three Boston Marathons.

Michael Bruno, Michael Saunders & Company -Sterling R Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Mike spent 16 years as a retail executive in both department and discount store merchandising in Wisconsin and Connecticut. While in Connecticut, he obtained his real estate license and then relocated to Sarasota in 1988 when he joined

the Sarasota Association of Realtors®. Mike is a real estate agent with Michael Saunders & Company and a consistent top producer. He currently serves as the Immediate Past President of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® and serves on the Florida Realtors® Board of Directors. Mike is also a graduate of the Florida Realtors® Leadership Academy.

Laura Benson, Michael Saunders & Company – Sterling R Laura currently serves as President of the SAR Board of Directors. She has served on numerous committees, including Professional Development, Grievance, Public Policy, Finance, Nominating and SARPAAT. In 2008 she was named SAR Realtor® of the Year. She has also served as an elected member of the Sarasota County School Board, appointed by the Florida Senate to a seat on the Century Commission for a Sustainable Florida and served on the Board of Directors for Future Business Leaders of America-Phi Beta Lambda and Take Stock in Children.

Kathy Roberts, Sarasota Association of Realtors® – Sterling R Kathy Roberts is CEO of the Sarasota Association of Realtors. She holds the designation of Realtor® Association Certified Executive (RCE) from the National Association of Realtors®, one of only 405 in the nation. Before becoming the CEO of SAR, she was the Chief Operating Officer of the Miami Association of Realtors®. Prior to that she was the CEO of the Wichita (KS) and Topeka Boards of Realtors® for 10 and 17 years respectively, with similar responsibilities to her position at SAR. She received her BS degree from Friends University and a Duke University Certificate for Nonprofit Management

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SEPTEMBER 2012

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

The Sarasota Association of REALTORS® and Supra are hosting an event for a…

Keybox Exchange Tuesday-Thursday, September 18th-20th The Municipal Auditorium 801 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236 SAR is implementing a new lockbox system, featuring Supra’s Bluetooth iBox. We are holding an event to help you get started with the new equipment.

An appointment schedule will be sent to you and posted on SAR’s website under Hot Topics.

Exchange your old blue lockboxes for new Bluetooth iBoxes. Lockboxes are exchanged one for one, free of charge. Lockboxes will only be traded out for current members who own them. Please make sure your lockbox inventory is accurate by going to www.supraekey.com and click on SupraWEB Login for Real Estate Agents at the top of the page. If you do not own lockboxes, you don’t need to attend unless you want to activate your smartphone to use as your lockbox key.

Please bring with you to the exchange event:  

Your ID Your old blue lockboxes, exchanged 1 for 1, free of charge

You will be able to upgrade to the optional eKEY at this time. Choose From 3 Key Options…

Key Type Comparisons Key Choices

ActiveKEY

eKEY Basic

eKEY Professional

Pricing

*$16.95 per month, billed annually

$15.95, billed monthly

$22.95, billed monthly

Functionality

Basic Lockbox functions

Basic Lockbox functions on your smartphone

Basic Lockbox functions on your smartphone plus MLS, maps and showing activity

Additional Accessories

n/a

**iPhone adapter required to open Lockboxes, *$49.95

*Dollar amount does not include applicable tax. ** iPhone Adapter required.

If upgrading to the optional eKEY, also bring with you to the exchange event:   

Your ActiveKEY and smartphone. To compare key types, go to www.SarasotaRealtors.com Hot Topics.

Payment for iPhone adapter in the form of: American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa or Check Important: If you want to activate your smartphone, please download the eKEY app prior to the event.

There is an eKEY ‘app’ that turns your smartphone into your lockbox key. Simply download the eKEY ‘app’ onto your smartphone. The smartphone certified device list is posted under Hot Topics on SAR’s website.

To download the ‘app’ for your device: iPhone – Select App Store icon, select Search and search for Supra eKEY. Select the app, & tap Install.

Android – Select Market or Play Store, select Search and search for Supra eKEY, select the app, & tap Install.

BlackBerry – On your phone, open the internet browser, type www.ekeymobile.com and download.

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2012

11

Property Appraiser

Portability Primer:

PORTABILITY PRIMER: or What every Realtor® should know

What every Realtor® should know

It’s been over four and one-half years since Florida voters approved the adoption of Portability on January 28, 2008 and this office has processed hundreds of Portability applications people moving intoCRB and within Sarasota County. We’ve

By Billfor Furst, GRI, CRS, County also spent quiteSarasota a bit of time sending Portability information to other counties Property Appraiser when people move away from Sarasota.

I

It’s been over four and one-half years since Florida voters

approved adoption of Portability on January 28, 2008toand Then there are hours spentthe providing accurate information about Portability the this office has processed hundredsthat’s of Portability general public. And, correcting the misinformation circulatingapplications out there, fortopeople moving intoRealtors®, and within County.

We’ve also causing confusion property owners, titleSarasota companies and attorneys spent quite a bit of time sending Portability information to other alike.

counties when people move away from Sarasota. there are hours public spent service providing information So, in the interestThen of providing a needed hereaccurate are the basics of about Portability to the general public.

And, correcting the Portability: misinformation that’s circulating out there, causing confusion to property owners, Realtors®, title companies and attorneys alike.

First, a little history. Since 1994 capped Assessed Values have resulted in the So, in the interest ofon providing a needed public service here are accumulation of untaxed Market Value homestead properties, commonly the basics of Portability: referred to as the Save Our Homes Cap. Prior to 2008, and the advent of First, and a little history.

Since Assessed Portability, the Market Assessed values of 1994 a newcapped homestead were Values always have resulted in the accumulation of untaxed Market Value on equal. Many homeowners couldn’t afford to move, even to a smaller property, homestead properties, commonly referred to as the Save Our because their taxes would increase dramatically.

Homes Cap. Prior to 2008, and the advent of Portability, the Market and Assessed values of a new homestead were always Enter Portability. As of January 1, 2008, homesteaded property owners can move equal. Many homeowners couldn’t afford to move, even to a to a new home smaller and takeproperty, all or some of thattheir untaxed Market with dramatically. them to because taxes wouldValue increase lower the Assessed Value in the first year of their new homestead. Please note: Enter Portability.

Astoofa January 1, 2008, homesteaded property Portability is not the transfer of taxes new home. owners can move to a new home and take all or some of that untaxed Market Value with them to lower the Assessed Value in Also, do not confuse Market with sale price. Market value withPortability regard to is the first year Value of their new homestead.

Please note: portability calculation the Market/Just placed on the property by the not theis transfer of taxes Value to a new home.

Property Appraiser every January 1. To calculate Portability we first compare the Also, do not confuse Market Value with sale price. Market Market Value in the last year of the previous homestead with the Market Value of value with regard to portability calculation is the Market/Just the new property in the first year of the new homestead.

Value placed on the property by the Property Appraiser every January 1. To calculate Portability we first compare the Market If the new Market Value equal or greater than the previous Market all Value in isthe last to year of the previous homestead withValue the Market of the Save OurValue HomesofCap up to $500,000 will be transferred.

This is known as the new property in the first year of the new homestead.

Upsizing.

If the new Market Value is equal to or greater than the previous Market Value all of the Save Our Homes Cap up to $500,000 If the new Market is less than the previous Market Value only a portion of willValue be transferred.

This is known as Upsizing. the Save Our Homes Cap may be transferred. First, the ratio of the previous If the new Market Value is less than the previous Market Value Market to Assessed must of be the determined. new Market Value onlyValue a portion Save OurThe Homes Cap may be istransferred. multiplied by that ratio to arrive at the Assessed Value for the new property.

First, the ratio of the previous Market to Assessed Value must be Although the amount of sheltered valueMarket will notValue be theissame as it was theratio to determined.

The new multiplied byonthat previous homestead, the proportion of Market to Assessed Value will be the same. arrive at the Assessed Value for the new property. Although the If the proportionamount on the previous homestead wasnot .50 be it will .50 on thewas new of sheltered value will thebe same as it on the the proportion of Market to Assessed Value homestead. Thisprevious is knownhomestead, as Downsizing. will be the same. If the proportion on the previous homestead was .50 will .50 on theis new homestead.

Thisbetween is knowntheas The Save Our Homes Capiton anybehomestead always the difference Downsizing.

Market and Assessed Values, both of which change every year. The Taxable value Save Our Homes Cap on of any homestead is always does not come in The to this calculation.

The amount Portability is not a fixed the Market and the Assessed Values, both number. As thedifference Market andbetween Assessedthe Values change, Save Our Homes Capof For more grows or shrinkswhich every change year. every year. The Taxable value does not come in information, to this calculation. The amount of Portability is not a fixed contact the number.

As the than Market Values don’t change, Saveon There’s a lot more to Portability thisand briefAssessed review. Please, risk the passing Property Our Homes Cap grows or shrinks every year. bad information to your customers and clients. Call, email, or walk in to our offices.

Appraiser’s There’s lot more to Portability than this brief review. Please, to assist ayou. officeWe at will be happy don’t risk passing on bad information to your customers and 941.861.8200. clients. Call, email, or walk in to our offices. We will be happy to assist you.

12

SEPTEMBER 2012

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Portability Terms and Definitions Assessed Value: The Property Appraiser’s office does not set Assessed Values. Assessed Values are governed

by Florida Statute. Increases in the Assessed Value of homestead property are capped at 3% or the change in the Consumer Price Index.

Downsizing: When the Market Value of your new homestead is less than the Market Value of your previous homestead your new Assessed Value will be calculated using the Market to Assessed Value ratio of your previous homestead. The Save Our Homes Cap dollars may be less but the proportion will be the same.

Market Value: Also called Just Value, this is the value placed on real property by the Property Appraiser as of January 1 of every year.

Save Our Homes Cap: This term refers to the 3% cap on increases in Assessed Value for homestead property. It is also used to describe the difference between Market and Assessed Value resulting from Market Value increases greater than 3% or the change in the Consumer Price Index.

Upsizing: When the Market Value of your new homestead is the same or greater than the Market Value of your previous homestead you can transfer up to $500,000 in Save Our Homes Cap to your new homestead to arrive at your new Assessed Value.

Section 193.155, Florida Statutes: Subsection 8 deals with Portability.

NEED A SPEAKER ON PORTABILITY? BILL FURST WILL MEET WITH YOUR GROUP AND ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS. Call our office at 941.861.8200 or email us at PA@SC-PA.com to set an appointment or for more information on exemptions, appraisals and Portability.

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We think your clients should get everything they want when buying a new home. That means even newer, more flexible living spaces designed to fit their lifestyle at prices they can afford. Centex is offering new floor plans and more design options so your clients can definitely find the home they’ve been waiting for. It’s everything your clients want in the affordable comfort of a new Centex home.

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Put yourself in a better place™

Commission incentive available on contracts accepted by Centex between 1/01/12 and 12/31/12. In order for Realtor to eligible for 50% advance commissions, buyer must put down 10% (with the exception of FHA/VA and NOLA). NOLA/cash verification must be presented. Broker must sign the Advance Commission Request Form. Brokers are responsible for repaying all advance commissions for homes that do not close. This offer is subject to change or withdrawal without prior notice. Prices shown are estimated base prices, do not include lot premiums or options and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. Additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. ©2012 PulteGroup, Inc. All rights reserved. 7/2/12. CBC057850.

Volunteer for 2013 Committees/Task Forces Now is the time to consider joining the leadership team by taking part in an Association committee or task force in 2013. You’ll make new contacts, enhance your professional abilities and have the opportunity to make a difference from behind the scenes. Additional task forces may become available once the Strategic Plan is completed. Watch for updates and other opportunities. Deadline for submittals is Monday, Oct. 1, 2012.

Affiliate Committee: Organize and support activities and events and provide input. An Affiliate or Auxiliary membership is required. (Meets as needed) Communications: Assures that SAR is the single source of accurate, reliable information on our industry in the Sarasota market. (Meets as needed) Community Outreach: Evaluate, recommend and organize projects that benefit the community, enhance the image of Realtors, and provide opportunities for networking and camaraderie. (Meets as needed) Global Business Council Steering Committee: Develop education programs, networking events and resources to prepare Realtors® for specific cultural and economic issues that are an integral part of working with the many buyers and sellers of foreign origin. (Monthly) Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota: Develop education programs and resources to further the preservation of our environment and natural resources as it pertains to real estate. (Monthly) Grievance Committee: Review ethics complaints and arbitration requests to make preliminary evaluation to determine if a formal Professional Standards Hearing is warranted. Annual training required to serve on this committee. (Monthly) Member Benefits: Review and analyze proposed programs, products, and services to evaluate the potential benefits to membership and the Association. (Meets as needed) Nominating Committee: Offer recommendations for SAR leadership positions (officers, directors, etc.) and select annual award recipients. (Meets as needed) Power Marketing: Plan and conduct weekly MLS Power marketing sessions. (Meets as needed) Professional Development: Provide input regarding education, sales and technology training, leadership development, new member orientation, and risk management. (Monthly) Professional Standards: Enforce the Code of Ethics by conducting hearings on charges of unethical conduct and arbitration of contractual disputes, including entitlement to compensation in cooperative transactions. Annual training is required and service on the Grievance Committee is a prerequisite. (Meets as needed) Public Policy: Involve members in the political process through education, information, and grassroots involvement.

(Monthly) Realtor®/Attorney Joint Committee: Plan periodic legal programs for members and provide monthly Q&A for Sarasota Realtor Magazine. Duty to stay current with real estate laws and FREC changes. (Monthly) RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee): Conduct awareness campaigns, programs and activities to raise funds for the support of candidates and real estate issues. (Meets as needed) SARPAAT (Political Action Advisory Trustees): Encourage Realtors to take a more active role in governmental affairs and inform members of the records of candidates for office. (Meets as needed) Scholarship: Solicit scholarship applications, conduct applicant interviews and select recipients. (Meets as needed) Vendor/Data Access: To review and analyze requests for access to SAR members’ data from the MFR MLS database. (Meets as needed) During the year, special task forces will be appointed to accomplish various projects. If you are interested, just indicate “various task forces” on the online form. To volunteer, visit www.sarasotarealtors.com/committees, or go to Page 21 of this issue for the form. Please Fax to 921-2074 before Oct. 1st.

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SEPTEMBER 2012

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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Sarasota market continues hot sales pace in July

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The Sarasota real estate market remained active and strong in July 2012, with 699 closed sales reported by members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®. The total was 16.7 percent higher than the 599 sales reported in July 2011. The breakdown was 523 single family homes and 176 condos sold.

The normal seasonal influx of buyers tends to drop shortly after the Easter holiday, but this year higher sales have continued into the summer months. Real estate agents and brokerages have reported a busy and extended season, which resulted in a second quarter in 2012 that was statistically the best in seven years.

Pending sales (which represent properties that went under contract during the month) also rose in July to 919, after dropping to 860 in June. In July 2011, pending sales were at 799, roughly 15 percent lower than this year. Prior to June 2012, the market had seen four straight months that topped 1,000. Pending sales are a major indicator of the future market sales totals.

“The Sarasota real estate market remains a bright spot in Florida and the nation,” said SAR President Laura Benson.

“We couldn’t have asked for a better second quarter, and of course the amazing numbers were not expected to continue indefinitely. But the fact we haven’t seen any big drop off in sales, and we are significantly ahead of last year’s pace, is great news for our members.”

The median sale price for single family homes in July 2012 was almost identical to June 2012, at $178,000, compared to $178,500. For condos, prices dropped somewhat to $176,000, from last month’s price spike to $195,000. For both categories, the 12-month running median was much stronger that last year - $168,500 for single family (compared to $156,000 last July), and $167,000 for condos (compared to $162,250 last year).

Single family home prices remained at a level more than 30 percent higher than the low of the market reached 16 months ago ($137,500), while condo prices are almost 40 percent higher than the low point ($127,000). Part of the reason for the price resurgence remains likely related to the lower number of distressed property sales. The total number of distressed sales, foreclosures and short sales, rose slightly to 32.4 percent from last month’s 31 percent level, still one of the lowest totals in the past three years.

The available inventory of homes on the market once again dropped to a new decade low of 3,644, about 4 percent lower than June’s figure of 3,816. The local numbers are somewhat similar to national figures, as lack of inventory – notably in lower price ranges – is limiting buyer choices in an increasing number of markets around the country, according to the latest quarterly report by the National Association of Realtors® (NAR).

“It’s most encouraging to see a growing number of metro areas with rising median prices, which is improving the

www.sarasotarealtors.com

“The Sarasota real estate market remains a bright spot in Florida and the nation.”

- SAR President Laura Benson

equity position of existing homeowners,” said Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist. “Inventory has been trending down and home builders are still under-producing in relation to growing demand.” Yun noted some of the increase can be attributed to a lack of lower-end homes for sale in areas with a tight inventory.

Last year at this time, there were roughly 20 percent more available properties on the market. The months of inventory remained near 10-year lows. The July figures were 4.5 months of inventory for single family homes and 7.5 months inventory for condos. Months of inventory represents the time it would take to deplete the current inventory at the current sales rate. Last July, there were 6.4 months of inventory for single family homes and 10.7 months of inventory for condos. At the market’s low point in November 2008, there were 24 months of inventory for single family homes and 41.7 months for condos.

“Competition for the available properties is high, and that can lead to bidding wars and price escalation,” explained Benson. “This is a dynamic market, and the trend lines point to increases in asking prices going forward.”

Currently, only 575 properties for sale in the MLS are listed as short sales or foreclosures, down slightly from last month’s figure of 604 properties. This represents about 15.8 percent of available properties, slightly lower than last month, and down from January 2012 when the figure was 17 percent of the market.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2012

15

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - July 2012 Single Family

Unit Sales

Condo

700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Nov‐11

Dec‐11

Jan‐12

Feb‐12

Mar‐12

Apr‐12

May‐12

Jun‐12

Jul‐12

Single Family

Median Sale Price

Condo

$250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Nov‐11

Dec‐11

Jan‐12

Feb‐12

Mar‐12

Apr‐12

May‐12

Jun‐12

Jul‐12

Single Family

#Active

#Sold

%Sold

Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending

# New Listings

# Off Market

This Month

2,329

523

22.5

167

$178,000

$168,500

4.5

703

30.2

683

146

This Month Last Year

2,829

445

15.7

174

$169,900

$156,000

6.4

609

21.5

612

212

2,462

603

24.5

174

$178,500

$167,000

4.1

656

26.6

707

136

‐

3,753

‐

171

$175,000

‐

‐

5,246

‐

4,490

‐

Oct 95.1 ‐

Nov 95.3 ‐

Dec 94.8 ‐

Last Month YTD

2011 2012

Jan 94.5 95.4

Single Family – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Feb 94.1 94.2

Mar 94.7 94.6

Apr 94.1 94.7

May 94.2 95.1

Jun 94.3 95.2

Jul 94.1 94.2

Aug 94.5 ‐

Sept 95.2 ‐

Statistics were compiled on properties listed in the MLS by members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® as of Aug. 10th, 2012, including some listings in Manatee, Englewood, Venice, and other areas. Single-family statistics are tabulated using property styles of single-family and villa. Condo statistics include condo, co-op, and townhouse.

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors® 16

SEPTEMBER 2012

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - July 2012 Single Family Condo

Inventory 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Nov‐11 Dec‐11

Jan‐12

Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12

Jul‐12

Single Family Condo

Pending Sales 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Nov‐11

Dec‐11

Jan‐12

Feb‐12

Mar‐12

Apr‐12

May‐12

Jun‐12

Jul‐12

Condo

This Month This Month Last Year Last Month YTD

2011 2012

#Active

#Sold

%Sold

Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months of Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending

# New Listings

# Off Market

1,315

176

13.4

211

$176,000

$167,000

7.5

216

16.4

248

143

1,656

154

9.3

200

$145,000

$162,250

10.7

190

11.5

222

225

1,354

261

19.3

221

$195,000

$165,000

5.2

204

15.0

258

162

‐

1,573

‐

200

$180,500

‐

‐

1,960

‐

2,116

‐

Jan 93.4 93.1

Condo – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Feb 91.2 93.5

Mar 92.2 94.2

Apr 93.4 94.3

May 94.5 93.8

Jun 94.2 93.8

Jul 92.5 94.6

Aug 93.1 ‐

Sept 92.8 ‐

Oct 93.2 ‐

Nov 93.6 ‐

Dec 92.7 ‐

Median sales price is the middle value, where half of the homes sold for more, and half sold for less. Listings sold were closed transactions during the month. Pending sales are sales where an offer has been accepted during the month, but the sale has not yet closed. Even though some pending sales never close, pending sales are an indicator of current buyer activity. DOM indicates the average number of days that sold properties were on the market before a contract was executed.

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2012

17

Commercial Investment Division

Vote YES on Amendment 4 in November

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By Brad Lindberg CID President

The attractiveness for people wanting to move to Florida is the sunshine, the beaches, the year round warmth and the lure of NO PERSONAL INCOME TAX. So the first thing they ask when they are contemplating a move to Florida is… “So where DO they get their revenue from?”…and rightfully so….It’s a question that creates some pause before they pull the trigger to make the move here because of the unknown tax ramifications.

We all know government can’t operate without revenue and the attractiveness of lower taxes always bodes the question…..”So if you don’t pay income tax down here, where do they get the revenue from?” If real estate taxes are a major source of income, then having constraints on increases is vitally important so the buyer knows what to budget moving forward.

This is where Amendment 4 comes in. One of the key components of Amendment 4 is designed to prevent runaway tax increases on non-homesteaded properties. The maximum increase on nonhomesteaded properties is currently 10%. Amendment 4 limits that increase to 5%.

Is that important for business? YES. The opponents of Amendment 4 claim that a 10% increase would only occur if we had another run on growth as we did in 2000-2006, and chances of that are slim.

The opponents of Amendment 4 are typically the bureaucrats who are in control of the local municipal budgets and will spend every dime we give them if they have the opportunity. YES, it’s hard to buy into their

CID slates meetings for September 2012 CID General Membership Meeting Date: Tuesday, Sept. 18th, 8:30 a.m.

Location: TBD Program: TBD CID Members Only

Officers:

Commercial Marketplace Sessions - Friday, Sept. 7th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium - Friday, Sept. 14th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium - Friday, Sept. 21st, 9 a.m. – Manatee Association of Realtors®, 10920 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL - Friday, Sept. 28th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

2012 CID Officers & Directors Directors:

President: Brad Lindberg, Sperry Van Ness President-Elect: Linda Emery, Sperry Van Ness Vice-President: Tim Mapp, Mapp Realty Secretary: Dave Roth, RE/MAX Alliance Treasurer: Lori Hellstrom, Osprey Real Estate Services Past President: Anthony Homer, Ian Black Real Estate 18

claims that the chances of 10% increases are slim and we shouldn’t worry. It’s like the fox asking to guard the hen house because he isn’t hungry right now. The fox eventually gets hungry and so does government.

Amendment 4 provides incentives for the investment community. Property tax caps have two main economic effects. First, they reduce uncertainty for personal and business investment, and when businesses can better estimate their costs, including property taxes, they are more likely to invest, so reducing the uncertainty of potentially large property tax increases will increase investment in both non-homestead residential and commercial property in Florida. However, property tax caps can also reward early investors and give them an advantage over later investors, which could affect investment timing decisions, by potentially moving them to earlier periods, at the expense of future investments. (Florida TaxWatch 2012) You have to ask yourself if this is good for business and jobs. A robust economy provides increased tax revenues. If you only look at this issue from a revenue standpoint and calculate the changes based on the current conditions, the opponent’s argument has some leverage, but is skewed. The long term effects of a robust economy will always bring increased revenues and the only way to stimulate growth is to prime the pump.

Amendment 4 is the incentive to attract new businesses and residents to Florida to generate the new economy. A vote of YES on Amendment 4 is a vote to make Florida the strong and great economy it once was and will be again.

SEPTEMBER 2012

Susan Goldstein: Michael Saunders & Company (1 year 2012) Sarah Olesen: Michael Saunders & Company (1 year 2012) Tony Veldkamp: Sperry Van Ness (2 years - 2013) Bob Milhoan: Hembree & Assoc. (2 years - 2013) Peter Skokos: Norton Hammersley (3 years - 2014) Kevin Robbins - Harry Robbins Associates (3 years - 2014)

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

During the recent Great American Realtor® Days in Tallahassee, Florida Realtors® 2012 officers unveiled a driving force in the upcoming “Vote Yes on Amendment 4: It’s Worth Fighting For” campaign. Shown left to right are: Sherri Meadows, vice president; Matey Veissi, secretary; Dean Asher, president-elect; Summer Greene, president; and Andrew Barbar, treasurer.

What is Amendment 4, and how will it impact you?

What is Amendment 4?

Amendment 4 is a constitutional amendment on Florida’s ballot this year. This proposal will lower property taxes for new homebuyers and spur much-needed economic growth in the housing market by offering a healthy new exemption for first-time homebuyers.

Amendment 4 will also protect working families, small businesses and homeowners from unfair and unexpected tax increases by helping to stop “recapture,” a tax provision that increases property taxes even when property values decline.

Finally, Amendment 4 will lower assessment increases on non-homestead properties from a burdensome 10 percent to a more reasonable 5 percent.

Bottom Line: Amendment 4 creates an additional homestead exemption for first-time homebuyers for 5 years.

Amendment 4 protects Floridians from increased property taxes when their property values have declined.

Amendment 4 lowers the maximum yearly assessment increase on non-homestead properties from 10 percent to 5 percent.

Questions and Answers Q: Does this new homestead exemption replace the exemption in current law? www.sarasotarealtors.com

A: No. The new homestead exemption in Amendment 4 is applied in addition to your current homestead exemption.

Q: Won’t creating an additional homestead exemption affect the funding of police officers and firefighters?

A: Amendment 4 is not retroactive and does nothing to affect the current budgets of local governments.

Q: Does Amendment 4 change or reduce “Save Our Homes”, which caps assessment increases at 3% per year for homestead property, at all?

A: No. Q: If local governments are not able to raise the assessed value of a property that has gone down in market value, won’t they just raise millage rates?

A: It is the local government’s decision whether to raise taxes on Florida homeowners or not. Amendment 4 simply gives the Legislature the authority to protect homeowners from burdensome, unfair tax increases if the value of their home goes down.

Q: Exactly how much is this new homestead exemption?

A: The additional homestead exemption that Amendment 4 creates is equal to half of the home’s value, up to half the median home value in the county.

Learn more: http://www.taxyourassetsoff.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2012

19

Education Programs 20

Maximize your income property profits present value, discounted cash Title: Income Property Analysis flow analysis, and risk /market Dates: Sept. 25-26, 8:30 a.m. - 5 analysis. p.m.

Instructor: F.W. “Chip” Myers III While a financial calculator Cost: SAR Members: $175 is highly recommended, it is Non-SAR Members: $200 not absolutely necessary to 11 Hours FL CE Credit participate effectively in this This course uses a unique approach course. The recommended to evaluating the viability of the calculator is any HP, preferably various conventional measurements the HP10BII. of value, yield, and return in Who should attend? investment real estate.

Appraisers, property managers, • Price Per Square Foot/Unit residential agents interested • Gross Rent Multiplier in pursuing a commercial career, investors and principals • Capitalization Rate pursuing their own real estate • Cash on Cash investment activity. The course • Equity Rate of Return also provides a refresher for F.W. “Chip” Myers III seasoned commercial agents • Internal Rate of Return and is a great prep course for • Financial Management Rate of the CCIM CI-101 course.

Return F.W. “Chip” Myers III, the instructor, has presented The 105-page workbook contains chapters on cost this course over 750 times in the last 14 years for over recovery, passive loss, capital gain tax computation, at 14,000 students. risk limitations, compounding and discounting, net

Sales leadership course coming to SAR in October for a top-performing agent, and apply that across the organization.

This two-day workshop will focus on how to turn average performers into top agents through situational leadership, training, accountability and coaching.

You will learn how to be flexible and adapt to different personalities and situations.

Mark your education Topics covered include: calendars for an October • Developing the skills to education extra at the Sarasota coach, mentor and hold people Association of Realtors®! accountable The Certified Real Estate • Aligning your recruiting and Brokerage Manager (CRB) retention strategy as part of the designation is one of the oldest sales development process and most respected in the Steve David industry.

• Training effective sales associates who are aligned with In addition to the daily your company’s culture pressure of running a business, today’s real estate managers must also focus on recruiting agents, training • Identifying and implementing the critical elements and mentoring them, and managing turnover. of a learning program.

For long-term success, they must create a template Register now for this valuable course!

Title: CRB: Sales Leadership That Drives Performance Turning Ordinary Agents Into Top Performers Dates: Oct. 2-3 Instructor: Steve David, CRB Cost: $300 (Earlybird by Sept. 19); $325 (after Sept.

19) 3 Credits Towards the CRB Designation

SEPTEMBER 2012

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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SAR School of Real Estate offers courses

New careers in real estate are now being nurtured at the Sarasota Association of Realtors® School of Real Estate.

Classes are held nights and weekends in Conference Room A in the SAR Education Building. Permit holder and instructor for the SAR School of Real Estate is Michael W. Davenport.

He is multi-licensed in Florida and has a distinguished resume that includes over 40 years of sales and management experience.

(includes manual, Florida Real Estate Brokers Guide, 4th Edition) After Oct. 9: $420 SAR Members: 10% discount Class limited to 15 students Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5 to 10 p.m.

AND Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

(EXCEPT Thanksgiving Week Nov. 19-24) End of Course Exam: Dec. 1, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Instructor: Michael W. Davenport

Sales Associate Pre-License Sept. 6 - Oct. 13, 2012 Tuition: $364 (includes manual and materials) Class limited to 20 students Tuesday & Thursday Evenings 5:00-10:00 p.m. AND Saturdays 8:30-1:30 End of Course Exam: Oct. 13, 10-1 Instructor: Michael W. Davenport

Sales Associate Pre-License Jan.10-Feb. 2, 2013 Class starts Jan. 10 at 5 p.m.

Earlybird Tuition: $339 (includes manual, Florida Real Estate Principles, Practices and Law, 35th Edition) (register at least 10 days in advance of class to receive Earlybird price) Regular Tuition: $364 Tuesday & Thursday, 5 to 10 p.m.

AND Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

End of Course Exam: On last day of course Each class limited to 20 students Instructor: Michael W. Davenport Website: www.SarasotaSchoolofRealEstate.com

2012 Course Schedule

Broker Pre-License Course Code: BK 2 Oct. 16-Dec. 1, 2012 Tuition: On or before Oct. 9: $395

Work smarter to earn more with CRS 200 course Title: CRS 200: Business Planning & Marketing Date: Oct. 30, 8 a.m.

Instructor: Gee Dunsten Cost: Earlybird $275 before Oct. 16; $300 after Here’s your chance to take one of the prestigious CRS courses locally! The Business Planning & Marketing Course (CRS 200) from the Council of Residential Specialists will help you create a strong business that will withstand any market condition—while making a profit.

Upon the successful completion of this course, the student will be able to: • Develop a business plan to focus your business and start

making educated financial decisions • Determine financial goals to create a budget and increase your profits to last through retirement • Create a marketing plan that works with your objectives to get your listings sold • Identify action plans to implement that will work for you to achieve long-term personal and professional goals CRS educators are leading professionals who bring practical experience to each course, cutting through the hype and offering you real-world solutions. In CRS two-day courses you’ll meet other top agents for prime networking opportunities.

2013 Committee Choices Yes, I would like to serve on: 1st Choice: __________________________________ 2nd Choice:__________________________________ 3rd Choice:___________________________________ Print Name:___________________________________ Company:____________________________________ Phone: __________________ Fax:________________ E-mail:_______________________________________

Return this form to SAR by Oct. 1, 2012 or Fax to 921-2074

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Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2012

21

Gain knowledge to enter real estate upper tier Title: Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist Dates: March 19-20, 2013 at 8:30 a.m.

Instructor: Laurie Moore-Moore Cost: $495 Earlybird by Oct. 15, 2012; $550 after Training for the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation is designed to help sales professionals who currently work in the upper tier move to the next level, or to help those just beginning to target the luxury market jump-start their business.

Learn what wealthy buyers and sellers say are the “real secrets” to capturing their business and delivering outstanding service. This intensive two-day CLHMS training is the first step in earning the coveted CLHMS designation. Upon completion of the training you will become a Membr of The Institute.

Members of the Institute are part of an exclusing, international network of active luxury agents and enjoy a host of valuable benefits and discounts.

Attend this valuable training & discover how to: • Reach more affluent prospects • Increase your average price • List and sell more luxury homes • Deliver outstanding service to affluent buyers and sellers

Award-winning printing and customer service Specializing in pocket portfolios, die-cutting and foil-stamping done in-house FSC and SFI certified to help you go green

Sarasota’s Premier Real Estate Printer 1730 Independence Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34234 (941) 351-1515 • (941) 351-8639 F • www.coastalprint.com sales@coastalprint.com

Take Continuing Education courses online from home You can now take Continuing Education courses online from the comfort of your home or office.

RealEstateCE provides online continuing education courses for Florida real estate license renewal for agents and Realtors®.

Practical commercial and investment real estate agent course selections are also available at affordable prices to renew a real estate license.

Just visit: www.realestatece.com/cgi-bin/z_ home?id=FLSARA You can take various courses online, including 14-Hours Residential 101; 14-Hours Residential 102 (Understanding Cities); 14-Hours Fundamentals of Commercial Real Estate; and much more.

The courses are reasonably priced, and qualify for many of your required CE hours.

Your real estate license is a valuable tool for your future business, so keep it active!

22

SEPTEMBER 2012

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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My Florida Regional MLS offers new courses Pre-registration is required for all MLXchange classes at www.mfrmls.com. All classes are hands-on in the SAR Technology Center (except for Entering and Updating).

Registration is limited to 18.

Please be sure that you will attend if you reserve a spot! If you need to cancel, please call MFRMLS at 800.686.7451 (not SAR).

MLXchange Basic Sept. 11 or Sept. 17, 9 a.m. to Noon Mandatory session for all new users.

Learn the basic tools of MLXchange.

It does the work for you, emailing the listings that match your client’s criteria automatically through auto notification. Learn the quick way to find a listing or view your inventory with one click right from the home page or create a professional CMA in less time than it takes to drive to work.

- Review the home page features - Add a new client from the search - Searching and viewing listings, using the map, showing road, aerial, hybrid, and locator features - Adding additional search criteria - Viewing/printing/emailing reports, images, virtual tours, tax, map, driving directions and MLS listing history - Customizing the hotsheet configurations - Search Tax - Creating a professional CMA - Personalize user contact information MLS Compliance 101 Sept. 11 or Sept. 17, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Mandatory session for all new users.

In this course you will learn about the My Florida Regional MLS Rules and Regulations, and the compliance procedures for accuracy of listing data, along with educational materials available on MFRMLSUniversity.com - Rules and Regulations - Profile Sheet Terms - iSmart Tool Adding/Modifying Listings in MLXchange Sept. 11 or Sept. 17, 3 to 4:30 p.m.

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Mandatory class if you will be entering/updating your own listings.

You will be taught how to input and modify listings, enter photos, and add attachments along with valuable tips and techniques.

- Listing maintenance authorization forms - Explain the importance of accurate data - Rules and Regulations - Review the profile sheet Creating a Professional CMA (3 CE Credits) Sept. 12, 9 a.m. to Noon This class is designed to teach you the skills needed to create a comprehensive CMA. You will learn how to import properties that are listed outside of the MLS, into your CMA along with valuable tips and techniques for creating a professional CMA. Basic Agent Web Page Setup Sept. 12, 1 to 1:45 p.m. (prerequisite for Advanced Web Page Customization) This class will teach you the basics of setting up your Agent Web Page in the MLS. This will allow you to email listings to your clients via the Agent Web Page.

Auto-Notification Searches/ Prospecting Sept. 12, 2:15 to 3:45 p.m.

This class will teach you how to create custom searches for your prospects and set up those searches to automatically notify your clients of newly matches properties. You will also be taught how to manage the searches and

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

communicate with your client through their Personalized Web Page.

Hotsheets Sept. 24, 9 to 10 a.m.

This class will teach you how to utilize the Hotsheets in MLS, including setting up your Hotsheet gadget on the home page, creating days back and custom Hotsheets, and more.

MLS System Settings & Defaults Sept. 24, 10:30 a.m. to Noon This class will teach you how to set up system setting in the MLS. Including, how to save reports as favorites, setting up your email defaults, search defaults and much more. iMapp - Interactive Tax & Mailing Labels Sept. 24, 1 to 4 p.m.

In this class you will learn how to use the tax search features of MLXchange, access iMapp’s interactive maps, tax data, comparables, auto-valuations, and easily create mailing labels for your favorite area.

- MLXchange tax search, using map and field searches, printing mailing labels - iMapp tax search, viewing parcel, GIS, MLS listings, zoom levels, street, aerial and flood zones - Measuring tool, pan and save map - Creating, viewing and downloading mailing labels - Illustrate the link to the tax appraiser website - Viewing and modifying the criteria for comparable properties - MLS and foreclosure searches

SEPTEMBER 2012

23

SAR New Headquarters

New Era of Progress for SAR! Visit SAR on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

Photos by Jesse Sunday This was the view in midJuly of the site of the new SAR headquarters at the northwest corner of Cattlemen Road and Colonial Oaks Boulevard.

Top right is prior to clearing the land. Bottom right shows the initial landclearing.

The new SAR headquarters at the northwest corner of Cattlemen Road and Colonial Oaks Boulevard should be completed by the early summer months of 2013.

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SEPTEMBER 2012

Sarasota Realtor速 Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

The Global Business Council of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® is hosting the 6th Annual International Real Estate Congress and Sarasota Showcase on Nov. 4-6, 2012. View properties for sale on Sarasota Bay while you enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on the luxury yacht Marina Jack II, sponsored by Moneycorp.

Spend two mornings with conference presentations with a Keynote address

by Dr. John Tuccillo, Florida Realtors® Chief Economist.

This year, we’ve planned something Tour the beautiful Sarasota bayfront and dine in style on the luxury yacht Marina Jack II. a little different.

You will spend two afternoons touring a selection of Dr. John Tuccillo Sarasota properties on Longboat Key, Downtown Sarasota, Siesta Key and Lakewood Ranch.

This year’s Congress will be held at the Lido Beach Resort, right on the Gulf of Mexico and beautiful Lido Beach.

A block of rooms has been reserved.Visitors can bring their friends and family and enjoy all that Sarasota has to offer. Rooms include kitchens and two double or two queen beds.

Here’s the current itinerary for the event: Nov. 4, 5-7 p.m.

Dinner Cruise/Opening Event Nov. 5, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Conference Session, Lido Beach Resort Nov. 5, 12-5 p.m.

Tour Longboat Key, Downtown Sarasota, Siesta Key (progressive lunch and refreshments) Nov. 6, 9-12 p.m.

Conference Session, Lido Beach Resort Nov. 6, 12-5 p.m.

Tour Lakewood Ranch (largest ‘Green’ planned development in the U.S.)(lunch and closing reception)

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Global Business Council

ors

Sixth Annual Sarasota International Real Estate Congress slated for Nov. 4-6!

This is the view of Sarasota’s incredible coastline from the Lido Beach Resort.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2012

25

NAR made important changes to Code last year The NAR Board of Directors last year made several enhancements to the NAR Code of Ethics that take effect this year to help ensure the Code remains up-to-date as practitioners confront new situations. Here are four changes you’ll want to review.

1. Authorized use of property The duty of fidelity to clients’ interests was advanced through a new Standard of Practice interpreting Article 1 as prohibiting members from accessing or using, or permitting others to access or use, listed or managed property on terms or conditions other than those authorized by the owner or seller.

2. False statements against others Article 15’s obligation to refrain from knowingly or recklessly making false or misleading statements was

expanded to cover “other real estate professionals, their businesses, and their business practices.” These changes are also reflected in Standards of Practice 15-2 and 15-3.

3. Mediating disputes The dispute resolution scope of Article 17 was changed to allow local associations to require mediation of arbitration disputes (Note: SAR did not make this requirement).

4. Waiving mediation and arbitration Standard of Practice 17-2 (which interprets and explains Article 17) was amended to make it clear that Realtors® are not obligated to mediate or arbitrate in cases where all parties to the dispute choose not to have it mediated or arbitrated through the association.

Have you completed Code of Ethics training yet?

The Code of Ethics is central to the Realtor® organization – so essential, in fact, that the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) has mandated that all Realtors® complete a 2.5-hour training every four years as a condition of membership. The current 4-year Cycle (Cycle 3) ends December 31, 2012. If you have not completed ethics training between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2012, your Realtor® membership and related services, including MLS, will be suspended until you are in compliance.

We recommend that ALL members check their record at NAR to ensure no interruption of services and allow you ample time to get your record updated or complete a course via one of the four options listed below. Here are the steps to check your record: - Go to www.realtor.org - Click on “My Account” - Sign in (If you have not set up a login at REALTOR.org, you will need to do that first. Just click on “Sign In”, then “Register”. If you need assistance creating an account, please call NAR’s Information Central at 800-874-6500).

- Click on “Change your member data profile (NRDS)” (in the 3rd section) - Click on “View My Education Records” - Check to see if COE, Cycle 3 is in your record. If it is, then your requirement for the current cycle has been met.

If it shows Cycle 2, you either need to complete a course by December 31st or provide SAR with documentation of course 26

SEPTEMBER 2012

completion so your record can be updated.

If you need to complete the Code of Ethics, you have four training options: Live classroom instructor (SAR members free) at SAR on the following dates (registration required): - September 10, 1-4 pm - October 8, 1-4 pm - October 15, 9 am-Noon or 1-4 pm (3 hours CE) - November 12, 1-4 pm - November 19, 9 am-Noon or 1-4 pm (3 hours CE) - December 10, 1-4 pm - December 19, 9 am-Noon or 1-4 pm (3 hours CE) NAR Online class (free) visit http://www.realtor.org/codeof-ethics/training/for-existing-members (short test required at end of course). NAR will notify SAR within ten days that you have completed the course.

Online class with CE (3 hours $15; or 4 hours $20) through SAR’s website (Education tab). Visit the SAR web site - www.sarasotarealtors.com - to view the options and sign up. (short test required at end of course) DVD: A high-quality video with professional actors is available for brokers or office managers to check out from SAR to hold training in their office, certifying attendance of agents who attend the training.

Please call SAR at 941-923-2315 if you have questions.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

By G.M. Filisko Realtor® Magazine

Paul Caillaud has seen the corrosive effect an internal commission dispute can have on a company, and he’s glad he watched it from afar.

“All I can say is that it’s a bad thing,” says the general counsel at the 85-salesperson RE/MAX Preferred in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Caillaud’s intent is always to resolve conflicts between brokers and salespeople in the hope of avoiding litigation. “In one case, a salesperson left [another brokerage], and everybody in the office knew what was going on. We got phone calls from that company’s associates wanting to affiliate with us, which was wonderful for us but crappy for the broker who created the situation.”

What caused the dispute? To close a transaction— after having cleared it orally with his broker—a listing agent told his clients that his company would reduce its commission by half a percent. At the closing, however, the broker balked. The broker got his way, taking the $400 in dispute out of the listing agent’s share of the commission. Caillaud became aware of the dispute because one of his company’s salespeople represented the buyers in the deal.

The broker eventually relented, but the damage had already been done. “For $400,” Caillaud says, “the broker risked that sales associate leaving and the polluting commentary of that salesperson as he went out the door.”

Commission disputes between sales associates at your company can cause similar harm if you don’t have a process for skillfully resolving them. Here’s how to do just that for both types of disputes.

Spell Out the Rules Last-minute agreements, such as the one Caillaud described, can lead to trouble. So can sudden departures in which salespeople mistakenly believe they can take a client with them in the middle of a transaction, says Alex Wang, a principal and broker-associate at Sereno Group in Palo Alto, Calif.

There are two keys to avoiding fights with sales associates over money. First, detail your company’s rules in your office policy manual. “We have a 40-page manual that we have sales associates sign annually,” says Pamela Cirkiel, ABR, CIPS, broker-owner of M.E. “Gene” Johnson, Realtors®, in Round Rock, Texas. “We have a section on commission disputes that basically says, while there will occasionally be misunderstandings, they will be handled promptly by the parties involved.

If they can’t be resolved by the parties, we’ll use our local board’s arbitration services. We have a really good dispute resolution program at the Austin Board of

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Realtors®.” Indeed, every state and local association is required to offer dispute resolution services, including mediation and arbitration, to their Realtor® members.

But all parties must agree voluntarily to participate.

Neither agents nor brokers can force anyone into dispute resolution.

Cirkiel’s manual also has provisions about the importance of a positive attitude, honesty, and integrity.

“I think that helps me avoid these kinds of disputes,” she says. “When people are happy where they work and don’t feel threatened, there are fewer disputes.”

Second, put into writing last-minute side agreements that deviate from your overall commission agreement with sales associates. “Be clear in your conversations, and then put those conversations in writing,” suggests Wang. “Just shoot it in an e-mail saying, ‘This is my understanding of the agreement.’ It’s easy to fix these problems in the beginning. Later on it’s tougher.”

Referees for Salespeople More common than commission disputes between brokers and salespeople are internal squabbles between sales associates.

Caillaud has seen disagreements occur when two salespeople have different understandings about the nature of a referral: The associate who receives the lead expects to pay a referral fee of a particular amount, while the other associate is looking at the transaction as more of a co-op sale, with the salesperson’s portion divided differently.

To resolve such disputes, Caillaud’s company creates a mediation panel. “We set up the equivalent of a traditional board of Realtors®’ mediation,” he explains.

“We’ll have five associates, usually from our other offices, on the panel. Those involved in the dispute will present their arguments, and their fellow salespeople will make the decision. That decision is binding on the salespeople and the company.”

Associates can also disagree over procuring cause.

Cirkiel has seen that twice in the past six years with the same salesperson, a person Cirkiel respects. “She’s a very hard worker and in the office a lot,” Cirkiel says. “She feels if she greets people at the door, they’re her clients. So if they come back and sign a buyer representation agreement with someone else, she’s upset.”

The best way to avoid procuring cause disputes? Train sales associates to ask buyers if they’re working with another salesperson and to sell the benefit of signing a buyer agency agreement. That approach, however, isn’t always foolproof. “The second time there was a dispute, the client actually signed two buyer representation agreements,” Cirkiel says.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2012

Broker Corner

Commission squabbles can be devastating

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2012 Leadership Team

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Marianne LeBar President Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-650-0337 mariannelebar@michaelsaunders.com

Peter Salefsky Vice-President Membership Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-544-0763 maryhellhake@michaelsaunders.com

Sherri Spanos Recording Secretary Lakewood Ranch Communities Phone: 941-907-6000 sherri.spanos@lakewoodranch.com

Mary Hellhake President-Elect Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-544-0763 maryhellhake@michaelsaunders.com

Carrie Starr Rummery Treasurer Starr Title Insurance Phone: 941-365-7827 carrie@starrtitle.net

Linda McConnell Corresponding Secretary FBC Mortgage LLC Phone: 941-504-0823 lmcconnel@fbchomeloans.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

Sarasota Realtor速 Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

By Craig Slabach Snoopy Home Inspector SAR Affiliate Member Today’s homebuyers are becoming more concerned about sustainability in this era of economic challenges.

The price of the home is just the beginning. After that, the next question that should be asked is: “How much will it cost to operate this home?”

The Realtor® can help the seller make their listing more attractive by making the home more efficient in energy and water consumption with a relatively small investment.

The recently concluded Sarasota County Get Energy Smart Rebate Program was helpful as a home energy rater, evaluating the energy efficiency of homes and providing an improvement analysis based on computer simulation.

I was able to conclude, through observation and research, what improvements provide the most in savings relative to cost. Most of the improvements and maintenance suggested here will probably be referenced in the Home Inspection Report, providing an additional incentive for implementation.

The first investment should be to replace inefficient light bulbs. Of the energy consumed by the typical incandescent light bulb, less than 10% produces light (the primary purpose) while more than 90% generates heat (this is a problem when cooling your living space).

Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL) and LED’s are cool, draw less current and last longer, and should have the ENERGY STAR label.

Air conditioning is, by far, the highest consumption of energy in any home here in Florida. Periodic maintenance is still the best way to prevent loss of efficiency and extend the lifespan of your major appliances.

The heating/cooling unit should be serviced by a professional every spring and fall, a programmable thermostat installed and the filter replaced or washed every month (if applicable). A SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) of 15 or higher is worth bragging about: the higher the SEER the lower the electric bill.

In addition, sealing the living space will decrease the loss of conditioned air from your living space, which will require less work from your air conditioner. You will need caulking for the windows, weather stripping for the doors, and gaskets to be installed behind the wall plates for electric switches and outlets.

Obviously, when possible, check for, and seal, duct leakage in the attic space. This is just good maintenance which should be performed on a regular schedule anyway, and will look good on the Home Inspection report. www.sarasotarealtors.com

Keeping out solar radiation will also lower the demand of the air conditioner. Awnings over windows can help; Bahama shutters are excellent for keeping the sun off the window glass while still allowing a view from inside.

Window film on windows facing east, south or west and without a significant overhang from the roof will be beneficial. Be sure to look for the SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient), the lower the number the less heat allowed in. But be warned: the lower the SHGC of film, the less light allowed in, so you will have to determine the balance that is best for you.

Maintenance of the other major appliances can contribute to energy efficiency and longer life of the appliance. Draw the sediment from the water heater tank as needed. Clean lint from the clothes dryer vent and from the unit per manufacturer’s instructions.

Clean the coil on the refrigerator. Clean the return grills of the heating/cooling system. An observant Home Inspector will likely report the condition of these items too.

The easiest way to lower water use is to replace the aerator in the bathroom faucets. Be sure to look for the WaterSense label and a flow rate of 1.5 gpm (gallons per minute) or less. Then replace shower heads with those that have the WaterSense label and have a flow rate of 2.0 gpm or less. The WaterSense label shows the fixtures are functional as well as a water saver, unlike earlier versions of so-called “low-flow” fixtures.

A kit is available to convert older toilets into a dual flush version, which is inherently water efficient.

Front-load clothes washers are also inherently more water efficient since they require less water by design compared to top-load units. There have been tests that show using a dishwasher uses less water than washing the same load by hand.

Some improvements should be avoided, such as power attic ventilators, including those that are solar-powered.

This sounds like a good idea, but what happens is that when the ventilator runs, it’s going to pull air from wherever it can find it. Since air takes the path of least resistance, some of it most likely will be coming from the conditioned space in your home.

More details can be found at the following web sites: www.energystar.gov, www.epa.gov/watersense, www. energysavers.gov, www.fsec.ucf.edu.

Affiliate Focus

Lower operating costs can increase home value

Craig Slabach of Snoopy Home Inspector is an Affiliate Member of SAR. His business is located at 5824 Bee Ridge Rd. #444, Sarasota, FL 34233, and he can be reached at 941-726-5623

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2012

29

Membership News

The Association is pleased to welcome new members!

Designated Realtors®

Donahie, Michel: Hunt Brothers Realty, Inc. Harrison, David: Clock International Realty Sepe, Diana: American Dream Paradise Home Spencer, Lisa: Keller Williams Realty Brandon

New Members

Ambrosio, Leslie: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Bittle, Cornelia: Gulf & Bay Club Realty LLC Diaz Gonzalez, Angela: Exit King Realty Dyer, Michael: Coldwell Banker Res R E Fratila, Simona: Keller Williams On The Water Gooldy, Yvonne: Michael Saunders & Company McDonald, Ryan: Dunham Calabrese Realty Inc. Mullineaux, Jennifer: Coldwell Banker Res R E Plummer, Carolyn: Exit King Realty Radovich, Melissa: Keller Williams On The Water Ralph, Adam: Carmel Properties Robison, Deb: Kelly Gettel & Company PLLC Rosenthal, Candace: Coldwell Banker Res R E Sancranti, Denise: Keller Williams Realty Schmidt, Leif: ELITE Properties LLC Schuhriemen, Scott: Florida 1 Realty Services LLC Stanoch, Robert: Key Realty Stuart, Tara: Exit King Realty Tinney, Elfrieda: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Vogel, Kendra: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Woods, Carol: Michael Saunders & Company

Now With ...

Bastek, Bill: Sunset Realty Bers, Andrew: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Brassil, Regina: Prudential Elite Realty Svcs Edelen, Gary: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Folkman, Thomas: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Funk, Jenifer: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Funk, Charlotte: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Funk, Troy: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Fusco-Sullivan, Sabrina: Hunt Brothers Realty, Inc. Hayden, Lisa: Pileggi Realty Group LLC Jones, Robin: Exit King Realty Kessler, Erin: Horizon Realty International Maher, Kathleen: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Maher, Brian: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Malzan, Amber: Atchley International Realty Manning, Marlene Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Marrier, Stephen: Coldwell Banker Res R E Moon, Chris: Alliance Group Property Mgmt.

Padula, Sandra: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A. Petsinger, Robbie: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Proto, Joyce: Keller Williams Rlty Manatee Razick, Shirley: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Rees, Jane: Michael Saunders & Company Rempert, Deborah: Premier Sothebys Internat’l Shea, Jacqueline: Coldwell Banker Sindoris, Chris: Hook & Ladder Realty Inc. Waterman, Chip: Hook & Ladder Realty Inc.

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SEPTEMBER 2012

New Affiliates

Bentley’s Boutique Hotel 1660 S. Tamiami Trail Osprey, FL 34229 Phone Number: 941-966-2121 Representative: Richard Bradshaw Specialty: Welcome to the brand new Bentleys Hotel Osprey, Florida, your ideal choice for Sarasota and Venice Florida hotels. Bentleys Hotel provides boutique style lodging in Venice/South Sarasota near Gulf Beaches and Award Winning Golf Courses.

Choose from standard upscale king or two double bedded rooms or oversized executive suites and honeymoon suites many with private poolside balconies. Our new full service Sarasota Venice area hotel boasts: Seattle’s Best Coffee Shop, Free Hot Breakfast Daily, Free Business Center, Morgan’s Restaurant, Our “Osprey Beach” Tiki Bar & Grill, Underground Nightclub & Jaguar Lounge, Ballroom & Meeting Space Seating Up to 220 People, and Free Transportation to Siesta Key Beach, Casey Key Beach, Sarasota Square Mall and Main Street Venice.

Email: richard@bentleyssarasota.com C1 Bank 6000 State Road 70 Bradenton, FL 34203 Phone Number: 941-714-7505 Representative: Scott E Johnson Specialty: Let’s make it happen. Our community helps shape who we are and what we value. It is the people, places, organizations, businesses and activities that make us feel like we belong - like we are one. And together we can do anything. Checking • Savings • Money Markets • Mortgages • Business Loans • SBA Loans • Association and Treasury Services • and a host of other sophisticated banking products you might not expect. “We are fast becoming the best bank in Tampa bay with 21 locations across Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Charlotte and Pasco counties. We welcome you to join thousands of other sophisticated savers and borrowers at C1 Bank.”

Email: scott.johnson@c1bank.com Comfort Keepers 3667 Webber Street Sarasota, FL 34232 Phone Number: 941-504-1041 Representative: Sheila Carothers Specialty: Welcome to Comfort Keepers® of Sarasota and Manatee Counties. We help seniors live happy, healthy lives in the comfort of their own homes by providing quality, compassionate care and solutions to preserve independence and contribute to a better life. Few things are more important than your

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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independence. If you or someone you love is becoming less able to care for themselves, let Comfort Keepers help.

We’ve spent over a decade helping older adults live happy, independent lives in their own homes by providing them with companionship, in-home care and safety solutions. Call us today at (941) 921-4747 to discuss the right in-home care solution for you!

Email: lifecanbefunagain@msn.com

to best effect. The business center is located at 1990 Main Street, Suite 750 within the Sarasota Courthouse - a Class A 10-story building overlooking the beautiful Sarasota Bay. It features a stunning glass elevator and has a lovely openair courtyard with fountain... For more than two decades, Regus has been helping businesses of all kinds to work more effectively, in the way that suits them.

Email: darlene.martin@regus.com

First American Title Insurance 4141 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 Phone Number: 941-400-7059 Representative: Audrey Nagy Specialty: First American provides financial services through its Title Insurance and Services segment and its Specialty Insurance segment. The First American Family of Companies’ core business lines include title insurance and closing/settlement services; title plant management services; title and other real property records and images; valuation products and services; home warranty products; property and casualty insurance; and banking, trust, and investment advisory services. First American serves homebuyers and sellers, real estate professionals, loan originators and servicers, commercial property professionals, homebuilders and others involved in residential and commercial property transactions with products and services specific to their needs.

Email: anagy@FirstAM.com

RHIS Home Inspection Services P.O. Box 21876 Sarasota, FL 34276 Phone Number: 941-400-9643 Representative: Mark Rowan Specialty: Welcome to RHIS Home Inspection Services.

We are located in Sarasota Florida and provide professional home inspection services. Mark Rowan is the owner and Sr. Inspector of RHIS. Mark has over 20 years of construction inspection experience in Florida. Home inspection provides the home buyer, home owner or seller with important information on the condition of the structural, exterior, interior, roof, attic, crawlspace, foundation, plumbing systems, electrical systems, heating and cooling systems, insulation and ventilation components of the home. RHIS is certified to perform insurance wind mitigation inspections which may help homeowners receive discounts or credits on their home insurance policy and learn what components of the home can be improved or upgraded to receive the insurance discounts (this of course depends on the insurance company). The purchase of a home is a very big investment.

If you are going to buy a used car wouldn’t you want to test drive it first? Of course you would. You cannot test drive a house. That is where RHIS can help. It only makes sense to have the home inspected before finalizing the purchase. Call RHIS for all your home inspection needs.

Email: mark@rhishomeinspection.com

Premiere Staging and Design 8334 Abingdon Court University Park, FL 34201 Phone Number: 571-926-2595 Representative: Kathy Perlman Specialty: We bring our combined skills in design, marketing, and real estate to sell your home faster and for more money. We utilize our talents, experience, and service to identify the essential elements needed to properly position a client’s home in today’s marketplace while being sensitive to the budgets constraints faced by homeowners in this very challenging market. Whether you are a do-it-yourself person or you need a full design service, we welcome the opportunity to be part of the team to position your home to be the buyer’s first and best choice.

Email: kperlman@premierestaginganddesign.com Regus 1990 Main Street Suite 750 Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 941-309-5200 Representative: Darlene Martin Specialty: Regus is the world’s largest global provider of flexible Executive Office /Workspace. We help more than 800,000 customers work more effectively, to work their way, every day. Office space on your terms, for days, months or years. Our products and services allow our customers to concentrate on their core business, and use their talents www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sabadell Bank & Trust 783 South Orange Avenue #100 Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 941-364-5080 Representative: Daniel E Vigne Specialty: Sabadell Bank & Trust has become a trusted financial partner to a growing number of high-net worth clients and families. Sabadell Bank & Trust provides a robust suite of sophisticated personal and corporate financial solutions delivered by knowledgeable and trusted professionals. To help high-net worth families’ deal with the responsibilities and complexities of wealth, Sabadell Bank & Trust offers a unique approach to private banking and wealth management. More than merely investment counseling, banking, estate planning or any single service or product, Sabadell Bank & Trust offers guidance and tools that protect and enhance clients’ financial security. Additionally, clients benefit from true concierge-type services exclusively designed to serve their individual needs.

Email: daniel.vigne@sabadellus.com

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SEPTEMBER 2012

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E DUCATION & E VENTS C ALENDAR

Sept. 3

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Hotsheets 10:30 a.m.

MLS Systems & Defaults 1 p.m. iMapp

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8 a.m.

Power Marketing (SAR) 10 a.m. Photographer 5 p.m.

Sales Associate Pre-License

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace

Oct. 1

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SAR CLOSED FOR LABOR DAY

9 a.m.

New Member Orientation 1 p.m.

Code of Ethics

9 a.m. Basic MLXchange 12 p.m.

Waterfront Seminar 1 p.m. Compliance 101 3 p.m. Adding and Modifying Listings

9 a.m. Basic MLXchange 11:30 a.m.

Tech User Group 1 p.m. Compliance 101 3 p.m. Adding and Modifying Listings

8:30 a.m.

CID Board of Directors

9 a.m. Basic MLXchange 1 p.m. Compliance 101 3 p.m. Adding and Modifying Listings 5 p.m.

Sales Associate Pre-License

8 a.m.

CID General Membership 5 p.m.

Sales Associate Pre-License

8:30 a.m.

Income Property Analysis 5 p.m.

Sales Associate Pre-License 5 p.m.

Affiliate After Hours at Gecko’s 8 a.m.

CRB Class 8:30 a.m.

CID Board of Directors 5 p.m.

Sales Associate Pre-License

7:30 a.m.

Toastmasters

9 a.m.

CMA class 1 p.m.

Basic Agent Web Page 2:15 p.m.

Auto-Notification

7:30 a.m.

Toastmasters 8:30 a.m.

Board of Directors

8:30 a.m.

Income Property Analysis 8:30 a.m.

Board of Directors

7:30 a.m.

Toastmasters 8 a.m.

CRB Class

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (University Park CC) 5 p.m.

Sales Associate Pre-License

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (SAR) 5 p.m.

Sales Associate Pre-License

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (SAR) 5 p.m.

Sales Associate Pre-License

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (University Park CC) 5 p.m.

Sales Associate Pre-License

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace 12 p.m.

SAR Membership Luncheon (Dutch Heritage)

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (offsite) 9 a.m.

REAL TECH EXPO Sarasota Bradenton International Convention Center

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9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace

Note: All events/classes are at SAR, except where noted

My Florida Regional MLS Training

The My Florida Regional MLS training classes are offered at no cost to MLS participants. All classes are HANDS-ON in the SAR Tech Center. Please register for all MLS classes at the MFRMLS website: http://mfrmls.com.

Click on ‘Education and Training.’

Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. 3590 S. Tuttle Ave. Sarasota, FL 34239

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Jan‐12

Feb‐12

Mar‐12

Days on Market

Apr‐12 May‐12 Single Family

Jun‐12

Jul‐12

Condo

300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Nov‐11

Dec‐11

Jan‐12

Feb‐12

Mar‐12

Apr‐12

May‐12

Jun‐12

Jul‐12

Single Family

Sales Volume

Condo

$200,000,000 $180,000,000 $160,000,000 $140,000,000 $120,000,000 $100,000,000 $80,000,000 $60,000,000 $40,000,000 $20,000,000 $0

Jul‐11 Aug‐11 Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12

New Listings

Jul‐12

Single Family Condo

900 800 700 600 500 400 300

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

200 100 0 Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Nov‐11

Dec‐11

Jan‐12

Feb‐12

Mar‐12

Apr‐12

May‐12

Jun‐12

Jul‐12

The Xtra Pages - Digital Version Only

Single Family Condo

Months of Inventory

Second Quarter 2012 Report Single Family Sales ‐ By Quarter

REO

Short

Market

1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2*

2010‐Q3

2010‐Q4

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

2011‐Q4

2012‐Q1

2012‐Q2

* Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect

Condo Sales ‐ By Quarter

REO

Short

Market

700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2*

2010‐Q3

2010‐Q4

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

2011‐Q4

2012‐Q1

REO

Short

Market

2012‐Q2

* Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect

Single Family Median Sale Price $300,000 $250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2

2010‐Q3

2010‐Q4

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

Condo Median Sale Price

2011‐Q3

REO

2011‐Q4

Short

2012‐Q1

2012‐Q2

Market

$300,000 $250,000

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

$200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2

2010‐Q3

2010‐Q4

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

2011‐Q4

2012‐Q1

2012‐Q2

Single Family Condo

REO Sales ‐ By Quarter 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2*

2010‐Q3

2010‐Q4

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

2011‐Q4

2012‐Q1

2012‐Q2

* Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect Single Family

Short Sales ‐ By Quarter

Condo

400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2* 2010‐Q3

2010‐Q4

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

2011‐Q4

2012‐Q1

2012‐Q2

* Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect Single Family Condo

Market Sales ‐ By Quarter 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2* 2010‐Q3

2010‐Q4

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

2011‐Q4

2012‐Q1

2012‐Q2

* Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

Annual Sales ‐ 2000 to 2011 Single Family Single Family

Condo

Total

11267 10562 9697 8224

8167 7603

7,596 7036

6533

6,841

6 504 6,504

6739

6358

6042

5,603

5,183

4,940 4,353

4,349 3 671 3,671

3,193 2,184

2,096

5820

3 721 3,721

2,564 2,005

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

5,938

4,626 3,922 ,

2,120

2006

2007

2,137

2,286

2010

2011

1,556

1,194

2000

5,466

2008

2009

Annual Median Sale Price ‐ 2000 to 2011 Single Family

Condo

$351,000

$342,000 $336,250

$272,500 $305,000

$226,000 $172,500

$303,000

$210,000 $163,000 $156,800

$230,000

$191,000

$142,000

$173,000

$132,300

2000

$301,225

$225,000

$191,000

$320,000

$160,000

$145,000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

$163,000

2010

$155,925

2011