Sarasota Realtor Magazine - December 2011

DECEMBER 2011

The Official Monthly Publication of the Sarasota Association of Realtors速

Shining Stars of SAR Page 6

2012 Dues Invoices Are Now Available and Due Dec. 15th - See Page 9

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ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. *Prices listed are base prices, do not include lot premiums or options, and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. 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. CGC1505166 ©2011 Pulte Home Corporation. All rights reserved. 8/11

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Prices listed are base prices, do not include lot premiums or options, and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. 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. CBC057850 ©2011 Centex Homes. All rights reserved. 8/11

Contents

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine Volume 8, Issue 12 DECEMBER 2011

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

Star Power

This month, we take the time to recognize a few SAR members

who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help achieve

our association’s goals and objectives during 2011.

10 New Year Wishes

Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield details his

wishes for 2012 for SAR members, with an emphasis on

the political involvement of the association.

12 Looking Back

Volume 8 • Issue 12 •DECEMBER 2011

President Michael Bruno Michael Saunders & Company President-Elect Laura Benson Michael Saunders & Company Secretary Dave Swenson EXIT Creative Realty Treasurer Roger Piro Town & Country Realty Immediate Past President Erick Shumway RE/MAX Alliance Group Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roberts

Sarasota County Property Appraiser Bill Furst examines the

year 2011, and looks ahead to the upcoming year.

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.

The Sarasota real estate market in October 2011 saw sales jump

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.

18.4 percent higher than October 2010, but was essentially a

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

mirror image of last month’s figures.

15 Sales Stable

Editorial Staff

21 School of Real Estate

SAR is launching a new School of Real Estate in 2012,

providing local agents from the entire region with another

valuable educational resource, in your own backyard!

In every issue 15- Sales and Listing Statistics

Visit SAR on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors See a few of the photos this month on Page 24!

18- Commercial Investment Division 20- Education Programs

Director of Information Technology Jesse Sunday Director of Professional Development Catherine McCaskill

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

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.

24- On the SAR Scene 29- Global Business Council

2011 Copyright© by the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

30- Membership

DECEMBER 2011

Director of Membership and Administrative Services Dan Andrews

Production Coastal Printing, Inc.

10- Governmental Affairs 12- Property Appraiser

Director of Communications Ray Porter

Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield

32- Calendar of Events/Education 4

2011 SAR Officers

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

SAR slates Installation and Holiday Luncheon

The Sarasota Association of Realtors® will hold the Installation & Holiday Luncheon on Wednesday, Dec. 14th beginning at 11:30 a.m. at Michael’s on East, 1212 East Ave. S. (Midtown Plaza), Sarasota. The cost is $30 per person.

During the business portion of the luncheon, the new SAR Officers and Board of Directors for 2012 and the CID Officers and Directors will be installed. In addition, awards will be presented for Realtor® of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year, Meritorious Service and the President’s Award (see Page 6).

All SAR members are invited and encouraged to attend.

Please register online prior to Dec. 9th. The 2012 SAR Officers and Board of Directors are: SAR President - Laura Benson, Michael Saunders & Company; SAR President-Elect - Roger Piro, Town and Country; SAR Treasurer - Peter Crowley, RE/MAX Alliance Group; SAR Secretary - Stafford Starcher, RE/MAX Alliance Group; and SAR Immediate Past-President - Michael Bruno, Michael Saunders & Company.

New three-year directors: Michael Davenport, King Realty; Joe C. Hembree, Hembree & Associates; Debbie Judge, Michael Saunders & Company; Kristin Triolo, Atchley International Realty; and Amy Worth-Paul, RE/MAX Platinum Realty. New two-year directors: Bob Milhoan, Hembree & Associates; and Bob Stanley, Coldwell Banker.

The new board will join directors whose terms continue in 2012: Adam Chicoine, Michael Saunders & Company; David Clapp, RE/MAX Alliance; Bryan Guentner, RE/MAX Platinum; Anthony Homer, Lakewood Ranch Commercial Realty; Christina Pitchford, Allen Real Estate; Carla Rayman, Coldwell Banker; Drayton Saunders, Michael Saunders & Company; and Xena Vallone, Xena Vallone Realty.

Jamie Milholland: SAR Affiliate of the Month for December 2011 The December 2011 Affiliate of the Month is Jamie Milholland of Fine Home Inspections, Inc. Jamie is a Florida Licensed Home Inspector (HI-1373), ASHI (American Society of Home Inspectors) Certified, and a member of FABI (Florida Association of Building Inspectors). This means he is up to date on the latest inspection procedures to ensure clients get the highest quality inspection.

In addition to excellent training, Jamie has over 15 Jamie Milholland years field experience, and has inspected over 5,000 properties, both commercial and residential. He can be reached at 941362-4862, or by email at inspectorjamie@aol.com, or through his web site - finehomeinspections.com

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS Short Sales Foreclosures Bankruptcy

Call 941-366-1300 For A

FREE CONSULTATION Jefferson F. Riddell, Esq. (Board Certified Real Estate Attorney) Cynthia A. Riddell, Esq.

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3400 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida www.rlglawfirm.com The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

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

Cover Story

Star Power

e

2011 Award Winners bring energy to the Association Every organization needs motivated, dynamic and involved members in order to achieve and excel. The Sarasota Association of Realtors® is fortunate to have hundreds of members who meet this challenge, year in and year out, and every December we select four outstanding examples from our ranks to honor their exceptional contributions.

These four valuable leaders strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others. They were nominated by their peers for their unique and valuable contributions to SAR and the Sarasota community throughout 2011.

Joe Hembree - SAR 2011 Realtor® of the Year

The Realtor® of the Year award is based on the SAR Realtor® member’s lifetime contributions to SAR, Florida Realtors® and NAR, plus service in the community and business accomplishments. Although total contributions may be considered, activities over the past three years receive priority consideration.

Joe Hembree, founder and owner of Hembree and Associates commercial real estate firm, has been honored as Realtor® of the Year for 2011.

Joe has been at the forefront of local commercial real estate and the development community for decades.

After opening his company in 1985, Joe immediately became integrally involved in the organizations and groups that help move the community forward.

Through his involvement with the Economic Development Corporation of Sarasota County, the Sarasota County Committee of 100, the Coalition of Business Associations, the local Chambers, SAR and the Gulf Coast Builders group, Joe has been a strong voice of leadership, promoting progress and prosperity.

Joe served as SAR President in 2007, and guided the Association toward greater involvement in local government circles. He stressed the need to grab “a seat at the table,” and through his early efforts, SAR made important government and business contacts that continue to serve the Association and our members in many, many ways.

“As a commercial broker, developer and community

6

DECEMBER 2011

leader, I have dealt first hand with the issues that government addresses - issues which directly impact our businesses and our way of life,” Joe noted in 2006.

“Our collective voice needs to be heard on these issues, and we need to take more vocal and public stands on our viewpoints.”

This has happened in the past five years, thanks in large part to the leadership of Joe Hembree.

Congratulations to Joe Hembree – 2011 Realtor® of the Year!

Lee Byron - SAR 2011 Humanitarian of the Year

The Humanitarian of the Year award is given to an SAR Realtor® member for a significant contribution as a volunteer for an organization(s) or project(s) in the community.

Lee Byron has lived and worked in Sarasota for the past 32 years, and has always been a strong supporter of children and the educational community. She is one of those people who work tirelessly behind the scenes, rarely in the spotlight, never asking for recognition and reluctant to accept it when offered. But this year, after doing so much in our community for so long, Lee Byron has been named SAR’s Humanitarian of the Year for 2011 - an honor well-deserved.

Lee was first elected to the Sarasota County School

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Continued on P. 8, See STAR POWER

www.sarasotarealtors.com

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor速 Magazine

DECEMBER 2011

7

STAR POWER From Page 7

Board in 1990, but her involvement with local schools actually began at the grassroots level when she spent many hours as a volunteer with her childrens’ schools - Fruitville and Pine View School. She then chaired the Exceptional Education Advisory Board for six years, and chaired the Pine View Parent-Volunteer Association for many years.

Lee presently serves on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast. She has also been very active in the Junior League for many years, chairing several committees and serving on the board of directors.

Lee was appointed by the Sarasota County Commission to the Children and Youth Services Advisory Committee when it first started, serving for eight years as a member, vice chair and chair. The county then combined the group with the Human Services Advisory Committee, which has allocated several millions of dollars in property taxes to serve the neediest in our community.

In her work life, Lee works for Michael Saunders & Company as a successful real estate agent, and also finds the time to devote to the Plymouth Harbor board of trustees, and her church, as well as numerous civic organizations Congratulations to Lee Byron, SAR’s 2011 Humanitarian of the Year!

Dave Swenson - SAR 2011 Meritorious Service Award

The Meritorious Service Award is given to a Realtor® whose service to SAR and his/her fellow Realtors® has been of such effectiveness and quality so as to deserve special recognition. The member’s service must be both consistent and valuable, and their dedication to personal professional development must be both consistent and of high quality.

Dave Swenson, Broker of EXIT Creative Reality and an SAR board member, has been recognized as 2011 Meritorious Service Award winner.

Dave has been an ever-present contributor at SAR in many, many ways, especially during the past year. As the instructor for the New Member Orientation throughout 2010 and 2011, Dave is one of the first points of contact for “newbies” in local real estate. As such, he is an important positive influence on those who are just entering the field.

With his ever-present enthusiasm and great sense of humor, Dave helps break the ice at first meetings at SAR, and gives the new group a great start with valuable information and guidance.

As a religious minister, Gold Wing motorcycle rider and enthusiast, concert pianist and all-around good guy, Dave brings the kind of positive personality and approach all Realtors® should aspire to, because real estate remains a person-to-person business, even as technology continues to advance.

Dave currently serves on the Professional Standards

8

DECEMBER 2011

Committee, SARPAAT Committee, and the Board of Directors, where he is board secretary.

He has served inn SAR leadership and on numerous other SAR committees for several years. He has been on the Board since 2009; on Professional Standards since 2010; on Professional Development from 2007-2009; on the MLS Committee from 2006-2006; and on the Grievance Committee from 2005-2006.

Whatever has been asked of Dave Swenson, he has answered the call and performed with amazing results.

Congratulations to Dave Swenson, SAR’s 2011 Meritorious Service Award winner!

Elaine Adair - SAR 2011 President’s Award The President’s Award is a special honor awarded by the SAR President to an SAR Realtor® member who represents the person the President feels best embodies the Realtor® spirit and has contributed and supported the President and President’s goals for the past year.

Over the past year, Elaine Adair, an agent with the RE/ MAX Alliance Group, has guided the efforts of the SAR Community Outreach Committee. Under her able and passionate leadership, the Committee partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Sarasota on the first home rehabilitation project sponsored and manned by the Association.

The effort was funded by a $25,000 contribution from SAR’s “Affordable Housing Fund,” administered by the Communituy Foundation of Sarasota County. Elaine envisioned how all the threads could be sewn together to begin moving this project forward, and with the help of her committee, she pushed the dream into reality in 2011.

The effort has been an amazing accomplishment for SAR, and has given our members on incredible outlet for volunteerism and the spirit of “giving back” to the community.

Elaine, aside from spearheading the project and working behind the scenes on the organization and committe work, has toiled countless hours at the home, driving nails, painting walls, digging up old plants and trees, laying sod, trimming branches, and doing whatever she could to bring the project to final fruition.

Next year, Elaine has agreed to serve a second year as chair of the committee, and has already met with Habitat officials to begin the selection process for a second home rehabilitation project.

2011 SAR President Michael Bruno, who serves on the Community Outreach Committee and has worked side by side with Elaine at the home, said he couldn’t have asked for better leadership for the group’s efforts.

Congratulations to Elaine Adair, 2011 SAR President’s Award winner!

And once again, congratulations to all our winners, who will be honored at the Wednesday, Dec. 14th SAR Installation & Holiday Luncheon at Michael’s On East!

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

IMPORTANT DUES INFORMATION – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY 2012 Dues Invoices Are Now Available and Due Dec. 15th For the Who, What, When, Where, and Why’s regarding mandatory electronic online dues payments, please visit the SAR website at www.sarasotarealtors.com and click on the MEMBERS tab near the top of the page, FAQ’s, Dues and Accounts.



When and Where are dues invoices sent?  Individual dues invoices are available @ http://www.sarasotarealtors.com (under MY SAR ACCOUNT at top of the page), where they can be viewed, printed, and paid. In addition, an email was sent to all members notifying when the invoices were produced and available for payment.



What is included on this dues billing?  Annual dues: Local, State, National, CID (if applicable), Global Business Council (if applicable) and voluntary RPAC.



Payment Methods: ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS ONLY!  Two payment options: 1. Deduct directly from your checking account via: A. Debit card (MC,V) – the easiest way to have the payment deducted from your checking account. (please note that if your debit card is simply an ATM card without a MasterCard or Visa symbol it will not work). If you use a debit card with the MasterCard or Visa symbol, you will check “credit card” as payment type.

B. Electronic check – use same information as on your check.

2. Credit card (MasterCard, Visa, or American Express).  Instructions for all payments  Go to www.sarasotarealtors.com  Click on MY SAR ACCOUNT at top of page and log in  Under My Services, click on “Pay/View Bill Online”  Follow the payment process to confirmation of a successful transaction  Online charges will appear on your bank and credit card statements as “Realtor Association/MLS Chicago IL”  To print a copy of invoice, click on the invoice number

OR Come to the SAR offices and use our computer in the library which is programmed to open directly into the log‐in screen and has easy instructions located at the workstation for your use.  Once payments are made online, they are updated to your account within 72 hours. We encourage you to go online to check the status of your account.



Due Dates, Termination of Services, and Refund Policy  Due: December 15, 2011; Past Due: January 17, 2012, 5:01 p.m.  $50 late fee assessment on open balances a/o January 17, 2012, 5:01 p.m.  Members with open balances a/o 5:01 p.m. on January 17, 2012 will be subject to suspension of all Realtor® services.  Members with outstanding balances at 5:01 p.m. on February 15, 2012 will be terminated. Reinstatement will require payment in full of all amounts due at date of termination, plus a $150 SAR application fee to rejoin as a new member.  For a member whose license is placed inactive prior to Jan. 1st and who has paid their invoice, the inactive member will receive a full refund of the payments made.  For a member whose license is placed inactive on or after Jan. 1st and who has paid their invoice, all payments received are non‐refundable.

Governmental Affairs 10

Wishes for the new year

d

By Marc Mansfield Governmental Affairs Director

During this time of the year, thoughts of politics, campaigns, elections and ballot amendments are replaced with the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Our energies are focused on family and friends and for just a brief moment in time we collectively breathe a sigh of relief, take stock of the past year and resolve to do many things so much better in the upcoming New Year.

So in the spirit of the holiday season I leave you with my hopes for 2012 certainly in no order of importance or significance and more importantly reflecting my personal views and not those of SAR: Economic Development/Job Creation- During the past year there has seemed to be an increased awareness on the part of elected officials as to the importance of job creation. Economic development and job creation is difficult, challenging and requires tremendous resources in order to be successful. Sarasota County has a long way to go in order to reclaim the number of jobs lost during the past 2-3 years and more importantly to repair the image of the county as being unfriendly to business. Creating good paying jobs and providing economic opportunity for our children should be a given.

Traffic Signalization -Sarasota County is generally ahead of the curve when it comes to sustainability issues.

Why then is it so difficult to drive from point A to point B locally? Local traffic signals create gridlock rather than promoting good traffic flow and it is apparent there is no synchronization or coordination within the city or county.

Traffic signal management is shared by the City, County and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) which makes it extremely difficult to direct a question regarding specific signals and intersections to the appropriate party.

With season right around the corner, one can only hope for more coordination.

Political Activism and Civility - Emotions on both sides of the political spectrum are already at fever pitch.

With local, state and national elections occurring in 2012 perhaps both sides can take a deep breath and hopefully remember we are all in this together. As a rule we spend more time with people that agree with us rather than spending much more time talking with folks that disagree with us. Both sides could learn from those conversations.

Personal Accountability -it is very fashionable and unfortunately widely accepted today to blame someone or something else for our troubles or actions. Whatever happened to accepting responsibility for our actions rather than blaming someone or something else for our troubles?

Housing Market- All signs point to a continued and steady recovery in our area.

Let’s all hope for a continued

DECEMBER 2011

turnaround in demand and median price in 2012.

Season - According to published reports the 2011 tourism season was a huge success. High hopes for another great tourism season.

Volunteers – Many thanks to the volunteers who served SAR in some capacity in 2011 and a big thank you in advance to those that will serve in 2012. We couldn’t do it without you.

Happy Holidays and a successful 2012 to one and all!

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

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Property Appraiser

WHAT’S IN YOUR STOCKING? COAL OR CANDY CANES?

As with most people and most organizations, at this time of the year we find ourselves reflecting on the past and contemplating what the future may hold.

In these trying economic times that can be a daunting prospect.

In looking back at 2011, Sarasota County continued to experience a drop in property values and other benchmarks. Once again, the taxable value for the

By Bill Furst, GRI, CRS, CRB County declined, from $42.20 billion in 2010 to $39.56 billion in 2011, a Sarasota County reduction of 6.3%.

Property Appraiser As with most people and most organizations, at this time of the year

we find ourselves reflecting on the past and contemplating what the The decline in the number of homestead properties over the past three years future may hold. In these trying economic times that can be a daunting continues. From 2010 to 2011 the number of homesteaded properties prospect. dropped to 112,148, a 1.6% reduction.

In looking back at 2011, Sarasota County continued to experience a

drop in property values and other benchmarks. Once again, the taxable As market values have been tumbling assessed values have been gradually value for the County declined, from $42.20 billion in 2010 to $39.56 increasing as required by the recapture provision of Save Our Homes. That billion in 2011, a reduction of 6.3 percent. double whammy has resulted in a drop of 71% in the number of homesteads The decline in the number of homestead properties over the past benefiting from a Save Our Homes cap since the peak year of 2006. As three years continues. From 2010 to 2011 the number of homesteaded disappointing as that may be to owners of those properties, those owners properties dropped to 112,148, a 1.6% reduction. continue to benefit from Homestead and other exemptions not available to As market values have been tumbling, assessed values have been non‐homesteaded property owners. gradually increasing as required by the recapture provision of Save Our Homes. That double whammy has resulted in a drop of 71 percent in

the number of homesteads benefiting from a Save Our Homes cap Although neither we nor any other agency can control the behavior of buyers since the peak year of 2006. and sellers in the marketplace, we are pleased to report that our ongoing As disappointing as that may be to owners of those properties, those efforts to combat homestead fraud and to provide fair and equitable market owners continue to benefit from Homestead and other exemptions not values continue to result in accurate appraisals and the recovery of taxable available to non-homesteaded property owners. value and tax revenue.

Although neither we nor any other agency can control the behavior

of buyers and sellers in the marketplace, we are pleased to report that As of the end of October our enforcement of the Homestead Tax Lien process our ongoing efforts to combat homestead fraud and to provide fair and has resulted in the recapture of almost $300,000 in taxes, penalties and equitable market values continue to result in accurate appraisals and the interest for prior tax years. And, through investigations, denials, and recovery of taxable value and tax revenue. cancellations, this office has returned over $1,000,000 in tax revenue to As of the end of October our enforcement of the Homestead Tax Lien process has resulted in the recapture of almost $300,000 in taxes, Sarasota County and other taxing authorities for the 2011 tax year. penalties and interest for prior tax years. And, through investigations,

denials, and cancellations, this office has returned over $1,000,000 in 2011 has also brought another year of fewer Value Adjustment Board tax revenue to Sarasota County and other taxing authorities for the petitions contesting this office’s opinions of market value. We encourage all 2011 tax year. petitioners to meet with us to try and resolve any value or exemption issues 2011 has also brought another year of fewer Value Adjustment Board before filing a petition. This process resulted in a 15% decrease in the number petitions contesting this office’s opinions of market value. We encourage of filed petitions for 2011. And, of the 777 property owners who chose to file all petitioners to meet with us to try and resolve any value or exemption petitions in 2011, we were able to work with 35% of them prior to their issues before filing a petition. hearings to resolve their concerns. Bypassing those VAB hearings has saved This process resulted in a 15 percent decrease in the number of those petitioners time and all the taxpayers of Sarasota County the cost of the filed petitions for 2011. And, of the 777 property owners who chose hearings. to file petitions in 2011, we were able to work with 35 percent of them prior to their hearings to resolve their concerns. Bypassing those

VAB hearings has saved those petitioners time and all the taxpayers of As we continue to contend with volatile property values and other economic Sarasota County the cost of the hearings. stresses, we’ll all have our share of coal mixed with the sweet treats of As we continue to contend with volatile property values and other For morepriceless family, friends and festive gatherings. economic stresses, we’ll all have our share of coal mixed with the sweet information,

treats of priceless family, friends and festive gatherings. contact the We at the Sarasota Property Appraiser’s office hope your celebrations are Property We at the Sarasota Property Appraiser’s office hope your celebrations joyous; your dreams for the New Year come true; and you spend the holiday Appraiser’s office are joyous; your dreams for the New Year come true; and you spend the season surrounded by the people and traditions you love and cherish. at 941.861.8200. holiday season surrounded by the people and traditions you love and cherish.

12

What’s in your stocking?

Coal, or candy canes?

a

DECEMBER 2011

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

January 1 Exemption and Value Deadlines:

Homestead: The Applicant must own and occupy the property and have established their permanent Florida residency by January 1.

Organizations: The property must be owned and used exclusively or predominantly for exempt purposes by January 1.

Conservation: The property must be encumbered by a conservation easement by January 1.

Agricultural: The property must be used for a bona fide agricultural purpose by January 1.

Condos and Subdivisions: Lots and units in plats filed by January 1 and deeds splitting property by January 1 will be listed separately on the assessment roll.

New Construction: The value of new structures and additions completed for their intended purpose by January 1 will be placed on the assessment roll.

Demolitions: The value of structures demolished by January 1 will be removed from the assessment roll.

NEED A SPEAKER FOR YOUR MEETING? BILL FURST WILL COME AND TALK WITH YOUR GROUP AND ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS.

To set up an appointment call our office at 941.861.8200 or email us at PA@SC‐PA.com

www.sarasotarealtors.com

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National inventory continues to decline The total homes listed for sale continue to move downward.

The latest decline in October to 3.33 million was partly seasonal, as autumn and winter months nearly always have fewer listings in comparison with spring and summer months.

Still, examining listings only in the month of October (so as to get an apple-to-apple comparison), this year saw the lowest inventory since 2005.

A review of June, July, August, and September data also says the same thing: namely, 2011 had the lowest inventory count since 2005 across same-month comparisons. The market is clearly healing and the falling inventory is an early indicator as to what will happen to home prices in the future.

Despite the improving inventory trend, let’s be mindful that the current inventory conditions are still considered elevated and above normal compared to the early years of the last decade. Also the months-supply – i.e., how many months it would take to exhaust the current inventory assuming the

current sales pace – stood at 8 months in October, which is still a tad above normal conditions. Ideally, the monthssupply figure needs to fall to about 6 months before prices show consistent positive movement of about 3 to 5 percent annually.

Separately, the inventory of newly constructed homes (not existing home inventory) is at 40 year lows because homebuilders have just not been able to break ground and build new homes because of very difficult lending conditions in obtaining construction loans.

The inventory trends for both existing and new homes should therefore provide some reassurance that home price growth (at the national level) could be just around the corner.

Local markets in Bismarck, Buffalo, Pittsburgh, San Diego, and Washington, D.C., as some examples, have already shown consistent price gains. - Lawrence Yun, NAR Chief Economist

Realtors® ready to ‘Seize the Day’ in 2012

The forum was hosted Realtors® stand ready “For the first time in generations, the American by the Progressive Policy to protect and defend Institute and Economic opportunities for dream of homeownership is being threatened,” Policies for the 21st homeownership, and said NAR President Ron Phipps Century and brought many of them have together policy leaders, gathered here at the week, conforming loan limits is one topindustry representatives, 2011 REALTORS® Conference & Expo to prepare for the of-mind issue. On October 1, Congress members of Congress, thought leaders allowed those limits to revert from 125 and the media. challenges ahead. percent of the local area median home From this forum, NAR has endorsed During the opening session today at this price to 115 percent of the local median week’s meetings, National Association of home price. As a result, home buyers a five-point housing solutions plan to Realtors® President Ron Phipps outlined and sellers in 669 counties across 42 help reenergize housing markets and obstacles and opportunities facing the states and the District of Columbia have spur the economic recovery. real estate industry.

“Many of the solutions that came been affected. The lower limits mean “For the first time in generations, the that fewer people will have access to out of this forum evolved from ideas American dream of homeownership is mortgage loans, and the loans that are that Realtors® have been advocating for several years,” said Phipps. “Realtors® being threatened,” said Phipps, broker- available will be more expensive. and the families we work with, day in president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, “Mortgage availability remains a real R.I. “We need to keep housing first concern since the private market has and day out, know that homeownership on the nation’s public policy agenda, yet to return,” said Phipps. “While the matters, and now, with our combined because housing and home ownership housing market is still in recovery, we and continued efforts, we’re going to make sure that policymakers understand issues affect all Americans.” firmly believe that lower loan limits NAR is actively advocating public will only further restrict liquidity in that, too.”

This year’s Realtors® Conference & policies that promote responsible, mortgage markets.”

Expo is expected to draw approximately sustainable homeownership. Those NAR has urged Congress to reinstate include ensuring affordable, accessible the higher loan limits temporarily, and 18,000 Realtors® and guests. More than financing; supporting tax policies that more than 200 members of Congress 400 exhibitors are expected to participate encourage homeownership; and helping currently support efforts to reinstate in the Expo, which showcases the latest real estate products and innovations more people stay in their homes or these limits. across various fields, including avoid foreclosure through streamlined Session attendees also heard about the technology, data communications and short sales. results of last month’s New Solutions As Realtors® convene in California this for America’s Housing Crisis forum. financial programs and services.

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DECEMBER 2011

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

p

p

Sarasota real estate market for October outpaces last year

Property sales for October 2011 in the Sarasota real estate market outpaced last October, with 577 this year compared to only 487 at the same time last year. This represents an 18.4 percent increase, and could be a harbinger for a busy season.

There was also a small increase in transactions compared to September 2011, when 570 sales were recorded. Overall, sales in 2011 are on pace to exceed last year, a remarkable fact considering that 2010 sales were at the highest level since 2005.

The inventory of available properties for sale in Sarasota, after dropping precipitously over the course of 2011, was again up slightly in October to 4,525 from last month’s 4,430 level.

The inventory sunk to a 10-year low of 4,408 in August 2011.

The October 2011 median sale price for single family homes dropped to $149,838 from last month’s figure of $165,000. But the amount was higher than last October, when it was $147,500. The condo figure has been fluctuating for several months, and rose slightly in October 2011 to $143,000 from last month’s figure of $140,000. Last year at this time, the figure stood at $158,525. The year-to-date median sale price was $155,000 for single family homes and $162,000 for condos. These figures have remained remarkably steady for the past year, indicating a more stable market.

“There is no doubt that agents are reporting a very active marketplace, with many showings, good foot traffic and high interest in Sarasota properties,” said SAR President Michael Bruno.

“The start of the season has been busy and productive, and we hope this trend continues in the coming months.”

The months of inventory rose slightly to 7.1 months from 6.7 months for single family homes, and dropped considerably for condos, to 9.7 months from September’s 11.1 months. Both figures are close to a market in equilibrium between buyers and sellers, and again remained far below the highs of 25.3 months for single family (in early 2009) and 41.7 months for condos (in late 2008). This statistic represents the time it would take to sell the existing inventory at the current month’s rate of sales.

Pending sales were up in October 2011 to 772 from 723 last month, approaching last October’s total of 819. Last month, 585 single family homes and 187 condos went under contract.

For distressed property sales, the market for foreclosures and short sales remained at 43 percent, the same figure as in September 2011. The figure has stabilized this year, and is much lower than the rate in the second quarter of 2010 when it rose to over 51 percent.

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“The start of the season has been busy and productive, and we hope this trend continues in the coming months.”

- SAR President Michael Bruno

On the national scene, NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun predicted home sales would increase by 4 percent next year and home prices would inch up 2 percent. He made the statements during the Economic Issues & Residential Real Estate Business Trends forum at the NAR annual conference on Nov. 11th. In 2013, he projected sales to pick up another 6 percent and prices to rise another 3 percent.

Bruno, who attended the NAR conference in California, said he was encouraged by what he heard regarding the future outlook.

“We remain optimistic for the near and long term due to the strength of our local market in the midst of continuing national and regional economic weakness,” said Bruno. “We are all hopeful that the financial health of our feeder markets in the northeast and overseas also starts to improve. If this happens, it would be logical to assume a stronger late 2011 and early 2012 buying season here.”

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

DECEMBER 2011

15

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - October 2011 Single Family Condo

Unit Sales 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Oct‐10

Nov‐10

Dec‐10

Jan‐11

Feb‐11

Mar‐11

Apr‐11 May‐11

Jun‐11

Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Single Family

Median Sale Price

Condo

$250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 Oct‐10

Nov‐10

Dec‐10

Jan‐11

Feb‐11

Mar‐11

Apr‐11 May‐11

Jun‐11

Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

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

2,924

412

14.1

190

$149,838

$156,000

7.1

585

20.0

701

186

This Month Last Year

3,899

351

9.0

170

$147,500

$163,950

11.1

608

15.6

704

197

2,869

430

14.9

168

$165,000

$157,500

6.7

547

19.0

640

176

‐

4,999

‐

181

$155,000

‐

‐

6,614

‐

6,646

‐

Oct 95.2 95.1

Nov 94.8 ‐

Dec 94.1 ‐

Last Month YTD

Jan 94.4 94.5

2010 2011

Single Family – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Feb 92.8 94.1

Mar 95.2 94.7

Apr 94.8 94.1

May 95.2 94.2

Jun 95.3 94.3

Jul 94.7 94.1

Aug 95.2 94.5

Sept 94.6 95.2

Statistics were compiled on properties listed in the MLS by members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® as of Nov. 10th, 2011, 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

DECEMBER 2011

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - October 2011 Single Family Condo

Inventory 5,000 4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 Oct‐10 Nov‐10 Dec‐10

Jan‐11

Feb‐11 Mar‐11 Apr‐11 May‐11 Jun‐11

Jul‐11

Aug‐11 Sep‐11

Pending Sales

Single Family Condo

Oct‐11

1000 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Oct‐10

Nov‐10

Dec‐10

Jan‐11

Feb‐11

Mar‐11

Apr‐11 May‐11

Jun‐11

Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Condo

This Month This Month Last Year Last Month YTD

2010 2011

#Active

#Sold

%Sold

Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months of Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending

# New Listings

# Off Market

1,601

165

10.3

222

$143,000

$161,000

9.7

187

11.7

307

221

2,170

136

6.3

206

$158,525

$165,000

15.9

211

9.7

347

179

1,561

140

9.0

250

$140,000

$163,000

11.1

176

11.2

213

204

‐

1,948

‐

221

$162,000

‐

‐

2,191

‐

2,311

‐

Oct 94.3 93.2

Nov 94.5 ‐

Dec 92.9 ‐

Jan 92.5 93.4

Condo – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Feb 92.4 91.2

Mar 92.5 92.2

Apr 93.2 93.4

May 94.2 94.5

Jun 93.7 94.2

Jul 94.2 92.5

Aug 93.5 93.1

Sept 93.2 92.8

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

DECEMBER 2011

17

CID (Commercial Investment Division)

CID leadership elected for 2012

By Anthony Homer CID President For most commercial brokers the “new normal” has meant twice as much work for half the payoff. As deal sizes have shrunk, we have all worked harder to keep the ship level.

In this challenging environment, the dedication of the Commercial Investment Division board of directors has been very meaningful. The annual charity golf tournament suffered a huge setback when we lost our major sponsor. However, the committee brought in fresh blood and everyone pulled together for a very successful event.

Thank you to all of our committee members and volunteers, with a special thanks to Diane Lee, Linda Emery, Sarah Oleson and Nick Devito. This event was a microcosm of what makes the CID such a unique benefit to the commercial Realtors® in our region. The groups worked in tandem to secure sponsors, inviting participants and generally working their butts off to bring in the dollars for First Tee. As we begin planning for the next year, we look forward to the inauguration of our 2012 CID President Brad Lindberg and the leadership he brings to the table.

Brad is a business veteran with years of experience at the helm. He brings a vision of scale and the connections to make things happen. With his experience from the SAR Public Policy Committee and long history in the community, Brad is uniquely qualified to continue the efforts to create a pro-business environment in our community, along with our newly

elected Board of Directors.

Our next and final major event for 2011 is the CID Christmas Party, which will be held December 8th at the City Center. The time is from 6:30 - 9 p.m. and details will be coming out in an e-blast for RSVP. Please make sure you register! There will be NO walkins allowed.

Thanks for a great year, and hope to see you in 2012!

CID General Membership Meeting - Tuesday, Dec. 20th, 8:30 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

Commercial Marketplace Sessions - Friday, Dec. 2nd, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium - Friday, Dec. 9th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium - Friday, Dec. 16th, 9 a.m. – Manatee Association of Realtors®, 10920 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL No meeting Dec. 23rd or Dec. 30th - Holidays

2012 CID Officers and Directors: Officers: President - Brad Lindberg, Sperry Van Ness President-Elect - Linda Emery, Sperry Van Ness Past President - Anthony Homer, LWR Commercial Vice President - Tim Mapp, Mapp Realty Secretary - Dave Roth, RE/MAX Alliance Treasurer - Lori Hellstrom, Osprey Real Estate Services Directors: Sarah Olesen - Michael Saunders - 2012 (1 year) Susan Goldstein - Michael Saunders - 2012 (1 year) Tony Veldkamp - Sperry Van Ness - 2013 (2 years) Bob Milhoan - Hembree & Associates - 2013 (2 years) Pete Skokos - Norton Hammersley - 2014 (3 years) Kevin Robbins - Harry Robbins Associates - 2014 (3 years)

CID slates meetings for December 2011

CID Christmas Party - Thursday, Dec. 8th, 6:30 to 9 p.m. - Sarasota City Center, 1819 Main Street

2011 CID Officers & Directors Officers:

Directors:

President: Anthony Homer, LWR Commercial President-Elect: Brad Lindberg, Sperry Van Ness Vice-President: Linda Emery, Sperry Van Ness Secretary: Diane Lee, Wagner Realty Treasurer: Tim Mapp, Mapp Realty Past President: Lee DeLieto, Jr., Michael Saunders & Co. 18

DECEMBER 2011

Pete Skokos: Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos (1 year - 2011) David Roth: RE/MAX Alliance (2 years - 2012) Sarah Olesen: Michael Saunders & Company (2 years 2012) Bob Milhoan: Hembree & Assoc. (3 years - 2013) Lori Hellstrom: Osprey Management (3 years - 2013)

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

The CID 2011 Charity Golf Tournament was another big success and fundraiser for First Tee, an organization that helps our youth grow in integrity and sportsmanship through golf.

At right, Golf Committee member Linda Emery is shown with Nick DeVito of First Tee and Sarah Olsen, co-chair of the Golf Commitee.

Education Programs

Save money on your taxes with new deductions Title: Tax Strategies for the Real Estate Professional Date: Dec. 14, 9 to 11 a.m.

Cost: SAR Members: $10; Others, $20 Instructor: Kelly Clark, Bradford & Co. Many of us assume our accountants take care of our taxes, but forget that we are the ones giving them the numbers and records they are using to prepare our tax return.

This seminar will help identify between $2,500 and $27,000 in new deductions that can be used right away to pocket thousands in tax savings. These deductions are based in tax law, but presented in simple English that all of us can easily understand—they will not bury you in legal jargon.

• Stimulus Package Deductions - Updates for 2011 • Increase your income – How to use the tax side of your business to increase your spendable income • Entertainment Strategies – 2 remarkable entertainment deductions available to real estate professionals that may surprise you • Double Entertainment Deductions – How to safely

transform 50 percent entertainment deductions into 100 percent deductions • Audit-Proofing - Documentation tips that will save you time, all the time • Help Your Accountant – How you can help your accountant work more effectively on your behalf • Car Strategies - Six methods that produce thousands in deductions, plus new first year auto depreciation deduction updates • Actual Expenses vs. IRS Method Mileage – New $25,000 automobile deductions you don’t want to lose • IRS Audit - Reduce your chances – Red flags to avoid • Home Office Deduction –Why Real Estate Professionals may now safely qualify for this remarkable deduction and how it transforms personal commuting to deductible business miles • Learn how a 105 Medical Plan can turn your family’s medical expenses into tax-favored business expenses This seminar is presented by Kelly Clark of Bradford and Company, Inc., and excerpted from the Bradford and Company, Inc. Tax Strategies for the Self-Employed audio course (which will be available for purchase after the program).

Graduate, Realtor® Institute (GRI) Program Take all three programs at SAR in 2012 and earn your post-license credit (salesman’s 45-hour or broker’s 60-hour) or 14 hours of CE credit while earning your GRI designation. Course 1: Jan. 23-25 & Jan. 30-Feb. 1, 2012 (45 hours salesman’s post license and 14 hours CE); Course 2: April 23-25 & April 30-May 1, 2012 (30 hours broker post-license and 11 hours CE); Course 3: July 23-25, July 31-Aug. 1, 2012 (30 hours broker post-license and 11 hours CE).

Same price for all Realtors®.

Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) Recognized as the mark of accomplishment in luxury markets around the world, the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) designation assures affluent buyers and sellers that the agents who have earned it have the knowledge, experience, competence and confidence they require. At SAR Feb. 28-29, 2012. Cost is $550. Registration is handled at this website: www. luxuryhomemarketing.com/sarasota. Same price for all Realtors®.

Short Sales & Foreclosure Specialist (SFR) National Speaker Terry Watson instructs this course on March 21, 2012! Learn how to direct distressed sellers to finance, tax and legal professionals; get training on both the buyer and seller side of short sale and foreclosure transactions; get free webinars that you can download anytime, anywhere; gain access to SFR logo and marketing materials. Cost: $139, all Realtors®.

20

DECEMBER 2011

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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SAR to launch School of Real Estate

Spread the word! New careers in real estate can now be nurtured at the brand-new Sarasota Association of Realtors School of Real Estate (SARSRE). Learn from an experienced instructor and practicing Realtor in the comfortable, professional surroundings at the SAR Headquarters, centrally located at 3590 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34239. Classes will be held nights and weekends in Conference Room A in the Education Building.

Instructor for the SAR School of Real Estate is Michael W. Davenport. Michael is multi-licensed in Florida and has a distinguished resume that includes over 40years of sales and management experience. He has earned the following credentials: St. Petersburg College (SPC) Honorary Doctorate of Letters (1996); University of Connecticut, Institute of Financial Education Graduate School (1980); University of South Florida (USF) Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Public Administration (1972).

SAR recently identified a need for a real estate school permanently located in Sarasota. We’re the new kid on the block, but we have the support and expertise of a thriving 3,200 Realtor® member association. SAR has carefully designed its classes to be offered over several weeknights and weekends so that the student will have time to digest the information and come away with the confidence to tackle the state license exam.

Students who enroll in SARSRE courses will be exposed to the next step in their professional careers after licensure and will be well prepared to join the Realtor organization.

SAR will blend the pre-license courses with current offerings of post-license for salespeople and brokers which also lead to the Graduate, Realtor® Institute (GRI) designation.

2012 Course Schedule

Sales Associate Pre-License Jan. 26-Feb. 25, 2012 Tuition: By Jan. 12: $339 (includes manual and materials) After Jan. 12: $364 Class limited to 20 students Tuesday & Thursday Evenings 5:00-10:00 AND Saturdays 8:30-1:30 Review: Feb. 25, 8:30-10 End of Course Exam: Feb. 25, 10-1 Broker Pre-License March 1-March 31, 2012 Tuition: By Feb. 22: $395 (includes manual and materials) After Feb. 22: $420 SAR Members: 10% discount Class limited to 15 students Tuesdays & Thursdays 5 to10 p.m. AND Saturdays 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. EXCEPT March 1 (3 to 10 p.m. and March 3, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Review: March 31, 8-10 End of Course Exam: March 31, 10-1 Instructor: Michael W. Davenport Continued on P. 26, See SCHOOL

Waterfront property course coming in early 2012 Title: Waterfront Property Due Diligence Date: Jan. 11, 2012, 9 to 11 a.m.

Instructor: David M. Levin, Esq. Cost: SAR Members: $10; Others, $20 David Levin will present his annual waterfront property seminar at SAR on Jan. 11, 2012. If you list or sell waterfront property, you should attend this seminar. Here are some of the topics that David will cover:

• • • • • •

FEMA Compliance Coastal Construction Permitting Riparian Rights Dock permitting Beach Access Much more!

What’s up with the economy? Get the scoop Jan. 17th Title: Economic Update Date: Jan. 17, 2012, Noon to 1:30 p.m.

Presenter: Dr. Ted Jones, Stewart Title Cost: Free to SAR Members, $10 others In real estate, staying on top of industry news is essential to your success. Whether you’re learning about the latest trends, home sale prices, title insurance or more, you need accurate information. On January 17, 2012, Dr. Ted C. Jones, PhD, Senior Vice President/Chief Economist for Stewart Title Guaranty Company and also Director of Investor Relations for Stewart Information Services Corporation (NYSE-STC) will present the latest reports on

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real estate, finance and the economy.

You can use this information to your advantage when trying to stay in the know and pass it along to your customers and prospects.

The program is free and sponsored by Stewart Title, who will provide lunch for the attendees. Please register at www. sarasotarealtors.com.

Dr. Jones will be making a presentation for the Commercial Investment Division in the morning. This afternoon presentation will be geared towards residential agents.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

DECEMBER 2011

21

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dedication and hard work pay off!! We congratulate our members who have successfully completed the e-Pro designaion; Resort and Second-Home Property Specialist (RSPS) designation, Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Transnational Referral Certification (TRC) status!

e-PRO DESIGNATION (e-PRO) Bryan L. Guentner

RE/MAX Platinum

SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST (SRES) Diane M Ellis Gail Grimley Barbara Hackett Keith Richard Kropp Shirley Lagrange Susan Matteoli Cindy Migone Christopher Parquet Wayne Rogers Chuck Shah

Michael Saunders & Company Cityscapes International Realty Michael Saunders & Company Frontgate Realty Inc. Coldwell Banker Residential RE Michael Saunders & Company Signature Sothebys International EXIT King Realty Non-member Michael Saunders & Company

RESORT, SECOND HOME PROPERTY SPECIALIST (RSPS) Pam Charron Robert A. Ispaso John E. Schnackenberg Judith Del Viscio Larry Mitchell Helena Nordstrom Christopher Wetzig

True Lux course teaches how to handle luxury client Title: True Lux Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2012 Time: 9:00 – 10:30 Cost: FREE to SAR Members; $10 others Instructor: Ann Weintraub, Esq., Band Weintraub Kick off the new year by learning how to meet the needs and expectations of the luxury client.

Attorney Ann Weintraub will discuss what you need to know, how to assemble the right team, and you will receive practical tips, including: - How is the luxury client different—or are they?

- What the Realtor® needs to know - Legal pitfalls to avoid - How to assemble the right team to assist the client - Practical tips to insure a successful Realtor®/customer relationship.

Register early!

Michael Saunders & Company Michael Saunders & Company RE/MAX Alliance Group RE/MAX Alliance Group Michael Saunders & Company Signature Sothebys International Michael Saunders & Company

Award-winning printing and customer service

TRANSNATIONAL REFERRAL CERTIFICATION (TRC)

Sharon Abbel Robin Adair Pamela Caguiat Lorraine Coletti John Curp Nancy Deckard Jane Ebury Wendy Kay Foldes Rosemary Gillies Robert Ispaso Ingrid Kozak Glenda Matheson Jeannie McDermott John Mercier Darlena Nelms Tina Rudek Karen Schwartz Mary Lou Spinelli Cindy Taliaferro Diann Thelen Judith Turrentine Iwona Wajszczak Pamela Wexler 22

DECEMBER 2011

RE/MAX Platinum Realty RE/MAX Alliance Group RE/MAX Platinum Realty Atchley International Realty Coldwell Banker Res R E Keller Williams On The Water RSVP Real Estate Company, Inc. Cityscapes Int’l Realty Grp Signature Sothebys Internat’l Michael Saunders & Company RE/MAX Platinum Realty RSVP Real Estate Company, Inc. Coldwell Banker Res R E Ilene Mirman Realty Inc. SandN Real Estate LLC Engel & Voelkers LBK Realty Prime Residential Brokers Wagner Realty Coldwell Banker Res R E Coldwell Banker Res R E Atchley International Realty Realty Executives Solutions Coldwell Banker Res R E

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

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Conquer your MLXchange fears!

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 Dec. 5 or Dec. 19, 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 module, saving a search and setting prospecting notification features - 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 hotsheet configurations - Search Tax - Creating a professional CMA - Personalize user contact information

Entering and Updating Listings in MLXchange Dec. 5 or Dec. 19 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Mandatory class if you will be entering and 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 - Entering a new listing, using tax auto pop, reviewing the fields that www.sarasotarealtors.com

have specific entries in the Rules and Regulations - Adding images, attachments, open house information, Supra Key and ShowingTime - Inventory watch-easiest way to modify the listing Design Web Pages, Capture Leads Dec. 6, 9 a.m. to Noon One of the most crucial components in today’s real estate professional’s day-today business is capturing and handling leads along with time management. This course will teach you how to set up your personal agent and client web pages, contact management and scheduling features that go hand-in-hand with a successful real estate business.

- Changing the site style, domain name, search engine tools and redirecting web sites - Designing the web page content, adding featured properties - Illustrating the property search - Lead capture shows in today’s summary and schedule - Reviewing schedule, adding/editing appointments, tasks, adding notes and reminders - Plans manager, copying and modifying the action plan - Emailing the client private webpage - Customizing email templates MLXchange Advanced Dec. 6, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Take MLXchange to the next level!

In this session you will learn how to customize a search & display screens, personal website links and setup & save advanced searches.

- Creating a custom template, adding fields, changing the display order - Foreclosure, fixer upper, and vacant listings with lockbox access - Customizing columns, adding/ removing fields, changing the column Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

headers and changing the field sort order - Editing favorite reports Creating A Professional CMA Dec. 7, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

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. - Create a new seller or buyer CMA - Importing subject property from MLS or tax search and entering additional information about the subject property - Adding MLS and tax comparables - Adjustments, pricing, net sheet, selecting pages, and viewing report - Edit and remove reports - Emailing, saving, and printing CMA - Customizing a personal CMA and setting it as the default iMapp - Interactive Tax and Mailing Labels Dec. 7, 9 a.m. to Noon 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 DECEMBER 2011

23

On the SAR Scene

SAR Tech Expo bring in the crowds

Visit SAR on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

Photos by Jesse Sunday

David Clapp, chair of the Tech Expo Task Force, enjoys the Oct. 28th event at the Sarasota County Technical Institute.

Technology guru Amy Chorew speaks to a packed house at the SAT Tch Expo on Oct. 28th. The second anual technology event was another huge success, attacting more than 240 people.

24

DECEMBER 2011

Sarasota Realtor速 Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Title: CIPS Designation Dates: May 21-23 and May 29-30, 2012 Where: SAR Main Auditorium Instructors: David Wyant, CIPS, Carla Rayman, CIPS and Pat Tan, CIPS The Global Business Council is pleased to announce that it will host the complete Certified International Property Specialist designation course at SAR in May 2012.

Practitioners who want to stay competitive in many markets must be familiar with international real estate issues and practices.

A convergence of factors has greatly impacted the opportunity for international business for Realtors® in the U.S., including emerging property markets throughout Europe and Asia, immigration trends in the U.S., foreign investment, and the forthcoming development of a global Internet-based property information system.

CIPS designation courses provide international and multicultural real estate education to Realtors® and other professionals seeking training in international business issues, such as currency conversion, cultural awareness, and legal and tax requirements.

There are more than 2,000 CIPS designees, along with hundreds of candidates. Many others have elected to take one or more of the courses with no immediate intent to pursue the designation, but simply for the value of the education itself.

Approximately 70 percent of CIPS students are residential practitioners, and 30 percent are commercial. Students average more than 10 years in experience.

Course Delivery CIPS Institutes concentrate five of the required international CIPS courses into a 5-day format. SAR has elected to split the 5-day Institute into 3 days one week, and 2 days the second week so that students will not have a 5-day hole in their business.

May 21, 2012: Global Real Estate: Local Markets: Analysis of the international real estate business environment, government regulations and cultures. The practical aspects of international brokerage, networking, marketing and selling are discussed (Wyant) May 22, 2012: Global Real Estate: Financial Concepts: Provides the tools needed to present investment information to international clients—in their currency and area (Wyant) May 23, 2012: Asia/Pacific and International Real Estate: This covers real estate practices in Asia and the Pacific with emphasis on cultural influences, economic trends and assessment of investment opportunities.

A special chapter on working with the Japanese is www.sarasotarealtors.com

included (Wyant) May 29, 2012: The Americas & International Real Estate: Practical information for professionals who work with Caribbean, North, Central and South American investors. Historical and cultural influences, regional relationships, and investment opportunities are covered along with a special focus on Mexico (Rayman & Tan) May 30, 2012: Europe & International Real Estate: This provides information on working with clients in Western and Central Europe. The European Union and its impact on international real estate are covered, along with economic and real estate trends, networking and relationship building, plus marketing and selling practices (Rayman & Tan) Cost: SPECIAL $126 DISCOUNT OFFER for SAR MEMBERS off the normal $625 price: The complete series of classes leading to the CIPS designation is $499 for SAR members.

SPECIAL $50 DISCOUNT OFFER for NONSAR MEMBERS: The complete series of classes leading to the CIPS designation is $575 for nonSAR members.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

DECEMBER 2011

Global Business Council

Complete CIPS Designation in only 5 days!

25

Freddie Mac amends short sale regulations On November 18, at the request of NAR and the American Land Title Association (ALTA), Freddie Mac amended its policy regarding its mandatory short sale affidavits. The purpose of the affidavits is to prevent fraud by requiring the buyer, the seller, the real estate brokers, the escrow/ closing agent, and any transaction facilitator to make various certifications (including that the short sale is an arm’s length transaction and the buyer will not resell within 120 days unless there are substantial improvements).

Servicers are required to implement the changes by January 1, 2012, but are encouraged to do so immediately. Each servicer covered by the policy must update its forms to comply with the revised policy.

NAR members are encouraged to make sure they are signing an updated form and, if presented with an old form, are well-advised to request the servicer to update or allow amendments to the form before they sign, to avoid potential liability issues.

Here are the key changes: • The certification is made based on “the best of each signatory’s knowledge and belief.” Freddie has retained the statement that a signatory making “a negligent or intentional misrepresentation” agrees to indemnify the servicer and Freddie Mac for losses. The addition of the knowledge standard significantly reduces this liability.

• Only a signatory who makes a negligent or intentional

Instructors: Chuck Bonamer, Grant Simon, Steve David Course provider: Florida Realtors School of Real Estate

SCHOOL From Page 21

State Exam Review April 13-14, 2012 8:30-4 (lunch break 12-1) Cost: $125 For Broker and Sales candidates Sales Associate 45-Hour Post-License GRI Course 1: Standards of Practice Jan. 23-Feb. 1, 2012 Tuition: On or before Jan. 9, 2012: $310 (includes manual and materials) After Jan. 9, 2012: $335 Course dates: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday--Jan. 23-25, 8-5 AND Monday, Jan. 30, 8-5, Tuesday, Jan. 31, 8-4, Wednesday, Feb. 1, 8-11 End of Course Exam: Wednesday, Feb. 1, 12-3 (Course also carries 14 hours continuing education credit for license renewal for sales associates and brokers and satisfies the NAR Code of Ethics training requirement for Realtors due by Dec. 31, 2012) 26

DECEMBER 2011

misrepresentation, based on the best of his or her knowledge and belief, is responsible for indemnifying the servicer and Freddie Mac for any loss. No signatory is responsible for the certification of any other signatory.

• Although Freddie Mac is requiring all signatories to sign one affidavit, the amended policy no longer allows the affidavit to be an addendum to the sales contract. NAR members are advised not to sign a document implying they are parties to the sales contract.

NAR appreciates Freddie Mac’s willingness to listen to the serious concerns raised by Realtors®.

In other NAR updates, on Nov. 17, Congress extended National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) authority through Dec. 16, 2011. The measure was a part of H.R. 2112, the so-called minibus conference report combining three annual spending bills with another stopgap funding measure for the rest of the federal government. NAR is urging Congress to use the additional time to complete work on a 5-year NFIP re-authorization bill (H.R. 1309) to provide certainty and avoid further disruption to real estate markets.

Also, Congress passed legislation that would restore the FHA mortgage loan limits back to 125% (instead of 115%) of local area median home price, and with a cap of $729,750 (instead of $625,500). In other words, the limits are back where they were in September. The legislation will retain these limits through December 31, 2013.

30 Hours Broker PostLicense GRI Course 2: Essential Real Estate Techniques April 23-May 3, 2012 Tuition: On or before April 9, 2012: $265 (includes manual and materials) After April. 9, 2012: $290 Course dates: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday--Jan. 23-25, AND Tuesday, Wednesday May 1 & 2, Michael Davenport 9-4 each day End of Course Exam: Thursday, May 3, 10-1 (Course also carries 11 hours continuing education credit for license renewal for sales associates and brokers) Instructors: Lou Ludwig, Steve David, Ira Zlatkin, Chuck Bonamer Course provider: Florida Realtors® School of Real Estate

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

By G.M. Filisko Realtor® Magazine You’ve got to know the right questions to ask prospective salespeople and employees. Here’s how to avoid legal pitfalls while learning the most you can about potential recruits.

Are you a planner or a winger when it comes to interviewing potential sales associates?

Planners give careful thought to the questions they’ll ask and know which questions stray into legal danger zones. They listen carefully while candidates expound on themselves, all the while reading candidates’ nonverbal cues.

Wingers, on the other hand, breeze into interviews and ask whatever pops into their mind—without any concern that they may be straying into dangerous legal territory—and make quick work of each interview.

It’s small wonder that planners have more success when it comes to affiliating the best sales associates. The good news? It’s easy to become an interview planner.

Here’s the scoop.

The Legal Fine Print Before you interview anyone, you must know the areas that, by law, you shouldn’t broach with candidates.

Although it’s possible to debate whether federal and state employment laws cover independent contractors, Charles Caulkins, managing partner of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. based Fisher & Phillips, one of the largest labor and employment law firms nationwide, advises his clients that the safest course is to assume that they do.

Employment discrimination laws protect applicants on the basis of age, sex, race, color, national origin, religion, disability, and marital status. Be sure to check your state and municipal laws, too, because some have additional protected classes, such as sexual orientation.

“The first place to be thinking about these issues is the job application,” says Caulkins. He suggests customizing your application to get the information you need rather than purchasing an off-the-shelf product.

Also consider changing the form’s title to something like “Independent Contractor Prequalification Application” to avoid the implication of an employer-employee relationship.

“We also recommend you don’t just take resumes— make someone actually fill out your application because there will be questions on the application unlikely to be covered in the resume,” adds Caulkins. “I’ve yet to see someone say on a resume, ‘I’ve been to prison.’ Also be sure the candidate signs the application because that can help you if you have to defend your process.”

www.sarasotarealtors.com

When it’s time to interview, ensure that your perfectly well-meaning questions don’t trigger candidates’ complaints that you veered into legally prohibited areas.

“An applicant who looks Latina might be asked, quite innocently, whether she’s Latina or speaks Spanish, with the intention of knowing whether she’d be able to work ethnic markets,” explains Joseph Rand, managing partner and general counsel at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Rand Realty in New City, New York. “But that’s a no-no.”

To avoid running afoul of the law, be careful to avoid personal questions along the lines of: • Do you have any children?

• Do you plan to have children?

• Are you married?

• How old are you?

• What religion are you?

What can you ask? With whatever information you’re seeking, find a neutral way to ask for it, and ask it of all candidates, not just those you think it applies to. For example, if your sales associates typically haul around For Sale signs and help sellers move furniture to get their home ready for sale, don’t ask candidates if they have a disability. Instead, Caulkins suggests you explain the physical tasks your sales associates often perform and ask: “Do you have any physical limitations that would prevent you from doing the job?”

What about asking that Latina-appearing candidate if she’s bilingual? “There may be a legitimate reason for your sales associates to be bilingual,” says Caulkins.

“There’s nothing wrong with asking for that, but it raises the question of whether you’re using that information to screen people based on ethnicity or national origin. You could certainly say, ‘We want, even require, bilingual sales associates.’ But you must be able to prove that it’s job-necessary because a certain percentage of your customers don’t speak English. It’s better to say, ‘Do you have any special skills that enable you to market to any particular niches?’”

Sometimes candidates raise legally risky topics themselves, such as mentioning they’re pregnant. “The danger is that you get caught off-guard and say, ‘Maybe this isn’t the right job for you,’ ” says Caulkins. “Your response should be, ‘That will have nothing to do with our decision. Congratulations!’ ’’ Have a Great Interview When you meet with candidates, body language

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Broker Corner

The Art of the Interview: Plan for success

Continued on P. 29, See INTERVIEW

DECEMBER 2011

27

WCR: Empowering women to achieve success

By Cindi Jackson WCR President

Standing still is not an option for anyone in the ever-changing world of real estate. In this industry, we must be ready for success. Success in our business brings credibility, influence and greater opportunity.

For women, especially, wealth creation through business success also leads to long-term financial security, great independence and more quality-of-life choices.

Together we are moving the Women’s Council of Realtors® forward by celebrating women Realtors® and their potential to impact our profession for the better.

We believe that participating in the Women’s Council of Realtors® is the opportunity for our members to contribute to change, and to be changed, both personally and professionally.

It is an exciting time for the WCR. It is time to celebrate the successes that have been, that are

happening now, and that are in the future. Positive change will come from the greater inclusion of women’s perspective in positions of influence in the real estate industry and in our community.

Our mission statement says is clearly ~ “We are a network of successful Realtors® empowering women to exercise their potential as entrepreneurs and industry leaders.”

I challenge you to become part of this exciting organization. Join a committee, serve as an elected officer, participate in a national meeting and maximize your WCR membership. Don’t miss out on what could be your opportunity of a lifetime.

It has been an honor representing the Sarasota Chapter of the Women’s Council of Realtors® and its powerful and professional members as your 2011 Chapter president.

Remember everyday to celebrate your successes!

Congratulations to the 2012 Officers-Elect

President: Marianne LeBar President-Elect: Mary Hellhake V.P. of Membership: Peter Salefsky Treasurer: Carrie Starr Rummery Recording Secretary: Sherri Spanos Corresponding Secretary: Linda McConnell

Upcoming WCR Business Resource Meetings Thursday, Dec. 8th, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Installation of 2012 Officers, Sarasota Yacht Club. For reservations, contact Linda Witt - MZWitt@aol.com 11 a.m.-12 noon Business Networking 12 noon - 1 p.m. Business Resource Meeting

2011 Line Officers Cindi Jackson President Exit Realty Signature Properties Cell: 941-735-0542 cindi_title@yahoo.com

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

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

Marianne LeBar President-Elect Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-650-0337

Sharyl Smith Treasurer Bank of Commerce Cell: 941-374-06302 ssmith@bankofcommercefl.com

Mary Mastro Corresponding Secretary Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Cell: 941-586-2402 marypmastro@kw.com

mariannelebar@michaelsaunders.com 28

DECEMBER 2011

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

INTERVIEW From Page 27

and attitude are as important as the answers to your questions. “Body language and dress tells you a lot,” says Bill Richardson, managing broker at The Keyes Co.’s Boca Raton, Fla., office. “I’ve had people come in wearing cutoff dungaree shorts, and one guy came in wearing bike leathers and chains. If they’re doing that in an interview, what will they do with clients? You also want candidates to look you right in the eye and give you little nods of the head during your conversation.”

Richardson follows Caulkins’ advice to have candidates fill out an application, in part because he sometimes finds their reaction telling. “I put them in a room, tell them the questionnaire will take 10 to 15 minutes, and say I’m getting them a cup of coffee or bottle of water,” he says.

“Then I watch how they react. One woman said, ‘Nah, I don’t want to fill something out.’ That told me she might be a prima donna or difficult to train.”

The interview process isn’t foolproof. But by planning and paying attention to detail, you can dramatically improve your skills at evaluating whether candidates will be a good fit for your company.

“The whole reason for an interview is to determine whether you and that candidate can get together and help each other build business,” says Clark Toole, Sarasota based president of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate in Florida and Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT. “If candidates can communicate well with you during the interview, that’s a good sign.”

Questions for Newbies What questions will help you discern whether a candidate will be successful in real estate? Here are five lines of questions for new-to-the-business candidates: 1. What made you decide to get into real estate?

“That’s a very simple question that will tell you a lot,” says The Keyes Co.’s Bill Richardson. “Money isn’t necessarily the wrong answer, but candidates shouldn’t say, ‘I like houses’ or ‘I’ve always liked real estate.’ This business isn’t just about the product. You have to be good at relationship building, networking, and time management.”

2. What connections do you have that would help you build business, and what charities or groups do you belong to? Are you OK sending a card to people in those groups saying, “Hey, I’m now selling real estate at XYZ Co., and we can help you with your real estate needs”?

“The bottom line for me is how much networking potential sales associates are willing to do to be successful,” explains Karen A. Berman, vice president and director of sales and brokerage at Argo Real Estate in New York. “If someone recoils and says, ‘I don’t think it’s appropriate to badger the parents of my kids’ friends about real estate,’ I know they’re not great at networking.”

3. If you were at a party and didn’t know anyone, what would you do? Or if you were standing in line

and someone cut in front of you, how would you handle it?

“There’s a quality that good sales associates have, which you’d call something like moxie or fearlessness,” says Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Rand Realty’s Joseph Rand. “It’s the ability to ask difficult questions and be comfortable in inherently awkward situations.

Any answer indicating that candidates are self-conscious or too concerned about what other people think would be red flags.”

4. What motivates you to succeed? Describe a time when you’ve had a setback and how you handled it.

“This question gets to the core of the business, which is prospecting and having the ability and energy to go out and let people know you’re in real estate,” says Coldwell Banker’s Toole. “A lot of people don’t have a real estate need right now, and new associates might think of that as rejection. They need the tenacity to continue talking to a lot of people.”

5. How do you intend to support yourself while getting established in real estate, and what concerns do you have about going into real estate?

“If candidates don’t have any concerns, and they don’t have some cushion to develop a business, that worries me,” says Toole. “They’re going to jump into something new, and if they can’t generate money quickly enough, they’re going to have problems.”

Questions for Seasoned Salespeople Past performance and attitude are two important factors to consider when interviewing current sales associates considering moving to your company. Here are questions for those candidates: 1. What has your current company done for you in the last 12 months that has helped accelerate your business?

“I’ve yet to have anyone tell me their company has really done anything,” says Jimmy Dulin, CRS, brokerowner of the five-office RE/MAX Ability Plus in Indianapolis. “That generally points out the need for a company that offers more services that would aid them.”

2. If you were to leave your company today, what would be the reasons?

“That tells me what the sales associate’s current company is doing wrong,” says Dulin. “That doesn’t mean that 100 percent of the time I can fix it. But it’s easier to fix something if the person who’s involved identifies the problem.”

3. What kind of year are you having so far, and how does it compare to last year? Are you on track to reach your goals? What are your goals?

“I’m looking to determine if candidates have and work a plan, in addition to whether their business is increasing each year or decreasing,” says Coldwell Banker’s Toole.

“That gets into why this has been their best year or why they feel as if they’re going backwards. If candidates are truthful with me, I can be a great consultant to help them build their business.”

Membership News 30

The Association is pleased to welcome new members!

Designated Realtors®

Lattuga, Deborah: Best Houses Realty, LLC Rasmussen, Marc: Dwell Real Estate LLC Veldkamp, Tony: Sperry Van Ness Commercial

Ullrich, Duane: Shirley International Realty Wegesend, Kanoa: RE/MAX Alliance Group Widmann, Sandra: Florida Sunquest Realty Inc. Witte, David: Florida Internet Realty LLC

New Members

Now With ...

Banka, Adam: Budget Realty of Sarasota Bellenghi, Michael: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Carroll, John: Coldwell Banker Res R E Cassidy, Jennifer: Coldwell Banker Res R E Curp, John: Coldwell Banker Res R E Day, Philip: Coldwell Banker Res R E DeCastro, Julia: LWR Commercial Realty LLC Ellery, Marla: Good Life Realty LLC Finkelstein, David: Florida Budget Realty LLC Florianovich, Irina: Top Realty Group of Florida Freeman, Eric: Key Realty Garcia, Raul: LSI Properties Heidersberger, Virginia: Atchley International Realty Ioannides, Maria: Atchley International Realty Johnson, Scott: Caron Realty Inc. Johnston, Andrew: RE/MAX Alliance Group Kaplan, Brett: Sperry Van Ness Commercial Kayajian, Gail: Michael Saunders & Company Keverian, Julie: Coldwell Banker Res R E Kim, Jaclyn: Bosshardt Realty Services LLC Leereveld, Bart: Beckmann Properties Losch, Scott: Coldwell Banker Res R E Mervenne, Joseph: Michael Saunders & Company Mossman, Corinne: Jennette Properties Inc. Patt, Theodore: Kingston Realty Plummer, Dottie: Exit King Realty Ralph, Melissa: Carmel Properties Rosen, Caterina: Sarasota Bay Luxury Properties Rothard, Anita: DeFreest & Associates Inc. Rutigliano, Vittoria: Coldwell Banker Res R E Scalera, Geoffrey: AUM Florida Real Estate LLC Sciara, John: Dawn Cohen and Associates Setzer, Nary: J Wood Realty Slotnick, Stuart: Bosshardt Realty Services LLC Sommers, Kristy: Michael Saunders & Company Stewart, Jessica: Shirley International Realty Stoltzfus, Fannie: Wagner Realty Thelen, Diann: Coldwell Banker Res R E

DECEMBER 2011

Amador, Margaret: Exit King Realty Armon, Joan: Coldwell Banker Res R E Bakkom, Bonnie: Hook & Ladder Realty Inc. Baughen, Esti: Coldwell Banker Res R E Brissette, Edith: EXIT Creative Realty Bush, Michael: RE/MAX Alliance Group Coletti, Lorraine: Atchley International Realty Devos, Mireille: U.S. Invest International LLC DiTaranto, Deidre: Keller Williams on the Water Fernandez, Laura: Hook & Ladder Realty Inc. Finkelstein, David: Florida Budget Realty LLC Hill, Theresa: Green Lion Realty LLC Hirsch, Katherine: Property One Annual Rentals Hornikel, Cheryl: Keller Williams On The Water Hoyle, Roger: Exit King Realty Hoyle, Court, Exit King Realty Jannopoulo, Jean: Exit King Realty Johnstone, Jane: J Wood Realty Kirkpatrick, Yolanda: Coldwell Banker Res R E Lattuga, Deborah: Best houses Realty, LLC Mallie, Marshall: Hook & Ladder Realty Inc. Maloney, Robin: Tarpon Coast Realty Inc. McCarthy, Midge: Coastal Living Real Estate Nevadomski, Deborah: Coldwell Banker Parquet, Christopher: Exit King Realty Pippin, Valentina: Coldwell Banker Res R E Pippin, Micah: Coldwell Banker Res R E Plaia, Michael: Atchley International Realty Repp, Susan: RE/MAX Alliance Group Slater, Marina: Sarasota Foreclosures.com Inc. Smolen, Arnold: Realty Executives Solutions Souza, Tony: Coldwell Banker Res R E Souza, Ricardo: J Wood Realty Surline, Brandon: Beckmann Properties Swartz, Thomas: Green Lion Realty LLC Twit, Shayla: Dwell Real Estate LLC Van Der Putten: Damien, RE/MAX Alliance Group Warren, Julie: Signature Sothebys Internat’l Webber, Heidi: Michael Saunders & Company Werner, Allison: Dwell Real Estate LLC

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

6000

5000

4000

3000

2000

1000

0

SAR welcomed another large class of new or returning members on Nov. 14th. The Association has maintained a healthy membership throughout the year, and membership totals have been relatively steady since 2008. As the chart below shows, membership numbers peaked at about the same time as the real estate market hit its most recent high number of sales in 2005.

6000

SAR Membership

Affiliate/Auxiliary Members

Realtor Members

Total Members

5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0 Dec. 31, 2001

Dec. 31, 2002

Dec. 31, 2003

Dec. 31, 2004

Dec. 31, 2005

Dec. 31, 2006

Dec. 31, 2007

Dec. 31, 2008

Dec. 31, 2009

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2011 (Projected)

SAR has published our first-ever Annual Report, located in this issue! We are also sending the report to our friends in business, government, and real estate. The report includes the chart above, showing SAR’s membership total for the past decade of change.

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

DECEMBER 2011

31

E DUCATION & E VENTS C ALENDAR Tuesday

Nov. 28

Nov. 29

5

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Nov. 30

Dec. 1

2

6

7

8

9

9 a.m.

Design Web Pages 1:30 p.m.

MLXchange Advanced

9 a.m. iMapp 1:30 p.m.

Creating CMA

12

13

14

9 a.m.

Tax Strategies 11:30 a.m.

Installation & Holiday Luncheon (Michael’s On East)

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (SAR)

15

16

19

20

21

22

23

26

27

28

29

30

8:30 a.m.

Certified Professional Commercial (CPC) Designation

9 a.m.

Basic MLXchange 1:30 p.m.

Entering & Updating

9 a.m.

New Member Orientation 1:30 p.m.

Code of Ethics

9 a.m.

Basic MLXchange 1:30 p.m.

Entering & Updating

HOLIDAYS SAR Closed

8 a.m.

7:30 a.m.

FR Forecasting Conference Toastmasters

8:30 a.m.

CID General Membership 5 p.m.

Affiliate Networking (Gecko’s)

7:30 a.m.

Toastmasters

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (University Park CC) 8:30 a.m.

CPC Designation 10-2 p.m.

Photographer Barbacane 8 a.m.

Power Marketing (SAR) 6:30 P.M. CID Christmas Party (City Center)

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace (offsite)

HOLIDAYS SAR Closed

HOLIDAYS SAR Closed

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

My Florida Regional MLS Training

The classes E & U (Entering & Updating), Tools, Design Web Pages, MLX Intro, MLX Advanced, iMAPP, Custom Reports and CMA are all My Florida Regional MLS training classes offered at no cost to MLS participants. All classes (except E & U) 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

Monday

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

DECEMBER 2011

18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0 Oct‐10

Nov‐10 Dec‐10

Jan‐11

Feb‐11 Mar‐11 Apr‐11 May‐11 Jun‐11

Days on Market 300

Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Single Family Condo

250 200 150 100 50 0 Oct‐10

Nov‐10

Dec‐10

Jan‐11

Feb‐11

Mar‐11

Apr‐11 May‐11

Jun‐11

Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

Single Family

Sales Volume

Condo

$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 Oct‐10 Nov‐10 Dec‐10 Jan‐11 Feb‐11 Mar‐11 Apr‐11 May‐11 Jun‐11

Jul‐11 Aug‐11 Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Single Family Condo

New Listings 1,000 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

Oct‐10

Nov‐10

Dec‐10

Jan‐11

Feb‐11 Mar‐11

Apr‐11 May‐11 Jun‐11

Jul‐11

Aug‐11

Sep‐11

Oct‐11

The Xtra Pages - Digital Version Only

Single Family Condo

Months of Inventory

Third Quarter 2011 Report Single Family Sales ‐ By Quarter

REO

Short

Arm's Length

1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 2009‐Q1

2009‐Q2

2009‐Q3

2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2

2010‐Q3

* Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect

2010‐Q4

Condo Sales ‐ By Quarter

2011‐Q1

REO

2011‐Q2

Short

2011‐Q3

Arm's Length

600 500 400 300 200 100 0 2009‐Q1

2009‐Q2

2009‐Q3

2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2

2010‐Q3

* Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect

Single Family Median Sale Price

2010‐Q4

REO

2011‐Q1

Short

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

Arm's Length

$300,000 $250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 2009‐1stQ

2009‐2ndQ

2009‐3rdQ

2009‐4thQ

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2

2010‐Q3

Condo Median Sale Price

2010‐Q4

REO

2011‐Q1

Short

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

Arm's Length

$350,000 $300,000 $250,000 $200,000 $150,000

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

$100,000 $50,000 $0 2009‐1stQ

2009‐2ndQ

2009‐3rdQ

2009‐4thQ

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2

2010‐Q3

2010‐Q4

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

Single Family Condo

REO Sales ‐ By Quarter 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 2009‐Q1

2009‐Q2

2009‐Q3

2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 * Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect

2009‐Q3

2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2011‐Q3

Condo

400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 2009‐Q2

2011‐Q2

Single Family

Short Sales ‐ By Quarter

2009‐Q1

2011‐Q1

2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 * Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect

Arm's Length Sales ‐ By Quarter

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

Single Family Condo

1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 2009‐Q1

2009‐Q2

2009‐Q3

2009‐Q4

2010‐Q1

2010‐Q2

2010‐Q3

2010‐Q4

2011‐Q1

2011‐Q2

2011‐Q3

* Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

Annual Sales ‐ 2000 to 2010 Single Family Single Family

Condo

Total

11267 10562 9697 8167 7603

7,596 7036

6533

6,841

6 504 6,504

6358

5,603

6739 6042

5,183

4,940 4,353

4,349 3,193 2,184

3 721 3,721

3 671 3,671

2,564

2,096

5820

2,005

4,626 3,922 ,

2,137

2,120 1,194

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

5,466

2007

2008

1,556

2009

2010

Annual Median Sale Price ‐ 2000 to 2010 Condo

Single Family

$351,000

$342,000

$272,500 $305,000

$226,000 $172,500

$132,300

2000

$303,000

$210,000 $163,000

$230,000

$191,000

$142,000

$320,000

$301,225

$225,000

$191,000

$336,250

$173,000 $160,000

$145,000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

$163,000

2010