Sarasota Realtor Magazine - March 2010

MARCH 2010

Go Green!

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Opportunities for our future

See Page 6

Contents

Sarasota Realtor® Volume 7, Issue 3 MARCH 2010

Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc.

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3590 South Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34239 Phone: 941/923-2315 FAX: 941/923-0191 www.sarasotarealtors.com

Growth of Green Green building standards are growing more popular in Florida and around the nation, and the Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota is promoting awareness of the market trend.

10 NO on Amendment 4

A dangerous, irresponsible amendment has been proposed to the state’s growth management laws which would have severe adverse impacts on Florida’s economy.

12 Relationships, Relationships

Here’s a quick primer from the property appraiser on types of ownership or beneficial interest and their impacts on a person’s qualifications for the Homestead Exemption.

15 Sales Up!

Volume 7 • Issue 3 • MARCH 2010

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January 2010 started with a bang as property sales in the Sarasota market were 58 percent higher than last January.

18 Recovery - Not Recovered

The outlook for commercial real estate in 2010 is for a recovery, but cautious optimism is still the key phrase.

Secretary Roger Piro Town & Country Realty Treasurer Laura Benson Michael Saunders & Company Immediate Past President William Geller RE/MAX Platinum Realty Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roberts 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.

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.

Sarasota Realtor® is published monthly by the Sarasota Association of Realtors® Inc. Editorial Staff Director of Communications Ray Porter Director of Member Services Dan Andrews

Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield

12- Property Appraiser Visit SAR on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

18- Commercial Investment Division

Production Coastal Printing, Inc. 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.

20- Education Programs 25- On the SAR Scene 27- Broker Corner

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.

28- WCR News 30- Membership News 32- Calendar of Events/Education On the Cover: Members of the Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota gather at Sarasota County’s Solar Array at Walt Rothenbach Park.

MARCH 2010

President-Elect Michael Bruno Prudential Palms Realty

Director of Professional Development Catherine McCaskill

10- Governmental Affairs

15- Sales and Listing Statistics

President Erick Shumway RE/MAX Alliance Group

Director of MLS Information Systems Jesse Sunday

In every issue 14- Ethics in Action

2010 Officers

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

2010 Copyright© by the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

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Habitat for Humanity kicks off Membership Luncheon

SAR’s first Quarterly Membership Meeting & Luncheon will be held on Friday, March 12th, with lunch at noon and the business meeting beginning at 12:20 p.m. at Pine Shores Community Center, 6210 Crestwood Ave., Sarasota.

The deadline to register is Monday, March 8th! Register online at www.sarasotarealtors.com The meeting will feature a presentation by Tom Randle, the acting executive director of Habitat for Humanity Sarasota. Habitat is the primary SAR partner this year for Community Outreach projects. The first project will be held Saturday, March 6th and involves three homes now under construction as part of the federal Neighborhood Stabilization Program. More details are available on the SAR web site, and in your email box. Randle’s presentation will include: • History of Sarasota Habitat

• Overview of process for potential homeowners to be included in the program and requirements for acceptance • Cost of building a home, mortgage structure and homeowner’s payment responsibilities • Building process and types of products used to build the new “Green” homes.

• Rehabitat of foreclosed properties • Volunteer base – people and groups from all walks of life

Tim Calpin is SAR Affiliate of the Month for March 2010 The March 2010 Affiliate of the Month is Tim Calpin of Harris Bank.

Congratulations!

Tim is a residential mortgage specialist with Harris Bank, 1800 Second Street, Suite 101, in downtown Sarasota. He has more than 20 years in the financial institutional service industry, with eight years in mortgage lending.

Tim can be reached at 941-3632237. His email is tim.calpin@ harrisbank.com.

SAR joins Florida Realtors® for major Open House Picture this: On April 10 and 11, more than 50,000 balloons bearing the Realtor® logo will be floating above mailboxes across the state, luring prospective buyers to thousands of Realtor® Open Houses. It’s part of the Florida Open House Weekend, and SAR is participating.

“It’s a home shopper’s dream,” said Florida Realtors® 2010 President Wendell Davis. “For the serious buyer, the opportunity to tour dozens of homes in one weekend is a real time saver.

Others who didn’t think they could afford a home may be drawn into the market by affordable prices and low www.sarasotarealtors.com

interest rates. It’s a win-win!”

To help SAR promote the open houses, Florida Realtors® has purchased balloons featuring the Realtor “R” and created two eye-catching event logos: one for Realtor® to Realtor® communications and one for Realtor® to consumer communications, both available at floridarealtors.org/openhouse.

Balloons are currently in production.

The goal is to ship them to SAR and other participating local boards/ associations for arrival in mid-March.

Details will follow - watch your emails and the web site!

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Tim Calpin MARCH 2010

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Cover Story 6

Ride the Green Wave

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The local future will be greener, if GRAS succeeds Editor’s Note: The Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota was formed three years ago to help promote “Green” building practices and the sustainable lifestyle. The group has promoted the idea that our planet’s resources are limited, and our economic future is tied to ensuring we are better stewards of our natural environment.

The “Green” building industry is growing across the nation, according to Lynn Nilssen of the Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota. In fact, Florida is third in the United States for the volume of Green building, and Sarasota and Manatee counties account for 64 percent of all the green homes built in the state.

That’s an incredible statistic, and is a reflection of the energy and enthusiasm the local GRAS organization has brought to the industry.

According to Nilssen, buildings account for 72 percent of electricity consumption, 14 percent of potable water consumption, and 38 percent of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Because of the resource consumption and pollution caused by buildings, some state and local governments are considering regulations to require that new construction and retrofit of buildings be done using green building practices.

Currently, the value of today’s green building market is $50 billion and is projected to double or even triple by 2013. “Now that’s a lot of green real estate to sell!” noted Nilssen.

You can be among the first group of Realtors® in the state and your office to earn the NAR Green Designation this summer (see Education, P. 21 of this issue for details).

MARCH 2010

In the Green Designation course, you will become educated and up to date on what qualifies as green and sustainable real estate. Because the future is becoming greener and greener, this certification has taken on even greater importance in our industry.

Generate More Business with Your Green Designation According to an NAR survey, 90 percent of buyers said environmentally friendly features were important in their home purchase. Two-thirds of consumers are in tune to green building and understand that there is a link between green homes, cost savings and healthy living, according to a McGraw Hill Construction report.

Currently most green certifications are voluntary and Realtors® who know what to look for or know how to market a green listing will have the competitive edge for buyers and sellers. They will be better able to protect their clients from “green-washing” - false green construction.

A new Green designee from North Carolina indicated that it is exclusively because of her Green Designation that she got to list a brand new Hybrid Solar House.

She sent a press release to her local newspaper announcing her Green Designation and the builder of

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Currently, the value of today’s green building market is $50 billion and is projected to double or even triple by 2013.

the Hybrid Solar House saw the press release and called her.

After meeting with the builder a few times he was impressed with her knowledge and hired her to list his home.

Some real estate brokerages do not currently have a Realtor® knowledgeable in sustainable real estate that could help a potential client find a Green home. Unfortunately, they might very well miss out on a lot of future business.

Realtors® are on the front lines of this massive change that is taking place in the way homes are being built. As a Green Designee, you will learn about the different green building certification programs and be able to speak a language that is extremely important in capturing the Green buyer and seller.

Some other interesting facts about Green: - Statistics indicate that Green real estate sells faster and for more money than non-Green homes.

- Environmentally certified homes sold for 4 percent more and sold up to 18 percent faster compared to conventional homes.

- Green homes had a 37 percent higher per square foot value than traditional homes.

- The Green buyer spends on average $12,500 more for a green certified home.

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These are real numbers, representing what is happening today in the market place. The future promises to be even more Green, so the time is now to jump on the bandwagon.

The GRAS Mission Statement reads: “The mission of the Green Realtors Alliance of Sarasota is to be a resource for the preservation of our environment and natural resources as it pertains to real estate.”

The premise of the group is that being a good steward of the environment and the community is good for real estate and future smart development. The trend in Sarasota and around the country is towards “green” practices in new construction, retrofitting, and environmental care. Since there are differing standards for sustainable design, the Green Realtors® Alliance has tried to educate SAR members regarding products, standards and services and thus help avoid litigation. The group has also developed resources for SAR’s web site and been an advocate for green practices.

Since Green grew from a concept to a viable industry, Sarasota County has continued to lead the state and nation in Green initiatives. Outdated methods of home and business construction are quickly going the way of the dinosaur locally, so it is up to the real estate community to become better educated overall and be the primary source of information on this new wave for our residents, and for our future.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2010

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GREEN REVOLUTION

Going Green means responsible consumption

Want to do your part to join the Green Revolution and help save the environment? Here are some tips: Florida real estate professionals like Peter Crowley of Sarasota recognize that going Green makes sense from both a business and an environmental standpoint.

“We’ve made a company commitment to Green practices in our 10 offices,” says Crowley, president of RE/MAX Alliance Group in Sarasota, “and our associates are already finding it benefits their businesses.” In fact, many green practices can reduce office costs while contributing to the health of the planet. Here are five suggestions for greening your office: 1. Go paperless.

Why print out memos, fliers or market updates and leave them on associates’ desks, when you can e-mail the files instead? “It took us three years, but as of early 2008, we are now a paperless office,” says Lesley E. Dolby, broker of Dolby Properties Inc. in Orlando. “Neither the agents nor the office staff print out e-mails, as we all save every document to our computers with external backups.” Another tip: instead of traditional fax, use e-faxes in PDF format (such as myfax.com and efax.com), saving on paper, ink and dedicated phone line charges.

2. Improve energy efficiency.

Raise the office thermostat by one or two degrees. Replace older windows and caulk any holes or cracks in exterior walls.

Buy long-lasting florescent bulbs. These are among the ways you can reduce power consumption and cut your office utility bills.

3. Reuse rather than toss.

Switch from disposable to glass coffee mugs in the break room. Then, install a five-gallon water cooler with the hopes that fewer people will bring in individual water bottles.

4. Recycle, recycle and recycle.

Cell phone batteries, copy paper, newspapers, cans and bottles can all be recycled rather than tossed into the trash.

Check with your local trash service to see what options are available. And think creatively.

“We collect used ink cartridges for recycling through the SPCA [Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals],” says Peggy Cavanaugh, broker-owner of Premier Properties of Brevard Inc. in Melbourne Beach. “We’ve been designated as the drop-off point for anyone in the area who wants to recycle ink cartridges and benefit the SPCA.” 5. Use green cleaning products.

Insist on environmentally friendly cleaning products and practices for your office. Avoid floor and carpet cleaners that can leave potentially dangerous volatile organic chemicals behind. Naturally formulated cleaners are better for the environment and for your team.

Selling a home? Nine Green improvements may help!

According to USA Today, a new poll of nearly 1,000 Realtors® offers a glimpse at the top “green” improvements recommended by real estate professionals to help move a sale property off the market.

USA Today reports that the upgrades include “planting native greenery, replacing air filters, staging the home with recycled or reusable props, weather-stripping doors and windows, installing programmable thermostats, installing low-flow showerheads, using turn-off power strips, replacing standard lighting with CFL or LED bulbs, and choosing low-VOC paint” – are relatively inexpensive investments.

The poll noted that while three of those nine options get back at least twice as much in sale price gains as they cost, none have a bigger return

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MARCH 2010

on investment (ROI) than the top five traditional upgrades suggested by real estate practitioners in the November 2009 survey.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

“Cleaning and de-cluttering a home before it goes on the market, for instance, will cost the owner less than $200 to complete but bumps up the property’s sale price by almost $1,700 – for a staggering ROI of 872 percent,” noted USA Today.

Other high-ROI traditional improvements recommended by the real estate community include home staging, lightening/ brightening, landscaping and plumbing repairs.

Although they do not offer a great ROI, HomeGain says ecoimprovements are becoming more popular; and with their energy savings and low cost of investment, they probably should be considered by all homeowners – not just those preparing their unit for sale.

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GREEN REVOLUTION

Habitat for Humanity Sarasota going Green

Habitat for Humanity Sarasota, SAR’s primary partner this year for Community Outreach projects, won two AURORA Awards for excellence in Green construction last August at the Annual AURORA Awards Gala/ Spectacular.

Habitat Sarasota won the two awards for their Central Avenue Project. The house was actually built in 2008.

Now in its 30th year, the AURORA Awards program is affiliated with the Florida Home Builders Association (FHBA) and the Southeast Building Conference (SEBC), one of two regional trade shows recognized by and affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

The AURORA Awards are presented each year to builders, developers, architects, planners, interior merchandisers, landscape architects and other disciplines actively involved in projects in a 12-state southeastern region who have demonstrated building and design excellence.

The Habitat homes use panelized construction method developed by Brian Bishop of Home Front Homes in Englewood. The Home Front wall and roof panels consist of a “sandwich” of expanded polystyrene foam between two pieces of James Hardie/ Hardie Board. On the wall panels, the cementitious siding is bonded to the polystyrene in the factory using hightech adhesives and pressure, resulting in a very strong panel (7,000 pounds breaking strength).

The homes have a 15-SEER heat pump, R-30 ceiling insulation, R-20 wall insulation, a roof mounted solar panel to heat the hot water, ceiling fans and energy star kitchen appliances.

The heart of every Home Front home is the “windframe,” constructed from Green certified wood columns and ridge beams. There is no traditional attic using this system. This allows the elimination of ceiling framing,

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giving the homes extra volume. The airconditioning air handler is located in conditioned space for added efficiency. It is estimated that the design of the homes will reduce its occupants’ energy bills by 53 percent. Most construction was done

by Habitat’s dedicated volunteers.

The Habitat home ranked in the Top 5 for Green houses in Florida. It scored a 214 (minimum approval score of 60) The top home scored 224.

On that same day, the home’s

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

landscaping was recognized as Florida Friendly by Florida Yards and Neighborhoods (FYN) through the University of Florida’s IFAS Extension Program. The landscaping was paid for by a generous grant from the Home Depot Foundation.

The home was also designated as a BuildSmart home by Florida Power and Light (FPL). BuildSmart homes are certified by FPL to be built to a higher standard of energy efficiency.

MARCH 2010

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Governmental Affairs 10

SAR: Vote NO on Amendment 4!

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By Marc Mansfield Governmental Affairs Director

By now I would hope most Realtors® understand the basic concept of Amendment 4 and realize the negative impact on the Florida economy and more importantly the unintended consequences if it passes in the November 2010 election.

Amendment 4, aka “Hometown Democracy” would require a referendum (public voting) on any change to a local “comprehensive plan” which often includes: roadway improvements and expansions, hospitals, schools, park lands, fire and police stations, additions to government buildings and expansion of recreational facilities and land use changes as a result of development.Currently those decisions are made by duly elected officials in cities and counties.

According to Florida 2010, the backers of Amendment 4 include Leslie Blackner a special interest attorney, who has contributed nearly $1 million of her personal fortune to pay for signatures to get this idea on the ballot.

Ms. Blackner is joined by Joyce Tarnow of Floridians for a Sustainable Population, whose chief agenda is to limit families in Florida to two children and placing higher taxes on families, and finally Joe Redner, owner of the Mons Venus strip clubs in Tampa.

This group and their supporters argue Amendment 4 will give decision making power on these types of issues to ordinary citizens in Florida, but that is truly misleading.

Current growth management processes already provide local neighbors and neighborhood associations with significant leverage in the development approval process and involves multiple meetings and public hearings and often negotiations between developers and neighbors.

But if Amendment 4 passes, voters who live in other parts of the city or county will have just as much say, even though they are unfamiliar with the project or the neighborhood. The voices of those most directly affected would actually be minimized in a city or countywide political campaign.

If that isn’t enough of a reason to vote NO on Amendment 4 here are some additional points for consideration: Amendment 4 will result in the loss of approximately 267,000 jobs according to a recently released economic study completed by Washington Economics Group.

According to economist Tony Villamil, “Amendment 4’s passage will have potentially devastating consequences MARCH 2010

to Florida’s economy at a time when the economic situation at both the state and national levels is uncertain and at a time when attracting new business to Florida is essential for future recovery and prosperity of the state and its residents.” Because of the potential job losses, both labor and business leaders have agreed to jointly oppose Amendment 4.

“It’s not too often that a union leader and a business leader agree on something” said Frank Otis, President of the Florida State Council of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. “But we can see how much Amendment 4 would hurt Florida’s working families. And we are working together to defeat it.”

Amendment 4 will cost taxpayers thousands of dollars.

Every city and county will be required to hold elections for each proposed comprehensive plan change-not just major projects, but even minor technical details.

In fact this Amendment is so poorly written that it doesn’t even provide exceptions for vital community needs such as hospitals, police stations and schools.

Each special election will cost taxpayers thousands of dollars.

Amendment 4 will cause disruption and chaos at the polls. Can you imagine arriving at a polling place to vote and discovering the ballot may have pages upon pages of questions that require time to read and understand?

It will not be unusual for voters to face numerous comprehensive plan changes per year. Voters will be deluged with highly technical background materials prepared by local government planning staff.

The legalese of purposed comprehensive plan changes, often puzzling for expert engineers and attorneys, will further dampen voter turnout. Lines will grow at

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Amendment 4 could cost 267,247 Fla. jobs Florida business, civic and labor leaders gathered in Tallahassee on in January to hear the report of a Florida economist showing that Amendment 4 – a proposed change to the state constitution – would lead to job losses and higher costs for Floridians.

“Nothing could weaken Florida’s economy and hurt Floridians more than Amendment 4,” says Florida Realtors President Wendell Davis, a broker and regional vice president with Watson Realty Corp. in Jacksonville.

“It will trap Florida’s communities in gridlock, shackle development and block the economic recovery. As an organization that fights for the state’s homeowners, Florida Realtors will work tirelessly to educate taxpayers about the danger of Amendment 4.”

Florida Realtors is part of a coalition of unlikely allies fighting Amendment 4 that includes the state’s largest employers as well as labor unions.

The organization, Citizens for Lower Taxes and a Stronger Economy Inc., is chaired by former South Bay Mayor and National League of Cities President Clarence Anthony. The group is branding its message as “Vote No on 4,” and maintains a website at: http:// www.florida2010.org.

“It’s not too often that a union leader and a business leader agree on something,” says Frank Ortis, union president for the Florida State Council of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. “But we can all see how much Amendment 4 would hurt Florida’s working families. And we are working together to defeat it.”

Under the “modest” and a “most likely” scenarios, amendment approval would impact Florida’s economic growth potential, causing an ongoing yearly decline in Floridians’ standard of living. It would dampen employment and slow growth within major industries.

“If you like the recession, you’ll love Amendment 4,” says Mark Wilson, president of the Florida Chamber of Commerce. “This amendment will

voting booths as voters attempt to figure out how to vote on hundreds of separate and often confusing ballot questions.

In essence this amendment will transform every planning decision into a political campaign, boosting the influence of special interest groups and side-lining ordinary citizens.

Amendment 4 has already caused chaos in one Florida community. In 2006 St. Pete Beach located in Pinellas County adopted a local version of Amendment 4. Since that time the citizens of St. Pete Beach have seen nearly a dozen lawsuits that have cost taxpayers over a half million dollars in legal fees. When St. Pete Beach voters approved four pro-economy changes to their comprehensive plan in 2008, Amendment 4 lawyers sued to overturn the election.

More than a year after voting to change their comprehensive plan the citizens of St. Pete Beach are still defending their vote in court. According to the St. Petersburg Times, “the measure

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cost jobs, hurt taxpayers and make it more expensive to live in Florida.”

The economic study indicates that Florida’s tax revenues would sharply slow following Amendment 4’s passage as fewer commercial and residential properties are developed because of the increased costs and uncertainty associated with each comprehensive land-use plan referendum. A cutback in commercial taxes would force local and state governments to raise taxes, cut services or both. Public schools, public safety and local health care services would suffer from the direct impact of Amendment 4 (delayed construction pending approval at the next election) and the indirect impact of fewer tax revenues (less funding for daily operations and for capital investments).

Amendment 4 has almost no precedent, and Florida voters cannot see how it has worked in any other state since none currently have a similar law or amendment.

The complete study is available in PDF format on http://www. florida2010.org

has been divisive, expensive and an impediment to much needed redevelopment.” In addition the Times concludes that Amendment 4 “invites short-term thinking and frequent referendums that are even more susceptible to well financed campaigns by powerful interest. It also invites lawsuits and retards economic development.”

Amendment 4 is opposed by a broad and diverse coalition which includes SAR and The Florida Realtors®. Some fear it will lead to increased sprawl. Others fear it will cost Floridians their personal property rights and others are concerned that Amendment 4 will keep Florida in a permanent recession.

Regardless of their reasons, Amendment 4 should be defeated because it is a terrible idea with drastic consequences for all Floridians.

On November 2, 2010, we urge you to Vote NO on Amendment 4.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2010

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Property Appraiser

Types of ownership relationships can make difference on exemptions

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By Bill Furst, GRI, CRS, CRB RELATIONSHIPS, RELATIONSHIPS… Sarasota County Property Appraiser

All of you are familiar with the questionnaire that many title companies and law All of you are familiar with has an undivided 100 percent interest offices send before closing asking for instructions on how the buyers want to take the questionnaire that many title in the property and either or both title to their new home? Are you also familiar with the relationship between the companies and law offices send before may qualify for the Homestead.

1 type of ownership and Homestead closing, asking for instructions exemption eligibility? on Tenants in Common2: Each how the buyers want to take title to owner’s percentage interest may be their new home. Are you also familiar specified in the deed; otherwise the Whether applicants may qualify for the exemption on any, all or a portion of the with the relationship between the property is directly related to how they take title to the property. Entitlement to the interest is divided in equal parts type of ownership and Homestead1 amongst all owners. Any or all of the Homestead depends on ownership of the property as of January 1 of the year. The exemption eligibility? qualified owners may apply for the deed or document that grants beneficial interest must be executed by January 1; Whether applicants may qualify Homestead. The exemption extends recording the deed at Clerk of the Circuit Court is required before the exemption can for the exemption on any, all or a to the percent interest of the owner(s) be granted (Recording can take place after January 1). portion of the property is directly that qualify. (See note 2)

related to how they take title to Joint Tenants with Right of Here’s a quick primer on types of ownership or beneficial interest and their affect on 2 the property. Entitlement to the Survivorship : Each owner is a person’s qualifications for the Homestead.

Homestead depends on ownership considered to have 100 percent of the property as of January 1 of interest in the property and any Sole owner: Applies when one person owns the property individually. The person the year. The deed or document that of the qualified owners may apply grants beneficial interest must be can be single or married. A single person who otherwise meets the requirements for the Homestead. The property executed by January 1; recording the would qualify for the Homestead. However, a married person must demonstrate would receive all the benefits of the deed at Clerk of the Circuit Court their spouse does not claim an exemption elsewhere or they are separate family exemption even when only one of the is required before the exemption can owners is qualified. Often property units. be granted (Recording can take place owners for estate planning purposes

after January 1). add other parties to their property’s Tenants by the Entireties: This type of ownership is unique to married couples. The Here’s a quick primer on types title. The most common addition is deed might also read husband and wife. Each spouse has an undivided 100% interest of ownership or beneficial interest their offspring although other family in the property and either or both may qualify for the Homestead. and their impact on a person’s members may be involved. Adding qualifications for the Homestead. a person to the title as a joint tenant 2 Tenants in Common : Each owner’s percentage interest may be specified in the with rights of survivorship does not Sole owner: Applies when deed; otherwise the interest is divided in equal parts amongst all owners. Any or all affect the exemption as long as the one person owns the property of the qualified owners may apply for the Homestead. The exemption extends to individually. The person can be single new owner does not apply for the Homestead. (See note 2) the percent interest of the owner(s) that qualify. (See note 2) or married. A single person who otherwise meets the requirements Beneficiaries of a Trust: The 2 Joint Tenants with Right of Survivorship would qualify for the Homestead. : Each owner is considered to have 100% beneficiary must be granted a However, a married person must beneficial interest and possessory interest in the property and any of the qualified owners may apply for the demonstrate their spouse does not right to the property by the Trust. If Homestead. The property would receive all the benefits of the exemption even claim an exemption elsewhere or they the deed placing the property into when only one of the owners is qualified. Often property owners for estate planning are separate family units. the trust does not recite the person’s purposes add other parties to their property’s title. The most common addition is interest, proof of beneficial interest Tenants by the Entireties: This their offspring although other family members may be involved. Adding a person to and possessory right must be recorded type of ownership is unique to the title as a joint tenant with rights of survivorship does not affect the exemption as with the Clerk of the Court through married couples.

The deed might also long as the new owner does not apply for the Homestead. (See note 2) a separate document. read husband and wife.

Each spouse

Beneficiaries of a Trust: The beneficiary must be granted a beneficial interest and possessory right to the property by the Trust. If the deed placing the property into Note 1: For the purposes of this article the term “Homestead” refers to the the trust does not recite the person’s interest, proof of beneficial interest and Homestead exemption from ad valorem taxes provided in Article 7 Section 6 of the possessory right must be recorded with the Clerk of the Court through a separate Florida Constitution and Section 196 of Florida Statutes.

For more document.

Note 2: Any or all owners of property titled as Tenants in Common or Joint information,

Tenants with Rights of Survivorship may be granted the homestead exemption. If contact the Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT): The beneficiary has a beneficial interest all owners do not apply initially, the remaining owners may apply at a later date.

Property within the terms of the Trust for a number of years. The Homestead ends when the However, this would be considered a change in the use of the Homestead requiring Appraiser’s office Trust ends. Proof of beneficial interest and possessory right must be recorded with a new application from all owners claiming the exemption and a reset of the Save at 941.861.8200.the Clerk of the Court. Under certain circumstances the Homestead may be retained Our Homes cap.

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MARCH 2010

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

PROPERTY APPRAISER WILL TRAVEL!

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

We know it’s hard to keep up with all the recent changes in assessment administration.

There’s so much information available about valuations, exemptions and portability that we want to share with brokers and sales associates.

Our office regularly receives phone calls from Realtors® on many topics; my staff and I are prepared to answer those questions. Do any of these questions sound like you?

“Can you explain Homestead to me?”

“Can you explain Portability to me?”

“Can I call you from the closing?”

CALL US, WE CAN HELP! www.sarasotarealtors.com

Qualified Personal Residence Many factors, besides qualifying for if otherwise qualified. The remainder person, Trust (QPRT): The beneficiary who has a future interest, does not qualify Homestead, play a role in choosing has a beneficial interest for the Homestead until the Life Estate is how to take title. For in-depth within the terms of the Trust released. for a number of years. The Transfer on Death: The same as a Life information on the types of ownership Homestead ends when the Estate, except in this case the life estate or beneficial interest, and what Trust ends. Proof of beneficial holder may dispose of the property without interest and possessory right would be best for your customers and the joinder of the remainder person. must be recorded with the Clerk 98 Year Lease: The Lessee may claim the clients, they should consult with an of the Court. Under certain Homestead if they are otherwise qualified. circumstances the Homestead attorney.

The lease must be recorded with the Clerk may be retained by the of the Court. This form of title is most beneficiary at the end of the term. We suggest contacting an common for Mobile Home Resident Owned Communities estate planning attorney to suggest the path that is best suited (ROC) where the resident owners obtain a 98-year Proprietary for each case.

Lease from the ROC Corporation. These leases are transferable.

Unrecorded Business Trust Organization (UBTO): The Corporations and Partnerships: Property titled in this qualified beneficiary may claim the Homestead if the minutes manner does not qualify for the Homestead - these entities are of the Board of Directors of the Organization granting the not natural persons. Florida law reserves the Homestead for beneficial interest and possessory right are recorded with the natural persons who are permanent residents of Florida.

Clerk of the Court.

Many factors, besides qualifying for Homestead, play a role Land Trust: The beneficial interests and possessory rights in choosing how to take title. For in-depth information on the granted by a Land Trust are considered personal property by types of ownership or beneficial interest, and what would be the State of Florida and are not eligible for the Homestead. best for your customers and clients, they should consult with These trusts are usually established to keep the beneficiary’s an attorney. identity out of the public record. If a document granting the For more information on the relationships between otherwise qualified occupant a beneficial interest and possessory ownership and Homestead exemption call our office, Monday right is recorded, then the occupant may be entitled to the through Friday, 8:30-5, at 941.861.8200, visit our website at exemption.

Life Estate: The Life Estate holder may claim the Homestead www.SC-PA.com or email your question to EX@SC-PA.com.

Leaping Into A Short Sale Negotiation Can Be A Dangerous Move.

With short sale negotiations, there are many problems and issues that may arise; many you may never see coming.

So before you leap into a short sale negotiation, consult with attorney Steven R. Greenberg.

Steven and his team offer: • Comprehensive short sale services by a Board Certified Real Estate Attorney • Fixed fee short sale negotiations for Sellers • Experienced, full-time short sale coordinator working with loss mitigation negotiators and Realtors • Pre-foreclosure counseling available for Sellers with CPA/Attorney

STEVEN R. GREENBERG Board Certified Real Estate Attorney

941.365.6216

A Firm Commitment To You.

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Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2010

13

Ethics in Action 14

Facts on five everyday ethical dilemmas

t

By Buck Wargo Realtor® Magazine Online The Realtor® Code of Ethics sets rigorous guidelines, but some situations can confound even the most moral of minds.

The Code of Ethics is the backbone of the National Association of Realtors®. It’s what separates the country’s 1.3 million Realtors® from other real estate licensees.

However, as with any set of rules or laws, the Code “is not all black or white,” says Sharon Steele, a recent chair of NAR’s Professional Standards Interpretation and Procedures Subcommittee. “It’s shades of gray.”

Knowing how to respond comes in part from experience in handling uncomfortable situations, says Steele, ABR®, CRS®, who also is president of the Sharon Steele Group in Providence, R.I. But that doesn’t mean seasoned professionals aren’t stumped from time to time.

Steele and other ethics experts identified these dilemmas that are likely to pop up in today’s market, and provide guidance on how to respond.

Dilemma 1: Should I Disclose That?

“Realtors® shall avoid exaggeration, misrepresentation, or concealment of pertinent facts relating to the property or the transaction.” (Article 2) The scenario: Your seller client tells you that a home inspector recently was suspicious of insect damage when he saw the home’s damaged siding. However, the seller disputes that notion, saying he’s never had an insect problem in or around the home.

The risk: Withholding pertinent facts from buyers.

What to do: Disclose anything that affects the value or desirability of the home, says Bruce Aydt, ABR®, CRB, general counsel and senior vice president of St. Louisbased Prudential Alliance, Realtors®. That may include insect damage, water leakage, structural problems, and more.

Otherwise, you’re putting yourself at risk of serious legal action. “I think some agents are unaware of the potential liability and might agree with the home owner and keep quiet,” Aydt says.

Practitioners may be stumped because they don’t know whether or not a particular fact is important enough to share with prospective buyers, Aydt says. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s best to err on the side of disclosure.

You’re not the expert; the home inspector is. So if a home inspector says there’s a problem, but the seller disagrees, you have to stick with the assessment of the

MARCH 2010

inspector.

What if sellers refuse to disclose, and urges you to do the same? It’s the safest practice to surrender your listing, Aydt says. The legal risks to you are simply too great.

Dilemma 2: Sending Mixed Signals “Realtors® pledge themselves to protect and promote the interests of their client.” (Article 1) The scenario: You’re hosting an open house for your client, a seller. A woman seems very interested in the property and asks many questions about the home, local schools, and proximity to public transportation. She also asks why the sellers would want to move out of such a nice house.

The risk: Violating loyalty to your client, the seller.

Some buyers, particularly first-timers, don’t always understand that the listing agent’s primary obligation is to the seller, Steele says. If you don’t tell them, it could lead to undisclosed dual representation.

“It ought to be fairly clear but unfortunately some agents don’t have the confidence to say: By the way, I represent the seller,” she says. “If the buyer gets the wrong signal, there’s potential for undisclosed dual agency, which is clearly not a good thing.”

What to do: As a listing agent, your responsibility to the prospective buyer is to treat them honestly, but to your client you owe confidentiality, accountability, and loyalty, Steele says.

You can always provide buyers with information that’s public knowledge or with copies of the seller’s disclosure, which is required in most states. But you should center your conversations on the house and not issues such as the seller’s motivation, Steele says. “In an effort to be helpful, agents can sometimes overstep the line,” she says.

“They don’t give clear signals.”

“There are a myriad of reasons for it,” Steele says.

“Inexperience is one. If you don’t want to alienate a buyer, it can be a difficult situation.”

Dilemma 3: Ethics in Advertising “Realtors® shall be careful at all times to present a true picture in their advertising and representations to the public.” (Article 12) The scenario: You’re looking for a way to differentiate yourself from the competition and give your marketing materials a kick. You decide on a new tagline: “The No. 1 Real Estate Agent For You.” The risk: Stretching the truth. If your statements are truthful and accurate, it’s not wrong to tell prospects how you measure up to competitors. But when you make an

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Continued on P. 25, see ETHICS www.sarasotarealtors.com

p

Sarasota’s January 2010 property sales 58 percent higher than January 2009

p

Property sales in the Sarasota price is roughly $120,000. market were 58 percent higher in For normal arm’s length sales “Our market is rebounding from the January 2010 than in January 2009, in January 2010, properties and pending sales were also strong, recession, particularly in the category were sold for a median price topping the 800 mark for the first of normal arm’s length transactions.” - of approximately $250,000 – time since October 2009. more than double the prices 2010 SAR President Erick Shumway for distressed properties.

In sharp contrast to the first month of last year, January 2010 saw 506 “Our market is rebounding overall sales, compared to only 319 from the recession, particularly sales in January 2009. In addition, pending sales surged by in the category of normal arm’s length transactions,” said 2010 over 10 percent from December 2009 to a total of 815. The SAR President Erick Shumway. “We are seeing a stark contrast statistic is a strong indicator for the next two or three months between these two markets, and this probably reflects the fact of sales, as pending sales are an indicator of current buyer that some buyers don’t want to wait for additional months activity. Last January, pending sales stood at only 683. often involved in closing a purchase of a distressed property.

Median sale prices in the Sarasota real estate market dipped Also, the condition of normal, non-distressed properties in January 2010 for both single family homes and condos. can be far superior to the short sales and foreclosures on the The median sale price for a single family home was $156,250, market. Once the number of distressed properties begins to down from last month’s figure of $170,000, but up slightly drop substantially, we should see the median sale prices start to recover.” over last January’s figure of $149,950.

The first-time homebuyer tax credit, extended and expanded For condos, the median price dropped to $165,000 from to include many other homebuyers on Nov. 6, should last month’s figure of $199,000, and significantly lower than continue to help propel sales in the first quarter of 2010. The last January’s figure of $220,000. For the last 12 months combined, the median sale price for single family homes credit expires in April, and local Realtors® are working hard to was $160,000, while the median sale price for condos was ensure their qualified buyers can take advantage of the $8,000 and $6,500 credits. $189,900.

The property inventory level rose in January 2010 to 6,342 The January median sale prices generally reflect the from the December 2009 total of 6,020, an expected increase continuing high percentage of short sales and bank-owned during the traditional winter months when many snowbirds foreclosure sales in the Sarasota market. The January percentage return to the Sarasota area. But the inventory level remains at of distressed sales rose to 48 percent, from December 2009’s near the lowest level since late summer of 2005 and the years figure of 42 percent. Two distinct markets remain in force in prior to the boom period from 2003 - 2005.

Sarasota.

The months of inventory for single family homes was 11.5 Normal arm’s length property sales continue to show months, compared to 25.3 months in January 2009. For median sale prices roughly 150 percent higher than distressed condos, the months of inventory was 14.7 months in January property sale prices. Bank-owned sales are bringing in a 2010, compared to 38.4 months only a year ago – a remarkable median price of roughly $80,000, while for short sales the improvement in the health of the real estate market.

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Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2010

15

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics January 2010 Single Family Condo

Unit Sales 500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Jan‐09

Feb‐09

Mar‐09

Apr‐09 May‐09

Jun‐09

Jul‐09

Aug‐09

Sep‐09

Oct‐09

Nov‐09

Dec‐09

Jan‐10

Single Family Condo

Median Sale Price $300,000 $250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 Jan‐09

Feb‐09

Mar‐09

Apr‐09 May‐09

Jun‐09

Jul‐09

Aug‐09

Sep‐09

Oct.09 Nov. 09 Dec‐09

Jan‐10

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

4,042

350

8.6

169

$156,250

$160,000

11.5

573

14.2

1,004

185

This Month Last Year

6319

250

3.9

152

$149,950

$235,000

25.3

536

8.5

1,018

236

3810

469

12.3

194

$170,000

$163,000

8.1

521

13.7

667

211

350

‐

169

$156,250

‐

‐

573

‐

1,004

‐

Oct 94.4 ‐

Nov 94.1 ‐

Dec 94.2 ‐

Last Month YTD

‐

Jan 93.0 94.4

2009 2010

Single Family – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Feb 93.1 ‐

Mar 92.5 ‐

Apr 92.4 ‐

May 93.2 ‐

Jun 93.8 ‐

Jul 93.2 ‐

Aug 93.6 ‐

Sept 94.2 ‐

Statistics were compiled on properties listed in the MLS by members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® as of Feb. 10th, 2010, 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

MARCH 2010

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics January 2010 Single Family Condo

Inventory 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0 Jan‐09

Feb‐09 Mar‐09 Apr‐09 May‐09 Jun‐09

Jul‐09

Aug‐09 Sep‐09

Oct‐09 Nov‐09 Dec‐09

Jan‐10

Single Family Condo

Pending Sales 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Jan‐09

Feb‐09

Mar‐09

Apr‐09 May‐09

Jun‐09

Jul‐09

Aug‐09

Sep‐09

Oct‐09

Nov‐09

Dec‐09

Jan‐10

Condo

This Month This Month Last Year Last Month YTD

2009 2010

#Active

#Sold

%Sold

Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months of Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending

# New Listings

# Off Market

2300

156

6.8

207

$165,000

$189,900

14.7

242

10.5

385

205

2647

69

2.6

177

$220,000

$310,000

38.4

147

5.6

415

145

2210

179

8.1

202

$199,000

$190,000

12.3

218

9.9

233

232

‐

156

‐

207

$165,000

‐

‐

242

‐

385

‐

Nov 92.3 ‐

Dec 93.1 ‐

Jan 91.0 92.5

Condo – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Feb 90.2 ‐

Mar 90.4 ‐

Apr 92.2 ‐

May 90.1 ‐

Jun 91.4 ‐

Jul 92.1 ‐

Aug 92.4 ‐

Sept 91.5 ‐

Oct 92.4 ‐

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

MARCH 2010

17

CID (Commercial Investment Division)

Recovery, not recovered

Cautious optimism remains commercial outlook

f

18

By Lee DeLieto, Jr. 2010 CID President

For many of us, this is the first recessionary cycle as business people. If we really thought hard, we could remember a time in our lives growing up when our parents were struggling to make ends meet. But we were told it was just a “rough patch”.

Growing up in an Italian family, having spaghetti for dinner ever Wednesday night was normal. Prince spaghetti really capitalized on that one. Throw in a pound of ground beef for meatballs, a jar of tomato sauce, a little seasoning and you have a meal to feed a family of five for just a few dollars. The part we didn’t see was the real struggle Dad faced when he was off at work trying to keep it all together.

Now having lived through this dismal cycle as an adult, the challenges I faced as a kid seem so trivial.

Sadly, if I’m not mistaken, this is the fourth recovery cycle for my father. If you ask him, he will emphatically tell you, this was the worst. But he will also tell you in the next breath, we will get through it just like the last one, and the one before that.

Yes, we will recover. 2010 may not be the magic year but it’s sure going to be better than 2009, which was better than 2008, which was better than when the world stood still in 2007.

I read recently in the many economic prognosticating periodicals, the statement that we are in a state of recovery, not a state of recovered. It’s an interesting clarification that one may not step back to contemplate when we are knee deep in debt, 50 listings on the board, and a seller to match, each wondering what have you done for me lately.

Nothing happens fast in commercial real estate.

Add to this the increased inventory, questionable stabilization of pricing, and buyers with an insatiable appetite for blood, it can really gnaw away at your psyche and cloud your perception of better days.

The recovery is here. It may not be pretty, it may not be fast, and it may not be enough, but it is here. The phrase that pays is “cautious optimism”.

Interestingly, it’s the way I look at our industry no matter the cycle, up or down - showing thoughtful restraint and a lack of haste. The listing presentation is still the beginning, the marketing process is still there, the contract negotiation is still there, and the due diligence phase is still there, and hopefully the closing is

MARCH 2010

The CID held its January General Membership Meeting on Jan. 19th at SAR, with NCS/Southern Cross Contracting as the sponsor. The January meeting was the annual CID economic forecast, featuring a panel of experts discussing their outlook for 2010. The outlook - cautious optimism.

still there.

What’s different? Are you different? Are your skills different? If you think about it, the only difference is the extended time it takes to get through each step and maybe your decreased level of patience.

Yes, if ever there was a time to break out the cliché handbook, it’s now. Patience is truly a virtue. And those of us still standing, with our chins held high, and still proudly carrying our active licensee card, can say we were virtuously victorious.

If you have questions, comments or topics for discussion, please feel free to write me at LeeDeLietoJr@MichaelSaunders.com

CID plans program for March 16th

This month’s CID program will be held in the SAR Main Auditorium on Tuesday, March 16th at 8:30 a.m., and all CID members are invited to attend. Watch for emails concerning details of this month’s program highlights.

Consult SAR’s web site - www.sarasotarealtors.com - and weekly e-mail updates for all CID nformation.

The meeting will be chaired by 2010 CID President Lee DeLieto, Jr. Stay tuned for future program announcements!

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

ng on ing CID sing mism.

Are you puzzled?

Save our childrens’ education … or save our Medicare?

By Brad Lindberg CID Director

On March 16th, there is a referendum on the local ballot for extending the 1 mil school tax that we are being asked to vote on. SAR supports the tax extension. Depending on the stage of life you are in, you might feel differently about funding our schools.

If your kids are grown and have left the nest, school funding may not get you as excited as it did when the little rug rats were wrecking the house. But, “Take away Medicare? Now you just wait one minute young man!”

There are groups in our community that believe that we have done enough for our educational system. Throwing more money at the problem is not the solution, they say.

Except of course if you are speaking about throwing money at Medicare. “Cut Medicare? You must be crazy! Why would you even think of doing that?”

When the opponents of the school tax referendum talk about how much we spend per child as compared to other counties, they fail to include in their argument that Florida has one of the lowest per-pupil funding budgets, as quoted in an article written in the St. Pete Times, January 7, 2009: “Education Week - Florida has one of the worst graduation rates in the country and among the lowest rates of per-pupil funding. It also clangs off a perception, ingrained in the collective psyche of Floridians, that their schools are lame.”

The presumption that cutting funding for education will promote higher test scores and graduation rates is statistically flawed. The fact that Florida is ranked 41st out of 50 states in per-pupil funding should be a wake-up call for all of us in the real estate business.

If we don’t improve our educational system, our appeal as a community will diminish. Families, businesses and the

elderly should all value the benefits of a community that puts the education of its citizens first. When a piece of the puzzle is missing, the picture of our community becomes incomplete.

As residential and commercial real estate professionals, it is our mission to sell community as much as selling property.

It‘s easy to walk the line and not take a stand, but paying for educating our children today will provide for a better future for all of us tomorrow.

If we don’t perpetuate a society of talented, healthy and educated young people, we won’t have anyone to fund what we’ll all need one day ... Medicare, or course!

My Florida Commercial Real Estate (MFCRE) premiered on Monday, Jan. 4, 2010. This fullfunctioning Commercial Information Exchange (CIE), which utilizes the Catylist system, may be accessed at www.MFCRE.com. It is available as a subscription service to SAR members.

2010 CID Officers & Directors Officers:

President: Lee DeLieto, Jr., Michael Saunders & Company President-Elect: Anthony Homer, Lakewood Ranch Commercial Past President: Jag Grewal, Ian-Black Secretary: Tim Mapp, Mapp Realty Treasurer: Linda Emery, Michael Saunders & Company

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Directors:

Dave Altwies: Exit Gulf Coast Realty (1 year term 2010) Lori Conable: Osprey Real Estate (1 year term-2010) Eric Massey: Michael Saunders (2 year term - 2011) Mike Sporer: Interstate Commercial Brokers (2 year term - 2011) Brad Lindberg: Hembree & Associates (3 year term 2012) Diane Lee: Wagner Realty (3 year term - 2012)

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2010

19

Education Programs

What’s the latest on short sales?

Title: New Developments in Short Sales March 10, 9 to 11 a.m.

Location: SAR Main Auditorium Panel of speakers (see below) Cost: SAR Members $10, Others $20 Short sales are going to be in every Realtors®’ future for some time to come, and things keep changing!

The Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee has been presenting a series of seminars to keep SAR membership abreast of how to handle short sales. Even if you have

attended earlier seminars, this will give you all the latest developments. Register now as we expect this seminar to be sold out in advance.

The seminar will be moderated by Ryan Owen, Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos, P.A. Jo Ann Koontz, Yesner & Boss, P.L. will discuss the tax implications of short sales and what Realtors® need to know; and Michael France, Michael France PA, will talk about defending a client in foreclosure. Other topics (speakers TBA) will include negotiating with lenders and MLS rules regarding short sales.

ABR® core course coming to SAR in March Title: The Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR®) Designation Core Course Dates: March 23-24, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: SAR Main Auditorium Instructor: Jimmy Dague Cost: SAR Members: $199; Others: $219 Registration Deadline: March 9, 2010 (After this date, add $25) So why get the Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR®) Designation? What are the qualifications?

The Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR®) designation is the benchmark of excellence in buyer representation. This coveted designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (“REBAC”) of the National Association of Realtors® who meet the specified educational and practical experience criteria.

There are five major requirements to attain and use the ABR® designation: 1) Meeting the REBAC® education requirement -- completion of a 2-day ABR core course through an accredited course provider, - or completion of the REBAC® Web course, - or completion of the satellite television education programming through the RE/MAX Satellite Network 2) Completion of one elective course. Current members who have already obtained the ABR®

designation are grandfathered as to the elective course requirement.

3) Passing a written examination on legal and practical aspects of agency representation.

4) Practical experience requirement of acting as a buyer’s representative in 5 documented and verifiable Jimmy Dague transactions. (Valid transactions are those that occurred anytime prior to and up to 36 months after the date the course was completed.)

5) You must, at all times, be a member in good standing with REBAC® and the National Association of Realtors®.

We have a buyer’s market—learn how to work it! The instructor, Jimmy Dague from Las Vegas, was very well received when he taught the RSPS course at SAR last October. You are in for a treat!

Mark Your Calendars: 2010 Designation Courses

ABR GRI 2 GREEN 20

MARCH 2010

March 23-24, 2010 May 24-26, June 1-2, 2010 June 7-9, 2010

CIPS Inst. June 21-25, 2010 GRI 3 July 26-28, Aug. 3-4, 2010

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Shifting Into Green: Join the revolution!

Title: Shifting Into Green Date: March 17, 9 to11 a.m.

Location: SAR Main Auditorium Speakers: Lynn Nilssen, Lee Hayes Byron Cost: SAR Members $10, Others $20 Whether you know it or not, a Green wave is coming! Learn what the consumer demand is for Green and what that means for the real estate market—residential and commercial.

Lynn Nilssen will paint a picture of the role of the Realtor® in a Green community and transaction. Guest speaker Lee Hayes Byron of Sustainable Sarasota will give an overview of the Sarasota community and its green commitment, including greenhouse gas profile and why buildings are an important part of every solution.

She will also discuss green building incentives, education, home energy retrofit incentives, and more.

Lynn Nilssen and Lee Hayes Byron will present the course at SAR on March 17th.

Earn NAR Green Designation June 7-8 Title: NAR’s Green Designation (complete!)

- Core Course – June 7-8 Residential Elective: June 9 Instructor: Lynn A. Nilssen Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cost: Core Course $250 Residential elective: $125 Save $50 and sign up for both at $325 Green homes that are good for the environment while saving home owners money are in demand, and Realtors® are responding by enhancing their multiple listing services to showcase green homes and green features.

To prepare themselves to better serve this market, thousands of Realtors® have already earned NAR’s Green designation.

In order to earn the NAR Green designation, the student must successfully complete the Core Course and one of three elective courses.

• Green Residential Real Estate • Green Commercial Real Estate • Green Property Management Students who complete the Core Course receive a one-year membership in the NAR Green Resource Council. SAR is offering the Residential elective in conjunction with the Core course so you can knock out your designation quickly.

After taking this course, you will be able to:

www.sarasotarealtors.com

• Recognize the features that make a home or building green and resource efficient in construction or remodeling, use and operation • Inform customers and clients of the significance of LEED, Energy Star, and other rating systems • Discuss the cost-benefit of resource-efficient building and home systems, materials and land usage • Recognize, validate and respond to concerns and priorities of the green consumer, seller, buyer, tenant, builder, developer • Make the appropriate disclosures consistent with NAR Code of Ethics and state regulations • Describe the interrelationships of sustainable communities, Smart Growth, natural habitat conservation, New Urbanism and land planning.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2010

21

GRI Course 2 slated beginning in May Title: GRI 2 Dates: May 24-26 & June 1-2 Times: 8a.m. to 5 p.m. (varies) Credits: 15 hours broker postlicense credit, or 11 hours continuing education Cost: SAR Members by 5/10/10: $275 Non Members by 5/10/10: $300 After 5/10/10: Add $25 In today’s competitive business environment you need more than just motivation and initiative to succeed: you need the advantage of the education you receive in the GRI (Graduate Realtor® Institute) program.

• Increase your knowledge. You’ll learn valuable information and techniques that can help you and your business.

• Professionals find the GRI designation a powerful tool for attracting and building new business.

• Expand your network of real estate professionals to generate more leads.

• Develop skills and obtain knowledge to get better results with less time and work.

• Display your designation certification to illustrate your professionalism and expertise.

This GRI series is offered

by Florida Realtors® through its Florida Realtor® Institute. All the instructors have been carefully screened for their knowledge of the subjects as well as for their teaching techniques— they’re the best real estate teachers in the state.

All 3 GRI Courses Can Now Be Taken Online

Don’t wait in line, go online! All GRI Courses are now available for GRI credit online through a special Florida Realtors® website: www.fargri.com.

Online convenience places the courses at your fingertips, whenever and where ever you want it. GRI 1 also has full CE credits, but at press time, FR was waiting to receive the CE credits for Courses 2 & 3.

Do you sell waterfront property?

Title: Waterfront Property Due Diligence Date: March 31, 9 a.m. - Noon Instructor: David M. Levin, Esq. Cost: SAR Members, $10; Others $20 To sell waterfront property, you should be familiar with all the issues discussed in this seminar: - FEMA Compliance - Coastal Construction Permitting - Riparian Rights - Dock Permitting - Beach Access All this and more will be discussed by experienced Icard Merrill attorney, David Levin.

22

MARCH 2010

Spring Flingÿ

ÿ

AÿRealtorÿAppreciationÿPartyÿ HostedÿbyÿtheÿSARÿAffiliates

MarkÿyourÿCalendars!ÿ

Thursday,ÿMarchÿ25th,ÿ5:00ÿp.m.ÿ-ÿ7:00ÿp.m.ÿ

ÿSarasotaÿAssociationÿBoardÿofÿRealtorsÿ~ÿ3590ÿS.ÿTuttleÿAve.ÿ MoreÿInformationÿtoÿcome!ÿ Foodÿ&ÿRefreshmentsÿ Prizeÿ&ÿGiftÿ onÿtheÿDeck!ÿ Giveaways!ÿ

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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Embrace change: MFRMLS offers MLS system education 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!

MLXchange Basic March 1, March 15, 9 a.m. to Noon 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.

Mandatory session for all new users.

- 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 March 1, March 15, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

This class is mandatory 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 www.sarasotarealtors.com

- Review the profile sheet

successful real estate business.

- Entering a new listing, using tax auto pop, reviewing the fields that 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 listings

Design Web Pages, Capture Leads March 17, 9 a.m. to Noon One of the most crucial components in today’s real estate professional’s day-to-day 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.

MLXchange Advanced March 16, 9 a.m. to Noon 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 headers and changing the field sort order Creating a Professional CMA March 16, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

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 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

iMapp - Interactive Tax and Mailing Labels March 17, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

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

- MLXchange tax search, using map and field searches, printing mailing labels - iMapp tax search, viewing parcel, GIS, MLS listings, zoom levels, street, aerial and flood zones - Measuring tool, pan and save map - Creating, viewing and downloading mailing labels - Illustrate the link to the tax appraiser website - Viewing and modifying the criteria for comparable properties - MLS and foreclosure searches MARCH 2010

23

On the SAR Scene

SAR members out and about!

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

Peter Salefsky and Gayle Shane

Maria Mascucci and Gina Damico

The February Newcomer Orientation Class

Anne Chakos and Michelle Burke-Phillips SAR members are active, energized and out in force in the community! You can find hundreds of photos from our regular events at www.facebook.com/ SarasotaRealtors Please visit soon and tag your friends and business associates!

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MARCH 2010

Hylda Fenton at Power Marketing

Sarasota Realtor速 Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

ETHICS From Page 14

advertising statement about being the “No. 1” agent, you could be misleading the public.

What to do: Making the claim of being No. 1 is perhaps the most abused or misused term in real estate advertising, Aydt says. If you really want to use that phrase, be careful to explain what you mean by “No. 1.” For example, cite your market share, a date range, and a specific geographic area.

Experts advise focusing on your own merits and what you bring to a prospective client rather than comparing yourself directly to competitors.

Ethics in advertising extends to property marketing, too.

Be clear about how you describe the home, Steele says, and stay away from sweeping statements or exaggerations. It’s incumbent to avoid mistakes as well, she says. Double-check property tax figures with your local government, and be sure that square footage is measured correctly.

Finally, never say anything to buyers that you can’t confirm as a fact. “You can only represent what you know,” Steele says.

“If you don’t know the answer, say ‘I don’t know, but I will go to City Hall and try to find an answer.’ In this business, you don’t make assumptions.

Dilemma 4: One Brokerage, Multiple Offers “Obligation to the client is primary, but it does not relieve Realtors® of their obligation to treat all parties honestly.” (Article 1) The scenario: Two interested buyers have submitted offers on your listing. One buyer is represented by an agent who works at your brokerage. The other buyer is represented by an agent from a franchise across town.

The risk: “Regardless of the intent, there may be concern that more attention will be paid to an in-house deal than outof-house deal,” says Dale Mattison, CRS®, GRI, an associate broker with Long & Foster Real Estate in Washington, D.C. “I know my ethical intent is to treat the offer fairly, but there’s always the risk that someone will get the wrong impression,” he says.

What to do: Mattison, past chairman of NAR’s Professional Standards Committee, says the Code of Ethics only requires such information to be disclosed to the buyer upon request, but he says it’s a good practice to disclose it anyway. That way, you won’t give anyone the idea that you’re favoring one offer so that your brokerage will capture the full commission.

In order to remain objective, his company’s policy is to have a third party that’s not directly involved in the deal, such as a brokerage office manager, present both offers to the seller.

Dilemma 5: Can You Write Me an Offer?

“Realtors® shall not engage in any practice or take any action inconsistent with the exclusive relationship recognized by law that other Realtors® have with clients.” (Article 16) www.sarasotarealtors.com

The scenario: You are representing clients who want to sell their home quickly so they can move into their new home.

You get a call from a prospective buyer who says that he’s already viewed the property and would like to make an offer immediately. He asks for you to write the offer.

The risk: The buyer may already be represented.

What to do: First, ask the buyer if he’s working with a buyer’s agent, says Bill Lublin, CRS®, CRB, chief executive of Century 21 Advantage Gold in Philadelphia.

If he’s represented, encourage him to submit an offer through his agent. Also, the buyer should be made aware that he may have contractual obligations to the buyer’s agent, says Lublin, vice-chair of the NAR’s Professional Standards Committee. In most cases, the buyer’s agent can be owed a portion of the sales commission.

If the buyer is unable to work through his agent, and still demands that an offer be written immediately, your duty as the listing agent is to follow through with the request, Lublin says. After writing the offer, contact the buyer’s agent and let that person know what’s going on, and let them know they’ll receive commission from the deal as set out on the buyer’s rep contract.

“It’s good to do the right thing,” Lublin says. “You sleep so much better and feel so much better. The people I know who are successful in business are always extremely ethical. I don’t see that it has any kind of negative impact on anybody.”

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

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Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2010

25

MLS FAQ

New web site for MyFlorida Regional MLS Have you seen the new MFRMLS.com?

MyFlorida Regional MLS would like to invite you to visit the brand new MFRMLS.com. Launched on Friday, January 15, 2010, the new corporate website offers a new level of communication with membersubscribers of MFRMLS. With the bright new color scheme and improved navigation, the goal is to enhance the user experience for members as the one-stop source for training, products, news and support.

This dynamic content management system will allow MFRMLS to write, edit and update articles quicker and easier than before. Improved navigation will make searching for documents and news articles a snap.

Visit the new MFRMLS.com.

SAR offers members help with listing entry Did you know SAR offers listing entry for its members! You don’t have to submit your listings to SAR, but if you’d like us to help you enter them and upload the photos, please read on.

Download the appropriate form from the links at www.MFRMLS. com (then Resources, Listing Forms).

Once completed (either by hand or filled electronically) return via fax (941) 923-0191, or email to

mlsphotos@sarasotarealtors.com.

The fee is $25 per entry and you can include your credit card number and expiration date on the cover sheet or stop by to pay in person.

(Payment must be made before the listing can be entered).

All listings must be submitted with at least one photo of the property.

Email JPG photos as attachments to mlsphotos@sarasotarealtors.com with the address of the property in

the subject of the email.

If you’d like to include a brief description with the photos we can enter those as captions.

Please allow two business days after receipt of all required (listing sheet, payment, photos) information for the listing be entered. If you have included your email address on the profile sheet, we will email you a link to the listing once it’s complete.

Sarasota named one of top retirement communities Our own Sarasota, Florida was named sixth on NBC’s recent list of Best Places for Boomers to Retire.

Sarasota is perhaps one of the most popular retirement destinations in the most popular state for retirees.

Located on the Gulf Coast, Sarasota as we all know has has 35 miles of beaches and offers residents opportunities from golfing to boating and gourmet dining. The town also offers a range of activities, including an opera, symphony, film society and a range of art galleries.

One caveat about Sarasota, according to NBC, is that because of our climate and natural surroundings, we attract plenty of vacationers in the winter months. The area also finds median home values at $185,200, which is slightly above the national average. Regardless, AARP Magazine has also identified Sarasota, a city with the nickname “Paradise,” as number four on its list of “best places to reinvent your life.”

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MARCH 2010

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

m

m

By Brad Broberg Realtor® Magazine Online

Mobile technology, along with the tough economy, have inspired brokers to pare their square footage.

Therese Meddaugh Jenkins, ABR®, wasn’t planning to close her office and work from home eight years ago, but the events on Sept.

11, 2001, left the broker-owner of a corporate relocation business no choice.

Her company, Apple Realty Group, was just five blocks from the World Trade Center, where lingering smoke and dust kept her from reoccupying her Manhattan office until the air cleared.

That’s when Jenkins and her six sales associates—who also started working from home—made a surprising discovery. In the age of cell phones and e-mail, they didn’t need—or even want—their old office back.

On went a lightbulb.

“My overhead in Manhattan was huge,” Jenkins says, “so I was always looking for ways to cut costs without hurting the ability of my sales associates to be successful.

Since everyone liked working from home so much, I decided that a virtual office was the way to go.”

In many respects Jenkins was ahead of her time, as more brokers have come to realize they don’t need a vast bricks-and-mortar base of operations to be successful.

Her 10 sales associates pay no administrative fees, just a small charge for insurance, a quarterly charge for the multiple listing service, and their commission split based on experience. “It works beautifully,” Jenkins says. “Sales associates like to be on their own, so being a virtual office actually makes us a more attractive place to work.”

While stand-alone and storefront

www.sarasotarealtors.com

office operations won’t vanish anytime soon, more and more broker-owners are rethinking the size and location of their office. “It’s not a trend,” says David Colmar.

“It’s a matter of survival.”

Colmar, a broker and CEO of Colmar and Associates, a real estate consulting company in Rancho Santa Fe, Calif., meets regularly with operators of leading real estate companies. Five years ago when the market was still on fire, reducing office space was the last thing on their minds. Today, it’s one of the first things they talk about.

“If you haven’t begun to figure out a way to cut office space, clearly you’ve got to,” Colmar says. “You may be OK today, but you’re not going to be OK tomorrow.”

Demographic shift The changing work habits of sales associates—especially as Generations X and Y replace retiring baby boomers—are permanently reshaping office dynamics. Liberated by the Internet and iPhones to work from home, in their car, or at Starbucks, associates find coming into an office less and less necessary.

The cost of ignoring this shift: a lot of empty desks, wasted space, and dollars that could otherwise go toward upgrading technology, expanding marketing, and lowering fees.

One of Colmar’s consulting clients recently tracked how many of its 35 agents were actually in the office at three specific times of the day over the course of 30 days. The most was nine. The average was 4.5. “That’s like having a warehouse and there are only six boxes in the middle of the floor,” Colmar says.

Customers also are making less use of the office. Rather than coming in to thumb through a

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

multiple listing book with a sales associate, home buyers are looking at homes on the Internet and calling to schedule showings of properties they want to see. “The number of walk-ins has dropped off dramatically,” Colmar says.

Yet change is slow. In a series of annual Brokerage Performance Reports edited by Colmar for RealTrends, the average square feet per agent hovered between 132 and 139 from 2004 to 2006. While Colmar has not completed any similar reports since, the numbers “haven’t really gone down” based on conversations with clients, he said.

“We’re in the real estate business, but we simply do not need so much real estate,” Colmar said. “We’ve got to get the number below 100.”

That’s easier said than done for existing businesses with long-term leases. They must either renegotiate, sublease, or hang tough until their lease expires. “It’s a very difficult process,” Colmar admits.

Broker Corner

Time to rethink your office space

Finding Creative Solutions Peter Consolo, broker-owner of Lake Barrington Realty in Lake Barrington, Ill., downsized his office in January 2009 by trading spaces with an adjacent travel agency in the same strip mall, swapping 1,780 square feet for 1,270. The two businesses also considered sharing the larger office, but determined they couldn’t quite squeeze into the same space.

At one point, 20 sales associates worked out of the Lake Barrington Realty office, but over the last several years the number plunged to six. Although the travel agency’s lease was up, Consolo was in the middle of a five-year deal, so the opportunity to swap was a godsend.

“The landlord was very supportive,” Consolo says.

MARCH 2010

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WCR helps your professional, personal life

By Karen Grant 2010 WCR President

t

WCR 2010 Programs

The Women’s Council of Realtors® had its inception in 1938, starting with 37 ambitious women. Representing nine states, these women met in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Today, this small group has grown into more than 18,000 National Women’s Council of Realtors® members, with more than 280 chapters.

WCR is one of the most successful communications networks in the National Association of Realtors®, and is the 12th largest women’s organization among 700 in the United States.

WCR has an established network of 300 state and local chapters, with volunteer managers trained to position their groups as business resources in the real estate communities they serve. It has been stated that members collectively generate over $100 million in commissions annually.

The Sarasota WCR chapter is one of the largest and most productive WCR organizations. Our members form, build and maximize relationships for busines and personal success. They operate with professional credibility, based on consistency, respect, integrity and commitment to excellence and continuous development. They are provided with education, business tools and support that meets their needs as women entrepreneurs.

Benefits of membership in WCR are numerous.

Through regular membership meetings, there are many educational components to help you grow your business. We help members acquire new skills, solve business problems and make business contacts through structured networking opportunities.

There are many opportunities to get involved in WCR, whether it is joining our membership committee, ways and means, program, or fashion show committees.

Come and join us at our next program meeting on March 12th at Michael’s on East. Contact any line officer for more information.

March 12, 11 a.m., Michael’s On East: “How to Overcome Adversity” - Beth Barnett, Real Estate Professional, Coldwell Banker April 9, 8:30 a.m., Bent Tree Country Club: “Young Producers Panel” - Christina Pitchford, Coordinator May 7, 11 a.m., Lakewood Ranch Country Club: “Honoring Past Women’s Council Presidents” (Joint Meet with Manatee WCR June 18 - Joint Meet Wth SAR July 9, 11 a.m., Laurel Oak Country Club: “Lynn McDonald - Topic TBA; Election of 2011 Officers Aug. 13, 11 a.m., University Park Country Club: “Legislation That Affects Florida Realtors Ron Reagan, Speaker Pro-Tempore, FL House of Representatives September - Fashion Show - Date and Location TBD Oct. 8, 8:30 a.m., Bird Key Yacht Club: Program TBA Nov. 12, 11 a.m., University Park Country Club: Award Ceremony and Farewell Dec. 10: Installation of 2011 President and Board, Sarasota Yacht Club

Sponsors

Gold: University Park Lifestyles, Inc. Silver: Lakewood Ranch Communities, LLC

Neal Communities

Starr Title Insurance Services, Carrie

Rummery Bronze: Regions Mortgage

BB&T Oswald Trippe - Joe Sikora

Silver Fox Pest Management

MGA Insurance Group

Southern Trust Financial Planning

Intutive Interiors, Debra Bois

2010 Line Officers

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Karen Grant President RE/MAX Tropical Sands Cell: 941-504-4952 karenlgrant@comcast.net

Marianne LeBar Vice President of Membership Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-650-0337

mariannelebar@michaelsaunders.com

Leslie Lauritano Recording Secretary Regions Bank Cell: 941-504-1028 leslie.lauritano@regions.com

Cindi Jackson President-Elect Exit Realty Signature Properties Cell: 941-400-6091 cindi_title@yahoo.com

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

Melia Favorite Corresponding Secretary American Family Financial Cell: 941-807-0303 melia@americanfamilyfinancial.org

MARCH 2010

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Title: CIPS Institute (Certified International Property Specialist) Dates: June 21-25 Location: SAR Main Auditorium Instructors- David Lauster, CIPS, David Wyant, CIPS Cost: $499 for SAR members (a $126 discount); $575 for non-SAR members (a $50 discount) This Institute will be one of the first to be offered after NAR compresses the courses for the designation from 7 days down to 5, effective June 2010.

The low price for the complete designation is possible because of NAR’s Right Tools, Right Now program which has been extended through 2010, and also because the program has been shortened by two days. Get your CIPS designation while the price is the lowest you’ll ever see!

The complete series of classes leading to the CIPS designation is $499 for SAR members, a $126 discount.

The complete series is $575 for non-SAR members, a $50 discount.

CIPS Institutes concentrate five of the required international CIPS courses into a 5-day format, allowing students to save travel costs and to complete the program quickly.

June 21: International Real Estate for 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 (Lauster) June 22: Investment & Financial Analysis for International Real Estate: Provides the tools needed to present investment information to international clients—in their currency and area. HP-10B calculator required. (Lauster) June 23: Europe & International Real Estate: 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 (Lauster) June 24: Asia/Pacific and International Real Estate: 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 included (Wyant) June 25: 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 (Wyant) David Lauster, a licensed real estate broker since 1985, has earned five NAR designations and is the recipient of numerous achievement awards, including CIPS Instructor of the Year in 2005. He has lived on three continents and is fluent in French, Spanish and German.

David joined the U.S. State Department’s directorate of Overseas Buildings Operations in 2004, and has risen to the position of Branch Chief for Property Acquisitions worldwide, involved in the purchase or leasing of commercial space, land and housing for new embassies and consulates in more than 70 nations.

David Wyant has represented multiple international corporations on every continent. He has lived, bought, sold property and operated his own company internationally.

He has taught and lectured across the world on topics ranging from marketing and strategy development to international finance and business planning. David serves NAR as a faculty member for the Certification as an International Property Specialist (CIPS) and is a Florida licensed Real Estate Instructor and Broker.

Special Pricing—Save and take the entire series!

- $125- International Real Estate for Local Markets - $125- Investment & Financial Analysis - $125- Europe & International Real Estate - $125- Asia/Pacific & International Real Estate - $125- The Americas & International Real Estate - $499- Entire Series (SAR Members only, $575 nonSAR members) leading to CIPS designation—June 21-25

International Real Estate

Special pricing for CIPS designation

Canadian expo planned for May 5-6, 2010 - join the excursion!

Don’t forget - SAR is reserving several booths to create a Sarasota “pavilion” at Realtor® Quest, the Toronto Board of Realtors® annual Expo. The Expo will be held May 5 & 6, 2010 in Toronto.

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Contact Catherine McCaskill at catherine@ sarasotarealtors.com, for more information about how you and your brokerage can participate in this great international opportunity.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2010

29

Membership News

The Association is pleased to welcome new members!

Designated Realtors®

Barnett, James: James A Barnett Lic R E Broker Fridh, O. Eric: Eric Fridh Jr. Lic R E Broker Garrod, Kenneth Pete: 1st American Business Brokers Griffin, Laing Frederick: Fred Griffin Real Estate, LLC Hochmann, Z. Danny: Florida Investment Int’l LLC Horrigan Jr., E. Albert: RSVP Associates Inc Leopold, B. Arthur: LWR Realty Inc Michailidis, A. John: SaraMana Properties Piana A. Michelle: Michelle Anne Piana R E Broker Ralph, Cari: Carmel Properties Yoder, John: John Yoder Realty

New Members

Abeysekera, Saliya: RSVP Associates Inc. Alston, Marilyn: Prudential Palms Realty Beisser, Sharon: CareFree Realty Inc. Beninato, Michael: Coldwell Banker Res R E Bill, Deborah: Elite Realty Group of Sarasota Bloom, Ira: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Boone, Chandra: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Browne, Chris: Beckmann Properties Bucknell, Lindsay: RSVP Associates Inc. Chanoski, Renata: Coldwell Banker Res R E Coker, Gary: Prudential Palms Realty Cole, Charles: RSVP Associates Inc. Colston, David: EXIT Creative Realty Conti, Linda: Prudential Palms Realty Davies, Lynn: Tarpon Coast Realty Inc. DeWitt, Ronnie: RSVP Associates Inc. Engstrom, Frauke: Zupa & Associates Florian, Peter: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Hawthorne, Susan: Blakeley & Associates Realty Hayre, Jasbir: Cristello and Co. Real Estate Holbrook, Jane: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Holbrook, Graham: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Krawtschenko, Jaci: Signature Sothebys Internat’l Larsen, Anna: Horizon Realty Lochead, James: Prudential Palms Realty Lubetsky, Marilyn: Coldwell Banker Res R E Marquiss, Renee: Xena Vallone Realty Inc. McCue, William: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Merrithew, Anthony: EXIT Creative Realty Montalvo, Jessica: Century 21 Advantage Mound, Jennifer: Horizon Realty Ormsby, Philip: Peens Property Group Inc. Rain, Thomas: Michael Saunders & Company Rapisardi, Nicholas: Coldwell Banker Res R E Ratigan, B.J.: Michael Saunders & Company Rothermel, David: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Slotnick, Stuart: Dawn Cohen and Associates Slovin, Michael: United Real Estate Solu, Mart: RE/MAX Alliance Group Steinert, Blaire: RE/MAX Alliance Group Szabo, Lisa: RSVP Associates Inc. Tjaden, Thomas: Exit Realty Signature Prop Tromble Hoke, Stephanie: Signature Sothebys Internat’l Turner, David: Cityscapes Int’l Realty LBK Walsh, Apryl: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Walsh, Kevin: RE/MAX Excellence

Now With ...

Alston, Marilyn: Prudential Palms Realty Ankerstar, Karen: Michael Saunders & Company Arcand, Roberta: Prudential Palms Realty Bachar, Chantal: Coldwell Banker Res R E Bailey, Rebecca: Century 21 Advantage Baker, Pamela: Prudential Palms Realty

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MARCH 2010

Barnard, Andrew: RE/MAX Alliance Group Beisser, Sharon: CareFree Realty Inc. Benson, Laura: Michael Saunders & Company Bowden, Gail: RealtyOne Alliance Brenner, James: Coldwell Banker Res R E Brown, Ruth: Wagner Realty Bucknell, Lindsay: RSVP Associates Inc. Burke, Eileen: Michael Saunders & Company Burke, Harold: Allison James Estates & Homes Burnett, Carol: Club Realty Burr, Wendy: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Calladine, Malcolm: Signature Sothebys Internat’l Campbell, Courtney: Prudential Palms Realty Chicoine, Adam: Michael Saunders & Company Clarke, James: Tivoli Realty Inc. Cole, Charles: RSVP Associates Inc. Conti, Linda: Prudential Palms Realty DeZiel, Allan: Coldwell Banker Res R E Fieberts, Theresa: Wagner Realty Finnegan, Colleenv: Coldwell Banker Res R E Fitzpatrick, Erlene: RE/MAX Alliance Group Flood, Thomas: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Ford, Eliot: RE/MAX Alliance Group Garrabrant, Jennifer: Signature Sothebys Internat’l Goldstein, Leonard: Mapp Realty & Investment Co. Greene, William: Michael Saunders & Company Gruters, Robin: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Gumbs, Debra: Exit Realty Gulf Coast Hanf, Jeffrey: Property Connections Higgins, Daniel: Coldwell Banker Res R E Hilding, Lori: Team Blair Realty Inc. Howard, Carla: Cristello and Co Real Estate Hutson, Charlene: Prudential Palms Realty Kasper, Timothy: Horizon Realty Kerzner, Judi: Allen Real Estate Services Inc. King, Dennis: Prudential Palms Realty Lagrange, Shirley: Prudential Palms Realty Lee, Diane: Wagner Realty Lempel-Husak, Lesley: Century 21 Advantage Lennox, Esther: RoseBay Properties Inc. May, Pamela: Coldwell Banker Res R E McCormick, John: Michael Saunders & Company Meldahl, Cathy: Michael Saunders & Company Menke, Linda: Coffey & Company Realty Myers, Althea: Coldwell Banker Res R E Naylon, Douglas: Realty Express Odehnal, Jerry: RealtyOne Florida Oehler, Gregory: Realty Express Pelisek, James: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Powell, Steven: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Putrino, Curtis: Sandals Realty of Sarasota Repp, Susan: Coldwell Banker Res R E Ruiz del Vizo, Ricardo: Coffey & Company Realty Santelli, Cheryl: Peppertree Bay Realty Inc. Smith, Barbara: Dawn Cohen and Associates Solu, Mart: RE/MAX Alliance Group Sporer, Michael: Wagner Realty Streck, Thomas: Wagner Realty Szabo, Lisa: RSVP Associates Inc. Traberman, Tama: Michael Saunders & Company Triolo, Kristin: Impulse Realty LLC Walker, Daniel: Coldwell Banker Res R E Weaver, Karson: Prudential Palms Realty Zucchelli, E Jean: Coldwell Banker Res R E

New Affiliates

Bank United 1058 N. Tamiami Trail Ste 111 Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 941-366-2904 Representative: Mark J. Rosenthal Specialty: Bank United focuses on the financial needs of growing companies and their executives, consumers and commercial and middle-market businesses in Florida’s thriving coastal regions. The bank offers a broad range of online services, treasury management tools for businesses and traditional

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

depository and lending products. A full service Commercial Bank with 80 locations located only in Florida.

Ben Brown Insurance Agency Inc 3731 S. Tuttle Ave Sarasota, FL 34239 Phone Number: 941-366-9373 Representative: Michael R. Burns Specialty: Our mission at Ben Brown Insurance Agency (Commercial Insurance Services) is to exceed the expectations of our clients by providing high quality insurance products and superior customer service. We are committed to meeting the constantly changing demands of the insurance industry and developing lifelong relationships through the employment of best practices and maintaining a professional and dedicated staff. As an independent agent, we have the resources to offer very competitive rates through more than ten major insurance companies. Ben Brown Insurance Agency has been voted the Best of the Best Insurance Agency in The Sarasota Herald Tribune.

Boyd Insurance & Investment Services Inc. 717 Manatee Ave West Bradenton, FL 34205 Phone Number: 941-745-8300 Representative: Richard G. Gross Specialty: Boyd Insurance writes more than 25 million dollars in insurance premiums every year! That shows we’ve been providing “exceptional service” to our clients along the way! People need insurance to cover a variety of situations, from fender benders to catastrophic illnesses, individual liability, to corporate medical plans.

That’s why Boyd offers a full range on insurance services, Personal Insurance, Business Insurance, Investment Services, Employee Benefits and Commercial Real Estate.

Elite Solar Services 640 Apex Road Sarasota, FL 34240 Phone Number: 941-343-6100 Representative: Paul Nienaber Specialty: Elite Solar Services is a full service, renewable energy integrator. From project development to the smallest of solar systems our licensed solar contractor and team of trained installers, designers, engineers, sales staff and customer service will offer you turnkey solutions for saving money, increasing your energy independence and reducing your carbon footprint. After 25 years of construction management and design experience, we’ve successfully installed over 10,000 construction projects and can make your next green project a breeze. We handle all of your rebate paperwork so you can get your share of the stimulus money NOW!!!! We are part of the fastest growing dealer network in the world that offers best-in-class FSEC approved products like General Electric Solar and BP Solar. Ask us how we can sell you reduced price electricity for your large project.

We are committed to getting you the best value, highest quality and easiest install in North America.

Goodwill Industries-Manasota 7501 15th Street East Sarasota, FL 34243 Phone Number: 941-355-2721 Representative: Donna Evans Specialty: 100 years old not-for-profit which funds its free services through the sale of donated goods. Goodwill Industries-Manasota offers to the community a White Glove Service where trained professionals will come to your home or business to pack up and pick up entire estates FREE OF CHARGE. Donation receipt is provided.

Gulf Coast Contract Furnishings 7010 Honeysuckle Trail Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Phone Number: 941-907-6695 Representative: Allan M. Shaivitz Specialty: Office Furniture Dealer and Design Services Melimelo Studio Inc 2492 Waterview Ct Sarasota, FL 34231 Phone Number: 941-626-1179

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Representative: Sonia T. Hamouda Specialty: Creating a beautiful, comfortable interior environment should be an enjoyable experience. We can help take the stress out of decorating and remodeling by working with you every step of the way. Design-Redising and Real Estate Staging.

Open Mortgage Home Lending 4370 S. Tamiami Trail Ste 103 Sarasota, FL 34231 Phone Number:941-587-4801 Representative: Greg Nolte Specialty: Open Mortgage Home Lending is a Mortgage Banker located in Sarasota, FL. Phil The Mover P O Box 15312 Sarasota, FL 34277 Phone Number: 941-927-0772 Representative: Jackie Webber Specialty: Phil the Mover is a local moving company. As a family owned and operated company since 1993, Phil The Mover prides itself on providing quality moves at a reasonable rate. We use only full time Phil The Mover employees, all professionally trained. Phil The Mover has been voted finalist in the ‘Best Mover’ category of the Sarasota “Best of the Best” since its inception in 2001. Our goal is total customer satisfaction in everything we do to ensure a “stress free” move. That is why whether you are moving across town or across the street, Phil The Mover can get you there. Call Jackie and reserve your move today!

Spectrum Home Services of Sarasota Address: 3853 Aberdeen Drive Sarasota, FL 34240 Phone Number: 941-378-9300 Representative: Will Walters Specialty: No other Home Service Franchise can come close to the Full Spectrum of services we provide! Spectrum Home Services provides the services that busy homeowners, families, baby-boomers and seniors need to maintain their homes. We offer affordable, quality services in the following core areas: Handyman Services, Yard Care Services, Elite Cleaning Services, Relocation Services, Senior/ Specialized Services, and Foreclosure & Real Estate Services. By focusing on quality, affordability and exceptional customer service, Spectrum Home Services has become the leader in the home service industry.

Starr Title Insurance Agency LLC 100 Wallace Ave, Suite 250 Sarasota, FL 34237 Phone Number: 941-365-7827 Representative: Carrie Starr Rummery Specialty: Starr Title Insurance was conceived to provide the highest quality title insurance service with old fashioned care. We are noted for providing exceptional service and support. We partner with our clients to create a personal, rewarding and caring relationship while at the same time keeping our clients informed of changing practices and issues in the industry. At Starr Title we invite you to experience the highest quality of professional support and service. Based on our expertise, experience and dedication, we are confident that you will appreciate the difference.

Wireless City/Verizon 4644 Clark Road Sarasota, FL 34238 Phone Number: 941-927-3820 Representative: Brad Evans Specialty: Wireless City is a new type of wireless store that has been formed by a partnership between Verizon Wireless and a group of experienced entrepreneurs. Founded on the fundamental belief that buying wireless devices and services should be a great experience, rather than a painful one, we’ve built a national reputation while delivering the highest quality wireless products and services to our clients. Wireless City promises to always deliver to our consumer and business customers: professional, friendly and personalized advice, only the “best of the best” phones, accessories and services, a relaxed, stress free environment to discover, learn and try out the perfect phones and accessories and services for you.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2010

31

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

MARCH 2010 S ARASOTA A SSOCIATION OF R EALTORS ® E DUCATION /E VENTS C ALENDAR 1

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

2

3

4

5

8

9

10

11

12

15

16

17

18

9 a.m.

Green SeminarShifting Into Green 9 a.m.

Design Web Page 1:30 p.m. iMAPP

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (SAR)

19

22

23

24

25

8:30 a.m.

ABR Designation Course

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (SAR) 10 a.m.

Photographer

29

30

31

April 1

8 a.m.

GRI Course 1

9 a.m.

MLXchange-Basic 1:30 p.m.

Entering & Updating Listings

9 a.m.– 4 p.m.

New Member Orientation & Code of Ethics

9 a.m.

MLXchange -Basic 1:30 p.m.

Entering & Updating Listings

8 a.m.

GRI Course 1

8 a.m.

GRI Course 1

9 a.m.

Realtor/Attorney Short Sale Seminar 5:30 p.m.

SYR Social– Ceviche

8 a.m.

CID General Membership 9 a.m.

MLX Advanced 1:30 p.m.

Creating a CMA

8:30 a.m.

ABR Designation Course 5 p.m.

Affiliate SocialMain St Oyster Bar

9 a.m.

Waterfront Property Due Diligence Seminar

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (University Park CC)

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (SAR)

8 a.m.

Power Marketing (University Park CC)

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace 11:30 a.m.

1st Quarter Membership Meeting-Pine Shores CC

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace (Manatee Association of Realtors®)

26

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace

2

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace

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 “Training,” then “Quick Class Registration” and follow prompts.

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

Monday