REALTOR Magazine September October 2018 by Bakersfield Association of REALTORS®

M A G A Z I N E SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2018

INSIDE

Incoming President, Athena Collup

Preps for 2019

Jeanne Radsick

Pathway to Homeownership

REImagine Expo Chaired by Scott Knoeb

Boys & Girls Club Life Skills Taught at the Association

REA LTORS Â® POSIT IVE LY IMPACT O U R C OM M U NIT Y TH ROU G H C OM M U NI T Y SE RV IJohn C E 3:16

2018

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2018 OFFICERS President Derek Sprague Mossy Oak Properties

President-Elect Athena Collup Miramar International — Mill Rock Vice President Ronda Newport Watson Realty, ERA Secretary/Treasurer Scott Knoeb Frontier Real Estate Services, Inc. Immediate Past President Midge Jimerson Boydstun Realty Co., Inc. Chief Executive Officer Linda Jay, RCE

2018 Directors

Anna Albiar Coldwell Banker Preferred, Coffee William Chicas Watson Realty ERA Michele Cooper Karpe Real Estate Center Wayland Louie RE/MAX Golden Empire Glenn Porter RE/MAX Golden Empire Darlene Tobias Century 21, Jodan-Links Brian Tuttle Coldwell Banker Preferred – Coffee Ashley Weaver Karpe Real Estate Center

REALTOR® MAGAZINE Executive Editor - Linda Jay, CEO, RCE Managing Editor - Carol Duran Contributing Articles Editor - Tiffany Waldowski Statistics - Jamey Lyster Graphic Designer - Carol Duran Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® 2300 Bahamas Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93309 P. 661-635-2300 F. 661-635-2317 www.bakersfieldrealtor.com facebook.com/bakersfieldrealtors twitter.com/bakorealtors

CONTENTS

Bakersfield REALTOR® Magazine

LEADERSHIP BEYOND LOCAL LEVEL Our leadership continues to serve at C.A.R. and NAR.

NEW OFFICERS & DIRECTORS Results of the 2019 Election revealed.

YPN AND LEADERSHIP 2019 Chair Michelle Valverde urges members of all ages to get involved.

SALLYS PLACE VOLUNTEERS FEED THE ELDERLY Members volunteer each month to cook and serve home cooked meals for underprivileged seniors.

AGENT ENGAGED FEEDS HOMELESS Spearheaded by Joe Muller, he takes REALTORS® and community service to the streets, more specifically to the homeless.

2019 COMMITTEES AND THEIR LEADERSHIP Take the leap of faith and volunteer for any one of our committees, you’ll find it more rewarding than ever imagined.

WHAT DOES FIDUCIARY MEAN TO YOU? Joe Newton explains what it means as a REALTOR® to have a fiduciary responsibility to your client.

WHO IS GENERATION Z How do we market to this new up-and-coming group of homeowners?

ISSUES IMPACTING THE REAL ESTATE MARKET Today’s issues will impact your decisions over the next ten years. Find out what those issues are.

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Home is where the heart is…

f there is any truth to the old proverb “Home is Where the Heart is”, then Bakersfield has a lot of heart. While other cities tout different hallmarks, Bakersfield has always felt like home. Despite being one of California’s largest cities, Bakersfield is still an oil and agricultural town made up of a ton of success stories. REALTORS® play a large role in defining the identity of communities across the nation. Whether it be in guiding a first-time homebuyer through an intimidating purchase process or supporting land use decisions on development properties, REALTORS® have a large fingerprint on the identity of a community. Our members are on the front lines of telling the story of Bakersfield, and everybody tells it a little differently…

Bakersfield is… Bold. As the number one agricultural producing county and the number two oil producing county in the nation, you must be a little bold. Authentic. Our community consists of many talented people that are willing to take the time to meet face-to-face, shake hands, and build relationships. Kind. Bakersfield gives a tremendous amount of time, energy, and money to those less fortunate. Likewise, the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® Charitable Foundation is growing in order to give in an impactful way on behalf of our members. Economical. Bakersfield and Kern County are among the most affordable housing markets

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

in the state. According to the California Association of REALTORS®, Traditional Housing Affordability Index, 53% of households can afford to purchase a medianpriced home compared with 26% average across the state based on the second quarter of 2018. More. Than. Double. Respectful. One incredible aspect of our city is the notion that everyone knows everyone. Every month, I have the honor of installing new REALTORS® into our membership with an oath that includes the Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them to unto you”. Give clients, colleagues, friends, family, and strangers the love and respect they deserve, because in this town more often than not, it comes back around. Sentimental. The Bakersfield Sign. Buck Owens, Merle Haggard, and more with that Bakersfield Twang sound. The Padre Hotel. The Roadrunners and the Renegades. One-of-akinds like Smith’s Cookies, Mexicali, Basque restaurants, Dewar’s Ice Cream, and Luigi’s. Too many more to list… Family-Oriented. Bakersfield is a great place to raise a family, where you can reasonably commute to work, provide a quality education for your children, and enjoy a greater quality of life. Innovative. The County of Kern recently announced that Amazon will be building a two million square foot fulfillment center near Meadows Field, bringing upwards of 1,000 jobs to the community. I have no doubt that

the decisions of Amazon and others are largely based on the attractiveness of the community as a distribution and logistical hub combined with the support of local government of land use development. Engaging. Recently, several elected officials met with our Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® Leadership Academy to talk about their perspectives in public service. It may seem like a simple effort, but it speaks volumes to the level of engagement that our public servants invest in the community. Thank you specifically to Kern County Supervisors Mick Gleason and Mike Maggard, Kern County Treasurer-Tax Collector Jordan Kaufmann, Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh, and Bakersfield City Councilmember Chris Parlier for taking the time to grow the future leaders of our industry and the community. Leader. Kern County is a model for generating energy out of the ground, wind, and sun. However, none of that would be possible without the support of some of the community’s homegrown leaders. Locally, we are well represented in leadership positions within federal, state, and local government, in addition to a wealth of savvy business leaders. Determined. Our community is determined to tell the story that it deserves; a metropolitan farm town where you can raise a family, grow a business, and support deep-rooted core values. I am so proud to see the impact our members make on the community, and I look forward to REALTORS® writing the next chapter.

Building a Stronger Community

t is a mindset, a principle to which we adhere… the belief that we can make a positive difference in our community. But it is much more than just a mindset. As REALTORS® it is something we strive to do every day in tangible, relevant ways. It is an individual and collective belief that we are leaders, people of influence who “can be a catalyst for change and a resource to be leveraged to transform our community” (Tom DeVries – Global Leadership). Why do we believe this to be true? Because we have seen and experienced such transformational change that continues to inspire, encourage, and challenge us to advance our efforts in an even more purposeful and intentional way! What comes to mind when you think of the word community? Our thoughts, quite naturally, first turn to the place or area in which we live, work, and play. But communities are so much more than a physical place. Communities are people. Individuals and groups who are like-minded, sharing common interests or concerns; Community action, when a group of people believe in a particular cause and come together to bring about change; or Communities of circumstance, when groups of people assemble together because of their shared experiences rather than shared interests. According to Quora,

The Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® is a community of professionals who share a common purpose of improving the real estate industry through professionalism and service. Inc., “Communities are there as a platform to uplift and empower other members. They are people who are connected to you and committed to the same values you have. Whether they be in a personal or professional context, they are there to drive positivity and create opportunity.” The Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® is a community of professionals who share a common purpose of “improving the real estate industry through professionalism and service”. As Leaders of our professional community, what we do and the decisions we make must be for the good of all we serve, which includes our members as well the greater community. The Strategic Plan developed by our

leadership team in 2013 established a comprehensive set of goals and objectives tailored to provide a roadmap for them and future leaders to navigate through the ever-changing landscape of our industry and marketplace. Since its adoption, an assessment of the plan has been performed biannually to measure our progress and determine if any course corrections are needed. Those assessments have shown a consistent and measurable advancement of the goals and objectives set forth in the plan. Of the five core goals and values established, pursuing the highest level of professional and ethical excellence through education and knowledge was given the highest priority in governing our work and relationships with others. When we are passionate in our pursuit of professional excellence in every aspect of our craft, not only do we inspire and challenge each other to excel, but it also ensures that the community we serve becomes the benefactor of a superior level of service on multiple levels. Our commitment is to intentionally strive to grow in our professional excellence every day and look for opportunities to strengthen relationships and enhance the quality of life for those who live, learn, work, and play in our community. Together we are strong! BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

Leadership Beyond Local Level

Service at the National Association and California Association of REALTORS®

ur leaders don’t stop serving at the local level, they continue to lead and support our industry at the California Association of REALTORS® and National Association of REALTORS®. Each year we have a great team of leaders who continue their service at Region12. The purpose of Region 12 is to provide representation for member Boards/ Associations of REALTORS® on the region and state level to the California Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®. The Region is a means of disseminating information from the state and national Associations to the local Boards/Associations, as well as a means for bringing feedback to the State and National Associations from the local Boards/ Associations. The region provides a means of organizing the member local Boards/ Associations to support or oppose issues that affect the Region. Region 12 includes seven associations including Bakersfield, Fresno, Kern RiverLake Isabella, Kings County, Madera, Tehachapi, and Tulare County. The seven REALTOR® Associations of Region 12 are located in the Central Valley (The Valley), California’s largest valley area. The Valley is outlined by the Cascade, Sierra Nevada and Tehachapi mountain ranges and covers an area from Shasta on the North to Kern County on the South. Each July, Region 12 holds their annual business meeting which includes conducting their 2019 election. From our Association, Sheri Anthes was appointed to be the 2019 Region 12 Vice Chair. Other appointed positions received by our C.A.R. Directors and Staff include: n Investment Housing Committee- Regional Representative – Scott Knoeb n Land Use and Environmental Committee – Regional Representative – Derek Sprague n Legislative Committee – Regional Representative – Theresa Olson

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

n Land

Use and Environmental – Vice Chair – Derek Sprague n Taxation and Government Finance Policy Committee – Regional Representative – Midge Jimerson n Transaction and Regulatory Policy Committee – Regional Representative – Ronda Newport n Housing Affordability – Chair – Theresa Olson n 2019 Immediate Past Chair and Nominating Committee Representative – David Knoeb. David is also continuing on as C.A.R. CREPAC Trustee and NAR RPAC Fundraising Committee. Here are a few highlights about David Knoeb, the current Region 12 Chair: n Broker Owner of Frontier Real Estate Services, Inc., since June 2007 n He specializes in HOA Management, Property Management, Investment Housing (Rent to Own & Flipping), and helping Buyers and Sellers n REALTOR® of the Year in 2014 n Association President in 2013 n 2018 Director for the GE/MLS and the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® Charitable Foundation n REALTOR® Orientation Ethics Instructor Here are just a few highlights about Sheri Anthes, the 2019 Region 12 Vice Chair: n Vice President of Operations, Coldwell Banker Preferred, REALTORS® n Broker Licensee, 2011 n Graduate Real Estate Institute (GRI), 2004 n NAR Major Donor, Sterling “R” (since 2012) n NAR Director in Training, 2018 n Association Director 2012 - 2016 n Regional Rep for Legislative Committee and Professional Development Forum, 2018 n Key Contact, Assembly Member Shannon Grove, 2016 & 2017 n Association President, 2015 n 2013 REALTOR® of the Year

C.A.R. DIRECTORS FOR LIFE

City’s Mobile App

Makes it Easy to Keep Neighborhoods Vibrant

eeping our neighborhoods clean and safe is essential to ensure Bakersfield remains a great place to live, work, visit…and own a home. Vibrant neighborhoods have proven to boost economic development and enhance quality of life for residents. That’s why the City of Bakersfield makes it easy for residents to quickly report non-emergency issues such as potholes, graffiti, and non-working street lights directly to City staff via their smartphone! Bakersfield Mobile is a free civic engagement tool available for most major smartphone platforms. The application empowers users to report certain issues quickly and easily to the appropriate City departments, which streamlines the process to correct these items within your neighborhood. Currently, residents can report the following type of issues through Bakersfield Mobile: n Damaged parks equipment n Graffiti n Street lights malfunctions/outages n Traffic signals n Potholes n Overgrown lawn or weeds n Junk, trash and/or debris in a yard n Abandoned furniture n Algae in swimming pools n Vehicles parked on a lawn The app is simple to use – snap a picture or video, answer a few questions and submit!

CHRIS PARLIER

Councilmember, Ward 7, City of Bakersfield

of Merit Award Winner in the category of Innovation. Prior to implementing the application, residents could only submit service requests by calling the department directly or visiting the City’s website to complete an electronic request form. These methods were not only burdensome for residents who make the requests, but equally time consuming for staff to receive. Fast forward, Bakersfield Mobile now streamlines this process for both the residents and City, which results in a far more efficient and effective manner of delivering services. The application is free to download for both Apple and Android platforms by searching for “Bakersfield Mobile” in the respective app store.

The app uses geo-tagging technology to automatically provide the location to City staff, which simplifies the reporting process for residents and increases the reliability of the report location. Once a resident reports a service request, he or she will receive status updates, from the initial staff assignment through completion. Since its debut in 2014, over 21,000 service requests have been submitted through Bakersfield Mobile! Bakersfield Mobile was recognized by the Kern Council of Governments as a 2014 Regional Award BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

Welcome, New Officers & Directors! Election results bring in some familiar faces along with new ones who will be serving on the 2018 Board

s a result of our recent election, we have

spent her professional career in Kern County

the recipient of awards for excellence in the real

4 new Officers: Athena Collup,

assisting buyers, sellers, and investors for over 25

estate industry, including the 2015 Salesperson

2019 President; Ronda Newport,

years, specializing in residential and relocation

of the Year in January 2016. She is currently

real estate transactions.

serving as the President-Elect for the Bakersfield

President Elect; Scott Knoeb, Vice President; and Wayland Louie, Secretary/Treasurer. We also

Throughout her professional career, Athena

Association of REALTORS®.

have three new Directors who will be serving a

has served on multiple levels of organized real

3-year term on our Board of Directors: Michele

estate as a Director for the California Association

Party and mission. As a long-time advocate,

Cooper, Bill Mell, Martha Johnson, and Kym

of REALTORS®, Bakersfield Association

she works toward policies that promote home

Plivelich who will be serving a 2-year term. They

of REALTORS®, Golden Empire Multiple

ownership and inspire REALTORS® to serve

are all often seen giving generously of their time

Listing Service (GEMLS), as member or chair

their industry and community. In addition to

to support programs and services provided by

of RGR, Diversity, Community Spirit, Local

her volunteer work in organized real estate, she

the Association.

Candidate Recommendation Committee

is also a community leader that has contributed

Here are a few highlights about each of them:

(LCRC), Professional Standards, and Education

her time and efforts to various local organizations

committees. She believes continuing education

including Alliance Against Family Violence,

is critical to the service she provides her clients.

Bakersfield Homeless Center, Relay for Life,

As part of that commitment, she received her

Gleaners, Habitat for Humanity, Families of

GRI designation in 2014. She has also been

Fallen Warriors, Wounded Heroes Fund of

Athena Collup

2019 President Miramar International – Mill Rock Athena Collup is a proud REALTOR® that has

Athena is strongly invested in the REALTOR®

Congratulations to Our 2019 Off

ATHENA COLLUP

RONDA NEWPORT

MICHELE COOPER

MARTHA JOHNSON

2019 President Miramar International - Mill Rock

2019 - 2021 Director Karpe Real Estate Center ® BAKERSFIELD REALTOR MAGAZINE

2019 President - Elect Watson Realty ERA

2019 - 2021 Director Keller Williams Realty

SCOTT KNOEB

2019 Vice President Frontier Real Estate Services, Inc.

BILL MELL

2019 - 2021 Director Miramar International, Coffee

WAYLAND LOUIE

2019 Secretary / Treasurer RE/MAX Golden Empire

KYM PLIVELICH

2019 - 2020 Director Marcom Real Estate

Kern County, and has served as the Bakersfield Breakfast Club Rotary’s Foundation President. A native of Bakersfield, Athena and her husband Steven have raised 3 sons and have 8 grandchildren. They are both very proud that their children “all own a home of their own and didn’t borrow any money from Mom and Dad.”

Ronda Newport 2019 President Elect Watson Realty ERA Ronda joined our Association as a REALTOR® member in 2008 after a lengthy career with the Kern County District Attorney’s Office. Her volunteer involvement with the Association began in 2012, serving as the chair of the RSVP committee with a focus on community service. She co-chaired the team Bringing Home the Cure, which is a fundraising committee benefiting Relay for Life and Kern County Cancer Fund, for 2 years. She also chaired the Membership Development/ Orientation Committee, Career

Booster, and Strategic Planning and Finance. Ronda is a past President of Women’s Council of REALTORS® and currently serves as the Vice President of the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® and a Director for the California Association of REALTORS®. Ronda is a good steward of her community as well. She is a volunteer for the Kern County Wounded Heroes Fund, California Federation of Republican Women, and is a Director of the Real Estate Professionals Family Relief Fund. She also enjoys being a member of the Christian Real Estate Fellowship group. The love she has for her profession drives her to be an informed member of our Association. Every day she strives to be an ethical, fair, and well-respected member of the Association and her community. Her commitment is to provide a high standard of ethical and professional leadership to her colleagues, the industry and the community we serve. Ronda has been married to Walt Newport,

ficers and Directors

also a REALTOR® and committee volunteer, for 15 years. They have 5 children and 5 grandchildren who bring them great joy.

Scott Knoeb 2019 Vice President Frontier Real Estate Services, Inc. After attending Legislative Day in Sacramento several years ago, Scott realized what it truly takes to protect our industry, our professional career, and the rights of private property owners. This experience has inspired him to take his involvement in the Board of REALTORS® to the next level. He’s been on a committee every year for the past 9 years, which has given him the experience and knowledge to fully take on the challenges of our Board. Scott is currently the Chair of the California Association of REALTORS® Expo Committee, Board of Director for Bakersfield Association of REALTORS®, the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® Charitable Foundation and Chair of the Strategic Planning and Finance Committee. Scott also serves as Chair for Kern County Heritage Commission and Vice Chair of the Bakersfield Ronald McDonald House. Following in his father David Knoeb’s footsteps, Scott is part-owner and a REALTOR® for the family’s business, Frontier Real Estate Services, Inc.

Wayland Louie

DAREK SPRAGUE

mmediate Past President Mossy Oak Properties

GLENN PORTER

2018 - 2020 Director RE/MAX Golden Empire

ANNA ALBIAR

2017 - 2019 Director Coldwell Banker Preferred

BRIAN TUTTLE

2018 - 2020 Director Coldwell Banker Preferred – Coffee

WILLIAM CHICAS

2017 - 2019 Director Watson Real Estate ERA

LINDA JAY

Chief Executive Officer, RCE

2019 Secretary / Treasurer RE/MAX Golden Empire Wayland is a Broker Associate at RE/MAX Golden Empire. In 2013 he was honored as the Association’s 2013 Salesperson of the Year. Wayland has been a Director of both the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® and the Golden Empire Multiple Listing Service (GEMLS) since 2010. He has served on the Budget and Long Range Planning Committee for both Boards and currently serves on the Strategic Planning and Finance Committee as Vice Chair. He also serves on other committees: Commercial Investment Forum, Membership Orientation, MLS Open Forum, and Cultural Diversity and Equal Opportunity. He has conducted ethics orientation sessions since 2013 and has been assisting in mediation sessions at the Association since 2014. Wayland stays active in the community as a volunteer, feeding lunch to senior citizens at the Salvation Army/Sally’s Place monthly, as LEADERSHIP, Continued on page 24 BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

Incoming President, Athena Collup Unveils 2019 Theme

Our Story: REALTORS Are More! ®

ATHENA COLLUP

committee. That year we were expecting a significant change in our purchase contract

MIRAMAR INTERNATIONAL, MILL ROCK

and the brokers were talking about a new

ave you ever been inspired to dream more, learn more and do more? That inspiration started me on a journey nearly 20 years ago that has continued to shape me as a professional and a leader on every level. In preparation for my role as 2019 President of the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS®, I recently had the privilege of participating in a Leadership Summit in Chicago, hosted by the National Association of REALTORS®. I’d like to take a moment to share some observations from that insightful event, the first of my leadership training at the national level. Incoming NAR President John Smaby shared his theme for the 2019 year, which is “Own your Story.” Smaby said, “I believe with all my heart that how well we tell our story, from the conference rooms of our offices to the halls of Congress, will be integral to the future of our Association for years to come. Our message must be consistent and strong on many fronts. Together, we have a compelling and beautiful story to tell.” We need to make sure our REALTOR® story is an organized effort to advance our communications to both our members as well as our clients. We need to increase our efforts to raise funds for advocacy. We live in a world where it costs money to have a voice. If you receive a call from your local leadership asking you to give to the REALTOR® Action Fund, answer the call. Data stewardship is also critical. Technology

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

expressway to be constructed, yet nobody could tell me where or when it was going to be built. Apprehensive I would unknowingly place a client in the path, I served on the committees I thought would insure I had the most current information. I wanted to be the most knowledgeable agent in every transaction. I went on to serve on various committees including Professional Standards, Grievance, and Strategic Planning and Finance, eventually is collecting information on our buyers and sellers and we must be the voice that interprets the data for our clients as well as others outside of the real estate industry, such as our government officials. Enhancing the Member experience is vital as well. Our Association offers the training, resources, and tools required to ethically, professionally, and confidently manage your business. Our collective story is about REALTORS® being MORE than a source for data, MORE than access to a lock box, MORE than a resource for contracts. REALTORS® fight to protect the American dream of home ownership; they serve the community around them, and they are held to a higher level of ethics. The REALTOR® story, is that REALTORS® are MORE… My personal story, the story of my service to the real estate industry, started with seeking knowledge by serving on the Education Committee and Local Government Relations

serving on the GEMLS Board of Directors and the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors. My service not only enriched my business, it also enabled me to give some of my experience back to the industry. I watched each new President start out the year somewhat apprehensive and unsure of themselves, and by the end of the year through experience and training, become the confident voice of real estate for the Association. I was fascinated watching this transformation both in their knowledge of the real estate industry and their interactions with the Board of Directors, City leaders and colleagues. I have learned a lot in my service to the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS®, and the California Association of REALTORS®. I’m looking forward to serving nationally at the National Association REALTORS® to see how the experience adds to my story. I am honored to have this opportunity, which all started because I wanted to be MORE…

O U R F U T U R E B E G I N S TO D AY !

C.A.R. 2019 PRESIDENT-ELECT

C.A.R. Leadership Team

Reviews Issues and Programs Including Pathway to Homeownership

JEANNE RADSICK CENTURY 21 - JORDAN LINK & CO.

This has been a busy summer for the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) and the Leadership Team. We started in June with three days of meetings with the senior staff of C.A.R., brainstorming about what we have done, what we still need to do, and what we could possibly change. We then headed to a special meeting in the Los Angeles area to determine the next steps on the Tax Portability Issue, which has become Proposition 5 on the ballot for this fall. We are hoping to re-invigorate the ability to transfer tax bases for those over 55, the disabled, or those who have been displaced (like those from our recent fire season and other natural disasters). This is a reboot of the Proposition 13 program which has languished due to the changes in the markets and the requirement to buy “down” in pricing. Watch for more information and help us get this passed this fall. The next meeting was the two-day “WomanUP” program held in Los Angeles. This was a fantastic meeting of people coming together to tell their stories, boost confidence, and generally accept that we all need to do a better job of making sure that women are no longer under-represented in our profession. This was the second such meeting, and the overwhelming response is going to help create a national program, so stay tuned. It is for both men and women to participate in, and one of the more meaningful remarks at the end of the two-day event was from a very well respected gentleman,

who stood up and said “I had no idea that I was a part of the problem! This has opened my eyes.” Mid-July saw us attending the Inman Connect® in San Francisco. The sessions were lively and thought provoking, and included some thoughts on homelessness. As a part of that thought, I want to share with you a program from C.A.R. that was acknowledged at Inman as recipient of an Innovator Award. The California Association of REALTORS® has created “The Path to Homeownership.” This is the result of owning an aging building in downtown Los Angeles. The proposal is to tear it down and create not only a state-of-the-art office building, but to create homes and rental units geared to below market rates, and includes some dedicated to veterans. There will be on-site counseling services to help renters become potential home buyers and assist with credit issues, as well as having on site multi-purpose areas for gatherings and fun. It is truly an innovative solution to the

Artist rendering of the future C.A.R. Building

ever-escalating cost of homes. The third week of July had us at the Los Angeles headquarters, trying to fit the over 1,500 requests for leadership positions at C.A.R., into the 175 available positions. I am astonished by the level of commitment and the desire to serve our membership in a multitude of roles. When you want to learn, and have the ability to make a difference, this is an awesome way to give back. And speaking of giving back, our own community is struggling with homelessness as we have never seen before. There is an opportunity for anyone to offer to help the myriad number of groups grappling with an overload of requests for services. Just a once a week, or once a month commitment can help in ways you have never dreamed of. Volunteer to help with the homeless or volunteer at a school to read to children struggling with illiteracy…the opportunities to help are plentiful. The greatest issue that we have in our state is the lack of affordable housing. I know that ours may be more affordable than other areas, but our incomes are also less, so there is still a relative need. Help us advocate for affordability. The future of our children and grandchildren are at stake. Where will they afford to live? As always, I am grateful for all of your support, and I hope that it will continue. Never hesitate to call, text, or email me with questions or comments. You can contact me at jeanne@ radsick.com, or text me at (661)319-6555. I am committed to doing the very best for our members and organization. BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

YPN is an Introduction to Leadership Members of All Ages Challenged to Get Involved

MICHELLE VALVERDE

PERFORMANCE REALTORS

hat an absolutely incredible journey I have experienced. Reflecting on the last few days at the National Association of REALTORS® Young Professionals Network (NARYPN) Retreat, I have been overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement to have been surrounded by a group of strong, young professionals nationwide who share the same goals for their local communities as I. This army of 200 REALTORS® also share a desire to make a difference in our industry, and they’ve come with an artillery of tools and systems backed with experience and knowledge. During our sessions, we discussed relevant topics such as “disruptions” in our industry and how to fight back, what it means to “Own it!”, our REALTOR® Political Action Contribution (RPAC), and how our unique authentic story can make all the difference in separating REALTORS® from the rest. Networking is also a vital part of our business, and being part of YPN has allowed me the opportunity to establish life-long relationships with referral partners all over the country.

Our local YPN is excited to bring new and innovative ways to engage our members and create valuable knowledge to help with business growth, while still having a lot of fun doing it! I believe YPN is a great introduction to leadership regardless of age. If you are new to the industry, I highly recommend you attend our future events, mixers, philanthropic contribution efforts, etc. and see if this is something for you. I challenge everyone to evaluate what commitment you have to your industry and what kind of impact you want to make. Whether it be YPN and/or another great committee at our Association, get involved and make a difference! If you are interested in becoming a member of YPN, please contact me at myrealtormichelle661@gmail.com.

Get Involved In YPN

Members are encouraged to learn more about this dynamic group. While most members of YPN are under 40, there is no age restriction. Any member who thinks he/she would benefit from membership is welcome to join. We would love for you to be a member of our group (there is no cost for membership).

Michelle Valverde snaps a photo with YPN Leadership at the NARYPN Retreat in Chicago

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

About Michelle Valverde:

Having built a solid foundation in the real estate industry since 2007 in various administrative and management roles, as well as being a REALTOR®, Michelle applies her expertise and market knowledge to assist every client with care and compassion. She is devoted by way of faith, family, friends, and client relationships. A professional by nature, Michelle’s main focus is customer service and educating her community. In addition to being Vice Chair of the Young Professionals Network, she actively contributes to different philanthropic organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Alliance Against Family Violence, and the American Cancer Association. She has received many accolades such as Rising Star in 2015, Performance REALTOR® of the Year in 2016, Diamond Club in 2015 and 2016, and Top Producer in 2017. Promoting positive community and economic growth in Kern County, her passion as a REALTOR® exemplifies commitment and care every step of the way.

REIMAGINE

CONFERENCE AND EXPO, OCTOBER 9-11TH ®

Association Officer Scott Knoeb Chairs

REImagine Conference in Long Beach SCOTT KNOEB

FRONTIER REAL ESTATE SERVICES, INC

he first time I went to a California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) Legislative Day and Directors meeting, it was almost overwhelming! I could not believe how many REALTORS® get together multiple times a year for a whole week out of their lives to protect every single REALTOR® business and professional in the State of California. I honestly believe 90% of all REALTORS® will never know how much C.A.R. does for their business and for their clients. California Association of REALTORS® is the one place where all the top REALTORS® in the state come together to grow their business, support private property rights, and to bring every REALTOR’S® voice together to speak as one voice loud and proud, it is truly amazing! The first appointment I received was to serve on the Expo Committee. Our Committee is responsible for helping C.A.R.’s Marketing Team, arranging industry-leading speakers for classes, determining the menu and linens for all the luncheons, putting on the After Party, arranging the prizes for the giveaways (all of which usually total in value at around $25,000), and when you come to Expo, we are the first ones to greet you with a smile! Being in C.A.R. leadership has been an experience I will never forget. When you get involved at the state level it can completely

About Scott Knoeb n Owner/REALTOR®,

Frontier Real Estate Services, Inc. n 2018

Association Secretary/Treasurer

n 2018

Chair, California Association of REALTORS® Expo Committee n 2018

Chair of Kern County Heritage Commission n 2016-2018

Director, Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® n 2016-2018

Director, Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® Charitable Foundation n 2017

YPN Committee Chair

n 2017

Vice Chair, Ronald McDonalds House

n 2017

Vice Chair, REALTOR® Governmental Review n 2016

Chair, Membership Development / Orientation

change your business and personal life as well. Working my way up through the ranks was not easy. You have to work hard and have a passion for the Real Estate Industry. After all my hard work, I finally received the call from the 2016 President Pat “Ziggy”

Zicarelli to tell me that I would be the 2018 Chair of REImagine. The first time I walked on stage in front of over 900 C.A.R. Directors, I was so nervous and couldn’t help thinking “don’t trip on the way up to the podium”. However, after walking off stage with a big applause, I knew all the time and energy spent preparing for this moment was well worth it! 2018 is the year of change for the California Association of REALTORS®, and as the 2018 Chair of REImagine, I can be the first one to tell you it has been an amazing change! This year will be the very first REImagine ever, and if you think this is just another Expo, think again. Tuesday October 9 is the pre-conference and will showcase a wide variety of informative classes. October 10-11 is REImagine with all educational events free of charge except for the special luncheons. REImagine is going to completely redefine your experience at C.A.R.’s annual trade show. This incredible event will include five pre-conference adventures, 18 Set Your Business on Fire Deep Dive Sessions, 300 vendors with swag, two parties, two jaw-dropping keynote speakers, infinite opportunities to create personal business connections, a donut wall, and 30 inspirational/laugh out loud real talks that will take your business to the next level! So, when someone ask you where will you be October 9-11, the answer is simple… Long Beach, California at REImagine!

Scott Knoeb prepares for the upcoming chair responsibilites of the IREImagine Conference & Expo BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

REALTOR® Party

Impacts Our Industry

can’t say it often enough. We are so fortunate here at the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® to have so many caring, dependable, and committed volunteers. Every day, I have the pleasure of working with impressive volunteers that have a commitment to

it was a huge win for REALTORS®. But it was unclear who would be eligible for the deduction. Now that proposed regulations are out, it is clear the new deduction will be available to a wide range of real estate professionals. Under the new law, individual owners of

excellence in the industry and that are dedicated to community service and political advocacy. Political advocacy is a large part of being an influencer and being involved in your community. As tempting as it may be to shy away from politics in this day and age of information overload, fake news and negativity- we cannot. As REALTOR® members, we subscribe to the REALTOR® Party. The REALTOR® Party is a powerful alliance of REALTORS® and REALTOR® Associations working to protect and promote homeownership and property investment. The REALTOR® Party speaks with one voice to advance candidates and public policies that build strong communities and promote a vibrant business environment. We support REALTOR® Champions, not political parties. As a part of the REALTOR® Party, you are helping the community and your clients have access to homeownership and good communities. We have a lot of work to do this fall. I will be calling on each of you this election cycle leading up to the November 6th California General Election to help. There are many important local races and statewide measures that are critical to making sure we have policies that promote homeownership and private property rights. There is too much at stake to not participate.

sole proprietorships, including independent contractors, and owners of S corporations, LLCs, or partnerships can take the 20 percent deduction on their net qualified (that is, ordinary, non-investment) business income. The calculation will depend on income thresholds, what type of business you own, and how you meet certain wage and qualified property tests. But the basic structure is very favorable to you as a small business or independent contractor. REALTORS® were integral to the favorable interpretation in the proposed rules. Your association made a forceful case—both in a detailed letter it sent on June 19th and in a face-to-face meeting with IRS officials in early August—that certain limitations on specified service businesses were not intended by Congress to apply to real estate professionals. And that’s the interpretation the IRS has ended up taking. As an August 7th Bloomberg News article says, the National Association of REALTORS® “met with OMB (Office of Management and Budget) and Treasury Department officials to discuss proposed rules outlining computation of the new write-off for pass-throughs.” The new deduction is available for tax years beginning after December 31, 2017. You’ll be able to claim it for the first time on the 2018 federal income tax return you file next year. Look for detailed NAR guidance by midSeptember. It’s a complicated provision and how it works for you will depend on many factors unique to your business structure and your income. As always, consult with your accountant or tax attorney on how this deduction should be applied in your situation.

Here are a few ways you can do your part now: ADVOCATE QUICKLY by completing calls for action. VOTE. One of the easiest ways to positively impact your community is to simply participate by exercising your right to vote. Advocate by quickly completing Calls for Action from

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

C.A.R. and NAR. ACT. Volunteer on a campaign for a candidate that is a REALTOR® champion. One hour of your time could make a big difference in a close election. INVEST. Contribute to the REALTOR® Action Fund. WRITE A LETTER to local elected officials encouraging them for making good decisions for the community, or take the time to submit a letter to the editor of the local newspaper. RUN FOR OFFICE. Seriously! We need more REALTOR® champions in elected positions. By doing our part to contribute to the community, we add people to our circle of influence and gain opportunities to build relationships and success. We also demonstrate what it means to be a good citizen to the next generation by leading by example.

National Association of REALTORS® working for you! Big Win for REALTORS® on IRS Guidance for 20% Income Deduction If you were tuned to the news August 8th, you might have heard the IRS released proposed regulations on the new 20 percent business income deduction for pass through businesses. The deduction was part of the big tax reform law Congress passed at the end of last year and

THE A TEAM (AFFILIATES IN ACTION) We also have a special group of individuals who form a group of loyal, hard-working Affiliate Members called the A Team, who serve the Association in a variety of ways. To achieve the A Team status, the Affiliates must meet certain criteria that has been established. If you’d like to be part of this special group of Affiliate Members, the A Team, contact Jeff Aguilera, Affiliate Chair, or Marrisa Williams, staff liaison at 661.635.2300.

JEFF AGUILERA, CHAIR, Cornerstone Mortgage | 661.578.9259 | jeff@csmbakersfield.com

DEANA WITWER, VICE-CHAIR Built Right Home Inspection 661.377.7777 Deana@builtrighthi.com

DAN ARDIS San Joaquin Valley Mortgage 661.342.9381 danardis@sjvalleymortgage.com

SUZI BEATY Fidelity National Home Warranty 661.477.3906 suzi.beaty@fnf.com

BARBARA BOGNER North American Title 661.664.6221 bbogner@nat.com

STEVE FENTON Accelerated Lending Group 661.489.LEND (5363) sfenton@mylenderalg.com

MIKE GEORGE Agape Mortgage 661.324.2427 mikegeorge@agapemtgco.com www.agapemtgco.com

SHARI GEORGE Agape Mortgage 661.324.2427 sharigeorge@agapemtgco.com www.agapemtgco.com

LISA HOOK-ESTES The Mortgage House – Stockdale 661.301.5472 Lhook-estes@themortgagehouse

CHEREYL NUNN Loan Depot 661.270.8601 cnunn@loandepot.com

JANETTE RAMSEY Janette Ramsey Insurance 661.328.9250 janette@jramseyinsurance.com

SARAH SIMMONS Home Warranty of America 661.337.0362 sarah.simmons@hwahomewarranty.com

BARBARA WELLS San Joaquin Valley Mortgage 661.703.2227 bwells@sjvalleymortgage.com

Sally’s Place is a Special Project for the Elderly in our Community

Home Cooked Meals for Seniors

CHERI ROMERO MIRAMAR INTERNATIONAL

LISA HOOK-ESTES THE MORTGAGE HOUSE Sally’s Place at the Salvation Army is a project that brings seniors together for a homecooked meal, socialization, and for some, weekly food staples. It is just one of the many local facets of the Salvation Army that helps our community not only with disaster relief, but also people in need. Seniors with an annual income of no more than $11,025 for an individual and $16,800.00 for a couple, once approved, receive a food staple bag twice a month of perishable and non-perishable items. The food staples are provided by the Bakersfield Gleaners. Once a month a group of affiliate partners and REALTORS® come together to shop, cook, and serve a home-cooked meal to the seniors. We normally serve 45-50 approved, low income seniors, as well as anyone over 55 years of age. For some seniors, this is the only home-cooked meal they will receive that week. We try to cook meals for the season… this year for St. Patrick’s Day we made Corned Beef and Hash. In September, our local Kern County Fair is in town, however, most cannot attend this wonderful event so we try to bring the fair to them, by serving Deep Pit sandwiches and scrumptious apple cobbler. The REALTORS® and affiliate partners have been volunteering at Sally’s Place for over six years. December is our big event “Santa Claus for a Senior Cause.” During the month

Wayland Louie, Misty Jeffries and Lisa Hook at Sally’s Place preparing a meal for the elderly

of December we make a large festive meal that includes all the traditional Christmas trimmings. This event is held the second Tuesday in December, and it is the only meal supplied for that month. Along with a great meal, we have graciously relied on affiliates and REALTORS® to donate funds to supply the approved low income seniors with a gift card to Walmart. The reactions to this gift are very heart-warming. We have been told this gift card has provided them the ability to get a special toothbrush, an electric blanket, a new pair of warm pajamas, or that special grandchild a Christmas gift. The Salvation Army also provides a bus to pick up seniors who have no transportation and transports them to the Salvation Army located on Wilson Road. During this time, the seniors can enjoy time to socialize with other seniors, join a church service, play

games like bingo, and have lunch. For several of these seniors, this is their only means of getting away from home and having time to interact with other people in a fun and relaxing way. Some of these seniors do not have family locally who can pick them up for an outing or visit with them. For some, doctors’ appointments are the only way of leaving their home, so coming to Sally’s Place is a fun and relaxing time to enjoy the company of others. For example, one gentleman has dialysis four times a week for which his family has to take time off to transport him to his doctors’ appointments. Salvation Army, Sally’s Place gives him time away from family and doctors to experience time with his friends. We wanted to take a moment to thank all the REALTORS® and affiliate partners who have helped this program throughout the years.

Salvation Army’s Santa Clause for a Senior Cause Watch for it! In November we will be

holiday season. Although Christmas won’t

collecting donations for our seniors at

be here for several months, we’re always

Sally’s Place again. In the year’s past,

collecting to make this a memorable

with an annual income of no more than

REALTORS® have been generous in

day for our seniors. We will be accepting

helping us celebrate the Christmas spirit

donations, which will be used to

with a giving heart.

purchase gift cards for seniors. It’s a

donation now, please contact Claudia

great way to provide a jolly Christmas

Bugarin at 661-635-2311... The gift

for those less fortunate, home-bound or

of giving!

Adopt-a-senior at Sally’s Place is where we can share in the magic and joy of the

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

isolated seniors in our community. Funds will be given to qualified Seniors 11,025 – Individual; $16,800 – Couple. If you’d like to make a monetary

REALTORS Give to the Homeless in Our Community Christian Real Estate Fellowship Launches Agent Engaged ®

JOE MULLER CHICAGO TITLE

or those not familiar with Agent Engaged, the project started as a result of seeing the presentation of the keynote

speaker for the Bakersfield Prayer Breakfast. A college student who became “homeless” to understand the trials of living on the streets, Michael Yankoski saw the world of the homeless through his own eyes. Traveling to several cities he experienced the challenge of hunger, but most of all the lack of acknowledgement from the general population. Even those he would have expected to give him even the time of day, rebuked him and his friend. Even worse, most never made eye contact, leaving them with a feeling of emptiness. It was a feeling much more terrible than the hunger! Michael shared his experience on this day and it is what inspired CREF to adopt Agent Engaged. The purpose of Agent Engaged is to supply our homeless community with essential items, as well as a spiritual message to brighten their day and give them a sense of inclusion. Kits are given in clear gallon Ziploc bags and contain toothbrushes and toothpaste, band aids, disinfectant, granola bars, wipes, cans of Vienna sausages, peanuts, and lip balm. It is not these items exclusively but anything that could be used in a comforting way. More importantly than food or toiletries, each bag contains an

informative flyer with the message from John 3:16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” across the top, followed by addresses and phone numbers of The Mission, Bakersfield Homeless Center, Cal Veterans Center, and others as helpful resources. This is a great outreach that anyone can be a part of. These bags can be kept in your car as they contain non-perishable food items and are given at your discretion to those whom you are inspired to give them to. With the homeless population growing by 43% year over year in the Bakersfield city limits, there are plenty of opportunities to reach out to someone. At the time of this writing, there were several bags at the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® available to be picked up and distributed. If you choose to distribute bags as part of this program, when doing so please keep in mind to protect yourself and always have your safety as a priority. You can also create your own bag and if so desired, I can email you the spiritual message and resources

of help so you can include it in your bag. Please email your request to Joe.Muller@ctt.com, or call 345-1765. These Agent Engaged Days will occur 2-3 times a year, so please keep an eye out for upcoming dates. Please plan to join us during these events, or create your own comfort bags to have available for when the opportunity to give arrives. We would love to continue to grow this ministry and provide comfort and support to all of God’s children. Thanks again to all of those who have participated and God bless you all! The Christian Real Estate Fellowship would like to thank all those who came to the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® to participate in the most recent event, and to those who contributed to the Agent Engaged project! Many lives will be touched in a very positive way because of your generosity!

CHRISTIAN REAL ESTATE FELLOWSHIP (CREF) About CREF: Sharing the joy we have in Jesus with our fellow professionals and others in the workplace in such a way that the love of Jesus would be seen in and through us. We meet the second Thursday of every month (except during the summer). Join Us: Our next CREF meeting is on Thursday, September 13th with Special Guest Speaker Sheryl Giesbrecht - Turner. BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

2019 COMMITTEES

T H E R E A R E M A N Y WAY S T O G I V E B AC K The

Heart of Giving

REALTORS Take Time to Care You can make a difference in the lives of others, join a committee today! ®

We’re gearing up for 2019 and our committees are beginning to form. Make a commitment today and join any one of the Committees listed below. After all, it’s the heart of a REALTOR® that changes our community.

EDUCATE

EDUCATION Serves members by providing, promoting and developing timely, high-quality educational opportunities for members. Provides courses that will assist members in maximizing their ability to successfully conduct their individual businesses. Chair: Scott Knoeb Vice-Chair: Carrie Williams COMMERCIAL INVESTMENT Plans and organizes monthly Commercial Investment meetings, including pitch sessions and educational speakers geared towards commercial and industrial real estate. Chair: Clint Bear Vice-Chair: Katie Bassey MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT/ORIENTATION Promotes membership in the Association by presenting benefits of membership, encouraging participation, and seeking ways to enhance the value of membership. Plans and conducts orientation sessions for new members of the Association. Chair: Jenny Magana Vice-Chair: John Houchin DIVERSITY & EQUAL OPPORTUNITY Identifies the challenges, opportunities and benefits of diversity and inclusiveness in our multicultural community and real estate market. Provides education and best practices for members on how they can effectively work with our diverse population and enhances awareness as to the importance of equal opportunity in housing. Chair: Glenn Porter Vice-Chair: Loren Hall TECHNOLOGY Increases the comfort and skill level of our members with technology. Advocates best use practices which will enhance member

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

A few members from Team Bringing Home the Cure. Front Row (l-r): Tami Jo Marchand, Shari George, Barbara Bogner, Ronda Newport, Barbara Wells, Janette Ramsey, Jennifer Woods, Davina Norried, Michele Cooper, Suzi Beaty, Kym Plivelich, Shelly Meadows, Sheryl Gallion, Jenny McLean, Deana Witwer and Kamri Roberson. Back row (l-r): Debi Roberson, Mike Grigg and Kristopher Mika

professionalism and efficiency. Chair: AJ Bhuee Vice-Chair: Anna Albiar

ENGAGE

AFFILIATES Affiliate support and participation has always been a vital part of our Association’s success and membership experience. Chair: Deana Witwer Vice-Chair: Suzi Beaty ATTENDANCE & RECEPTION Promotes attendance at Association events. Encourages membership participation in programs and activities that enhance cooperation and harmony among all members. Assists in planning and arranging for special events. Co-Chair: Martha Johnson Co-Chair: Shari George BROKERS ADVISORY GROUP (Invitation Only). Drawing on the experience, knowledge and strategic wisdom of our Broker community, this forum is a vehicle for the sharing of ideas and perspectives in order to identify opportunities to enhance services for our Broker partners. Chair: Saul Bernal Vice-Chair: Frank Abbott BROKERS FORUM Provides a forum for dissemination of

information to brokers and sales managers. Fosters communication between designated REALTORS® by setting regular, informal meetings for the purpose of sharing ideas. Provides input to the Board of Directors on industry policies and practices. Brokers and Designated Managers only. Chair: Vali Nemetz Vice-Chair: Bill Mell COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC RELATIONS (CPR) The CPR committee is to keep a strong pulse on our membership and our community through effective communication and feedback. Chair: Derek Sprague Vice-Chair: Ronda Newport Vice-Chair: Kyle Lawson MLS OPEN FORUM Forum engages our MLS participants and subscribers for educational purposes, sharing of information and obtaining feedback regarding ways to improve MLS services. Chair: Vanessa Hartwig Vice-Chair: Kyle Lawson YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK (YPN) Focused on building

K T O O U R C O M M U N I T Y – J O I N A C O M M I T T E E T O DAY ! tomorrow’s leaders by being inclusive and proactively engaging our younger REALTOR® members. Helps members excel in their careers through leadership opportunities, gaining industry knowledge, networking with their peers, and participating in community activities. Chair: Michelle Valverde Vice-Chair: Ryan Dobbs

LEAD

GRIEVANCE Analyzes complaints involving alleged violations of the Code of Ethics, membership duties or bylaws, and makes recommendations regarding disposition of said complaints. Chair: Faby Dees Vice-Chair: Kathy Kotsiomitis LEADERSHIP ACADEMY (Presidential Appointment). Team of seasoned Association leaders whose objective is developing effective leaders, who create value within our Association. Dark in 2019 PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS Promotes and enforces the Code of Ethics of the National Association of REALTORS® and conducts ethics and arbitration hearings. *Note: Consists of REALTORS® with sufficient background to make informed and objective determinations. Chair: Traci Garza Vice-Chair: Frank Abbott STRATEGIC PLANNING AND FINANCE The committee coordinates the planning and budgetary activities of the Association. It is responsible for setting the long-term direction for the Association by identifying critical issues. Chair: Wayland Louie Vice-Chair: Scott Knoeb NOMINATING COMMITTEE (Presidential Appointment). A committee of REALTOR® members specially appointed for the purpose of reviewing, vetting and interviewing Officer and Director Candidate applicants. Chair: Derek Sprague YPN ADVISORY A team of successful young REALTOR® professionals, plans and promotes YPN educational programs and provides

Vice-Chair: Lisa Hook-Estes

insights to Association leadership when requested, and offers overall directions for YPN activities. Chair: Michelle Valverde Vice-Chair: Ryan Dobbs

ADVOCATE

LCRC Our local political action committee, funded by voluntary contributions from REALTORS® to support candidates for public office who understand the importance of REALTOR® issues and who will take positions on those issues that help promote the cause of housing and private property rights. Chair: Wayland Louie RGR Creates a forum for members to engage in local, regional and national issues that affect our industry. Members meet to review local government policies, ordinances and programs that impact real estate transactions. They serve as advisors to the Board of Directors regarding the Association’s position on issues. Chair: David Knoeb Vice-Chair: Sheri Anthes

SERVE

REALTORS® CARE

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB Plan and promotes outreach activities to support the noble work of the Boys and Girls Club of Kern County to enable the young people of our community, especially those who need assistance the most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens. Our efforts include hosting a “Launching Youth for Success” Event to encourage, inspire and challenge boys and girls as they prepare to enter college or pursue a career path. Chair: William Chicas SALLY’S PLACE A seniors hot lunch program. It’s a partnership with the Salvation Army where volunteers prepare and serve hot meals to the elderly in our community. Chair: Cheri Romero

GOLF TOURNAMENT Plans, promotes and coordinates the annual REALTOR® Golf Tournament. Brings together members in a relaxed setting and environment that promotes goodwill and fellowship. Proceeds benefit local organizations. Chair: Walt Newport Vice-Chair: Nick Megazzi BRINGING HOME THE CURE n Relay for Life n Campout Against Cancer n Wine Tasting Event Each year our members come together to raise funds and awareness to save lives from cancer through the Relay For Life movement and the Campout Against Cancer Event. Chair: Kym Plivelich Vice-Chair: Tammi Joe Marchand

How to Join a 2019 Committee It’s as easy as 1-2-3

1. Download the committee application on our website. www. bakersfieldrealtor. com/about-us/ committees 2. Submit your application to Cindy Kiser at Cindy@ bakersfieldrealtor.org 3. Show up to the scheduled committee meeting.

That’s it! Don’t wait, sign-up today!

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

2017 - 2020 STRATEGIC PLAN M I D - Y E A R A S S E S S M E N T

LINDA JAY CEO, BAKERSFIELD ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

EO’s will attest to the fact that strategic planning is critical to the success of every business. It all begins with identifying where you want to go as a company, then purposefully creating a roadmap to guide current and successive volunteer leaders, committees and professional staff along the way as you strive to successfully arrive at that destination. In 2005, 100 years after our Association was established, our leadership dared to take on the daunting task of taking a deep dive into the established purpose and vision of our organization to determine the following: Were we staying true to the core values on which we were founded; and with the ever-changing landscape of our industry and marketplace, were we still as relevant and focused as we needed to be to continue our success into the next century. It was an extremely meaningful process that helped us learn a great deal about who we were, where we had been, and the direction we wanted to go in order to deliver the highest level of service to our members and the community! From that point forward, our Association has dedicated the time and resources to ensure that roadmap has remained purposeful, viable and measurable, year-after-year. Our strategic plan went through a major revamping in 2013 when

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

the following foundational goals were identified by our Leadership Team and we proceeded to align all of our efforts through the lens of those goals: namely, I. EDUCATE – Professionalism and Standards - Maintaining REALTOR® Ethics and standards through education and knowledge. II. ENGAGE – Membership Service and Value - Serving the needs of our members by providing programs, products and services that positively impact their professional success. III. LEAD – Association Leadership and Operations - Maintaining a nationally and state acclaimed Association of REALTORS® through leadership and resources. IV. ADVOCATE - Government Relations and the Voice of Real Estate - Vigilance in monitoring and influencing issues impacting real estate.

V. SERVE – Community Service - Positively impacting our community through goodwill and campaigns led by REALTORS®.

This also aligned perfectly with the Core Standards Requirements established by the National Association of REALTORS® in 2014 and enabled us to achieve compliance quickly and efficiently. If the plans, policies, or procedures of our Association were not aligned with our Strategic Plan and the established Core Standards, changes were imminent! But it’s not enough to have a plan in place that sits on a shelf to collect dust, it is consistency and vigilance in monitoring the progress of that plan, making adjustments as needed, that creates success. It is with gratitude we recognize the 2018 Leadership Team of our Association for their continued vision, courage and commitment to exemplary service to our members, our industry and the community we serve.

What does the word fiduciary mean to you? contribution by

JOE NEWTON

fiduciary relationship is one that exists between an agent and principal to a transaction where the agent is duty bound to act with the utmost good faith for the benefit of the other party. It arises where confidence exists by one person in the integrity of another. Fiduciaries and their clients are required to follow proper instructions, remain loyal, be honest in their conversations and disclosures, keep confidence, provide accounting upon request, and provide reasonable care in their execution of duties. Reasonable care is only fully defined in many cases by a judge or jury when it is too late to change one’s behavior. Based on these duties, a client will primarily look to the REALTOR® and other licensees for redress as someone they trusted to do the right job. This, however, is good for business, as it insures the REALTOR® will look out for the best interests of their client. Upon taking a listing, REALTORS® from the start of marketing the property will control a

2018 OMBUDSMAN REPORT JUNE - JULY n 189

calls were received by our Ombudsman n 43

calls were grievance/ethics complaints against agents that were resolved

JOE NEWTON | Ombudsman great amount of the activity and process. Sellers normally know less than the agent, therefore it can be difficult to know if the agent is doing an adequate job. The fiduciary requirement helps alleviate that uncertainty. The fiduciary duty is at the core of all agencies. The agent will have superior knowledge in marketing conditions, disclosures, required inspections, and market values placed upon properties. As is true in many specialized

calls were arbritation complaints against agents that were resolved n1

grievance/ethics package was mailed to complaining parties regarding cases that could not be resolved n 35

calls requesting information on deposits

occupations, the plumber or electrician knows more about their specialty and the doctor or attorney knows more about their fields. Fiduciary duties continue to evolve. Note the recent case that cited the responsibility of agents for the accuracy of MLS listings, or the California court decision that stated the equal fiduciary responsibility to both parties in a dual agency. Another ruling noted that a real estate professional should have known where to refer a client for the information they needed. The Department of Real Estate includes the duty to “explain [to] and counsel” a client as part of the fiduciary responsibility and the duty to take seriously to insure the client has “informed consent” before signing a document. The client places a special trust, confidence, and reliance on the fiduciary (agent) to exercise discretion or expertise in acting for the client. The law forbids the fiduciary from acting in any manner adverse or contrary to the interests of the client, or from acting for their own benefit in relation to the subject matter. Because of fiduciary laws, the public at large has more reason to work with a REALTOR® instead of acting independently without an agent.

n 68

calls requesting information on Real Estate procedures n 31

cases referred to ssociation mediation

Tehachapi calls

Kern River/Lake Isabella calls

n 620

BAKERSFIELD Year-to-date totalREALTOR® MAGAZINE

THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF KERN COUNTY

LAUNCHING YOUTH FOR SUCCESS

We Care! We Invest in Our Community Association partners with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County

PG&E’s Launching Youth for Success Program For a third year, REALTORS® have partnered with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Kern County in their PG&E Youth for Success Program. This 10-week summer job program helps kids from ages 15 to 18 intern with various businesses, including the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS®, in an effort to teach them important job skills. The program sparked a huge response of interest among teens in the area. Nearly 360 teens attended the orientation that was held at the onset of the program, which would help train them to be prepared for work in a business setting. Of the 360 kids at orientation, 55 were chosen to participate in a summer internship with various Kern County companies. It is a challenging program that the kids must complete with a lot of hard work. Each participant started their first job as an intern with several different employers in Bakersfield, where they were able to receive the experience that is needed for them to move forward in life. These youths are the future of our community, and some of them our future leaders. Each one of the participants in the program is involved in some form of leadership at their school, whether it be as a club president, team captain, or other leadership roles. In addition to the 10-week class with the youth, we organized our 3rd Annual “Launching Youth for Success” event at the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS®

KERN COUNTY

Our Boys and Girls Clubs backpack stuffers (l-r)Alma Beltran, Robin Rossi, Michele Cooper, Mina Newman, Lisa Hook-Estes, Pam Epps, and Claudia Bugarian. All of the backpacks were donated by Robin Rossi and lunch was sponsored by San Joaquin Valley Mortgage.

for the selected 55 students. This event highlights interactive leadership and team building exercises, as well as presentations by influential and inspirational speakers from our community. We finish off the day with a backpack filled with school supplies and gift cards.

Influential Partnerships Thank you to all the committee members for their generous donations, support, and time they have given to educate the public of the importance of equal opportunity in housing, and recognizing that everyone has rights and responsibilities to uphold fair housing laws and providing equal professional service to all. Without the support of the committee, this would not be possible. Committee volunteers were: AJ Bhuee, Watson Realty ERA, Chair; Pam Epps, Miramar International, Co-Vice Chair; Misty Jeffries, Placer Title Company, CoVice Chair; Alma Beltran, Kern County Planning & Natural Resources Department; Robin Rossi, San Joaquin Valley Mortgage;

Michele Cooper, Karpe Real Estate Center; Mina Newman, Miramar International, Riverwalk; Lisa Hook-Estes, The Mortgage House; William Chicas, Watson Realty Realty ERA; Glenn Porter, RE/MAX Golden Empire; Jeff Aguilera, Cornerstone Mortgage; Yolanda Carter, Movement Mortgage; Jose Luiz Gonzalez, Homeless Initiative Coordinator; Loren Hall, Performance REALTORS®; Victoria Limbean, GBLA Fair Housing Law Project; Wayland Louie, RE/ MAX Golden Empire; Shirley Muhammad, Residential Bancorp; Paul Steele, Ticor Title; Anna Albiar, Coldwell Banker Preferred; Jenny Mclean, Placer Title, Linda Jay, CEO; Claudia Bugarin, Staff Liaison Thank you all for your time and commitment to make this year’s program such a huge success for the youth at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Kern County. A big shout-out to our sponsors and everyone who donated: San Joaquin Valley Mortgage, Robin Rossi, Little Caesars Pizza, Chick-fil-a, McDonalds, The Blvd. including Association members who made a contribution.

At your fingertips…

Technology developed just for you!

Member Benefits Real Estate tools to help streamline your business GOMLS Everything you need in the palm of your hand. GoMLS app highlights include: n New gallery view n Any property type filter n Mortgage calculator n Agent branding n Nearby properties n Public record integration REALSATISFIED Allows you to send customer satisfaction surveys to both buyer and seller clients at the close of transactions, and collect valuable testimonials to help generate new business. Your complimentary RealSatisfied Agent LITE account includes unlimited surveys and feedback, connects to realtor.com, automated social media publishing to Facebook & Twitter, widgets for online sharing, and the collection of three testimonials for marketing purposes. Here’s just a few highlights: n Receive client feedback n Capture testimonials n Reporting tools and more RATEPLUG Provides real-time housing payment information within the MLS in order to help real estate agents and homebuyers more effectively search for affordable properties. It also gathers and displays monthly real estate taxes, insurance, private mortgage

insurance (PMI), and association fees in order to render an accurate estimate of the ‘total’ monthly housing payment for each property which is viewed. This valuable tool allows homebuyers to understand real affordability before scheduling showings or making offers on homes. RAPATTONI MLS The power of the Rapattoni MLS in the palm of your hand! Use the Rapattoni MLS mobile app on your Apple or Android device to quickly run searches, find listings, and view hotsheets. Edit and manage your listings in a snap by updating status, price, and uploading photos when you’re on the go. PUBLIC & MEMBER WEBSITE Take a moment to maneuver through our newly designed website for ease and full functionality in your business. There are many resources, services and links available just for you. Website highlights include: n MLS Sign-on n Accessing zipForms and so much more

NAR apps

MEMBER GUIDE Log-in to review your benefits; read the latest information from your local, state and national associations; customize and display your membership card, and more. NEW ABR® APP FOR IPHONE HELPS REALTORS® CONNECT WITH BUYERS REALTORS® who work with buyers now have a new resource available through the ABR® App for the iPhone. Available now through the iTunes store, this new benefit will help Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®)

designees grow their business while also connecting with home buyers. REALTOR® Party App Encourage your members to download the REALTOR® Action Center mobile advocacy app. Help keep your members in touch with your advocacy efforts, and enable them to answer Calls for Action even when they are away from the office.

C.A.R. apps

C.A.R. LEGAL HOTLINE APP C.A.R. members now can access C.A.R. Legal information using a new smartphone app. Through the free app, the following is available: Recent laws; Legal Q&As - sorted alphabetically or by category; The standard forms list; Legal Live and Everyday Ethics webinars; Access to zipForm® Mobile; Detailed click-to-call contact list featuring essential C.A.R. phone numbers and contact information and much more. CONNECT RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE WITH ZIPFORM® MOBILE! zipForm® Mobile with TouchSign is a FREE member benefit from the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. Immediately connect to important information contained within your zipForm® Plus account. The built-in TouchSign feature allows users to sign transactions directly on a touchscreen tablet with a finger or capacitive stylus. Managing transactions “on the go” has never been faster or easier. Visit the zipForm® Mobile webpage for more information about the App, including how to access and download on to your device. Contact us at 635-2300 for classes offered or a full list of member benefits BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

LEADERSHIP, Continued from page 9 well as volunteering at his son’s school. He is also on the Board of Directors of the Real Estate Professionals Family Relief Fund and a member of the Wounded Heroes Fund of Kern County. Wayland is very thoughtful and analytical, and always considers the membership as a whole when making decisions as a Director.

NEWLY ELECTED DIRECTORS Michele Cooper

2019 - 2021 Director Karpe Real Estate Center Michele was born in Martinez, California and moved to Bakersfield in 1970. She married her high school sweetheart, Tim, in 1988 and they have 2 beautiful daughters Hannah & Meghan. Her oldest, Hannah, graduated from CSUB in the fall of 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing and her youngest is attending Taft College. Michele and her family love to go camping and she enjoys playing golf with her husband. Michele joined our Association as a REALTOR® member in 2016 after a lengthy, successful career in the mortgage lending world. Her volunteer involvement at the Association began in 2009, serving on many committees such as New Member Orientation, Equal Opportunity, Golf, Education, Commercial Investment, Attendance and Reception, MLS Forum, Harvest, Partnership, Bringing Home the Cure, and Affiliates. Community service has been and continues to be a big part of her career, serving for several years on the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, which includes serving as President in 2017. She has been active with JJ’s Legacy, Ronald McDonald House and Sally’s Place (an outreach of the Salvation Army), and helped establish the Real Estate Professional Family Relief Fund in 2014, serving as a founding Director and CFO. Michele is very proud to be a part of the REALTOR® organization, and the passion she has for her profession drives her to be an involved and informed member of our Association. She feels that it is very important to contribute a portion of our time to the betterment of our industry by being involved with the Association.

changes. One thing, however, remains constant, the neighborly feeling you get from people who live here. Real Estate has afforded me the opportunity to be aware of the changes, almost before they happen, and to be in the forefront. I have been happily married for over 34 years and have two beautiful children, Logan & Amanda, a daughter in law, Chelsea, as of May 2016 a very handsome grandson, Calloway, and in May 2018 a beautiful granddaughter, Quinn. My personal commitment to my family and above all, God, has lead me in many directions including several opportunities to serve in church, especially in the youth group. Currently, Real Estate has proven to be an extraordinarily crazy, yet satisfying direction providing opportunities to not only help people find a home, but to help them feel comfortable in their new city. The opportunity to serve on the Board of Directors for the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® is not a responsibility I will take lightly, but with great respect for the institution I serve and those who are members of it.

Bill Mell 2019 - 2021 Director Miramar International, – Coffee Bill has lived in Bakersfield for over 30 years now. Happily married for 22 years to Holly, with two children, Savannah and Darby. He has been a member of the Bakersfield Association of REALTORS® for 15 years and a Broker Associate for eight of those years. As a Board Member, he would like to give back to the Association that has given him so much over the years. Bill has the ability to think both inside and outside the box, which will make him a great Board Member of the Association. When he was younger someone told him that tough times never last, but tough people do, so to this day, he lives by that rule.

Kym Plivelich 2019 - 2021 Director Marcom Real Estate Kym joined the Bakersfield Association as a REALTOR® in 2008 after a career in the Insurance industry as a salesperson and office manager, then a successfully self-employed manicurist until making the choice to be a stayat-home mom to her two sons. But even while ‘not working’ she continued to help run The Marcom Group, an advertising agency owned by her and her husband David. For many years, Kym’s main focus was the boys, school activities, and sports. Ten years later, still a soccer mom! Once the boys were both in school, Kym was able to focus on her new-found career as a REALTOR® and helping serve the community. Her first involvement was with the Fair Housing Committee, of which she served for several years. Then in 2016, she was asked to help by joining the committee for REALTORS® Bringing Home the Cure; raising money for Relay for Life and Kern County Cancer Fund. This year she served as co-chair of their annual Wine, Food and Auction Evening at Lexus, and just wrapped up another successful event. She also serves as a Director for Real Estate Professionals Family Relief Fund and heads the marketing committee for raising funds. Kym opened her own Brokerage in 2014 and has a heart to mentor new agents. She loves to see the transformation of their growth in knowledge, confidence and success. Being an active member of the Association is a demonstration of her commitment to pursing professional excellence by investing in her career and the community. Building relationships, having strong ethics, and helping others is her foundation to a successful business.

Martha Johnson 2019 - 2021 Director Keller Williams Realty Bakersfield has been my home for over 18 years, and in that time I have seen some tremendous

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

2018-2019 Leadership: Back row (l-r): Linda Jay, William Chicas, Darlene Tobias, Wayland Louie, Derek Sprague, Scott Knoeb, Glenn Porter and Anna Albiar. Front row (l-r) Michelle Cooper, Kym Plivelich, Athena Collup, Ronda Newport and Martha Johnson. Not pictured are Bill Mell, Brian Tuttle and Ashley Weaver

MARK WAHLBERG is this year’s General Session speaker.

2018 REALTORS ® CONFERENCE & EXPO

Buy your Tickets | Book Your Hotel | Schedule Your Time in Boston November 2-5 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center (BCEC) in Boston, MA. Go to www.conference.realtor

SUCCESS

Welcome, New Members! Your journey as a REALTOR® has just begun

new realtors ® july 2018

Alishaan Abbas, Intero Real Estate Services; Nahrain R. Antonaros, Coldwell Banker Preferred-CO; Krystle N. Baker, Elite Team Properties; Shaylan B. Cawthon, Coldwell Banker Preferred, Ming; Tammy Ford, Rozell Property Management, Inc; Crystal Garza, Miramar InternationalRiverwalk; Alfred R. Gonzales, Miramar International; Justin M. Goss, Stratton Davis Realty; Christine Denise Handel, Open Door Real Estate; Sheree Griffin Jamieson, Team Tracey Tipton Miramar International-Riverwalk; Chandler R. Johnson, Keller Williams Realty; Brett M. Lawrence, McKinzie Nielsen Real Estate; Jacqueline M. Lilly, Century 21-Jordan Link & Co; Kristen N. Munoz, Coldwell Banker Preferred-CO; Omar L. Ortiz, Better Homes Realty; Grant Price, Keller Williams Realty; Aurelia Contreras Sanchez, Prestige Real Estate; Hedy L. Santora, RE/MAX Golden Empire; Vipla S. Singh, SearchKern.com Miramar International-Riverwalk; Amber R. Smith, Miramar International-Truxtun; Randy B. Soliman, Performance REALTORS®, Inc; Pardeep Sunner, Broker, Bobbi R. Thompson, Coldwell Banker Preferred-CO; James R. Turner, Keller Williams Realty; Daysi Y. Vergara, Coldwell Banker Preferred Ming; Justin A. Williams, Miramar International

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

A Marketer’s Guide to

ALEC GRESS | VIDEO / MARKETING STRATEGIST AND CHAIRMAN OF THE GROUP, INC.

s a Millennial, I can firmly state that I am ready for the next generation to enter into the public spotlight. I’m sure this is true of each young age, but I am tired of being treated as a walking, talking buzzword. This brings up the question of who is next? As Gen Z starts to acquire purchasing power, they are not drawing the type of attention that has long been bestowed on Millennials. What do real estate professionals need to know about Generation Z and their behavior? Let’s focus on the trends we’re noticing, specifically with social media usage. Keep this information in mind when planning marketing strategies.

Who is Gen Z?

Generation Z or Gen Z are considered people born from 1995 to 2012. This generation has a smaller range of ages compared to the Millennial generation, which spans from 1980 to 1994. According to Nielsen’s new Total Audience Report, Gen Z is now considered the most significant demographic in the United States, making up 26 percent of the population. Technology has shaped this Generation; it shapes their daily lives as well as their worldview. Due to constant connectivity,

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

they have limitless interests and avenues for learning. They tend to take in information instantaneously and lose it just as fast. Gen Z is shaped by social media, smartphones, a post 9/11 world and a massive recession. Despite being so close in age to the Millennial generation, there are some critical differences in their characters.

Differences Compared to Millennials 1. Realism vs. Optimism Due to encouraging Baby Boomer parents, as well as prosperous economic times, many Millennials are considered an optimistic generation. Those in Gen Z are considered more pragmatic thanks to their skeptical Generation X parents and growing up in a recession. Most in Gen Z are concerned with long-term value as well as smart investments. 2. Online vs. In-Person Seventy-four percent of those in Gen Z prefer communicating face-to-face vs. online. The Millennial generation, in many ways, were the ones who popularized digital communication tools making work more efficient, yet not as personable. Perhaps having smartphones in your hand for your whole life has taught Gen

Z the value of a human connection and having a real conversation. 3. Independent vs. Collaborative Seventy-one percent of Generation Z said that they believe in the slogan “if you want it done right, then do it yourself.” Gen Z has mostly experienced childhood on a schedule, from soccer meets, to piano practice to a grueling college admissions process. All of this results in a generation that craves independence. Many see entrepreneurship as attractive because it allows self-management as well as autonomy from a higher authority. For this generation, the thought of being the boss of themselves is very empowering.

Generation Z and Social Media:

What Marketers Should Know Now that we understand some of the fundamental differences between these two generations, let’s take a look at how they use social media and interact with brands: n Typically, Millennials have used social media to update their statuses and to keep in contact with friends. Teens of Gen Z tend to use social media as more of a time-filler, consuming social media regularly. It’s more

used for entertainment than communication. n Brand interruptions are not well tolerated with those of this generation. It’s vital that brands keep this generation entertained rather than create ads. Create compelling content that entertains and cuts through. A great example of this today is Red Bull. n They are much more likely to click on sponsored posts than click on online ads. They also like transparency in advertising. n Video is king with Gen Z, according to a study by Adweek, 95 percent of teens today watch YouTube, they also watch an average of 68 videos in a day. n Generation Z uses fewer social media platforms but spends longer on them, their favorites being Instagram and Snapchat. n Their social media preferences have a lot to do with privacy. As digital pioneers, the Millennial generation quickly grew many of these new social media platforms by hypersharing. Now today’s teens realize just how important protecting your online reputations is. Once again this goes back to their longterm thinking approach. n Gen Z-ers also tend to prefer social media platforms that run off of expiring content, such as Snapchat and Instagram (stories).

They can share what they want, but the content does not live forever as it does on Facebook. Another reason they prefer Snapchat and Instagram is that it’s much less time consuming than posting on Facebook. n They expect brands to treat them like a valuable customer. They expect a two-way, personalized conversation on social channels, similar to how they interact with friends.

Real Estate & Generation Z

How can real estate professionals reach out to this soon-to-be influential group of potential customers? One thing that comes to mind is entertainment. Brokerages and sales associates who want to reach this demographic should use Snapchat and Instagram stories to entertain and communicate. Add your Snapcode to your business card, create a fun Snapchat geo filter for an open house, take pictures of a listing and post them on Instagram stories. Brokers and agents need to become content marketers and let their authenticity shine through to reach this hyper-connected generation of the future. What have you been doing to reach the next generation? This article reprinted with the permission of Real Trends Inc. Copyright 2018

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

10 Issues Impacting Real Estate Know the Issues and Adjust Your Business

he Counselors of Real Estate® (CRE®) professional association announced its annual Top Ten Issues Affecting Real EstateTM List for 2018-2019. Today’s issues will impact your decisions over the next ten years. Here are the top 10:

Current Issues 1. Interest Rates & The Economy 2. Politics & Political Uncertainty 3. Housing Affordability 4. Generational Change/Demographics 5. E-commerce & Logistics

Longer-Term Issues 1. Infrastructure 2. Disruptive Technology 3. Natural Disasters & Climate Change 4. Immigration 5. Energy & Water

U.S. infrastructure was given a D+ rating in the American Society of Civil Engineers 2017 Infrastructure Report Card. As much as $4.5 trillion is estimated by that organization to improve critical infrastructure by 2025.

Interest Rates and The Economy. As interest rates rise, the commercial and residential real estate markets are already experiencing changes—decreasing demand for commercial property, and higher home mortgage rates. Rate increases also limit value appreciation for commercial real estate and make housing less affordable. Lack of wage growth for all but the wealthiest population segment is dampening housing demand and limiting consumer spending that the economy needs for growth. The Counselors cited a 2017 Brookings Institution study which showed real wages for most of the middle-class have only increased 3.5 percent since 1979, compared to a 24 percent rise for the top income segment.

Infrastructure. The lack of serious effort by the U.S. to address its condition and muchneeded revitalization leads the list of broader and emerging issues affecting real estate. Roads, bridges, airports, water and sewer lines, electricity, even public transit. All are necessary to sustain and expand cities and communities and are rapidly deteriorating.

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Politics and Political Uncertainty was second on The Counselors’ Current Issues list.

Tax reform and policies enacted to change the balance of trade with other countries impacts jobs, incomes, and property of all types, commercial and residential. Congressional action to relax certain bank lending and asset management regulations was also among developing trends which may improve access to capital.

Housing Affordability across nearly every income bracket with the exception of the most-wealthy households. Affordability is fueled by not only low wages and rising mortgage rates but also underproduction of housing for almost two decades.

Generational Change and Demographics. For the first time in more than half a century, there are four distinct groups exerting influence on both commercial and residential real estate, such as office design, student and elder housing, amenities and locational preference. Aging Baby Boomers, a similar number of Millennials, and the smaller groups on either side of Millennials (Generation X, now mostly middle-aged and Generation Y, including students and those in their early 20s).

E-commerce, and Logistics that support warehousing and delivery of goods all contribute to retail sector volatility. Additional Longer-Term Issue

Following closely behind Infrastructure on the 2018-2019 list of Longer-Term Issues is Disruptive Technology. Examples include advanced robotic manufacturing and warehousing; driverless cars and trucks; the wide availability and utilization of personal and transactional

data (which enhances all kinds of business decisions), smart building technology that enables efficiency; global connectivity; automated business processes; and information protection through cybersecurity. Nearly every aspect of real estate is undergoing dramatic change as these types of technology are adopted.

Natural Disasters and Climate Change, which result in property and environmental damage from events such as severe storms, wildfires, floods, earthquakes, volcanic activity, and rising sea levels.

Immigration which, if reduced by law, may have a negative impact on new housing starts and home purchases as well as possibly worsen the current skilled labor shortage in the United States.

Energy and Water, natural resources essential to property and quality of life, yet threatened by not only environmental damage (human-made and climatological) but entangling state and local regulations which complicate development and lack the national standardization regulations would provide. On the Watch List are four additional issues—Construction Costs, Urbanization/ Suburbanization, Tax Cuts and Societal Leadership • Rising construction costs make some development unfeasible and increase prices on commercial and residential property alike. • Cities continue to attract population and provide opportunities for Millennials, seniors, and other demographic segments as well as property investors, corporations and small businesses. Suburbs are adapting with city-like development and amenities. • Tax cuts positively impact commercial properties, although the effect of this legislation is still developing. This legislation has the potential for corporations large and small to create jobs. Individual tax cuts may provide a slight increase in disposable income and make home repair or remodeling more attractive; on the other side of the equation is limits on mortgage interest deductibility for homeowners. • A new surge of social activism among younger Americans, celebrities and a significant portion of the American public surrounding the #MeToo women’s movement, gun control, and diversity has potential—if sustained—to fuel business and social reform on many levels. The real estate industry has an opportunity to take a leadership position to hire, train and promote women and minorities; build responsibly and sustainably; create affordable housing, and enhance protections for properties, tenants and residents. This article reprinted with the permission of Real Trends Inc. Copyright 2018

2018 AWARD

NOMINATIONS

Take a moment to nominate one of your colleagues. It’s a time-honored tradition of recognizing members of our Association for their exemplary service to our Association, profession and community.

OUR 2017 AWARD RECIPIENTS

Brian Tuttle

REALTOR® of the Year

Greg Holland

Salesperson of the Year

Suzi Beaty

Affiliate of the Year

OUR 2017 RISING STARS

Janice Fisher

Coldwell Banker Preferred, Ming

Nicholas Megazzi Watson Realty ERA

Casie Cortez RE/MAX Golden Empire

Ryan Dobbs 661 Realty

Jennifer Woods

Miramar International, Mill Rock

Download the 2018 Nomination forms at bakersfieldrealtor.com/resources/nominations and submit them to claudia@bakersfieldrealtor.org

Return the forms by September 21st

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

STATEOFTHE

HOUSING MARKET

2017 Compared to 2018 by MLS Area

APRIL 2016 JUNE 2018

MAY 2018 All Areas

All Areas

Bakersfield

* Figures from Single Family Homes Only. Statistics were run on August 13, 2018

QUARTERLY COMPARISONS 1st Qtr 2018 New Listings Contingent Pending Sold Total Volume Closed Median Sales Price * Average DOM * Average Sale Price/SqFt *

1st Qtr 2017

2nd Qtr 2018

2nd Qtr 2017

3,012

2,900

4,825

812

686

909

3,090 823

2,018

2,002

2,389

2,173

1,613

1,681

2,230

2,119

$378,358,151

$383,459,489

$560,588,534

$507,903,581

$227,500

$216,000

$240,000

$228,375

139.94

137.55

144.78

138.78

BAKERSFIELD REALTORÂ® MAGAZINE

Bakersfield uses the following Zip Codes: 93301, 93302, 93303, 93304, 93305, 93306, 93307, 93308, 93309, 93310, 93311, 93312, 93313 93314.

2018 YEAR-TO-DATE STATS Area

Dollar Value

# Sold

Average Sold Price*

% of List Price*

DOM*

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

2018

2017

185

148

$32,863,367

$25,558,538

$183,117

$175,576

97.49

96.85

111

117

$12,201,217

$11,730,165

$117,318

$105,703

97.78

98.59

125

151

$22,376,660

$25,232,532

$182,456

$170,538

98.21

98.73

$5,775,250

$3,903,500

$240,635

$325,292

98.83

97.29

172

154

$28,243,920

$23,712,931

$164,209

$153,980

98.53

97.96

341

336

$66,570,698

$58,938,054

$209,107

$185,044

98.84

98.02

138

114

$32,432,818

$26,344,491

$246,124

$236,215

98.46

98.16

$17,271,850

$18,656,972

$345,437

$337,830

96.93

95.09

$9,829,100

$9,450,735

$133,337

$136,864

98.48

96.62

$11,059,100

$13,783,260

$189,157

$176,439

97.89

98.10

$2,336,390

$774,550

$195,640

$154,910

93.18

97.21

352

321

$57,208,218

$49,757,796

$172,146

$162,460

98.85

98.69

871

827

$197,868,669

$175,363,615

$241,165

$224,969

98.85

98.51

522

505

$179,529,435

$157,227,214

$346,061

$314,805

98.07

98.34

$2,082,963

$2,032,000

$347,161

$338,667

98.33

99.76

135

109

$38,891,596

$30,264,550

$288,086

$281,262

98.81

98.26

615

719

$191,689,105

$216,342,201

$312,160

$301,977

98.62

98.69

286

266

$113,007,252

$101,122,982

$401,097

$382,934

98.16

98.57

$4,838,195

$5,209,300

$421,200

$396,192

97.09

97.88

$9,700,999

$11,086,495

$312,935

$299,635

132

99.54

142

108

$39,596,630

$31,649,746

$288,551

$296,726

98.05

97.45

$4,555,000

$1,267,200

$274,333

$140,800

199

105

88.14

95.22

$2,244,175

$3,091,915

$155,360

$154,811

123

94.51

92.90

$1,965,331

$6,330,810

$177,433

$225,586

115

98.06

97.10

$1,235,000

$1,805,771

$427,500

$926,271

97.71

100.68

$2,303,000

$4,086,300

$312,167

$340,936

110

149

96.25

96.28

$5,567,840

$6,326,711

$159,760

$154,277

98.02

96.64

$1,194,690

$3,394,625

$398,230

$410,578

94.82

96.90

$187,000

$922,500

$187,000

$230,625

106.86

98.84

$926,900

$1,092,000

$267,300

$173,400

97.27

93.44

130

137

$27,464,300

$24,396,600

$211,264

$179,881

98.35

98.23

123

$15,470,649

$12,260,759

$128,867

$121,480

97.31

96.87

116

108

$24,346,050

$21,457,440

$209,880

$199,233

97.31

97.67

132

$39,224,067

$28,552,619

$314,291

$336,971

96.36

97.96

* Figures from Single Family Homes Only. Statistics were run on August 13, 2018

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

15,242 Managers Worldwide Agree

these are the

Top

10 Real Estate

Management

Skills You Need

BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

he authors of Mind Tools for Managers reveal the ten most important skills a manager should master, based on their recent research study. As real estate leaders, you’re juggling a bunch of balls in the air. You have to recruit, manage, plan strategy and implement the strategy—all while working with sales associates who are independent contractors. In fact, according to James Manktelow and Julian Birkinshaw, authors of Mind Tools for Managers: 100 Ways to Be a Better Boss (Wiley, April 2018), managers should know between 90 and 120 individual skills. That’s a lot. But thankfully you don’t have to tackle them all at once. Just zero in on the most critical ones and master them first. Stumped on where to begin? Work on the most crucial skills first—the skills managers worldwide value and recommend. To get you started, here are the highest ranked skills in the survey, presented in descending order.

Skill #1:

Building good working relationships with people at all levels. Recommended by 79.9% of managers surveyed. The most critical management skill, as ranked by our 15,242 managers worldwide, is the ability to build good relationships with people at all levels. Thankfully, in real estate, a relationship-focused industry, building relationships comes naturally for many managers. Regardless, everyone can work on this skill. One approach is to focus on creating high-quality connections, made up of respectful engagement, task enablement and trust-building.

Skill #2:

Prioritizing tasks effectively for yourself and your team. Recommended by 79.5% of managers surveyed. “All of us have a huge number of things that we want to do or have to do,” says Birkinshaw. “The demands can often seem overwhelming, to the members of our team and us. This is why prioritization is the second most important management skill, as ranked by the participants in our survey. There’s a particularly useful approach to this called the Action Priority Matrix,

and every manager needs to know about it!”

Skill #3:

Considering many factors, such as opportunities, risks, reactions and ethics, in decision-making. Recommended by 77.8% of managers surveyed. We’ve all seen how bad decisions can be when they’re rushed, or when financial criteria are the only ones that are used. This is why it pays to use a formal, structured process to think a problem through thoroughly, including analyzing risk and exploring ethical considerations. The ORAPAPA framework—which stands for Opportunities, Risks, Alternatives and Improvements, Past Experience, Analysis, People, and Alignment and Ethics—is a good example.

Skill #4:

Understanding the fundamental principles of excellent communication. Recommended by 77.7% of managers surveyed. “Management is about getting things done by working with people,” says Manktelow. “You can do this only if you communicate effectively. This is where the 7 Cs of Communication—clear, concise, concrete, correct, coherent, complete, courteous—can help you get your message through more clearly.”

Skill #5:

Understanding the needs of different stakeholders and communicating with them appropriately. Recommended by 75.8% of managers surveyed. As you run more significant projects, it becomes increasingly important to manage the many different groups of people who can support or undermine the work you do. This is where it’s essential to develop good stakeholder analysis and stakeholder management skills.

Skill #6:

Bringing people together to solve problems. Recommended by 75.0% of managers surveyed. “It’s often tempting to try to solve problems on your own,” says Birkinshaw. “But it pays to bring

together a team of experienced people. Brainstorming is popular for this, but also understand structured problemsolving processes, know how to facilitate meetings well, and manage the sometimes weird group dynamics that can undermine a good team process.”

Skill #7:

Developing new ideas through an empathetic understanding of customers’ problems. Recommended by 74.4% of managers surveyed. Your sales associates are being reviewed and rated now more than ever. To get good reviews, it’s not enough to provide adequate customer service; you need to deliver something that meets the needs of customers exceptionally well. Approaches like design thinking and ethnographic research can help you develop highly satisfying customer experiences and help you develop a great customer journey.

Skill #8:

Understanding and developing your relationship with your customer. Recommended by 73.6% of managers surveyed. In real estate, this means understanding both your sales associates and your local market. Designing a website that gives the homebuyer or seller information they need, being active in the community, segmenting your social media and customer database—those are just a few things you can do to learn about your customer.

Skill #9:

Building trust within your team. Recommended by 73.3% of managers surveyed. When people don’t trust one another in a team, they waste a considerable amount of time politicking and covering their backs. By contrast, people in trusting teams work efficiently and well, and they can deliver beautiful results. To build trust, you need to lead by example, communicate honestly and openly, get to know individuals as people, avoid blame, and discourage behaviors that breach trust.

Skill #10:

Developing emotional intelligence. Recommended by 72.1% of managers surveyed. “All managers need emotional intelligence to be effective,” says Birkinshaw. “This means having the self-awareness, selfcontrol, motivation, empathy, and social skills needed to behave in a mature, wise, empathetic way with the people around you. Emotionally intelligent managers are a joy to work with, which is why they attract and retain the best people.” “Even if you already feel like you have some of these skills, know that there is always more to learn, and the results will show in your improved leadership,” concludes Manktelow. “Practice them until they become effortless, and, in time, not only will you perform better, you’ll get better results from your team and stand out as a talented leader within your organization.” This article reprinted with the permission of Real Trends Inc. Copyright 2018

ABOUT THE AUTHORS: James Manktelow and Julian Birkinshaw are coauthors of Mind Tools for Managers: 100 Ways to Be a Better Boss (Wiley, April 2018, ISBN: 978-1-119-37447-3, $28.00). James Manktelow is founder and CEO of MindTools.com. He has written, edited, and contributed to more than 1,000 articles, more than sixty workbooks, and seven books and e-books on management and leadership, including Manage Your Time and Manage Stress. Julian Birkinshaw is a professor of strategy and entrepreneurship, deputy dean for programs, and academic director of the Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the London Business School. He is the author of fourteen books, including Fast/Forward, Becoming a Better Boss, and Reinventing Management. About the Book: Mind Tools for Managers: 100 Ways to Be a Better Boss (Wiley, April 2018, ISBN: 978-1-119-37447-3, $28.00) is available at bookstores nationwide, from major online booksellers, and direct from the publisher by calling 800-225-5945. In Canada, call 800-567-4797. For more information, please visit the book’s page on www.wiley.com. BAKERSFIELD REALTOR® MAGAZINE

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