YPNDEN

Tips for New REALTORS ® to Get Involved in Global Real Estate

When it comes to global real estate, Greater Tampa REALTORS®’ Young Professionals Network is no stranger! Our association’s Global Subcommittee provides opportunities to increase knowledge of the everchanging real estate industry. Many of our YPN Members take advantage of these opportunities and successfully add it to their skill sets.

Each year, our members have the opportunity to participate in various events such as trade missions, global forums, targeted meet and greets, selfdevelopment classes and other activities. These events have a direct correlation and purpose as to how agents not only increase their skills, but it serves as a means to increase and promote their business. Last year, some YPN members attended a Trade Mission to Dubai. They were able to gain first-hand real estate experiences in the Middle East. They met with developers, toured many new projects, discussed investment opportunities, learned about the culture and even received a designation to do business in Dubai.

Global is a great avenue to grow your real estate business. Most new REALTORS® do not realize that individuals around the world execute various real estate transactions here in the United States. Many international buyers view the U.S. as a safe place to invest in real estate due to our private property laws. It is our job to network with these international buyers and sellers and help facilitate their real estate transactions.

With today’s technology and social media, it has never been easier to connect with individuals worldwide. Social media platforms like Instagram are great for connecting and developing global relationships. Today there are many international buyers doing business in the United States without ever having to step foot here.

YPN Committee Member Yolanda Hodges is very involved in global real estate and has three tips on how you can work with international customers and grow your business. 1. Tap into your sphere of international friends and colleagues. They can be a great resource for referrals.

2. Use technology to your advantage. There are many tools you can incorporate into your business model such as video and 3D walking tours to eliminate the need for customers to see property in person.

3. Once travel restrictions are lifted, travel and take mini vacations. When you get to your destination meet up with a local REALTOR® and see how you can benefit each other. Also, meet with business owners and share the benefits of purchasing property in your market.

Global real estate does not have to be difficult and you do not necessarily have to speak another language to be able to conduct it. We have a great group of diverse YPN members that are in some form involved of global real estate. We encourage you to follow GTR on Instagram & Facebook and watch for future events coordinated by YPN and Global.

Sherman Milton III (Florida Heritage RE Group LLC) is the Vice Chair of the 2020 Young Professionals Network.

Find us on Facebook & Instagram @TampaYPN

Grow Your Global Business without a passport

No Boundaries with Technology

by Anand Patel

Think back to your last handful of real estate transactions. Chances are, at least one of those customers originated from another country. Tampa Bay is home to a diverse range of cultures from all over the globe. Our membership at Greater Tampa REALTORS® is also indicative of this diversity. As your 2020 Chair of the Global Subcommittee and the Tampa Bay Global Business Council (TBGBC), I have had the opportunity to truly see and appreciate this diversity firsthand. Our diversity has allowed us to tap into our membership’s talents and resources as we continue growing what the TBGBC can offer our members.

COVID-19 has forced all of us to reevaluate how we do business and to pivot quickly. Through the use of tools like Zoom, we have re-discovered how truly connected we can be with each other around the globe and continue to do business. Want to introduce a potential foreign buyer to your global team of experts such as immigration attorneys, CPAs and currency exchange professionals? It can all be done via a quick Zoom meeting, allowing you to further build trust with your global customer before they even set foot in Tampa Bay. How many of you have now made 3D tours as part of your standard marketing offering to limit the amount of foot traffic in your seller’s home? Tools like Matterport and Zoom are not new and have been readily available for quite some time, but we have quickly realized the benefits of integrating these tools into our business practices. And frankly, these practices will most likely stick around long after COVID-19 is behind us as we have found them to be quite beneficial.

TBGBChas been no different and has also adapted allowing us to continue to build momentum the first half of 2020. Below are just a few of the highlights the TBGBC, through the direction of the Global Subcommittee, has accomplished this year: Prior to the pandemic in February, we, along with Florida REALTORS® and surrounding associations, were fortunate to host a delegation of real estate professionals from Spain at the Columbia Restaurant for lunch followed by a tour of Jeff Vinik’s development in the Water District.

We have hosted monthly virtual educational sessions to educate GTR members on global real estate.

In conjunction with Florida REALTORS®, our council members participated in a virtual in-bound trade mission with Canadian real estate professionals seeking to do business in Florida. This provided a great opportunity for us in the Tampa Bay area to showcase that there is more to Florida than just South Beach and Mickey Mouse!

We formed a formal partnership with Pinellas REALTORS® Organization's (PRO) Suncoast Global Council to offer classes and events to both memberships without having to join both councils.

Hosted two virtual Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation institutes giving our council members the foundation to build a solid global business.

Offered the At Home with Diversity (AHWD) certification in partnership with PRO and the Real Estate For All Alliance to educate the council about the diversity of homeownership.

Created a podcast highlighting specific countries and how we can do business with them by tapping into the diverse backgrounds of our council members.

Hosted global happy hours with participants from all over the country as well as Canada.

COVID-19 has reminded us that with technology, there are no borders or boundaries! We are limited only by our imaginations on what type of programming and events we want to create for our members. With that, we are looking to set up virtual trade missions with key markets that purchase in our area. We are initially looking into a virtual trade mission with Toronto and will then look at other markets such as Panama, Brazil and the Dominican Republic.

This is an exciting time to be a part of the TBGBC and we’d love for you to join us so you too can seize the global opportunities that surround us. Feel free to reach out to our Global and Commercial Coordinator, Javin Nededog, at javin@ tamparealtors.org. If you are ready to join our council (annual membership is just $25 and gives you access to programs hosted by the Suncoast Global Council as well), visit our council website at tamparealtors.org/tbgbc. Also like us on Facebook (@TBGlobalBusinessCouncil) and join our FB group ( Tampa Bay Global Business Council) to stay up to date on upcoming events and programing. With your involvement, we look forward to an even greater second half of 2020 and beyond…all without needing a single stamp on your passport!

Anand Patel is the Broker of NextHome Discovery. He is the Chair of GTR's Global Subcommittee.

meet the candidates

The election to determine the 2021 Officers and Directors will begin electronically on September 21, 2020 at 12:01 a.m. and conclude on September 24, 2020 at 11:59 p.m.

Mingle with all of the 2021 leadership candidates after the August General Membership Meeting on Thursday, Aug. 6 via Zoom. Register at tamparealtors.org/gmm. ~ Ensure that your most up-to-date email address is on file by logging in to your GTR Member Portal. Election ballots will be emailed to members on September 20, 2020.

*Candidates are listed in alphabetical order by position. CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT-ELECT

RUTH BRYSON

Ruth joined GTR in 2001 after serving over 23 years in the U.S. Army where she achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. She is a seasoned leader with the ability to quickly adapt to changes and make sound decisions under the most trying circumstances. She worked as a realtor with a large brokerage until 2012 when she established Bryson international Realty LLC.. Ruth served and continues to serve at the local, state and national levels. Currently serving as the 2020 vice president, chair of property managers forum, and a member of finance, governmental affairs, events, professional standards, bylaws and global committees/subcommittees. She served as the 2019 secretary and as a director in 2017 & 2018. Appointed to Florida Realtors board of directors since 2017. Member of the following Florida Realtors committees: Global Business Committee, Property Management Breakout Group and Forms Content Committee. She was appointed by not one, not two, but 3 national Association of Realtors presidents to serve as the president liaison to El Salvador. Currently serving on NAR Global Business and Alliances Committee as well as on the board of directors. She served on the 2019 CIPS Advisory Board and the Global Alliance Advisory Board from 2014 to 2016. Ruth is a strong believer in the value of education. She is a graduate of Florida Realtors 2017 leadership Academy. Earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from Jacksonville State University, Jacksonville AL and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Golden Gate University, San Francisco CA. Designations and certifications include: CIPS, CRS, GRI, SRES, MRP, RSPS & AHWD. Her major goals are to provide programs, tools and services to help members succeed during certain and uncertain times, ensure transparency and accountability in decision making, position GTR as the recognized and authoritative source for global real state and to enhance professionalism and profitability of members. She believes GTR exists for the members and will listen and learn from members. she is committed to inclusion and collaboration. Ruth is a proven leader who will ask the tough questions and has the courage to make fact based decisions in the best interest of the members.

CANDIDATES FOR VICE PRESIDENT

STACY DILLARD

As the Broker of The Real Estate Shop, Stacy Dillard knows how important it is to have an open-door policy, create a collaborative culture, provide support, guidance, resources, and the most relevant industry information. She understands that when a Broker is empowered with support and the most current information, they contribute to agents’ higher standards of professionalism through effective tools, systems, skill building and innovation. Stacy recognizes that the real estate industry has advanced exponentially over the past few years and it is evident that the innovation will compound upward over the next 2 to 3, at a rate more aggressive than ever experienced before. Strategies of the past will not serve the industry of the future. She believes that those who intentionally operate in a cutting-edge position of growth, education, and cooperative leadership, will expand their businesses, and succeed at levels beyond previously possible. She further believes that the opportunity to influence the change, rather than trying to catch up with it, is at a pivotal point now and if we lack directed intention and actions to progress, we may allow the changes to reduce our ability to serve customers, clients, and the public with the integrity and excellence they deserve, and we are capable of.

“As Vice President, I am determined to increase association communication and collaboration with Brokers. I will use the position’s strong voice to ensure that, collectively, we are successful in expanding members’ opportunities to thrive with every changing circumstance presented.”

Stacy is the Broker/Owner of a boutique real estate company. She believes that continuous, progressive education is the path to higher levels of professionalism and standards of service. Stacy is C2EX endorsed by the National Association of REALTORS®, has earned the National Association of REALTORS® GRI®, ABR®, SRES® designations, plus MRP® and PSA® certifications. She is a graduate of the D6 Leadership Academy, has earned the Florida REALTORS® Honor Society award, and is a Sterling R Investor. She has served as a Florida REALTORS® Director since 2018, on the Florida REALTORS® Forms Content Committee and is serving as a member elected, 2019-2020 Greater Tampa REALTORS® Director. Stacy has served many committees, including as Chair of the Grievance Committee. Stacy is known for enthusiastically consulting and mentoring other agents and brokers and is always happy to help a fellow broker succeed or navigate a new challenge.

CANDIDATES FOR VICE PRESIDENT CONTINUED

JAY QUIGLEY

Jay Quigley is a Tampa native who is a Broker Associate in the Tampa Palms office of Florida Executive Realty. Currently completing his term as your 2020 Secretary, Jay now ask for the opportunity to continue serving you as he seeks election as your 2021 Vice President for Greater Tampa REALTORS®.

Jay believes that his record as a leader makes him the ideal candidate for Vice President. In the past, Jay was instrumental in forming the Tampa Bay Paralegal Association, a professional nonprofit association for paralegals. He served on that Board of Directors for almost a decade and proudly served as its President. During that time, Jay also served on the Hillsborough County Community College Paralegal Advisory Board and he’s been certified as a Guardian ad Litem for the Thirteenth Judicial Circuit.

Jay believes that ongoing education not only improves our profession, but also improves the service that we REALTORS® provide to the general public. He has successfully earned the following credentials: ABR®, C2EX®, CNE®, GRI®, PSA®, SFR®. In short, Jay is passionate about promoting professionalism! In 2019, Jay achieved the goal of obtaining his Real Estate instructor license. In that same year, he was awarded the Edward T. Starr Award for Outstanding Committee Leadership which, at the time, he was serving as the Chair for the Professional Development Committee and the Technology Committee. In 2020, Jay became a Faculty Member for Florida REALTORS®. Locally, Jay is completing his third year on the Board for Greater Tampa REALTORS®. He serves on the Governmental Affairs Committee and the Technology Committee. On the State level, Jay is completing his third year as a Director for Florida REALTORS® and serves on the Emerging Technology Committee. Jay also serves on the Board of the REALTORS® Care Foundation.

During the last five years of service, we have seen many great changes for the members of Greater Tampa REALTORS®. From the numerous education classes being offered virtually to the David Knox video library, your leadership continues to seek and bring great value to you, our valued members. In these times of uncertainty and change, continuity in leadership is vital. As we begin crafting a new 3 year strategic plan for our Association, Jay believes he has earned a seat at the table.

On September 21st, Jay humbly requests you cast your vote for Jay Quigley as Greater Tampa REALTORS® Vice President for 2021.

CANDIDATE FOR TREASURER

TOM SCAGLIONE

Tom is an energetic, highly motivated, technically proficient and dedicated professional embarking on a new path of client service in our new mobile economy.

Tom has spent more than 22-years in the architectural design and construction industry as a designer and a general contractor; in addition, more than 33-years as a Real Estate Professional both selling and marketing homes in the Tampa Tri-County Area with ideas and concepts through creative solutions for the benefit of meeting all his client's needs.

As the Florida REALTORS® 2018 Associate REALTOR® of the year and the Greater Tampa REALTORS® 2012 REALTOR® of the year, Tom puts that experience and knowledge to work for you.

Tom’s priority is, and has always been, to listen to the members wants and needs to ensure that the services path taken accomplishes your goals, not his. Tom’s first and only job is to provide you with the services and knowledge to accomplish this.

Tom has consistently been recognized for cultivating relationships between clients/customers and cooperation with other agents resulting in customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Tom has served as the:

2018 / 2020 / 2021 President of the REALTORS® Care Foundation 1973 / 1974 State President of the Florida Residential Designers Association now K/N/A the American Institute of Building Design 2000 President of the Greater Tampa REALTORS® 2006/2007 President of the My Florida Regional MLS N/K/A Stellar MLS 2001 District Vice President of the Florida REALTORS® 2000 Board Director of the National Association of REALTORS®

Looking forward to serving as your GTR 2021 Treasurer.

CANDIDATE FOR SECRETARY

JOE PEREZ

Joe joined Greater Tampa REALTORS® in 1983. He has served on the Greater Tampa REALTORS® Board of Directors as the 2017 President, as Vice President in 2003 & 2015, and several times as a Director. He was a long-standing member of the Florida REALTORS® Director (2001 - 2018). Joe serves on the Governmental Affairs, Building, Professional Development, and Technology Committee (2009 and 2011 Chair). He also served on the REALTOR Care Foundation of GTAR as a Board of Director. Joe was the 2014-2015 President of Stellar MLS (known at the time as My Florida Regional MLS) and served as Vice President, Treasurer and MFRMLS Board of Director. He also serves on the Emerging Technology Committee at Florida REALTORS®. Joe's goal is to keep GTR the association others look up to, in the state and the country. He hopes to help GTR to advance in the real estate industry because the market is changing, as is the way business will be done.

CANDIDATES FOR DIRECTOR

DAO ALDERMAN

Dao Alderman is the real estate broker for the past 12 years in residential and commercial real estate in Tampa Florida. She’ providing the real estate services to either buyers or sellers. She’s also property manager of her own rental properties. She is active member in Commercial Alliance Committee, Global Real Estate Council, and Government Affairs Committee with the Great Tampa REALTORS® Association (GTR). She’s also active and member in similar committees in Florida Association and National Association of Realtors (NAR).

She believes she must involve and be active with the Associations in all three levels, because she has seen the positive outcomes from the Associations as much as to the realtors, who are involved and volunteered with these associations. The realtors can bring in the voices, and suggestions for the improvements, or changes, in the legislative regulations, and laws at the local, or at the state, or even to the national level. These regulations and laws can impact positively to real estate owners, citizens, and investors in Florida.

Dao Alderman is running for the position of board directors. She believes She would have the opportunity to present the voices of the GTR members, whenever they have concerns, wishes, or suggestions back to the board of directors. These ideas can be combined into working programs for the members.

Dao Alderman believes the GTR members are the assets to the Associations, the Association should always support, and provide to the members the real estate related educations, the technology to increase and generate the business to the members, and the opportunities to network with other realtors in all levels, to stabilize the real estate markets while assisting the consumers with the upmost professional, ethical, and efficiency.

Vote for Dao Alderman into the board of directors, she would be the voice of the members to the Great Tampa REALTORS® , she would be devoting member to the successes of all members in real estate. She appreciates all the REALTORS® , and staffs of Great Tampa REALTORS® Association, who are her great supports and friends.

CANDIDATES FOR DIRECTOR CONTINUED

JEAN DORAZIO

Jean is a third generation native of Florida and the Tampa Bay area.

Selling residential and commercial real estate, land development for a major developer and working in the title industry has given her valuable experience and insight into many aspects of real estate. As manager of a successful real estate office with over 30 agents for 6 years, she had the opportunity to gain knowledge by solving problems and making transactions work for agents and customers. Formerly a Senior Vice President for the Florida operation of a national Fortune 500 corporation, Jean has the experience to bring her business, management and real estate knowledge to Greater Tampa REALTORS® and be a valuable contributor to the organization’s growth and member relations.

She is currently an active REALTORS® serving the Hillsborough and Pasco markets. She has served on the Board of Directors for Greater Tampa REALTORS® several times.

Her 2020 GTR activity is Vice Chair of Professional Standards and member of the Finance Committee and well as several task forces formed this year. For Florida Realtors, she serves on the Professional Development Committee and the Faculty Development Committee and is a Florida Realtors Board of Director. As a Life Director for Tampa Bay Builder Association she has experience in the building industry, as well. She also teaches Code of Ethics and Greater Tampa REALTORS® New Member Orientation.

Jean has been a REALTOR® in Florida for over 35 years, also a licensed real estate instructor and an approved instructor for Florida REALTORS®. The National Association of REALTORS® has approved her to teach REBAC courses, as well.

In summary, her background of multiple roles in real estate, real world experience and the desire to serve Greater Tampa REALTORS®, make her a great candidate for a Director in 2021.

JO EASTON

Josephine “JO” Easton has been a Licensed Realtor in Florida for over 41 years. She is a Proven Leader, Member Driven and Community focused. She volunteers locally as well as holding many positions Local, State and National. Her agenda is a simple one, help her peers by mentoring and guiding and encouraging them to take as many educational classes as possible. She has been president of this Board (GTR) as well as a small Board/Association and State President of RRC/CRS, WCR Tampa President and she has always pushed to do what is best for all the members. We all win when we help one another by sharing what we have learned Local, State and National.

She continues to work on and with Affordable Housing as well as keep up with Legislation not only for our Profession but also for issues that affect our everyday lives. She really enjoys helping on the Governmental Affairs, Professional Educational and Global Committees Local (GTR) and FR State. She says we have to keep up with the changes and her goals are to make sure that every member knows all the benefits that are here for them. The Association has helped many receive their designations and certifications. The more we know and learn the easier it is to help everyone. Plus it is a great feeling when mentoring and helping others achieve their goals.

She is a RPAC Major Investor because she believes in our Profession. We make a difference and she will help to continue to work for all of us to keep an eye on how the issues and legislation affects all of us and continue to share that information

She has a servant's heart and anyone that knows her knows if you ask for something and she can help she will do it, if she can't she can usually tell you who to call and get it done.

She has the leadership skills, experience, business knowledge and loves helping others. Given the opportunity she will help to take our membership and Association to the next level. Her goals are to always be on the cutting edge and to help all members do that. She takes advantage of all technology and educational programs at our Local, State and National Associations. She hopes she can count on your vote so your voice will be heard. Her door and phone is always available to help.

CANDIDATES FOR DIRECTOR CONTINUED

MARIE GREGORIO

Dynamic. Passionate. Selfless. These are just a few of the words that have been used to describe Marie by her peers, mentors, and customers. She is well-liked, disciplined, organized, and a resourceful and intelligent business professional. With a strong passion for her clients, volunteering, advocacy, and the belief that personal and professional development should be at the forefront of the real estate industry she serves her profession and the public with ferocity and enthusiasm.

Marie recently celebrated her 6th year selling real estate in Tampa Bay and now has over 14 years in the industry. She is actively involved in the REALTOR® organization at the local, state, and national lev-els volunteering both her time and talents in various capacities—earning a few accolades along the way including; Women’s Council of REALTORS® Florida District Vice President, Florida REALTORS® Committee Member serving on several committees, Florida REALTORS® District 6 Leadership Institute Chair, and she is a Sterling R RPAC Major Investor for the 3rd year in a row.

Marie is never too busy for her clients' real estate needs so in 2020 after a strategic move joining Tom-lin St Cyr Real Estate Services she expanded her personal team with a buyer's agent and transaction coordinator ensuring that she could continue following her passion and sharing her gifts. She brings vision to her work, can handle the most challenging situations while remaining heedful of the needs and direction of others, and will spend quality time building rapport with her peers, other leaders, and those with authority over her.

As one to never be complacent, she looks to continue to give back and grow her leadership skills by serving as a GTR Director this coming term.

On a personal note, Marie is married to the love of her life, Nick. They own a home in South Tampa with a fenced back yard for the their dog, Sir Archer Guinness, a Dorgi (Dachshund and Corgi mix who is a cuddle monster, that loves carrots, and has a sworn duty to protect the home from squirrels and the Amazon delivery guy. Marie enjoys traveling, reading, cooking, and all things Major-League Base-ball.

JENNIFER IRIZARRY

Jennifer Irizarry has lived in Tampa Bay for over 20 years. She is a broker associate with Lombardo Team Real Estate and has been licensed since 2016.

Jennifer first entered into the real estate market, as a business consultant for clients that were looking to expand their real estate portfolio. Becoming a Realtor became a natural progression for Jennifer, her business, and most importantly –her clients.

She allocates a significant amount of her time devoted to working with like-minded women-business owners in mentorship, and finding the perfect commercial space for their growing and expanding businesses.

Jennifer is known for her unshakable standard of ethics and attention to detail. She has always taken personal interest in her clients and colleagues; listening carefully to their needs and answering questions candidly. Her thoroughness and consistent follow through attribute to the foundation of her business philosophy today.

Having an understanding of the integral role real estate plays on our economy, Jennifer’s love for real estate can be seen through her continued education and commitment to community involvement. She is a member of NAR, FGCAR, COSTAR, Vice Chair of the Commercial Subcommittee, and is actively working towards her CCIM Designation. Realtor, consultant, wife, and mother Jennifer believes unequivocally in giving back to her community. She has and continues to serve on committees across Tampa Bay and looks forward to dedicating her passion for real estate as a Director for the Greater Tampa Realtors, and serving its members with sincere dedication and devotion.

CANDIDATES FOR DIRECTOR CONTINUED

MAURICE JOHNSON

Maurice, known to his close associates as ‘David’, came to a full time career in Real Estate after 20 years in Regional and Branch Banking and 16 year in Mortgage Lending.

He has been a licensed Real Estate Agent since 1987 and became active in 1997, joining GTAR in 1988 with Florida Associates Realty (now defunct). David later joined People’s Choice Realty Services LLC. In 2006. David has volunteered and actively served on several committees of the Board sharing in their deliberations. He has had the honor of serving on the following commitees:

Fair Housing 2012-2014 Governmental Affairs 2013 -2014, 2019 Grievance 2015-2018 Members Advisory Board 2019 Professional Standards 2013-2014, 2020

David has gained the following designations: SFR, AHWD, BPOR and GRI.

David has a Diploma in Education, B.Sc. in Management and is a 2016 graduate of Region 6 Leadership Institute. David is offering himself as a ready, willing and qualified candidate for election to the 2021 Board of Directors and is soliciting your support.

LEA LAGUEUX

Local girl and Graduate of USF (GO BULLS!), Lea’s BRE (Before Real Estate) work life was in the construction industry – from building cooling towers for power plants, to the construction of Raymond James Stadium and Tampa’s then Ice Palace and in residential home building. Skills gained in her work include accounting and marketing and advertising, all of which have been put to good use in the service of both her real estate clients and as an industry volunteer. During her year in home building Lea served for several years as a Parade of Homes Judge from Naples to Tallahassee and on the REALTOR / Builder Expo committee (2000-2002, 2007-2010). As a REALTOR® and member of Greater Tampa REALTORS®, she has served GTR members as a committee member and chair of the Technology (2008, 2012-2019, chair 2008, 2015, 2018) and International Council (2016-2020, chair 2017) committees and on Affordable Housing (2008, 2013, 2014) and Professional Development (2016) and the Awards sub-committee (2020). Lea was grateful to be elected and serve on the Board of Directors 2017-2018.

A Florida REALTORS Director (2015, 2017-2020), Lea currently serves on Florida REALTORS® committees for Global Business (2019-2020), Insurance Industry (2019-2020) and Land Use and Property Rights (2020). She has enjoyed serving on the Stellar MLS Advisory Council since 2017. Lea is proud to support RPAC since 2011, and is currently a Sterling R contributor.

Lea is very involved in Global real estate. She is a Canadian REALTORS® Association Affiliate member (2017-2020) and has attended the Toronto Real Estate Board’s Realtor Quest trade show since 2018, volunteering at the Florida Realtors booth there in 2019.

Why does Lea want to serve as your representative on the Board of Directors?

She believes our industry is at a critical juncture where the importance of communicating the ‘why’ consumers need REALTOR® services has become paramount. Lea feels strongly that this is something GTR, along with other REALTOR® boards around the country, must help members accomplish. She is also passionate about professionalism among REALTORS® and supports building on the momentum that NAR has begun with the C2EX certification program. Lea is a strong advocate for continuing the work of our Global Council - adding global connections both locally and internationally for members and continuing to build on GTR’s foundation of global education for all members.

CANDIDATES FOR DIRECTOR CONTINUED

MELANE NORRIS

As a dedicated member of GTR, Melanie Norris has been giving back for 17 years by serving on almost every committee at GTR. Melanie’s committed to being the members listening ear and striving to assist with change that will benefit the overall betterment of the members. Melanie strongly believes in education and stays current on trends affecting the Realtor industry. Earning the prestigious CRS & GRI designations, then followed it up with many more designations including C2EX.

Melanie is a Crystal R level with RPAC and regularly travels to the state capitol in Tallahassee as well as DC for State and NAR Meetings to lobby for property owners’ rights as well as for Realtors, and our profession. Melanie is not only a full-time Realtor who loves working with buyers and sellers in helping to make their dreams come true, she also is passionate about being a part of the Realtor nation! Melanie believes in giving back and She also volunteers her time with community charities including Children Miracle Network, Salvation Army, ECHO, Tampa Special Olympics & Alpha House.

GIPSY PERRY

Gipsy Perry works for BHG Real Estate Ellie & Associates. She is passionate about her career, family and God. Mother of 3 boys and married for the past 15 years. Working as a real estate agent since 2016 in the Tampa area has given her an opportunity to help people in many different levels. She is very resourceful, and love to educate clients so they can make the best choice for their situation. She works the Miami, Brevard, Orlando, Tampa and all the cities in between, which has provided her with a lot of knowledge of different markets and the opportunities to make our Association more successful. Currently Volunteering in the Governmental Affairs Committee, RPAC Committee, Realtors New Builders Committee, Global International Committee and National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals, 2018 Leadership Academy Graduate and always looking to better further her career. Formally a Financial Adviser and licensed Insurance agent has given her great insight of what it takes to work with the public. She is looking to be a great asset to this incredible association and with her Hispanic background she brings to the table new and fresh ideas.

JACK RODRIGUEZ

Jack joined GTAR in 1970 and is a REALTOR® Emeritus. He currently serves as Chairman of the Building Committee and serves on Governmental Affairs Committee and Bylaws Committee. He is also a Florida REALTORS® Director. Jack served as GTR President in 2009 and President of REALTORS® Care Foundation of GTR in 2012. Jack received the Realtor of the Year in 2013 and President’s Award in 2018. He is a RPAC Hall of Fame Member. Jack is also a former member and Chairman of the Florida Real Estate Commission. He has also served on many civic and philanthropic committees over the years. Jack believes his experience will serve the Association well. He will use his knowledge to wisely serve the Association. He will guide the Association and preserve its accomplishments and its fiscal integrity. He brings a conservative balance from his business and GTR involvement to foster an Association that exemplifies the real estate professional. He will continue to move the Association forward, preserve its past and maintain the Associations well founded traditions.

CANDIDATES FOR DIRECTOR CONTINUED

DAVE SIGLER

David Sigler is a Florida native who grew up in Fort Lauderdale Florida. He attended the University of Central Florida where he received his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. David has since become a licensed General Contractor & Real Estate Broker. He has been active in Florida real estate and construction for over 15 years. During the Great Recession he was forced to refocus his ambitions and landed on property management. Starting with a handful of homes that could not be sold, he grew his portfolio and eventually bought the brokerage. With his experience, knowledge, and resources, his company prides themselves on successful turn-key residential investment solutions. He now manages hundreds of homes covering 5 counties and his construction company provides maintenance services to his management company as well as other local managers. David is an active member of the National Association Residential Property Managers and has served on the Florida State Board for over 6 years in many different roles; most recently as the NARPM Florida Chapter President (2019). Active in the GTR community, he has served on the property management subcommittee for over 4 years and recently as chair of the group. He is also active in local and state legislation that affects the property management industry. His unique understanding and perspective of property management and its associated maintenance has provided him with numerous public speaking opportunities. Outside of work, not only is he an avid outdoors man and a board member for several local Non-Profit organizations, but first and foremost a Father and Husband.

ANN THOMPSON

Ann R. Thompson has been a member of GTR for over 35 years and is a Sterling R supporter of RPAC. From 2004 to 2006, Ann served as Director for GTR and Florida Association of REALTORS®. She has served and chaired several committees on both the local and state level. These committees included Professional Development, Affordable Housing, Fair Housing, Professional Standards, New Members Orientation. Just to name a few.

In 2005, under the mentorship of former GTR Broad President, Herbert Fisher, Ann was elected President of The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), Bay Area Association of Realtists Chapter. Formed in 1947, NAREB challenged unfair housing and financing practices and continued to support equal housing opportunities.

As an instructor, Ann worked with various real estate schools and conducted several real estate sales training workshops for Brokerages. She co-created a Boot Camp training course for newly licensed REALTORS®. This training course has been instrumental in launching numerous successful real estate careers. One of her favorite quotes by Abigail Adams is “Learning is not attained by chance; it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence.”

The Greater Tampa REALTORS® awarded Ann with its Pedagogy Award for her valuable knowledge and instructional skills and abilities to bring forth higher professional standards, member satisfaction, and organizational value.

In addition to being a Code of Ethics Instructor, she is a Florida REALTORS® Faculty Member. She is approved to teach CE Express courses, Completing an Effective Purchase & Sales Contract, and Newly Licensed? Now What? Ann also teaches the following GRI courses: Fair Housing & Diversity, Contacts to Contracts and Goal Setting & Business Planning. She believes that those who experience genuine success in real estate recognized that their WHY is Service and NOT Status.

Ann is an active community member. She received the Speaker of the Year Award from Hillsborough County Public School Board. The recognition was for motivating and mentoring students on improving critical thinking skills and fostering healthy relationships. She was a FOUNDING BOARD MEMBER of the Hillsborough County Diversity Advisory Council. The council works to facilitate communication between the County government and its diverse population. It addresses matters related to diversity that are important to everyone.

Ann is a proud mother of three adult children, and a dedicated Servant-Leader to her family, church, community, and profession.

CANDIDATES FOR DIRECTOR CONTINUED

JOHN TOMLIN

John is interested in serving on the GTR Board to put his extensive experience with membership organizations (AAA Auto Club South and AAA National) to work at GTR making sure we constantly provide great value and service to you, our members. His 26 years with the AAA organization has made Member Value a core value for him.

John graduated from the University of Pennsylvania - Wharton School with both a BA and MBA in 1978 with majors in Finance and Accounting.

He joined AAA Auto Club South in 1989 and assumed increasing responsibilities, becoming CEO in 2009. He formed two insurance companies, with premium of $250 million and orchestrated the largest AAA merger, forming a club with 8.5 million members and $3.5 Billion in sales.

John retired from AAA in June 2015. He then started Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate Services with Holly (wife) and Ali (daughter). In its 5th year Tomlin St Cyr has over 40 agents and home sales over $70 million.

John has served as chair of The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and Junior Achievement of West Central Florida and has served on the boards of AAA (until 2014), Moffitt Cancer Center, The Boys and Girls Club (current Chair), Tampa Hillsborough EDC and Corbett Preparatory School. John has always believed everyone has a responsibility to give one’s time and talent to make our community better for all. That philosophy Is the foundation for Tomlin St Cyr Real Estate Services.

John has been active in GTR since he became a realtor believing in supporting the local organization responsible for serving the real estate community and maintaining it’s professionalism. John was initially a member and then chair of the Professional Development Committee. Through the efforts of the committee and John’s leadership, offerings were expanded including Designation courses (GRI graduates have dramatically increased), continuing education among others. He also has been a member of the Finance Committee and the GTR Board of Directors.

John earned the following designations: Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Charted Life Underwriter (CLU), Charted Financial Consultant (ChFC) and Graduate, Realtor Institute.

ROGER VERSZYLA

After Roger was Honorably discharged for his 3 years’ time spend in the US Army, he then went off to college to get his degree and was offered an opportunity to spend the next 45 years working for major contractors as a business manager that cause him to locate from working in Algeria to the North slopes of Alaska and many places in-between his assignments. His responsibilities included the managing of the financial affairs of those companies, from recruiting, purchasing, OSHA compliance, contract administration, client negotiations and held accountable for every dollar spent on those projects.

Approximately 20 years ago, Roger decided to get his Real Estate and Community Association licenses and has kept them active but did not work the licenses until his retirement. Since his retirement, he has been active with his involvement GTAR and various committees. His Real Estate career has primary been focus in the management of properties, rentals, and some sales. For the last 6 years he held a seat, vice-chair, and chair on the Hillsborough County Code Enforcement Board and currently the Hillsborough County West End Code Enforcement Magistrate. Also, for the last 6 years he has and still holds the positions as President of Bayport West Home-owners Association and President of the Tampa Bay Dance Club which is a Senior Dance club.

Roger is a thinker and does not just jump to conclusions. He extracts all the information necessary to make and informed decision and opinion. He uses the skills that has been precipitated by his experience and extensive career in the Heavy construction industry. His background and leadership have been incredibly positive for the companies he was employed with and his wisdom has changed many procedures utilized by those companies in the performance of there contracts.

Based on his experience, he will be an asset to any organization.