My Florida ReSource - February 2012 by My Florida Regional MLS

“I love real estate because it’s dynamic and ever changing. Part of keeping that ‘joie de vivre’ is embracing and being energized by change. I like that real estate is never stagnate...it changes daily, keeps you guessing and on your toes...which helps keep you young!” –Wendy Herndon, Manatee Association of REALTORS®

Also

The monthly magazine of My Florida Regional MLS February 2012 “I love real estate Volume 1, Issue 9 because it is always changing. We have “There are several to keep learning, and reasons that I love real we meet the most estate. First, it affords intersting people.” me the opportunity –Lynne Van Ecl, En- to help all kinds of glewood Area Board people. While I was teaching for 16 years of REALTORS® the best part of my job was helping my students. In real estate I can contunue to do the same thing. Second, I love the art of the deal, putting it together, nepage 17 gotiating and closing. Lastly, I get to be my “I own boss.” love matching people with properties. This builds life-long –Brad Jenkins, West relationships and helps fulfill the Pasco Board of REALAmerican Dream of home ownership. TORS® With international scope, I can “I like the variety of responsipromote this hope throughout the bilities. No day is exactly like the world.” previous one and the industry –Lucile Casey, Pinellas challenges us every day to be perREALTOR® sistant, professional, compassionOrganization ate and inventive. We are lifestyle consultants, financial advisors and often more than that. Real estate is, despite the challenges of a rough market, one of the most important parts of peoples financial future. The American Dream page 13 is alive, with the help of Realtors® nationwide. We move America.”

What do you love about real estate?

Favorite MFRMLS product? REMINDER!

New MFRMLS Address, Phone & Fax! page 22

–Malte Strauss, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association

My Florida ReSource Magazine February 2012 Volume 1, Issue 9

February 2012

My Florida Regional MLS (MFRMLS) 555 Winderley Place, Suite 320 Maitland, FL 32751

In this issue... 13 17 19 19 20 21 21 22 22

Your Favorite MFRMLS Product is... Featured What do you love about real estate? Featured Have you tested your Stats IQ? Message of the Day: the Important Messages You Need Where to Find MFRMLS News! Notice: Data Export Limit Change New First Friday (of the Month) Office Hours Announcement: New Customer Association We have officially MOVED!

In every issue... 3 Training & Tips —January My Tips of the Week —Education is Essential – Register for a Class Today! —Help Desk Tip

11 Compliance Corner —Login Sharing and Remote Desktop Applications

23 Resources —Get it Done: Sweet Deeds

27 Real Estate News —Average 30-year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Holds at All-Time Record Low

29 Spotlights —Team Member: Theresa Philips, Manager, Technical Support —Product and Services: All Products and Services!

33 Commercial Real Estate News (presented by MFCRE)

—Commercial Real Estate Question? 36 Around the House (an article for current and future homeowners) —5 Feng Shui Concepts to Help a Home Sell

Tel: (407) 960-5300 Toll-Free: (800) 686-7451 Fax: (407) 960-5450 About MFRMLS My Florida Regional MLS is Florida’s largest multiple listing service with over 32,000 subscribers. Owned by 15 Shareholder REALTOR® Boards and Associations in Central and Southwest Florida, MFRMLS offers a comprehensive suite of productivity and marketing tools to professionals in the real estate industry. Positioning Statement My Florida Regional MLS is the only real estate information resource that helps our members deliver quality service to their customers by providing the tools and opportunity to succeed in their profession. 2011-2012 MFRMLS Officers Bill Dryburgh, President Melody Hall, President-Elect Steve Amburgey, Vice-President Bob Grant, Jr., Treasurer Aaron Chandler, Immediate Past President MFRMLS Executives Merri Jo Cowen, CEO Jay Markell, CFO, COO Deanna Rogers, VP of Business Development Carole Burgess, VP of Administration Jennifer Thompson-Kersting, VP of Sales and Marketing Editorial Staff Natashia Ford, Editor Doug Wise, Editor, Creative Director

How does RatePlug help Agents in today’s market?

RatePlug provides your prospective homebuyers with valuable payment information specific to each property they view. MFRMLS PROPERTY REPORT & LINK Online, interactive housing payments & lending info displayed side-by-side with property information on a new Consumer Report Keeps customers on listings longer You choose the lender to display Interactive mortgage tool allows homebuyers to play ‘what if’ scenarios to address their financing needs

Provides marketing material for your Open House functions or general display. PROPERTY FLYER PROGRAM The system creates detailed flyers with property listing information and acurate mortgage payment information Created with one mouse click Can be emailed or printed Promotes both the Agent and chosen Loan Officer

FREE to MFRMLS Members!

Visit www.rateplug.com/mfrmls to enroll

*Participating lenders pay a license fee.

www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 2

Training

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of the WEEK

Tips

January My Tips of the Week Go to http://www.mfrmls.com/resources/education-and-training/my-tip-ofthe-week for more My Tips of the Week.

January 30, 2012 Statistics: Did you know you have access to several different statistical programs in the MLS? 1. IMAPP Residential Statistics: Click on Tax Search in MLXchange, then select the county out of the drop down list (i.e. Pinellas). Next, type in an address and click Perform Search. Click on the Residential Statistics Button on the right side. 2. MLXchange (Search Statistics): Click on Search, type in the criteria (i.e. subdivision, property city or property address), click the Statistics button at the bottom of the Search screen. 3. MLXchange (Market Conditions Report): Click on Search, type in the criteria and click on the Results or Details button. Then, click on the Market Conditions Report link on the left. 4. MLXchange (Reports): Click on Search, type in the criteria and click on the Results or Details button. Next, click on a listing and then click on any of the reports in the left column, such as Real AVM, Listing/Market Activity, etc... (Also, are you using Data Co-op? A direct link to Data Co-op can be found in the SmartLinks section of MLXchange. With Data Co-op, you can access many of the reports in MLXchange, in addition to more map features, etc... Click on the following link for more information: http://www. mfrmls.com/member-benefits/mlxchange-benefits/data-co-op) 5. Stats IQ: One of the newest MFRMLS products and services, Stats IQ offers advanced statistics in easy-to-read, intuitive graphs and reports. Click on the following link for a direct link to the Stats IQ website, as well as more information: http://www.mfrmls.com/member-benefits/stats-iq

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Volume 1, Issue 9

January 23, 2012 Struggling to keep up with all the local financing options available for your clients? Start using Down Payment Resource (DPR) found in MLXchange to search for properties that qualify for Down Payment Assistance. Down Payment Resource refreshes local data each month so all the important funding information and homebuyer assistance program changes are reflected in your online searches. As they publish updates to these programs in DPR, they take effect immediately, so there’s no delay in getting the most current and relevant information to you through DPR.

January 16, 2012 InstanetFax: Are you receiving an InstanetFax-produced email for the first time? Then be sure to check your Junk Mail! If the InstanetFax-produced email did go to your Junk Mail, then be sure to move the InstanetFax email to your email Inbox and mark it as “Not Junk,” a “Safe Sender,” or whatever term your email client may use – if you have such an option. Or, you can also add the InstanetFax email address (contained in the “From” field) to your contact list. For more information on InstanetFax and using InstanetFax for your faxing needs, please click on the following link: http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/instanetfax To watch a brief InstanetFax tutorial, please click on the following link: http:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLL1yO3n4VM&feature=youtu.be www.MFRMLS.com

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(Tips continue on page 5) February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 4

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of the WEEK

January My Tips of the Week Go to http://www.mfrmls.com/resources/education-and-training/my-tip-ofthe-week for more My Tips of the Week.

(continued from page 4)

January 9, 2012 How do you rank amongst other agents in your market? Do you list or sell more than other agents? Want to find out where you rank in the list?

1. Click on the Search tab in MLXchange. 2. Type in the criteria, ex. Status (Active and/or Sold), market (city, zip code, subdivision), condo or single family, beds, baths, etc. 3. Click the Statistics button at the bottom of the criteria or results screen. 4. Click on the Agent Ranking triangle icon which produces a text report or the Agent Ranking bar graph icon which produces a bar graph. Click on Save as pdf or the print button.

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Volume 1, Issue 9

Top My Tips of the Week for 2011 MY

January 2, 2012

IMAPP: Did you know that you can print mailing labels (continued from page 4) for international owners?

of the WEEK

1. Access IMAPP by clicking on Tax Search in MLXchange, then select the county out of the drop down list (i.e. Pinellas). 2. Type in criteria (i.e. subdivision or property city) and click the Perform Search button. Select “Owner Country” in the criteria pick list and select “Germany” in the search value list. (You may also select “Owner in FL = No”, “Owner in USA = No” or “Owner Occupied = No” to search for absentee owners.) 3. Then, click on the Create Mail Labels button in the results screen. Select “owner” or “owner at property address” and select the type of labels in the list. Then, click on the Create Labels as a PDF button. 4. Click on print, set the “page scaling” to “none”, take the check out of “autorotate and center” and take the check out of “choose paper source by pdf.” You are now ready to print.

www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 6

Class is Now in Session!

Go Big "U" Have you been to MFRMLS University? This training portal will connect you to the many courses available to you as an MFR Member. Online, or in person, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a class for you. Looking to learn in your pajamas? With easy registration and no waiting, you can bring our trainers into your home through live and recorded webinars. Available online, you can save gas and you can save time. Best of all, the courses are free. Need face time? No problem. MFRMLS University also connects you to live courses taught at your association/board by MFRMLS instructors. With interactive sessions in a classroom setting, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be an expert in no time. In-person or online, MFRMLS University can help you boost ered with your membership. Log on today to learn more!

www.MFRMLSUniversity.com

7 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Volume 1, Issue 9

Training

Tips

Education is Essential – Register for a Class Today! By MFRMLS Staff One of the keys to success in any business is education and training. At MFR our trainers offer a full suite of live training classes, as well as webinars to help you get the most out of our products and services. Be sure you routinely browse the training calendar so you don’t miss out on any of the training sessions being offered. Below are a few helpful links you should bookmark on your browser:

MFRMLS Training Calendar: http://www.mfrmls.com/resources/training-and-events/

MFRMLS Course Descriptions: http://www.mfrmls.com/resources/education-and-training/course-descriptions

To register for a class: https://mdweb.marketlinx.com/mfr/

MFRMLS University: http://www.mfrmlsuniversity.com/ Reminder: In our efforts to continue “going green” MFR no longer provides printed course handouts. Class attendees are encouraged to either download the documents and have them handy for class or print the documents prior to class.

Download and/or print the Course Handouts: http://www.mfrmls.com/resources/document-library/cat_view/53-education-documents/105-course-handouts Remember you can always contact our training team at training@mfrmls. com with any questions you have!

www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 8

Training tips from the Help Desk

Tips

A helpful tip from the MFRMLS Help Desk.

Receiving a Clareity Security Error? By Paul Figuenick Help Desk Technician Have you come across the Clareity Security Error message when logging into the MLXChange? If you have, there’s an easy fix for this. Simply, close all of your Internet Explorer browsers. Once all browsers are closed, re-launch a new Internet Explorer browser and then try logging in again. This should take care of the error. If this doesn’t fix the issue, please contact the Help Desk at 1-800-686-7451 (option #1).

Help Desk Hours: Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–8:00 PM Saturday–Sunday: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Toll Free: (800) 6867451 Local: (407) 960-5300 Select "Option 1" in the phone menu to be connected to the Help Desk.

9 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Volume 1, Issue 9

W BLE O N A

IL A AV

Mobile MLS Access for Home Buyers & REALTORS®® Compliments of My Florida Regional MLS

Help Them See Inside!

Now with ShowingTime! ®

Welcome to Kurio®, the premier real estate search service that provides you and your clients with real-time access to listing information directly from your mobile phone.

Kurio For Your Clients. A Better Home Buying Experience

Kurio is a valuable, FREE service you can make available to your clients. Access to key property information like beds, baths, list price and more, will help narrow their home search and when they need more information, you are only one click away. Give them a better home buying experience, and they’ll thank you for it.

Location, Location, Location

Schedule showings “on-the-go!”

Kurio For REALTORS®. No Missed Opportunities

Using Kurio on your mobile device you can look up comparable properties, recently solds, roster info, showing instructions and other ‘Realtor only ’ MLS information so your clients are getting the information they need WHEN they need it.

Instant Access to `My Active Listings‘

Kurio provides one-click access to your active listings. So when you get a call from a prospect asking about one of your properties, you can give them the information they‘re without ever

Always Connected

With Kurio's location based searches, your clients can retrieve

With Kurio, you can get a complete picture of the daily real estate activity in your market area. In addition, you’ll

they’re in the neighbhorhood, providing immediate & relevant results.

requests more information on a property of interest. Just

Real Estate Search. Made Easy.

With Kurio, your clients can search listings for sale by MLS number, cross street, address or by a variety of other criteria. ‘Kurious’ daydreamers can look up the biggest McMansions or the smallest, charming starter homes. Searching for local real estate has never been so easy.

Kurio on the Web www.MFRMLS.com

be out of the loop.

http://mfr.kurio.mobi/reg/ Already using Kurio? Go to http://mfr.kurio.mobi *Some carriers may not support, or may limit access to, Assisted-GPS (A-GPS) for location-based services.

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 10

Compliance Corner

Thank you. MFRMLS prides itself on accurate data, and one of our goals is to maintain a listing service that is successful for everyone. With that said, we want to thank all of our members who comply with our rules and regulations. If there is a violation, a warning will be issued. Most warning notices allow 24 hours for correction before a fine is assessed. However, failure to change the status of a listing is a more serious offense, which is an automatic fine without any warning notice.

JANUARY statistics for rules violations: Total number of Warnings: 14,819 Total number of Agents Reported: 1,256 Total number of Fines assessed: 29

Top five violations for JANUARY: 1. Status – failure to change the status from pending to sold within two business days of the closing. 2. Short Sale – failure to add “Short Sale” as the first two words in the Public and Realtor Remarks. 3. Incorrect Photo – failure to add a front exterior or rendering, or aerial photo or water view photo in the first photo slot. If a water view or aerial photo is in the 1st slot, the 2nd photo slot must contain a front exterior photo. If placing a water view photo, it must be a photo from the property/unit. Photos may not contain any contact information, text, etc. 4. Driving Directions – are required and must be for narrative directions that include full street names, beginning and ending points and use standard directional designations. Reference to online electronic mapping isn’t allowed (e.g. Mapquest, Google, GPS is not acceptable.) 5. Active with Contact (AWC) – failure to have seller’s written authorization and/or add the “Active with Contract” in the Public Remarks directly after “Short Sale,” if applicable.

11 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Volume 1, Issue 9

Login Sharing and Remote Desktop Applications By MFRMLS Staff Have you recently received a notification that our ScoutMLS security system has detected patterns of login sharing on your MFRMLS account? Then a remote desktop application, such as LogMeIn or GoToMyPC, may be the reason. If you are using a remote desktop application on a secondary device, such as an iPAd or a second computer, to access the MLS through your primary computer, then please contact the MFRMLS Administration department at 1-800-6867451 (option #3) to verify you are using a remote desktop application. Once again, this is only if you have recently received a notification that our ScoutMLS security system has detected patterns of login sharing on your MFRMLS account. In case you missed recent articles in the Compliance Corner section of My Florida ReSource, or haven’t seen the MFRMLS Rules & Regulations, per Article 11, Section 4, Part D (d) of the MFRMLS Rules & Regulations, sharing your MLS login credentials with anyone is strictly prohibited. Here is a link to the MFRMLS Rules & Regulations page where login sharing is prohibited (see Article 11, Section 4, Part D (d)): http://mfrmls. myismart.com/articles/category/use-of-mfrmls-information

Reminder: Expected Closing Date This is just a reminder to please check your “Active with Contract “ and “Pending” listings to ensure the Expected Closing Date field has the correct date. Also, if you receive a warning notice, please make sure you make the necessary corrections within 24 hours (i.e. update the listing with the new date, etc.). Otherwise, a fine will be issued. Thank you for your help in making the MFRMLS database as accurate as possible.

We thank you for helping to protect the MFRMLS database, ensuring none of your data, including listing information, ends up in the wrong hands. Once again, if you are using a remote desktop application, or if you have any questions about the MFRMLS policy in regards to login sharing, please contact the MFRMLS Administration department at 1-800-686-7451 (option #3). Thank you, again. Quick note about unregistered/unlicensed assistants: If you are sharing your account with an unregistered/unlicensed assistant, this may also lead to identified patterns of login sharing. Please review the MLS policy on unlicensed assistants by visiting the following link: www.mfrmls.com/resources/document-library/ doc_download/41-policy-for-unlicensed-assistants To register an unlicensed assistant please contact your Local Service Center for MLS Administrative User Access. Upon registration of the assistant, Identity Sharing can be enabled.

www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 12

Your favorite MFRMLS product/service is… By MFRMLS Staff In a recent survey posted in the Message of the Day, we asked MFRMLS members to choose their favorite MFRMLS product/service. Here was the official question: What is your favorite MFRMLS product/service (beyond the core products of MLXchange and IMAPP)? And although the survey was just for fun, with a small percentage of MFRMLS members responding, the winner is…

TransactionDesk! Are you using TransactionDesk? Take a look at the Transaction Desk feature on this page and the next page! Also, check out this month’s product/service spotlight on page 30 for recaps on all of our products/services.

TransactionDesk As a member of My Florida Regional MLS, you have access to the most complete paperless document management system on the planet! Made specifically for busy REALTORS®, TransactionDesk seamlessly integrates with MLXchange and IMAPP allowing you to conduct paperless transactions from the beginning of the listing process, all the way to the closing table. Accessible from any web browser and smart phone, you are no longer chained to a desk. You’ll save time, money and fuel while responding quicker to your clients.

TransactionDesk Recorded Webinar http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KiNCjq7O7lI

Try TransactionDesk Lite! http://www.youtube. com/user/mfrmlsuniversity

Don’t need all the features of TransactionDesk, or want to get more familiar with TransactionDesk using a simplified version? Check out this short video: http://www.youtube.com/user/mfrmlsuniversity#p/a/u/1/SYHAcxcwCEY

13 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Volume 1, Issue 9

TransactionDesk Now Available on Tablets! Here are specific instructions for how to use TransactionDesk on your Tablet: 1) Using your Tablet browser, visit www.transactiondesk.com/mfrmls (you can also use this URL on your desktop computer to log in outside of MLXchange). 2) Select the button titled “Login via Safe Single Sign-On.” 3) This will take you to a login screen that looks exactly like MLXchange. Enter the same ID and Password you use to access MLXchange. Please note: This log-in method also applies to iPad users, so if you’re an iPad user, using Safari as your browser, for instance, please don’t let the MLXchange screen scare you away. 4) You should now have access to TransactionDesk!

More Information about TransactionDesk Complete Document Management Auto-populate all of your FR/BAR forms and contracts directly from the MLXchange or IMAPP for greater accuracy and time savings.

Built-in Electronic Forms Create and edit real estate contracts and forms online through TransactionDesk Pro OR if you need a simple and easy solution, TransactionDesk Lite is also available.

DocBox Print Driver

Email and Internet Faxing

With a single click, you can “print” your document to a virtual printer which will store your document with simultaneous fax and email delivery options. (Faxing within North America only.)

Forms can be emailed in read-only or editable format. Contracts can be sent via Internet fax to clients for signing then emailed with signatures to both parties when approved.

Instanet Fax Paperless faxing with your logo to the recipient’s email with digital timestamping and verification.

Unlimited Document Storage

Customer Service Portal

Access existing and historical transactions with unlimited storage space, regardless of the source of the documents.

Document access for your clients to retrieve the relevant information you choose to share.

DocBox2Go Access all your documents, forms, transaction folders and contacts with your Smart Phone.

www.MFRMLS.com

Activity Plans Allows the insertion of multiple tasks in to a transaction with a few clicks of the mouse.

Online Negotiation Allows forms to be sent between parties and interactively negotiated and tracked online. A full audit trail of all changes and modifications is kept for each contract and form created in TransactionDesk.

Multiple Fonts, Colors and Sizes You can select from 14 different fonts, 10 colors and 8 sizes for contracts. An autosize feature will shrink longer sentences to fit within the text input area on a contract. (please see “TransactionDesk” page 16)

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 14

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Volume 1, Issue 9

TRANSACTION DESK (continued from page 14)

Watermarks Watermarks can be embedded onto each page of your forms.

Quick Start Groups Make your own forms groups and insert mulitple forms into a transaction with one click, instead of adding the same individual forms to many transactions.

Digital Signatures Authentisign™ lets you securly manage the signing of documents by remote parties, while optionally providing the verifiable security of the USPS Electronic Postmark, while meeting all federal eSign guidelines.

Transaction Desk is included with your MFRMLS membership! How to log into Transaction Desk: In MLXchange: Click on the Transaction Desk link under the “Smart Links” section found under the right-hand “Resources” column. Outside of MLXchange: 1) Visit www.transactiondesk.com/mfrmls 2) Select the button titled “Login via Safe Single Sign-On.” 3) This will take you to a login screen that looks exactly like MLXchange. Enter the same ID and Password you use to access MLXchange. Please note: This log-in method also applies to MAC users, so if you’re a MAC user, using Safari as your browser, for instance, please don’t let the MLXchange screen scare you away.

www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 16

What do you love about real estate? By MFRMLS Staff

In honor of Valentine’s Day falling in the month of February, we decided to ask our members—aka you—through a survey in the Message of the Day what you “love” about real estate.

“I get so much personal satisfaction when I see my clients excited expressions at the closing table. Owning a home is the American Dream!”

Here was the question: “Why do you love real estate? (i.e. Why are you in the real estate profession?)”

—Carol Marra, Manatee Association of REALTORS®

With that said, thank you to all who responded! On this page, as well as the front cover, are some of the responses. Once again, thank you to all who responded. We wish we had room to publish all the responses! “I love the real estate profession be“The happy feeling I get when a buyer cause it is my canvas to paint however or seller has thanked me from the bot- I choose. Meaning it allows for me tom of their heart for helping them.” to market myself the way I want. I —Raquel Zapata, Greater Tampa As- am able to choose how I grow in this business and organize it to accomosociation of REALTORS® date my clients needs. No other business has allowed for me to do this and “There is nothing like the thrill of it is my intent to create a masterpiece.” a new listing, or the yay(!) in helping someone finally buy their dream home. The smiles and the gratitude are so entirely satisfying – they are as addictive as chocolate! It’s all about being of service and helping people accomplish something that is so very emotional, complicated and mysterious. Most people can only aspire to feeling true job satisfaction. I get to enjoy that feeling just about every day, and it is glorious.” —Charryl Youman, Venice Area Board of REALTORS® “I love when it all comes together and you see the smiling faces, and sometimes tears in the eyes, of the buyers sitting at the closing table, receiving keys to their dream home. That is why I stuck with real estate through these tough times. It really is a great job!” —Janelle Pruitt, East Polk County Association of REALTORS®

17 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

—Buffy Barrott, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association “I love Real Estate, because it gives me the flexibility to spend quality time with my family. In today’s economy, the American Dream is still a reality. Closings have been very challenging and if you do not have the cooperation from all persons involved in closing the transaction, it can be very frustrating. It is my pleasure to help families acquire the American Dream. To tell the truth, it is like being pregnant, going though labor and seeing the beautiful child and next you are ready to have another. I care very much for my customers. Whether it is a $5,000 or $5,000,000 transaction, they deserve the same quality of service. Last of all, I thank God for my customers and ask that He bless them.” —Katina Hargrove, REALTORS® Association of Lake and Sumter Counties

“I love working with people and get huge satisfaction in being able to help them achieve their housing dreams. It is thoroughly rewarding to be able to help people take the stress out of achieving those real estate dreams.” —Colin Howgill, Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS® “I love people, and when I find just the right property for them it gives me such a feeling of satisfaction.... (For) listings I can get really involved in conducting open houses and helping stage the home for showing, and my customers are so pleased when we receive the offer and also love the negotiations. That’s probably my favorite part of any transaction – once again such satisfaction right up to the day of closing.... The business is in my blood. I have worked since 1978 in real estate in three different states – must love (it) to be that involved for that length of time....” —Gloria Hunter-Peroni, PRO “To make my communnity a better place and (to be) a trusted advocate.” —Vivienne Cunningham, REALTORS® Association of Lake and Sumter Counties Volume 1, Issue 9

“With all of the ups and downs of the Real Estate transaction, you have to wonder “why”? But when it comes to closing on the perfect home for your buyers, you know “why”! There is no better feeling than assisting buyers and sellers with obtaining their goal!” —Patty Hurlburt, East Polk County Association of REALTORS® “Real estate has proven to be a great way to meet new people and learn about other areas of the United States. It gives me the opportunity to make new friends, as well as helping others in their real estate endeavors. I get a great since of pride when I hand the keys to a new home owner.” —Dennis Puckett, West Volusia Association of REALTORS® “This business is great! You get to travel, work outdoors, associate with new people and old, and make money at the same time. I owned my own small business for seven years. Now my real estate business compared to the business I had for those seven years ... I stood in one place morning, noon, and night. This is more flexable and relaxing compared to a job or your own small business. Wish I would have started real estate when I got straight out of high school. That’s how much I love real estate.” —Alex Cruz, Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS® “It gives me the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and cultures. The flexibility is a big plus.” —Priscilla Rodriguez, Osceola County Association of REALTORS® www.MFRMLS.com

“I was born and raised in communist Hungary and grew up knowing that one day I will be living in America. My family waited 25 years before the first opportunity to leave. We had left everything we owned and everything that we knew in order to get out. We lived in a refugee camp for over a year before we finally made it to our destination. Finally here, arriving with a suit case of clothes, mom and brother, I could not be happier. What an exciting time of life! Talk about a fresh start. 18 days later I was working, three months later driving and enrolled in night school without knowing much English. In a communist country owning your own home is a rare luxury. Pretty much everything is owned by the goverment. I was fascinated by the thought of homeownership. I still am. It took me about 10 years to get my language skills to where I was comfortable with my ability to communicate. After taking and passing my real estate exam, I was in awe of the possibilities ahead. “Look at all this land,” I said to my husband next to me on the way back from the exam! “Do you realize I can now sell all that?” That day was 15 years ago and I am not any different now. Still excited about land, property, homes and fascinated by learning about how Americans live. But by now I am one of them. Loving what I do makes selling real estate a blast.” —Susan Motta Knight, West Pasco Board of REALTORS® “Because every day is different and no transaction is the same.” —Margaret Summers, Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association “Because it is exciting, challenging, rewarding to help others ... flexable

times, and I can be as creative as I like and work as little or as much as I wish. It allows me freedom to be me and the oppertunity to use my skills. For this is get paid well. I am fortunate to have found a job that is suitable for my personallity.” —Rima Riggs, Punta Gorda-Port Charlotte-North Port Association of REALTORS® “I love helping people solve their housing problems. I am a professional problem solver! People come to me because their lives have changed and their home needs to match their new circumstances. To be able to help people make their lives better is a real joy to me. What a great industry. It’s not like work at all!” —Jared Weggeland, Lakeland Association of REALTORS® “I have been in Real Estate for almost 20 years and during that time I have met some wonderful people that I have been fortunate to do business with. Some of whom have become long term friends. It is so rewarding when you find the perfect home for a client to purchase and you see the excitement in their faces no matter what their age ... and helping sellers so that they can move on to the next chapter of their lives.” —Jane Rees, Sarasota Association of REALTORS® “I have a passion and commitment to helping others with the skills I have – your job does not define you, but how you do it does! There are times when you can’t control a situation but you can choose how to live it. I love real estate!” —Karen Vogel, Pinellas REALTOR® Organization February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 18

Have you tested your Stats IQ? Check out the Stats IQ Member Benefits page on MFRMLS.com By MFRMLS Staff

Stats IQ

powered by RBI Stats IQ was recently implemented as a new MFRMLS member benefit this past January 24. In case you missed it, here is a link to the new Member Benefits page for Stats IQ on MFRMLS.com: http://www.mfrmls.com/member-benefits/stats-iq The above link to the Stats IQ Member Benefits page will provide you with the direct link to navigate to the Stats IQ website, as well as additional information about rbiEXPERT (a Stats IQ upgrade option for MFRMLS members). Missed a recent Stats IQ webinar? The Stats IQ Member Benefits page also has a link to a recorded Stats IQ webinar. So, all the information you need is on the Stats IQ Member Benefits page! Once again, here is the link to the Stats IQ Member Benefits page: http://www. mfrmls.com/member-benefits/stats-iq

Message of the Day: the Important Messages You Need

Have you seen this icon? We like to call it the “House in the Hand” and it’s the icon for Down Payment Resource. It could help your client get a down payment for his or her home. For more information please visit http://www.mfrmls.com/ member-benefits/down-payment-resource/dpr-in-mlxchange

By MFRMLS Staff Do you read the Message of the Day, found in MLXchange? If your answer is “no,” then you may be missing out. That’s because, more than the name suggests, the Message of the Day actually contains many messages, including breaking news, updates and other potentially beneficial information to help you get the most out of your membership. Here are a few helpful hints about the Message of the Day (at least we hope they’re helpful): 1) We may post more than one message to the Message of the Day for any given day. This is especially true if we need to communicate any breaking news, such as (please see “Message of the Day” next page) 19 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Volume 1, Issue 9

MESSAGE OF THE DAY (continued from previous page)

revised Help Desk hours or anything else that requires immediate communication. So, if you get the chance, be sure to check the Message of the Day a couple times during the course of the day for any breaking news or updates. 2) We like to leave past articles and notes, such as an article about the implementation of a new MFRMLS product, posted for a few weeks. Why? Quite simply, we understand you’re busy so we want to make sure we give you ample time to review any information you might have missed. So, don’t forget to scroll down through the Message of the Day to see if you missed any recent articles or notes. 3) The bottom of the Message of the Day, below the RETechnology portal (where it says “Board (Regional) News”), contains messages posted by your Association or Board. So, don’t forget to check the very bottom of the Message of the Day, as well. We hope you find these hints helpful, in order to make sure you’re getting the most from your membership by getting the most from the Message of the Day.

Where to Find MFRMLS News! By MFRMLS Satff Besides the Message of the Day in MLXchange (see the Message of the Day article on the previous page), here is a summary of where we post any news and notes, including breaking news and urgent notes.

of the most important information that we’ve recently communicated with you. In the News section (under the News menu), you will find a complete line-up of recent news and notes. So, if MLXchange is ever down and you’re looking for updates on when it will be functioning again, please be sure to visit MFRMLS.com for all of the latest updates.

Message of the Day

Social Media

See the article titled “Message of the Day: the Important Messages You Need” on the previous page.

Do you like us on Facebook? Do you follow us on Twitter?

MFRMLS.com Just like the Message of the Day, MFRMLS.com contains all of the latest MFRMLS news and notes. On the front page you will see some www.MFRMLS.com

Our Facebook and Twitter pages are some of the first channels we post information to, in addition to posting to MFRMLS.com and the Message of the Day. Social media is a quick way for us to communicate with you, especially with urgent notes, so be sure to follow us on Facebook and/or Twitter

to be among the first of our members to be “in the know.” Like us on Facebook by clicking on the following link: www.facebook. com/myfloridaregionalmls Follow us on Twitter by clicking on the following link: www.twitter.com/ mfrmls

Email From time-to-time we communicate updates and other important reminders through email. We also communicate this magazine, once it’s been published. So, be sure to stay tuned to your email. Have you unsubscribed to our emails? Then please visit the link below to re-subscribe, so you don’t miss out! We promise not to send you too many emails. Link to Re-Subscribe to MFRMLS emails: http://www.mfrmls.com/ news/464-opt-in-form

My Florida ReSource You’re reading it! With this magazine we hope to share any news from the past month you might have missed, along with product previews, spotlights and other information to enhance your MFRMLS membership. Thank you for reading! February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 20

Notice: Data Export Limit Change By MFRMLS Staff In order to protect the MLS listing compilation and to maintain the performance of the MLS system, the MFR Board of Directors have elected to reduce the amount of data being exported from MLXchange at one time. Effective February 28, 2012, the maximum amount of data that can be exported from MLXchange at one time, will be limited to 500 listings. After conducting initial research we concluded that most members downloading data fall into two main categories: 1. Brokers or agents using the data for statistics and/or marketing efforts 2. Appraisers using the data to help complete appraisals It is important to note that consistently exporting large amounts of data from MLXchange negatively affects the systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performance. MFR has created alternative methods for obtaining data that will not affect the system. If you routinely or are currently exporting data from MLXchange, in excess of this 500-listing limit, we invite you to consider these alternative methods for obtaining the data. Alternative Options Data Usage for Statistical Purposes: As an MFR Member, you have access to several different statistical programs. We encourage you to click here to explore a more suitable statistical option or contact dataservices@mfrmls.com for consideration of a Custom RETS Data Feed. Data Usage for Marketing Purposes: If you are accessing the data for marketing purposes, we suggest you consider an Internet Data Exchange (IDX) Data Feed, Virtual Office Website Data Feed, or a Custom RETS Data Feed. For detailed information regarding these feeds click here. To begin using the IDX Data Feed mentioned above, the Broker will need to go to http://idx.mfrmls.com and sign into our IDX Management System and apply. If you have additional questions or concerns regarding this notice please feel free to contact our Data Services department at 1-800-686-7451, option #4 ,or via email at dataservices@mfrmls.com. We hope theses alternative options are viable solutions to continue obtaining the data you need to successfully manage your business should your exports currently contain more than the 500 listings limit. 21 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

New First Friday (of the month) Office Hours By MFRMLS Staff In order for MFR to conduct our monthly staff meeting, we will need to modify our office hours for the first Friday of the month. Going forward, for the first Friday of each month, MFR will begin operating hours at 9:00 am. This will allow our team members to come together to receive important updates and strengthen team member relationships.

Volume 1, Issue 9

MFRMLS Proud to Announce New Customer Association: Central Pasco Association of REALTORS® (CPAR)

We have officially MOVED! By MFRMLS Staff

By MFRMLS Staff

With much ado, MFR has finally arrived in our new home! We thank you all for your patience and understanding as we encountered a few hiccups with our move, but overall our relocation was a SUCCESS!

My Florida Regional MLS (MFRMLS) is proud to announce that MFRMLS is growing again with the addition of a new Customer Association: the Central Pasco Association of REALTORS® (CPAR).

If you haven’t already updated your contact list please do so now as our numbers have changed.

“We are very excited to have the Central Pasco Association of REALTORS® join our family, and are excited that CPAR members will have their own Board ID,” said MFRMLS Chief Executive Officer, Merri Jo Cowen.

NEW Main Phone Line: 407-9605300

CPAR will have “H” Board ID; New Board ID scheduled to take effect March 6

The change for CPAR members, as well as MFRMLS members, will be subtle since CPAR members are already MFRMLS members, primarily through the Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS® (GTAR). As a result, most CPAR listings are already a part of the MFRMLS database with a “T” as part of the MLS number. However, once the addition of CPAR takes effect, CPAR will be given the Board ID of “H” and the listings of all CPAR members will be identified with that “H”. The scheduled date for this new Board ID to take effect is Tuesday, March 6. We will, of course, keep you updated if there is any change in the scheduled date.

NEW Fax: 407-960-5450 Our 800 number has remained the same: 800-686-7451 If you are in the area, please feel free to swing by and pay us a visit. 555 Winderley Place, Suite 320 Maitland, FL 32751

GTAR members, please note: Please stay tuned for more information on how CPAR’s addition and new Board ID will affect, although subtly, any reports or stats you have. CPAR has approximately 140 members, and will join the Desoto County Board of REALTORS® and the Lake Wales Association of REALTORS®, giving MFRMLS three Customer Associations, in addition to its 15 shareholders. The primary difference between MFRMLS Customer Associations and MFRMLS Shareholders is that MFRMLS Shareholders have part ownership in MFRMLS, as well as actively participate in shaping MFRMLS policy and strategic direction. For CPAR and all other MFRMLS members, please stay tuned for more information or any updates, as we move closer to the implementation of the new Board ID on March 6. Welcome CPAR! www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 22

Get it Done: Sweet Deeds

Resources

Your customers will love you By Barbara Ballinger

Valentine’s Day is a time for acts of loving kindness, but it needn’t be the only day to show appreciation for those you care about. Sweet deeds throughout the year can make your clients value you more and remember you long after flowers have wilted and candies have been consumed. 1. Keep providing helpful information. After buyers have moved into their house, check to see how they’re doing and provide them with names and phone numbers of service people, such as a gardener, plumber, and housekeeper. Also keep them in your database so that when you get new information related to homeownership, you can provide it to them. 2. Commemorate sad and happy events. If there’s been a death in a client’s or customer’s family, send a donation to the deceased’s favorite charity or to a charity of the family’s choice. If a client’s or customer’s child has performed well in a competition, contribute to the child’s school. Or create framable achievement awards for children. 3. Make fix-ups a breeze. Bring your handyman to a client’s or customer’s new or old home to attend to repairs before or after a move.

New Resources Page on MFRMLS.com Have you seen the new Resources page on MFRMLS.com? With different categories of resources, such as “MFRMLS Resources,” “Green Resources,” and “Marketing Resources,” the new Resources page contains many links to different websites that we hope you find useful: not only as a member of MFRMLS, but as a Real Estate professional. So check out the new Resources page! Link to the new Resources page: http://www.mfrmls.com/resources

23 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

4. Spread the news about your clients’ moves. Take a photo of buyers’ new home and make a postcard saying, “So-and-so just made a good move. Their new address is XYZ.” And order a rubber stamp with their return address so they can use it for future correspondence. 5. Organize vital household documents. At the closing, give buyers a threering binder, which they can use to organize the numerous papers, such as mortgage insurance records, inspection information, and seller-provided warranties, they’ll accumulate from the transaction. Once they move in, they can continue to add items to their binders, such as furniture and appliance purchase receipts. Provide neighborhood information, such as the names of babysitters, as well. 6. Stock their refrigerator and pantry. When the cupboard is literally bare on the day of the move, help fill it while buyers wait for the moving van or begin to unpack. Provide bottled water, juices, sandwiches, cheeses, salami, crackers, and other food to tide them over. Sources: 1. Vince Malta, Malta & Co. Inc., San Francisco; 2. Mark Nestler, Nestler-Poletto Realty Inc., Boca Raton, Fla.; 3. Betty Sun Wong, CRS®, ltg, Prudential California Realty, San Francisco; 4. Ed Huck, ABR®, CRS®, Realty One Westlake, Westlake, Ohio; 5. Faye Bland, GRI, Realty Center Inc., Edina, Minn.; 6. Joan Davis, ABR®, CRS®, Turf Town Properties Inc., Lexington, Ky. Copyright National Association of REALTORS®. Reprinted with permission. Source: http://realtormag.realtor.org/sales-and-marketing/feature/article/2004/02/get-it-done-sweet-deeds Volume 1, Issue 9

Free Monthly Social Marketing Classes! “FACEBOOK Just The Basics” A Workshop for Beginners

“Make $$ Using FACEBOOK” An Advanced Workshop

 How to set up an account  How to cut through the clutter & manage your time on Facebook  “Open vs Closed” networking  Get conversations started online  Build a professional image  Get your friends telling everyone they know about you!

  Case studies of Local Thought Leaders   Build likeability and trust through video   Strategies for Facebook Pages   How to harvest content and deliver it in a way to go viral  Leverage analytics and mobile technology to stay connected

Friday, Jan. 13th , Feb. 10th , or March 9th 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM PST

Friday, Jan. 20th, Feb. 17th, or March 16th 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM PST

(11:30 – 1:00 PM CST or 12:30 – 2:00 PM EST)

www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 24

http://shortsale.mfrmls.com

a request Tuesday and had TWO calls from houses but she called the second time because I I call responsive! And she couldn’t have been -M. Hunt Altamonte Springs, FL

Eligibility Criteria http://loanlookup.fanniemae.com/loanlookup/ Real estate professional must be a member of a participating MLS. Real estate professional must be the listing agent for the property. Real estate professional must obtain a signed Borrower Authorization Form (BAF) from the homeowner(s) and submit it to the MLS; http://mfrmls.com/shortsale/docs/SSAD-BAF.pdf

1-800-686-7451 support@mfrmls.com

Submission Guidelines issue by working through the servicer. Real estate professional may submit the case in the event the servicer has not provided: an initial response within 20 days,

or, if the real estate professional has received an approval from the servicer for your transaction, but either the mortgage insurer or second lien holder has imposed a closing condition that is not possible for the borrower to meet. Real estate professional must address all “actionable” requests from the servicer before submitting the issue. Where additional documentation is requested, servicer response time will be

25 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

5032 Goddard Avenue Orlando, FL 32804 shortsale.mfrmls.com support@mfrmls.com

Volume 1, Issue 9

What is Down Payment Resource ? SM

Why Down Payment Resource ? SM

Finding a Homebuyer Assistance program today can be confusing and complicated, here’s why: Programs are highly fragmented » No standard of regions » Overlapping coverage Lack of standardization » No uniform application » Programs ask for information » One-of-a-kind eligibility rules » Hard-to-automate program descriptions » Diverse incentives with complex terms and conditions The Solution: Down Payment Resource. No more searching the Internet and making dozens of phone calls, only to be disappointed. Down Payment Resource improves the search among Homebuyer Assistance Programs for: » Mortgage Lenders » REALTORS® » Home Builders/Developers » Housing Finance Agencies For more information visit: www.downpaymentresource.com

An easy-to-use, interactive, web-based application that: » Tracks and describes all Homebuyer Assistance programs including eligibility guidelines » Customizes searches based on homebuyer’s unique information » Automates the matching of homebuyers to assistance resources » Provides consumers, REALTORS® and lenders timely and accurate information » Captures, educates and informs consumers earlier with consumer-facing portal (optional) » Increases volume of home lending » » » »

Buyer’s market = Too many housing units for sale Credit guidelines tightened = Harder to qualify Bewildering array of assistance = Missed opportunities Assistance programs under-marketed, customers under-served

Down Payment ResourceSM connects home buyers to the incentive/ assistance programs that are right for them!

Down Payment Resource’s web-based system helps you: » Save time identifying options for your customers » Expand the pool of homebuyers for your listings » Value-added service for home builder and developer accounts » Market REO listing inventory » Improve customer service by reducing errors » Serve more customers, more For more information or a live demonstration, please contact: Rob Chrane, President Workforce Resource, LLC rchrane@workforce-resource.com www.downpaymentresource.com tel: 404.272.7054

www.downpaymentresource.com www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 26

Average 30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Holds at All-Time Record Low This month, Freddie Mac released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®), showing most average mortgage rates inching higher on January’s positive employment data. The 30-year fixed remained unchanged and at its all-time record low. One year ago at this time, the 30-year fixed averaged 5.05 percent.

Real Estate News

Facts to note: • 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 3.87 percent with an average 0.8 point for the week ending February 9, 2012, matching last week when it also averaged 3.87 percent. Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 5.05 percent. • 15-year FRM this week averaged 3.16 percent with an average 0.7 point, up from last week when it averaged 3.14 percent. A year ago at this time, the 15year FRM averaged 4.29 percent. • 5-year Treasury-indexed hybrid adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) averaged 2.83 percent this week, with an average 0.7 point, up from last week when it averaged 2.80 percent. A year ago, the 5-year ARM averaged 3.92 percent. • 1-year Treasury-indexed ARM averaged 2.78 percent this week with an average 0.6 point, up from last week when it averaged 2.76 percent. At this time last year, the 1-year ARM averaged 3.35 percent. Average commitment rates should be reported along with average fees and points to reflect the total upfront cost of obtaining the mortgage. Borrowers may still pay closing costs which are not included in the survey. Source: FreddieMac.com

27 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Volume 1, Issue 9

Are You Getting the Most out of YOUR Consumer Website? MyFloridaHomesMLS.com is YOUR Consumer Website. Similar to a Trulia or a Zillow, MyFloridaHomesMLS.com keeps YOU at the center

Got Buyers?

custom link will be displayed on the landing page.

Got Stats?

Try It Out Today!

mfrmls.com

www.MFRMLS.com

Keeping YOU at the Center of the Transaction.

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 28

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MFRMLS Team Member

Theresa Phillips, Manager, Technical Support

Every month we spotlight one MFR team member, in order to help distinguish the dedicated, hard-working, friendly faces we have on our MFR staff. We truly have an outstanding team of individuals. And, of course, this is no coincidence, as we look to provide our members with outstanding service. So, without further ado, we are pleased to spotlight (drum roll please) … Theresa Phillips, Manager, Technical Support, and fashion enthusiast. How long have you been working at MFR? I began working with MFR on April 4, 2011. What aspect of your job do you enjoy the most? I enjoy the opportunities I have in taking on new challenges as there are always new projects within my role at MFR which allow me the opportunity to strengthen and grow my skills and abilities. Any hobbies outside of work? I enjoy roller skating, attending theatrical plays, dancing, reading inspirational books and socializing with friends and family. Do you have any favorite theaters in Orlando to see plays? The place that I usually go to see live plays is the Bob Carr Performing Arts Center. I’ve also enjoyed attending plays at the Holy Land Experience and the Orlando Shakespeare Theater near Winter Park, FL. Where were you born and where were you raised? I was born in Swainsboro, Georgia and raised here in Orlando, FL. If there’s one place in the world, all expenses-paid, you could visit tomorrow, where would that place be and why? I really enjoy fashion so if I could go anywhere in the world, I would love the opportunity to travel to Milan, Italy. Milan is well known as one of the world’s fashion and design capitals, so I would go in the Spring to attend fashion shows during fashion week. If you could pick one decade’s fashion to live with or follow, what decade would that be? It would have to be the 1920s during the Coco Chanel period. She defined fashion with elegance, comfort and simplicity. And I absolutely love her Chanel No. 5, which was also introduced in the 1920s. Thank you, Theresa, for your dedication and hard work! 29 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Volume 1, Issue 9

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Spotlights

ALL MFRMLS Products and Services

Products and Services

www.MFRMLS.com/Member-Benefits Although TransactionDesk ranked as a “favorite” for MFRMLS members via our recent Message of the Day survey, we think all of our products and services deserve to be spotlighted from time-to-time. So, without further ado, all of our (your) MFRMLS products and services:

MLS Data Co-op MLS Data Co-op from CoreLogic® MarketLinx® provides new tools, new reports, and a new way to access MLS listings. In addition, MLS Data Co-op features an innovative map-based interface that delivers a wealth of property information. Data Co-op is offered at no additional charge to MFRMLS members. Visit the following link to learn more about Data Co-op: http://www.mfrmls. com/member-benefits/mlxchange-benefits/data-co-op

My Florida Commercial Real Estate (MFCRE) This Commercial Information Exchange provides a comprehensive search database and marketing engine for commercial real estate agents. Please note: This is a subscription based product. Visit the following link to learn more about MFCRE: http://www.mfrmls.com/ member-benefits/mfcre

Kurio Included in your MFR membership, Kurio provides access to MLS data including Sold and Expired listings, as well as ShowingTime, so you can stay informed on market activities and get connected with valuable business data, even while you’re out in the field. More important, you can respond to your clients instantly with the information they need, when they need it. Visit the following link to learn more about Kurio: http://www.mfrmls.com/ member-benefits/kurio-member-benefits (Please see “Products and Services” page 31) www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 30

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Products and Services (continued from page 30)

ShowingTime

Automates the process of coordinating showing requests between the listing agent and the showing agent. But more than that, it eliminates unnecessary phone calls, improves client service, allows for better accountability, and provides better security for the property. ShowingTime is a benefit included in your MFR membership. Visit the following link to learn more about ShowingTime: http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/showingtime-benefits

Short Sale Assistance Desk

A service included in your MFR membership, is designed to assist real estate professionals in handling post-offer short sale issues that may relate to servicer responsiveness, the existence of a second lien, or issues involving mortgage insurance.

Down Payment Resource

lenders at the bottom of each listing you email from MLXchange. The benefit for your clients is that, with each listing, they get accurate, up-todate information showing a realistic monthly payment for the property based upon current listing price, Used to make home ownership a the lenders rate, property taxes, and reality by connecting eligible homeprojected insurance costs. RatePlug is buyers and eligible properties with included in your MFR membership government funded buyer assistance programs is another great program in- but you must sign up for it. cluded with your membership. Visit the following link to learn more Visit the following link to learn more about Down Payment Resource: http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/down-payment-resource

RealBiz360

My Florida Regional MLS has teamed up with RealBiz360 to deliver a new point of “Vu” to your listings. With spectacular panoramic photos, stunning transition and video effect capabilities—all in high resolution— VuVista puts the power of creating, customizing and delivering virtual tours at your fingertips. RealBiz360 is offered to MFR members at a special pricing plan.

31 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/rateplug-member-benefits

RETechnology

Assists MFR members with insights on new products, emerging industry trends and breaking news and is included in your membership. Visit the following link to learn more about RETechnology: http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/retechnology

Proxio

Visit the following link to learn more about RealBiz360: http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/realbiz360-member-benefits

RatePlug

Visit the following link to learn more about the Short Sale Assistance Desk: http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/short-sale-assistance-desk

about RatePlug:

Allows you to include mortgage options from up to three of your favorite

A foreign language portal which translates listing information to nineteen different languages on the MyFloridaHomesMLS.com consumer website truly enhances the marketing exposure to potential buyers and investors beyond the domestic U.S. borders. (Please see “Proxio” next page)

Volume 1, Issue 9

PROXIO

(continued from previous page) Visit the following link to learn more about Proxio: http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/proxio

MyFloridaHomesMLS. com

A consumer website that makes the listings of MFRMLS subscribers accessible to the public is designed to serve the consumer, but keep you in the center of the transaction. Visit the following link to learn more about MyFloridaHomesMLS.com: http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/myfloridahomesmlscom

Stats IQ

Looking to get accurate, updated listing statistics for the MFRMLS listing area? Looking to see those statistics in nice, easy-to-read graphs and reports? Then Stats IQ, powered by RealEstate Business Intelligence (RBI), is your answer. Stats IQ basic package is included in your membership with an option to purchase an upgraded stats package available. Visit the following link to learn more about Stats IQ:

InstanetFax

Okay, so technically InstanetFax is a part of TransactionDesk, but, like our other products and services listed in this spotlight section, we do have a Member Benefits page on MFRMLS. com dedicated to Instanet Fax. And, since MongoFax is no longer with us, we thought we would mention it again.

Are YOU a Commercial

Realtor速?

Visit the following link to learn more about InstanetFax, as well as how to download an InstanetFax cover sheet: http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/instanetfax As you can see, the products and services you have in your arsenal are quite impressive. Are you making the most of your product offerings? If not, try one or two of them on for size.

Visit www.MFRMLS.com/ Member-Benefits for more information on MFRMLS products and services.

www.MFCRE.com For more information about becoming an MFCRE member, a Commercial Information Exchange (CIE), please contact Connie Kazakowitz at 1-800-686-7451 (ext. 8668) or email ConnieK@mfrmls.com

http://www.mfrmls.com/memberbenefits/stats-iq

www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 32

Commercial

presented by

Real Estate

Commercial Real Estate Question?

MFCRE for your mobile phone

By MFRMLS Staff Got Commercial Real Estate Questions? Then askCRE might have the answer! askCRE is a newly launched Q&A website for Commercial Real Estate Agents to not only ask industry questions but to also offer up advice or respond to outstanding questions on the site. According to their website, “askCRE is a collaboratively edited question and answer site for commercial real estate. The idea for the site came from the frustration of asking questions on multiple forums and email lists without finding a clear answer. askCRE gives users the ability to ask questions pertaining to commercial real estate and then vote up the best answers. Our goal is to help find a consensus to questions as the best answers are voted up by the community.” A few questions already posed on the site are: • What is the difference between Class A, B, & C office space? • Any good paperless options for commercial real estate? • What is the CFAT of a commercial investment property? • What are your favorite commercial real estate industry blogs? • Are digital signatures valid on a CRE contract? As you see the questions are from all sorts of different topics; however all relevant to commercial real estate. It certainly seems like a great place to get the answer to a nagging CRE question or to even establish yourself as a knowledgeable agent by providing answers to the questions on the site. The website is free to use however if you plan on asking or answering a question, you must login to the site. Good news though, the site uses OpenID so you can login through any service that supports OpenID such as Google, Yahoo, LinkedIn & Facebook so you won’t need to create a new username and password. Visit www.askcre.com to check this new website out for yourself.

33 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Volume 1, Issue 9

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February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 34

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www.Proxio.com/MFRMLS Connect. Communicate. Sell. TM 35 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Volume 1, Issue 9

Around the House

An article for current and future homeowners

5 Feng Shui Concepts to Help a Home Sell To put the best face on a listing and appeal to buyers who follow feng shui principles, keep these tips in mind. 1. Pay special attention to the front door, which is considered the “mouth of chi” (chi is the “life force” of all things) and one of the most powerful aspects of the entire property. Abundance, blessings, opportunities, and good fortune enter through the front door. It’s also the first impression buyers have of how well the sellers have taken care of the rest of the property. Make sure the area around the front door is swept clean, free of cobwebs and clutter. Make sure all lighting is straight and properly hung. Better yet, light the path leading up to the front door to create an inviting atmosphere. 2. Chi energy can be flushed away wherever there are drains in the home. To keep the good forces of a home in, always keep the toilet seats down and close the doors to bathrooms.

3. The master bed should be in a place of honor, power, and protection, which is farthest from and facing toward the entryway of the room. It’s even better if you can place the bed diagonally in the farthest corner. Paint the room in colors that promote serenity, relaxation, and romance, such as soft tones of green, blue, and lavender. 4. The dining room symbolizes the energy and power of family togetherness. Make sure the table is clear and uncluttered during showings. Use an attractive tablecloth to enhance the look of the table while also softening sharp corners.

Source: Sell Your Home Faster With Feng Shui, by Holly Ziegler (Dragon Chi Publications, 2001) Visit www.HouseLogic.com for more articles like this. Reprinted from HouseLogic.com with permission of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. Source: http://realtormag.realtor.org/ sales-and-marketing/handouts-for-customers/for-sellers/5-feng-shui-conceptshelp-home-sell

5. The windows are considered to be the eyes of the home. Getting the windows professionally cleaned will make the home sparkle and ensure that the view will be optimally displayed.

Looking for consumer articles for your newsletter or for your clients? Realtor.org has a section for consumer articles that are downloadable and able to be customized with your branding. Here is the link to that section: http://realtormag.realtor.org/sales-and-marketing/handouts-for-customers/for-buyers

March 2012 Feature:

“Green” REALTORS®: tips for those just entering the industry. Looking for a calendar of upcoming training classes? Visit http://www.mfrmls.com/resources/training-and-events for a complete calendar of upcoming courses. Did you know we also offer live webinars? http://www.mfrmls.com/resources/training-and-events/webinars/ cat.listevents/2011/05/20/Administration and Membership Question? The Administration Department at My Florida Regional MLS has two main responsibilities—ensuring an accurate MLS database and maintaining your membersubscriber information.

Help Desk Hours: Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM–8:00 PM Saturday–Sunday: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM Toll Free: (800) 686-7451 Local: (407) 218-8607 http://www.mfrmls.com/membersupport/help-desk 37 | My Florida ReSource | February 2012

Whether you have questions about our MLS Rules and Regulations, listing violations, subscriber fees or simply need to update your contact information, our Administration Specialists are ready to assist you. Department hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. 1-800-686-7451 (option #3) http://tinyurl.com/mfrmls-adminmembership

New Address My Florida Regional MLS 555 Winderley Place, Suite 320 Maitland, FL 32751 Telephone: New Tel: (407) 960-5300 Toll-Free: (800) 686-7451 New Fax: (407) 960-5450 Volume 1, Issue 9

Social Media

Converse with MFRMLS. Keep informed. “Like” us on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/MyFloridaRegionalMLS http://www.facebook.com/mfcre http://www.facebook.com/MyFloridaHomesMLS

MFRMLS Associations and Boards Shareholder Organizations Bartow Board of REALTORS®— http://www.bartowboardofrealtors.com/index.html East Polk County Association of REALTORS®— http://epcar.com/ Englewood Area Board of REALTORS®— http://www.englewoodareaboardofrealtors.com/ Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS®— http://www.gtar.org/ Lakeland Association of REALTORS®— http://www.lakelandrealtors.org/ Manatee Association of REALTORS®— http://www.manateerealtors.org/ Orlando Regional REALTOR® Association— http://www.orlrealtor.com/Main/Main.asp Osceola County Association of REALTORS®— http://osceolarealtors.org/ Pinellas REALTOR® Organization— http://tampabayrealtor.com/ Punta Gorda-Port Charlotte-North Port Association of REALTORS®— http://pgpcnprealtors.com/ REALTORS® Association of Lake & Sumter Counties— http://www.ralsc.org/ Sarasota Association of REALTORS®— http://www.sarasotarealtors.com/ Venice Area Board of REALTORS®— http://www.vabr.org/ West Pasco Board of REALTORS®— http://www.wpbor.com/ West Volusia Association of REALTORS®— http://www.westvolusiarealtor.org/

Customer Organizations Central Pasco Association of REALTORS®— http://www.centralpascorealtors.com/ Desoto County Board of REALTORS®— N/A Lake Wales Association of REALTORS®— http://www.lwar.net/ www.MFRMLS.com

February 2012 | My Florida ReSource | 38