OC REALTOR®: July/August 2018 by Orange County REALTORS®

DAVE’S TOP 10 FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT REAL ESTATE

THE LOWDOWN ON THE CODE OF ETHICS REQUIREMENT

REALTORS® ARE THE ONLY GUARDIANS OF HOMEOWNERSHIP

THE POOL SAFETY ACT— NEW RULES FOR POOLS (AND SPAS)

on page 52

on page 26

on page 46

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THE

on page 40

VOTE IN IS

2019-2021 OC REALTORS® BOARD OF DIRECTORS on page 34

Summer Survival Issue Come on in—the water’s fine; but take a tip or two about how to make your swimming season safer and how to use your member benefits to stretch your dollars and increase your enjoyment, whether you are at work or at play, at home or away. on page 38

CONTENTS p. 34 JULY | AUGUST 2018

Features 14 OC REALTORS® Event: Aloha Nights 2018

Photos and sponsors from this June evening on the beach.

26 R eal Estate OC: REALTORS® Are the Only Guardians of Homeownership

Tony Capitelli recaps May legislative efforts in Sacramento and Washington, D.C.

27 Real Estate OC: Resolution in Support of H.R. 1447

Which would extend fair housing protection to members of the LGBTQ community.

The Vote Is In

28 OC REALTORS® Committees: Risk Management Forum

34 Cover Story: The Vote Is In

Become better acquainted with the five new OC REALTORS® Directors for 2019–2021.

Summer Survival Guide 38 Survive Summer and Soak Up Your Benefits

Sabrina Blair lists members benefits that will help you have some fun, stay entertained, or just get away—on a budget.

Summer Safety herri Butterfield describes the New Rules for Pools (and Spas) and S suggests ways that you can Make Your Swimming Season Safer.

President’s Message 8 President’s Message: Summer Survival Guide

ammy Newland-Shishido says summer is the time for Pools, Picnics, T Potential business, and Plenty of Fun!

State Update 10 State Update: Property Tax Fairness Initiative and

REimagine! S teve White explains why this Initiative may be moved to the 2020 ballot and invites REALTORS® to REimagine!

Golf Tournament

Pictures, sponsors, and winners from this May 7 event.

Update

Steven Thomas discovers Cracks in the Housing Run.

46 E ducation: The Lowdown on the Code of Ethics Requirement

Active REALTORS® must complete ethics training by December 31, 2018.

52 R eal Estate Analysis: Dave’s Top 10 Dave Girling explains how ten economic factors affect the real estate market.

54 Ask an Affiliate: Termites,

Leadership Academy

Fumigation, and Tile Roofs

48 Leadership Academy: Leaders Are Made, Not Born! D eb Shrider recounts the work (and play!) of OC REALTORS® Leadership Academy cadets. p. 10

30 OC REALTORS® Event: OCAR Cares

44 T he Orange County Housing

40 Pool Safety

p. 8

Considers both the challenges of Cannabis and the meaning of Fair Housing.

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Tony Angelo says periodic inspections, localized treatments, and removal of infested wood may be preferable.

56 Gadgetry: The Foobot Indoor Air Quality Monitor

Albert Ornelas describes a simple device that will let you breathe easier.

58 Volunteers: Celebrating Some of Our Seldom-Sung Heroes

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OC REALTOR®

Four REALTOR® and Affiliate members who are making a difference in Orange County— and throughout the world.

CONTENTS

ORANGE COUNTY

® REALTOR MAGAZINE

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25552 La Paz Road Laguna Hills, CA 92653

10540 Talbert Avenue, Ste. 225 West Fountain Valley, CA 92708

949.586.6800

714.375.9313

www.ocar.org 2018 OFFICERS Tammy Newland-Shishido President Matt Clements President-Elect Adam Rodell Treasurer Craig Borner Immediate Past President Dave Stefanides Chief Executive Officer

2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS p. 56

Departments 12

Mentions

Names in the News

32 Education Central and Calendar: Upcoming Classes by Track 60

Affiliates in Action: New REALTOR® Orientations

Josh Atwood Mary Jane Cambria Danielle Corliss Sandra Deering Joyce Endo Dorinda Francois Bob Hartman Tim Hayden Len Herman Jenean Hill

62 Twelve-Month Payment Plan—Our Most Affordable DuesPayment Option

Gary Ludwig Charleen Nagata Newhouse Eileen Oldroyd Lacy Robertson Aaron Rosen Jamie Saltman Lisa Schulz Michele Williams Harrington Scott White Bob Wolff

MAGAZINE STAFF Sabrina Blair

Breanna Cruz

Director of Communications sabrina@ocar.org

Accounting Assistant breanna@ocar.org

Sherri Butterfield

Albert Ornelas

Communications Specialist sherri@ocar.org

Multimedia Specialist albert@ocar.org

Online Magazine

Love the Orange County REALTOR®? Did you know that you can read it online, anytime? Read past issues at www.ocar.org/magazine.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Orange County REALTORS® is to promote the REALTOR® Code of Ethics; to provide education, services, and resources to our members; and to advocate the protection of real property rights.

Notice to All Members

p. 49

On the Cover Featured on the cover is a photograph of the five new Orange County REALTORS® Directors for 2019–2021. They are (from left to right) Lacy Robertson, Adam Rodell, Liz Lewis, Jeffrey Jackson, and Julie Hile.

instagram.com/theocrealtors snapchat.com/add/ocrealtors

It is the long-established policy of this Association, the California Association of REALTORS®, and the National Association of REALTORS® to adhere to both the letter and spirit of the federal and state antitrust laws. For their own protection, members should be aware of the antitrust laws as they affect their specific business activities. Any illegal activity under the state and federal antitrust laws is not in compliance with Association policy, nor is it in the interests of the Association or its members. Participation in Association activities must occur only in harmony with these very important laws. Federal law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, sex, religion, or national origin in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate, in advertising the sale or rental of housing, in the financing of housing, and the provision of real estate brokerage services. The Orange County REALTOR® editor reserves the right to review and edit all submissions. Orange County REALTORS® makes no warranties and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein. The opinions expressed in articles are not necessarily the opinions of the Orange County REALTORS®. Orange County REALTORS® does not necessarily endorse the companies, products, or services advertised in this magazine unless specifically stated. The Orange County REALTOR® (USPS 025-445, ISSN 1945-2179) Volume 10, Issue 4, is published by the Orange County REALTORS®, 25552 La Paz Road, Laguna Hills, CA 92653. Periodicals postage paid at Laguna Beach, CA, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Orange County REALTORS®, 25552 La Paz Road, Laguna Hills, CA 92653-5127. Annual membership dues include $3.13 for a one-year (6 issues) subscription to the Orange County REALTOR® magazine. The Orange County REALTOR® magazine cannot be responsible for unsolicited materials. Publisher: Orange County REALTORS® Printer: The Monaco Group

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

By Tammy Newland-Shishido 2018 PRESIDENT, ORANGE COUNTY REALTORS®

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f you are in my generation (over fifty-something), the number one tip for surviving summer is to have air conditioning in your home and a fan in your purse. As we approach the hotter months of the year, I am thankful for any client who has air conditioning, ceiling fans, or house fans in use. As a parent, I remember summer was the time that I signed my kids up for camp and then worked my client appointments around dropping them off, picking them up, and watching their sports activities. I carried a folding chair in my car trunk, along with a pair of high heels, a blazer, tennis shoes, snacks, and a cooler of water. Now that I am a grandparent, if my grandkids lived close, I would have the same things in my trunk. But the reality is that my kids and grandkids (probably just like yours) cannot afford to live in California. My daughter and four grandkids are in Arizona, where living expenses are much cheaper than they are here. But that also comes with a price—air conditioning bills of more than $550 a month during the summer. So we are installing attic insulation to help lower their summertime bills.

OC REALTOR®

I use the Nest to control my utility expenses and just got WeMo to control the lights in my home. Because my husband and I we are empty nesters, all this special effort is for my cat, Sophia. I want to make sure she has lights on if we are at events or work late. My, how our priorities have changed over the years! I have always worked hard and understand that I need to plan to play. Many years ago, as a newer agent, I canceled the vacation with my kids because I had an escrow falling apart. Lesson learned: Never cancel your vacation. Deals come and go. I know we all have business plans and plan to spend two hours a day generating leads. If you lead-generate, then you have time to enjoy the summer events that are free and fun. I love the “F” word, Fun!

Photos by www.istockphoto.com/ PeopleImages, Emir Memedovski, Imgorthand, La Flor and Jordachelr

Summer is the time for Pools, Picnics, and Potential business. Arrange your calendar to include all three—and spend Plenty of time with clients, family members, and friends!

Never cancel your vacation because of a deal or business. You will not be remembered for your business, but you will be remembered for sharing your time, talent, and treasure and for how you made someone else feel. Have you planned Fun in your summer? One of my clients feels very connected in her community because she and her neighbors have Wine Wednesdays. They bring their lawn chairs and wine to her back yard to enjoy one another’s company. My husband and I have made great friends enjoying free concerts in the park on Thursdays from June to September. We walk to the park with our wagon and bring food and drinks to share. I know many people love the free summer concerts at Lake Mission Viejo. We also enjoy the beach movies on the large inflatable screen with kids and dogs running around.

Summer is the time for Pools, Picnics, and Potential business. Take advantage of all the community events to invite your current and past clients to join you. Network with other REALTORS® around the nation for referrals. Arrange your calendar to include business, fun, and plenty of time with clients, family members, and friends. Don’t forget the lesson: Never cancel your vacation because of a deal or business. You will not be remembered for your business, but you will be remembered for sharing your time, talent, and treasure and for how you made someone else feel. n OC REALTOR®

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THE STATE UPDATE Property Tax Fairness Initiative

ver the past few months, I’ve been discussing with you C.A.R.’s historic effort to address California’s unprecedented housing supply crisis, as well as how to increase homeownership opportunities for Californians. Known as the Property Tax Fairness Initiative, our initiative would remove the “moving penalty” for seniors fifty-five and older, the disabled, and victims of natural disasters, allowing them to carry their current Proposition 13–protected property tax assessment level to another home of any price, anywhere in the state, any number of times. With your help, C.A.R. has achieved its initial objective by gathering one million signatures—enough to qualify the initiative for the November 2018 General Election Ballot. On May 5 in Sacramento, C.A.R.’s Board of Directors, after careful deliberation, voted to proceed on a parallel route for achieving our goals and ask the Legislature to put our measure on the ballot for March 2020. If that effort is successful, we will not

The Property Tax Fairness Initiative, C.A.R.’s Legislative Day, and REimagine! Even though more than enough signatures have been collected to qualify our initiative for the November 2018 ballot, the California Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors voted to ask the state Legislature to put this measure on the ballot for March 2020.

Steve White PRESIDENT, CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

REimagine! will be packed with immersive experiences, meetups and networking parties, new styles of learning, and opportunities to interact with other real estate professionals. You’ll walk away with actionable ideas, empowered knowledge, and valuable connections.

need to pursue our initiative for the November 2018 ballot. REALTORS® trust C.A.R. to make decisions to protect homeownership opportunities for all Californians, and that is the basis for this action. We are confident that we will ultimately be successful in gaining voter approval of the Property Tax Fairness Initiative. C.A.R. Directors feel that pursuing a legislative solution to place a substitute measure on the 2020 ballot allows us to pursue other critical priorities this November, including protection of the Costa-Hawkins law. We expect to achieve a legislative solution, and C.A.R. will marshal its extensive resources to make this happen.

Thank you to all of you who attended C.A.R.’s Legislative Day in Sacramento earlier this month. Your attendance made it a great success! An unprecedented 2,500 of you turned out to hear Governor Jerry Brown address us in the morning. Brown spoke about the state’s economy being the engine that drives the U.S. economy by creating jobs, innovation, and creativity. He also spoke about California’s housing shortage, homelessness, and the need to create affordable housing. Following a photo opportunity in front of the State Capitol, we headed over to the Capitol to discuss with our state legislators the issues of importance to the real estate industry. While we were in Sacramento, C.A.R.’s Center for California

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OC REALTOR®

Photo: www.istockphoto.com/RonTech2000

C.A.R.’s Legislative Day

THE STATE UPDATE Real Estate (CCRE) held two events that focused on housing. The first focused on housing affordability in the Sacramento region. California Association of REALTORS® CEO Joel Singer and panelists covered topics including what local government is doing to address the current affordability situation, the effect of outbound migration from the San Francisco Bay Area, and emerging business opportunities in the region. The second event brought together key state legislators who shared unique perspectives on how California can address its historically low homeownership rate, housing affordability, and supply crisis. Senator Nancy Skinner, Assemblyman Marc Steinorth, Assemblyman Kevin McCarty, and Assemblywoman Laura Friedman joined me to discuss creative solutions to resolving the housing crisis, including building accessory dwelling units, creating homeownership savings accounts, and incentivizing cities to build housing.

Photo: www.istockphoto.com/Paul Bradbury and T Kimura (art)

REimagine!

This year, we’re looking to change things up a bit; and if you haven’t already heard, EXPO is out, and REimagine! is in. That’s right, this October in Long Beach there will be a new California REALTOR® event that’s all about connections and interactions. The conference will be packed with immersive experiences, meetups and networking parties, new styles of learning, and opportunities to interact with other real estate professionals. You’ll walk away with actionable ideas, empowered knowledge, and valuable connections. The Pre-Conference starts Tuesday, October 9, and REimagine! is Wednesday and Thursday, October 10–11. I can’t wait to see you all there! n This column is based on and has been excerpted from the special Message from C.A.R. President Steve White that was distributed via email on May 5, 2018, and the regular Monthly Message by C.A.R. President Steve White that was distributed via email on May 18, 2018. It is being reprinted here with permission.

C.A.R. Plans Affordable Housing Project Proposed mixed-use development in the Koreatown area of Los Angeles could provide a new office facility for the Association and up to 181 residential units, some of which would be offered for rent or sale at affordable rates.

he California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) announced in late May that it is actively exploring the possibility of redeveloping the site of its Los Angeles headquarters to build up to 181 residential units, which would include rental and for-sale units offered at affordable rates. In this Pathway to Homeownership Affordable Housing Project, affordable units would be available to individuals and families earning 60 percent to 150 percent of the area’s median income. In addition, 20 percent of the units would be allocated to veterans earning 50 percent or less of the area’s median income. “Housing affordability is at crisis levels in California,” explained C.A.R. President Steve White, “and C.A.R. wants to create new affordable rental and ownership housing opportunities for those who need them most, such as our veterans, nurses, firefighters, teachers, police, and other public servants.” “C.A.R. has long supported affordable housing policies and programs,” said Richard J. Rosenthal, past president of C.A.R. and chair of the Pathway to Homeownership Project. Rosenthal also noted that the Association hopes to achieve a “green building” Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for the project. Located in the Koreatown area, the project will also include an office facility to accommodate the Association’s Los Angeles headquarters.

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MENTIONS

The Best License-Renewal Program I Have Found Alyssa, I want to thank you for suggesting the “box of booklets” as an option to renew my real estate license. The fifteen booklets that were provided to read and test on were the best license-renewal program I have found. You were so friendly and reassuring that I tried this method to renew this time. It was very organized and especially helpful to be able to go to the Orange County REALTORS® office and to have your help nearby. Your assistance in putting the information on a computer as soon as I finished the third test was so quick, and your guidance in using the BRE website plus printing out the new license was outstanding. I will suggest this method to other REALTORS®.

Pennie Levers

Editor’s Note: This email addressed to Alyssa Corsini, who is an Orange County REALTORS® membership representative, is about the pleasant experience the writer had renewing her real estate license at Orange County REALTORS® using the REVEI 45-hour renewal course.

HomeSmart, Evergreen Realty

Thank You for the OCAR Cares Funds Thank you very much for the OCAR Cares funds that you provided to me after the sudden and completely unexpected death of my husband, Paul Eskildsen. Thank you to every member of Orange County REALTORS® who has contributed to OCAR Cares and for the people who were thoughtful enough to set up the fund. To have this type of support within our community of REALTORS® is a reflection of the care we have for each other as well as our clients, and I am grateful for the support. I was unaware of the availability of the funds, how to ask for help, and how I might qualify for the funds and was encouraged to apply by an OC REALTORS® member who was aware of my husband’s death. I intend to “pay it forward” by making sure that other OC REALTORS® members in need are aware of the type of support OCAR Cares can provide. Thank you again for your support. As a licensed REALTOR®, a former member of Orange County REALTORS®, and a loving husband and father, Paul would be happy to know that you’ve supported me and our daughter in his absence.

Leslie Eskildsen

Realty One Group Editor’s Note: The OCAR Cares member relief fund was established in December 2004 by Orange County REALTORS® to provide financial assistance to both REALTOR® and Affiliate members in good standing who are suffering from financial hardship because of the onset of a major illness, an accident, or some other lifechanging event. Applicants may apply only once each year, and payout amounts are limited to between $100 and $3,000 per occurrence. Application forms are available in both OC REALTOR® offices and online, and may be turned in at either the Laguna Hills or Fountain Valley office.

I Saved $1,200 When I Booked with HotelEngine Hi Alyssa. I had just booked three rooms for four nights at the J.W. Marriott in Palm Desert. I had researched the best deals, prices, etc. and was pretty satisfied with my $4,400 rate. Within a week, I received the information from Orange County REALTORS® that there were some new member benefits, one of which was HotelEngine. I thought, hey, this is worth a shot. I went to the website through the OC REALTORS® link, entered my OC REALTORS® member information, and it let me right in. I searched for the same dates and rooms at the J.W. Marriott and couldn’t believe I could book them for $3,200! I was a little in disbelief, but thought OC REALTORS® wouldn’t steer me wrong, so I booked with HotelEngine. After I received confirmation, I called J.W. Marriott to confirm; and sure enough, I had the rooms at the lower rate. Then, I canceled the $4,400 rooms. The savings paid my Orange County REALTORS® dues for a year! Yay! Thank you!

Connie Sharp Sharp Realty Group 12

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I Had a Great Time Meeting You! Hi, OC REALTORS®. I had a great time meeting you at Senate Majority Leader Patricia Bates’s legislative session. I greatly admire the work Senator Bates does representing us. I loved it when she walked in and we gave her a standing ovation. It was also great that Assemblyman Travis Allen came in to speak and, together, they shared how a bill is worked through the legislative process. I love the energy from the OC REALTORS®. I am very impressed with your Leadership Academy. I would just love it if each one of you would ask me to be your Facebook friend and adopt me as an Honorary Member of your phenomenal REALTOR® group.

Marco LunaMan North San Diego County Association of REALTORS®

Zeke’s Famous! Good Morning Sherri. Wow!! What an honor and a pleasure it was to open OC REALTOR® and see the tribute to our little addition. I was reading it in bed next to my wife, so was able to share it immediately. Thank you! It was a very special moment for us both.

Steven Thomas ReportsOnHousing.com Editor’s Note: A photo of Steven Thomas with his newborn son Ezekiel appeared in Names in the News on page 17 in the May/June 2018 issue of OC REALTOR ®.

CALL FOR MENTIONS Media postings and emails intended for possible publication in this magazine should be sent either to Director of Communications Sabrina Blair at Sabrina@ocar.org or to Writer and Editor Sherri Butterfield at Sherri@ocar.org. All written material may be edited for content, length, or style and may appear either online or in print. Emails become the property of Orange County REALTORS®. Although some may be answered, none will be returned.

OC REALTOR®

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EVENT

ALOHA NIGHTS 2018 The second annual Aloha Nights was held on Thursday, June 7, at Newport Dunes - Camp James in Newport Beach. The event was co-hosted by Orange County REALTORS® and the Orange County REALTORS® Young Professionals Network and attracted over 300 attendees with live entertainment, promotional giveaways, and networking. This year’s event helped raise more than $20,000 to benefit the OCAR Cares Foundation.

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OC REALTOR®

EVENT

Photos provided by Antis Real Estate Photography, Inc.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

For more photos of the event, visit www.ocar.org/aloha-nights18 OC REALTORÂ®

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NAMES IN THE NEWS

OC REALTORS® Honors Volunteer Mary Visconte W

hen OneOC hosted its Spirit of Volunteerism Awards Recognition Luncheon on April 26, Orange County REALTORS® honored its 2017 Volunteer of the Year, Mary Visconte, owner of Spectrum Specialties and Awards in Lake Forest. Mary was recognized for her volunteer work with the Lake Forest Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, and the Lake Forest Relay for Life. Joining to honor Mary (center) on this occasion were (from left to right) Jeremy Olson (CR&R), Francisco Barajas (CommunicationsLAB), Connie Visconte, Jose Martinez (representing Assemblyman Steven Choi), Tammy Newland-Shishido, Jeffrey Jackson, and Dave Stefanides. When Mary was asked what had motivated her to volunteer, she responded that she runs the Scholarship Committee for Kiwanis because it is her “feel-good children’s charity that helps kids in our back yard” and that chairing the annual golf tournament for the Lake Forest Relay for Life was her way of honoring a grandmother who had died of lung cancer.

Congratulations to Eileen Oldroyd!

Eileen Oldroyd, who currently serves as secretary for the Women’s Council of REALTORS® California, was recently chosen 2019 President Elect and will be the 2020 President of that group. The Women’s Council is a network of successful REALTORS®, advancing women as professionals and leaders in business, the industry, and the communities they serve.

Columnist Leslie Eskildsen Reports on C.A.R. Legislative Day

In early May, Real Estate Columnist Leslie Sargent Eskildsen went with other members of her Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy class on a trip to Sacramento for California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) Legislative Day. Later, she recounted some of her experiences in an article titled “REALTORS® Speak Out on Housing Shortage and Costs,” which first appeared in the online edition of the Orange County Register on May 5 and then was published on page 7 of the Real Estate section of the print edition on May 6. 16

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In this article, Leslie offered what she called “a brief summary of the terms, ideas, trends, and roadblocks” that had been discussed, including accessory dwelling units, densification, Not In My Back Yard (NIMBY) and Yes In My Back Yard (YIMBY) attitudes toward development, the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and its impact on housing construction, and homelessness. She concluded with the words, “Just know that as Rome was not built in a day, these issues will not be solved overnight” and advised readers who had ideas to “share them with the folks you elected.”

Shari Freidenrich Is Honored—Twice!

When the California Society of Certified Public Accountants (CalCPA) announced its 2018 “Women to Watch” awards honoring five female leaders for their contributions to the profession at the annual Women’s Leadership Forum in Los Angeles, Orange County Treasurer-Tax Collector Shari Freidenrich was among the recipients not once, but twice! She received both the TrailBlazer Award for “being

NAMES IN THE NEWS

a model for other women who are considering entering politics” and the Experienced Leader Award in recognition of her authorship of articles, contributions to the CPA field, and mentorship of fellow professionals. In the early 1990s, Shari was a resident of Huntington Beach and the controller for McDonnell Douglas Travel Company (later Boeing Travel Company). In this position, Shari was responsible for all financial operations, budgeting, and cash flow management. When Orange County filed for bankruptcy, Shari realized how important it was to have qualified professionals managing public funds. She applied for and was appointed to the position of Huntington Beach Treasurer in May 1996. She was first elected to that position in November 1996 and then was reelected in 2000, 2004, and 2008. In November 2010, Shari ran successfully to become Orange County Treasurer-Tax Collector. She was reelected to that position in 2014 and ran unopposed for that position in the June 2018 primary.

June 9 Shred Event Nets Five Tons of Paper

On Saturday, June 9, the OC REALTORS ® Green Committee sponsored a shred event from 9:00 a.m. until noon at the Laguna Hills office. This event attracted about two hundred cars, whose occupants safely and securely disposed of 10,100 pounds of transaction folders, personal documents, and financial records.

OC Register Real Estate Section Rated One of the Best

At the National Association of Real Estate Editors (NAREE) Journalism Competition Awards held in Las Vegas in mid-June, Orange County Register staffers Jeff Collins, Samantha Gowen, Marilyn Kalfus, Hannah Madans, and Jonathan Lansner received a Silver Award for the best newspaper real estate or home section.

Continued on Page 18

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Continued from Page 17

Cox Communications Showcases “Connected Independence” in a Senior Smart Home

For example, this “Connected Independence” home had wireless sensors to detect when doors or windows were opened, a GeniCan garbage receptacle that builds a shopping list by scanning items as they are thrown away and schedules home delivery through Amazon Dash, Trapollo telemedicine services that made it possible for physicians to diagnose and treat its occupants remotely, and the Rendever virtual reality platform to allow seniors to experience their favorite destinations even if they are no longer able to travel.

Photos by Marion Butterfield

ccording to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), nearly 90 percent of adults sixty-five years old and older would prefer to remain in their current home rather than moving to an assisted living or retirement community. The challenge is how to adapt that home to meet their changing needs, and today’s technology may be the answer. In April, Cox Communications outfitted a singlefamily home in Lake Forest to demonstrate how seniors can use smart home technology to live safely, independently, and more comfortably at home.

Among those touring the Cox “Connected Independence” Senior Smart Home were (from left to right) Eileen Oldroyd, Debbie Krumboltz, Joanne Frank, Jay Co, and Liz Lewis.

While touring the home, Lacy Robertson stopped to admire a surprisingly lifelike Wi-Fi cat, otherwise identified as a Joy-for-All Orange Tabby.

On the kitchen counter was a LiveFine automatic pill dispenser. This electronic medication organizer sends audible and visual alerts up to thirty minutes before medications are scheduled to be taken and keeps a digital record of any mixed or missed doses.

Econ PAC Hosts Future of South County Kick-Off Event

Photos by Marion Butterfield

n May 10, the South Orange County Economic Coalition Political Action Committee (Econ PAC) hosted its Future of South Orange County Kick-Off Event at Brio Tuscany Grille in Dana Point. This event gave members of Orange County REALTORS® an opportunity to talk with elected officials and to hear what some candidates for office had to say.

Among the guests were Lear Pearce and Dennis O’Connor. For more than thirty years, Lear, who heads a public relations firm, has been helping corporations and local government agencies weave their way through California’s regulatory jungle. Six years ago, he recounted some of his experiences in a book titled Crazifornia —Tales from the Tarnished State: How California Is Destroying Itself and Why It Matters to America.

Also attending were Aliso Viejo City Council Member Mike Munzing of Munzing Mortgage Group; Garrett Dwyer, a mortgage lender with Citibank in Newport Beach; and Aliso Viejo Mayor Dave Harrington, then a candidate for Orange County Sheriff.

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NAMES IN THE NEWS

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early May, the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) honored Nancy Hunt with a retiring Key Contact/Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) Emeritus Award. Nancy officially began her political service to the real estate community thirty years ago as a Federal District Coordinator (which, she explains, is what they were called at that time) and continued through 2016. She recalls having worked first with Congressmen Ron Packard and Ken Calvert and later with Congressman Darryl Issa. She reports that Congressman Packard was always in contact and wanted to know what the REALTOR® community thought about all issues. She remembers being in his office and how excited he was over the Toll Road, which was going to be completed before 2000! “It was a done deal at that time,” she adds. “See where it has gone!”

Nancy Hunt Receives Key Contact/FPC Emeritus Award

At the state level, Nancy worked first with Marian Bergeson and later with Mimi Walters. The federal issues in which Nancy was involved include taxation, fair housing, FHA and VA financing, environment and land use, and protecting the federal Flood Insurance Program. Nancy also served on all political committees: CREPAC (her favorite), which supports and funds candidates; IMPAC, which supports and funds issues; and the Political Action Committee. Following formation of the Political Activities Fund in 2001, Nancy served as the first vice chair of that committee and then was the second person to chair it.

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NAMES IN THE NEWS

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OC REALTORS® Attend Annual Flag Day Salute

OC REALTORS® Hosts MLS Forum

n Saturday, June 16, OC REALTORS® President Tammy Newland-Shishido (on the right) and Director of Strategic Partners Dirissy Doan were the guests of Westminster Vice Mayor Tyler Diep at the Nineteenth Annual Flag Day Salute hosted by the Republican Party of Orange County at Hotel Irvine. First elected to the Westminster City Council in 2008, Tyler was honored not long ago by the OC GOP as its 2017 Council Member of the Year for his principled opposition to higher taxes and is a candidate to represent the 72nd District in the California State Assembly.

n April 24, Orange County REALTORS® hosted a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Forum. The approximately one hundred attendees learned about new tools, MLS compliance citation policy changes, and system updates. In addition, Rick Fong, assistant commissioner for enforcement for the California Department of Real Estate (CalDRE), was on hand to discuss current enforcement of the Department’s advertising and team names policy. Watch for an announcement regarding the next MLS Forum, which will be held sometime this fall. Continued on Page 24

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NAMES IN THE NEWS

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NAR Employee Experiences a Day in the Life of an Orange County REALTOR®

hen Bob Goldberg took the helm as CEO of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), he pledged to increase staff outreach to members. He said, “We’ll go on ride-alongs and attend open houses; we’ll visit local boards and state associations; we’ll chat with brokers in their offices. . . . Every staff member will participate: it is a requirement of employment. Everyone is going to know that members come first.” Recently, Eileen Oldroyd (on the left) experienced firsthand what Bob Goldberg was talking about when she spent the day with Melissa Horn, NAR’s manager of online advocacy in Washington, D.C. Because Eileen is state secretary for the Women’s Council of REALTORS® California, her typical day consists of mentoring

women in leadership rather than of showing homes. Eileen and Melissa began the day at a local doughnut shop in Huntington Beach, drove to Beverly Hills to launch a new Women’s Council network, enjoyed lunch at the iconic Trejo’s Tacos on La Brea, and then spent more than two hours in traffic on the drive back to Orange County. That evening, over cocktails by the ocean in Huntington Beach, both women agreed they had learned a lot from the experience. Melissa said she had learned that being a REALTOR® was multifaceted and much more complicated than initially meets the eye. Eileen said she had learned that NAR is constantly setting the bar higher to bring the best value and service to its members.

This Names in the News column is intended to be primarily a place where Orange County REALTORS® and Affiliate members can share both personal and professional news—about births (of children or grandchildren), graduations, weddings, anniversaries, accomplishments, awards, and other milestones—with one another. If you have news to share, email it to OC REALTOR ® Writer and Editor Sherri Butterfield at Sherri@ocar.org.

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REAL ESTATE OC

REALTORS® Are the Only Guardians of Homeownership By Tony Capitelli DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

In this, the fiftieth year since passage of the Fair Housing Act, we acknowledge once again that fighting for the dream of homeownership means advocating to ensure that everyone has equal access to it.

dvocacy is not merely part of what we do as an Association; it is at the core of our mission. It’s easy to take the prospect of owning a home for granted, but the reality is that the dream of homeownership is under constant attack. Because of misinformed ideologies, what was once the easiest lift up the economic ladder for many is no longer attainable for the vast majority of Californians; however, Orange County REALTORS® are not sitting idly by. In early May, members of OC REALTORS® who serve as California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) Directors and members of the OC REALTORS® Leadership Academy (a delegation of about sixty in total) marched up to Sacramento to fight for homeownership. They met with all the Orange County members of the state Assembly and Senate and pushed for things like increased housing supply, homeownership savings accounts, and accessory dwellings units, the last one of which just might be the best solution to the housing crisis. While in Sacramento, they received word that the C.A.R. Property Tax Fairness Initiative had qualified for the ballot. This initiative— which would allow seniors fifty-five and older, the disabled, and victims of natural disasters to carry their current Proposition 13– protected property tax assessment level to another home anywhere in the state—has the potential to free up a huge amount of muchneeded housing stock. At the end of May, members of Orange County REALTORS® who serve as National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Directors made a similar trek to Washington, D.C., to do the very same thing. While the political environment in our nation’s capital is much different from that in Sacramento, other forms

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of attack on homeownership abound. Meeting with local members of Congress, we asked for changes to the antihomeownership tax bill that passed last year. These included eliminating the marriage penalty and increasing the state and local tax deduction for married couples. We also advocated for fairness on the internet by supporting net neutrality; and we urged that the National Flood Insurance Program, which would protect up to 60,000 transactions, be reauthorized. The theme for these NAR Legislative Meetings was Fair Housing in celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the Fair Housing Act. This Act declared a national policy of fair housing throughout the United States and made illegal any discrimination in the sale, lease, or rental of housing based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. Although twenty-one states (including California) also prohibit housing discrimination based on sexual orientation, federal law does not specifically mention either sexual orientation or gender identity. Fighting for the dream of homeownership means advocating to ensure that everyone has equal access to it. To demonstrate strong support for this concept of equal access, members of the Orange County REALTORS® Board of Directors approved a Resolution in Support of H.R. 1447, the Fair and Equal Housing Act of 2017, which would extend Fair Housing Protections to the LGBTQ community. REALTORS® are the only guardians of homeownership. If you wish to become more involved in our advocacy efforts, contact me at tonyc@ocar.org.

REAL ESTATE OC

Resolution in Support of H.R. 1447 The Fair and Equal Housing Act of 2017 WHEREAS, food, clothing, and shelter are essential for human life, and human beings seek shelter in a place that is clean, safe, and welcoming and fondly call this place “home”; and WHEREAS, because home is so important, fairness in both the availability of housing and access to it is vital; and WHEREAS, in 1866, Congress passed the Civil Rights Act, which prohibited all racial discrimination in the sale or rental of property; and WHEREAS, in 1968, Congress strengthened the Civil Rights Act by adding Title VIII, known as the Fair Housing Act, which declared a national policy of fair housing throughout the United States and made illegal any discrimination in the sale, lease, or rental of housing based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin; and WHEREAS, in 1974, Congress passed the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, which made it unlawful to discriminate with respect to any aspect of a credit application based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age (provided the applicant has the capacity to enter into a contract), or because all or part of the applicant’s income is derived from a public assistance program; and WHEREAS, in 1990, Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in places of public accommodations and in commercial facilities; and WHEREAS, California law was amended in 1999 to ban discrimination based on a person’s sexual orientation and was amended yet again, five years later, to ban discrimination based on his or her gender identity; and WHEREAS, in this tradition of fair practice in both the availability of housing and access to it, members of the U.S. House of Representatives have proposed H.R. 1447, which may be cited as the “Fair and Equal Housing Act of 2017” and which would ensure that the protections of the Fair Housing Act are extended to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender Americans by • amending the Fair Housing Act to add sexual orientation and gender identity as classes that are protected against discrimination in the sale, rental, or financing of housing; •d efining the term gender identity as “the gender-related identity, appearance, or mannerisms or other gender-related characteristics of an individual, without regard to the individual’s designated sex at birth”; • defining the term sexual orientation as “homosexuality, heterosexuality, or bisexuality”; and • adding prohibitions against discrimination based on an individual’s association with another person who is a member of such a protected class or a perception or belief, even if inaccurate, that an individual is a member of such protected class; and WHEREAS, the National Association of REALTORS® adopted in 1913 a Code of Ethics as a declaration of the industry’s principles and beliefs and, WHEREAS, the Preamble to this Code of Ethics concludes with the following words: The term REALTOR® has come to connote competency, fairness, and high integrity resulting from adherence to a lofty ideal of moral conduct in business relations. No inducement of profit and no instruction from clients ever can justify departure from this ideal. In the interpretation of this obligation, REALTORS® can take no safer guide than that which has been handed down through the centuries, embodied in the Golden Rule, “Whatsoever ye would that others should do to you, do ye even so to them.” WHEREAS, Article 10 of this Code of Ethics states, in pertinent part, “REALTORS® shall not deny equal professional services to any person for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity,” and further, “REALTORS® shall not be parties to any plan or agreement to discriminate against a person or persons on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity”; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County REALTORS® Board of Directors • does find that H.R. 1447, the Fair and Equal Housing Act of 2017, is consistent with its long-held belief that home seekers have a right to expect housing in their price range made available to them without discrimination; equal professional service; the opportunity to consider a broad range of housing choices; no discrimination in the financing, appraising, or insuring of housing; and freedom from harassment or intimidation while exercising their fair housing rights; • does affirm its support for H.R. 1447; and • does strongly encourage the swift passage of this bill as a means of further ensuring fairness in housing purchase, lease, and rental practices. n

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OC REALTORS® COMMITTEES

Risk Management Forum Considers

Cannabis and Fair Housing Because the laws regarding cannabis are complex, complicated, and constantly changing, REALTORS® should avoid giving clients any legal advice in this area. By Sherri Butterfield WRITER AND EDITOR

wo years ago, 2016 Orange County REALTORS® President Wayne Woodard wisely decided that Orange County REALTORS® needed a Risk Management Committee and asked Bob Hunt to be its first chair. In Bob’s words, the purpose of the committee is “to inform our members, as best we can, what risks are inherent in which kinds of business situations and what can best be done to avoid those risks.” Toward this end, on May 24, the committee, which is now chaired by Harrison K. Long, hosted a Risk Management Forum covering cannabis, and—in this, the fiftieth year since the passage of the federal Fair Housing Act—fair housing. What follows are some of the ideas offered during that forum.

Cannabis Rinat B. Klier Erlich: Avoid giving

your clients any legal advice regarding cannabis. This area of the law is complex, complicated, and constantly changing. There are changes in the law itself, changes in the tax code, and changes in licensing. And cannabis is a crime under federal law. For example, if you represent a buyer, do not help your client pick a place that would be “ideal for their business.” As a listing agent, avoid vetting tenants. And as a seller’s agent, you could have disclosure issues if you know that the property was a location for the manufacture of cannabis or if the property is next to a property that previously had something to do with cannabis. The state Legislature encouraged passage of the recreational act because it wanted to collect taxes; however, the tax rate is so high that it has opened the door to a high-volume black market. Cannabis removed from a cultivation site is presumed to be sold and taxable. And the cannabis business is not eligible for any exemption. Licensing is handled by three different bureaus or departments, depending on whether the subject is testing, cultivation, or manufacturing, and there is a lot of overlap. Cannabis is

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a crime under federal law—the federal Controlled Substances Act—and the federal government can take the real property. In a rental or lease situation, the concerns are that cannabis is illegal; that a property used for cannabis cultivation or manufacture might not be insurable; that you might need to collect the rent in cash because, under the Bank Secrecy Act, banks must report any suspicious activity; and lack of tenant control because it is difficult to evict a tenant based on violation of federal law. You may want to modify your lease language in the areas of permitted use, right to inspect, indemnification, and early termination. The irony is that the more you know, the less you can claim ignorance (as a defense), but the more The featured speaker was Rinat B. Klier Erlich, who is a certified legal you can protect yourself. malpractice specialist and a licensed Use of a property to grow cannabis real estate broker. Her topic was may make it unsuitable for subsequent Cannabis. uses. Cannabis has its residual issues and red flags. Because of the moisture needed to cultivate the plants, there may be mold. Processing of cannabis can create toxic fumes. Growing and irrigating cannabis may result in high utility bills for lights and water. Smoke and odors may have a negative effect on neighbors. If you see red flags, you should follow up, but you are required to disclose only what you know. Due diligent visual inspection of the licensee is limited and does not include “off the site” or “public records.”

Fair Housing Lisa Dunn: REALTORS® are committed to fair housing. Pam Pedego: Under the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics, Article 10, we are bound to act both fairly and ethically. The Code of Ethics establishes a heart for what we do. It’s called compassion. Dorinda Francois: We cannot discriminate based on ancestry or source

of income. Fair housing means a diverse, inclusive environment for everyone. REALTORS® are the stewards of the right to own, use, and transfer private property; and our livelihood depends on maintaining a free, open market that embraces equal opportunity.

Photos by Marion Butterfield

Lori Namazi: As a broker, host training sessions designed to create a culture of fair housing. Be careful about how you advertise. If on Facebook you are advertising only to your circle of friends, you may be discriminating. Share your travels with friends but make property available to everyone.

“The irony is that the more you know, the less you can claim ignorance (as a defense), but the more you can protect yourself.”

Members of the Fair Housing Panel were (from left to right) Pam Pedego, a real estate consultant and broker/owner who is a past chair of the OC REALTORS® Professional Standards Committee; Lori Namazi, broker of record and wner of Lori Namazi Real Estate; Lisa Dunn, a full-time REALTOR® for twenty-five years who led the successful efforts of the OC REALTORS® FHA/VA Condo Approval Task Force; and Dorinda Francois, who was elected to the OC REALTORS® Board of Directors in 2017 and currently sits on five OC REALTORS® committees.

OC REALTOR®

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EVENT

2018 OCAR Cares Golf Tournament Closest to the Pin – Ladies: Tina Rector, 5’7” Closest to the Pin – Men: Eric Whitcomb, 5’2” Longest Drive – Ladies: Lauren Kovacs Longest Drive – Men: Bill Ferdi Lowest Score – Mixed Team: Team 1A (Nipper Larson, Gary Bridge, Gina Bamberger, and Jim Schwegman)

Lowest Score – Ladies Team: Team 12A (Liz Lewis, Judy Onak, Geri Lee, and Debbie Potter) Lowest Score – Men’s Team: Team 11B (Eric Whitcomb, Matthew Smith, Nick Castillo, and Larry Clinton) Helicopter Ball Drop: Ryan Keip

Photos provided by Antis Real Estate Photography, Inc. 30

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EVENT

For more photos of the event, visit www.ocar.org/golf18 OC REALTORÂ®

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OC REALTORÂ®

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COVER STORY

Adam Rodell Lacy Robertson

Jeffrey Jackson Liz Lewis

THE

Julie Hile

VOTE IN IS

The ballots have been cast and counted, and five REALTORS® have been elected to serve as members of the 2019–2021 Orange County REALTORS® Board of Directors.

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COVER STORY

By Sherri Butterfield WRITER AND EDITOR

eginning on Tuesday, May 8, and concluding on Tuesday, May 22, REALTOR® members of Orange County REALTORS® voted to choose five from among nine candidates to fill three-year positions on the 2019–2021 OC REALTORS® Board of Directors. The nine candidates (in alphabetical order by last name) were Olesya Drozdova, Brian Genovese, Julie Hile, Spencer Hoo, Jeffrey Jackson, Liz Lewis, Lacy Robertson, Adam Rodell, and Lisa Yi. Their photos, candidate statements, and bullet-point résumés appeared on pages 27–29 in the May/June issue of OC REALTOR®. Elected to serve were Julie Hile, Jeffrey Jackson, Liz Lewis, Lacy Robertson, and Adam Rodell.

JULIE HILE

native Californian, Julie Hile grew up in Orange County. At the age of fifteen, she started her first job as a weekend secretary for Lingo Real Estate in Laguna Beach and, as she describes it, was soon “hooked on housing.” She obtained her real estate license in 1988 and a broker’s license in 1992 and has amassed considerable experience in the corporate relocation aspect of the industry. Uniquely able to see things with a fresh eye and to know when and how to make improvements, Julie formed the Superior Advertising Group, where she brought an unconventional perspective to both advertising and marketing. And for a while, she held teaching positions in which she trained agents in several states. Currently, Julie serves on several OC REALTORS® committees, including the Leadership Development Committee, which she chairs. Her favorite place to unwind is the Napa Valley, where she and her husband married, and you can often find her on local trials walking her two “fur babies,” a dachshund and a spaniel mix. “I do housing,” Julie says, but those who know her best say that she does a whole lot more—and with tenacity, skill, and compassion. She sought a position on the Board of Directors “for the good of our Association while our industry continues to adjust” and to ensure that Association members receive the best possible service.

JEFFREY JACKSON

ong interested in politics, government, and the law, Jeffrey Jackson earned first a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Public Affairs from Indiana University in Bloomington, and then a Juris Doctor from Indiana University School of Law in Indianapolis. He was admitted to the Indiana State Bar and, this past June, received a Master of Business Administration from Washington State University. In 2014, Jeffrey joined Orange County REALTORS®. He currently chairs the Political Affairs and Elections Committee (PAEC) and is a PAEC trustee for the cities of Laguna Woods and Lake Forest. He also serves on the Multiple Listing Service and Professional Standards Committees. Since 2016, Jeffrey has been a State Director and has been a member of the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) Public Policy and Local Government Forums and of the Legislative and Multiple Listing Service Committees. Jeffrey sought election to the Board of Directors as a way of giving REALTORS® “a voice that speaks for them and an ear that listens to their concerns” about the state of the industry, their earning ability, and the direction real estate may go in the future. As a member of the Board, he promises to “focus on REALTOR® education, continue community and government outreach programs, and implement additional programs and benefits for members” while bringing “a new voice to the Board.”

Continued on Page 36

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COVER STORY Continued from Page 35

LIZ LEWIS

n 2006, after working for almost twenty years as a litigation paralegal, Liz Lewis earned her real estate license. Shortly thereafter, she established her own business model, which included not only residential and commercial sales and leasing but also working independently as a real estate paralegal and mediation administrator. About this same time, Liz became active with the local chapter of Women’s Council of REALTORS®, which started her on a path of service to the real estate profession. After gaining leadership experience with the Women’s Council at the local, state, and national levels, Liz began volunteering with Orange County REALTORS®, initially as a member of the Marketing Committee in 2014.

Since that time, Liz has served on or chaired numerous committees, including the Members Benefits and Leadership Development Committees. In 2017, she was a member of the first graduating class of the Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy and declares that her participation in the Academy was “one of the most rewarding experiences I have had as a real estate professional.” Liz, who was appointed by Orange County REALTORS® as a 2018 State Director, says that her goal is “to contribute in whatever way I can” and pledges that she will use the leadership skills and education she has gained “to grow the Association and give back to its members.”

LACY ROBERTSON

licensed Mortgage Loan Originator, Lacy Robertson has fourteen years of mortgage and real estate experience and is no stranger to setting and achieving big goals. As a member of the inaugural class of the Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy, she has been at the forefront of Association advocacy efforts and is currently serving as vice chair of the Orange County REALTORS® Local Government Relations South Committee. Lacy has long believed that the real estate industry is “plagued by products that have little value, services that serve only their providers and not the client, and policies that circumvent legislation intended to protect our customers and us.”

In a calm voice she has spoken out against the predatory lending practices that have endangered home ownership for the most vulnerable members of our population, and she has spoken up for affordable home ownership and the protection of homeowners’ property rights. As a member of the Orange County REALTORS® Board of Directors, Lacy promises to confront potential problems immediately, confidently, and decisively. She has the drive needed to bring constructive change, and she seeks to add value and to protect the interests of the real estate industry by expressing her opinions with quiet, unwavering conviction.

ADAM RODELL

dam Rodell, who became a licensed REALTOR® in 1998, has been a Director of both the California Association of REALTORS® and Orange County REALTORS® since 2016. He has been a member of the OC REALTORS® Finance Committee since 2014 and has served the Association as its treasurer in both 2017 and 2018. Of being a REALTOR®, Adam says, “I know how hard we work and how much we care about our clients’ best interests. I know the challenges we face and how important it is that we are given as much support as

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possible by our local Association” and specifically mentions education and technology as examples of tools that help REALTORS® serve their clients better. Speaking both for himself and for other REALTORS®, Rodell says, “Being a REALTOR® is not just our job: it’s a privilege, an opportunity, and a responsibility to give something back.” His recent reelection puts him in a position to join other members of the Orange County REALTORS® Board of Directors in continuing to do exactly that.

SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE

Summer

Survive and Soak Up Your By Sabrina Blair DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Benefits

All work and no play makes for a dull summer! That is why we have compiled a list of member benefits to help you survive summer whether you are working or playing or both!

Treat yourself (or your clients) to some Fair fun.

The fair is coming to town! From July 13 to August 12, the Orange County Fair encourages you to “Free Your Inner Farmer,” and we do too! Orange County REALTORS® has discounted tickets for only $10 each (regularly $12 to $14) available for purchase in the Fountain Valley and Laguna Hills offices. In addition to tickets, you can also pick up $2-off discount coupons (limit 200 per member) that make great farming materials!

Our suggestion: Send tickets to your past clients and use the coupons to meet new ones.

Be a community resource.

Our new Resource & Home Services Guide is out and chock full of great resources and discounts! This directory lists more than six hundred Affiliate members, from lenders to transaction coordinators to restaurants and so much more. Show your support for our members and be sure to use (and refer) our Affiliate partners.

Our suggestion:

Staple your business card to the Guide and include it with your door-knocking materials.

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SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE

Let “the data” work for you.

By now you should have heard about one of our newest member benefits— Remine. If you haven’t, pay attention! Remine is a powerful data tool accessible through your CRMLS account. You can set search parameters to find prospective sellers based on the length of their ownership, loan amounts, and so much more! You can also upload a list of your current contacts, which will help you stay informed about who is most likely to buy or sell a home.

Our suggestion: Sign up for a training webinar at www.ocar.org/remine and start letting Remine work for you!

Photo: www.istockphoto.com/SolStock, draco77, kali9, zstockphotos, martinedoucet, alexsl, damircudic

Get out of town.

Sometimes you just need to get away, disconnect, and recharge. We can help you get out of town while saving money on travel. There’s no point in racking up miles on your car so rent one! As an Orange County REALTORS® member, you can receive 25 percent off rental cars through Avis or Budget. Hotel Engine also offers members an average of 26 percent off public hotel rates.

Our suggestion:

Visit our Benefits page at www.ocar.org/benefits to find out how you can get away on a budget.

Prepare for the new school year.

I know it’s hard to think about it now, but summer will be over before you know it. When it’s time to do your back-to-school shopping, make sure you use your Office Depot or Office Max discount card when you check out online or in the store. You can receive up to 80 percent off selected school supply items and even printing (think flyers!).

Our suggestion: Go to www.officediscounts.org /ocar/ to get your Office Depot/Office Max discounts.

Stay entertained.

Have kids to occupy? Relatives visiting from out of town? Just want something fun to do on the weekend? We have lots of options to keep everyone entertained! Orange County REALTORS® sells discounted tickets in both offices for Pretend City and Sawdust Festival of the Arts, as well as movies. You can also receive discounts online for tickets to Aquarium of the Pacific, Pageant of the Masters, and select concerts at the Pacific Symphony.

Our suggestion:

Visit our Benefits page at www.ocar.org/benefits to look up ticket prices or buy them online. n

OC REALTOR®

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SUMMER SAFETY

New Rules for Pools (and Spas) By Sherri Butterfield WRITER AND EDITOR

If you are constructing a swimming pool or spa at a private single-family home, a new state law requires that you install at least two approved drowning-prevention safety features and that these features be inspected to determine that they meet code requirements.

rowning is suffocation by submersion. It can occur in as little as twenty seconds and will occur within three minutes. According to the Orange County Fire Authority, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among children five years old and younger in Orange County.

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Children this age are attracted to water. They associate it with bath time and play, and do not understand how dangerous it can be. They crawl or toddle toward the pool, tumble or wade in, slip beneath the waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surface, and drown without a sound.

www.istockphoto.com/MicrovOne, dtimiraos, JAJMO, Bicho_raro, jacoblund

SUMMER SAFETY

Most drownings of young children occur in home swimming pools, usually because a child gains access to the pool when no one is looking or because the adults who are supposed to be watching the pool are distracted for a short time and take their eyes off the water. To prevent tragedies of this kind, last year the California Legislature passed Senate Bill 442 (Newman). Known as the Pool Safety Act, this legislation amended the California Health and Safety Code to provide that, when a building permit is issued for construction of a new swimming pool or spa at a private single-family home, the pool or spa must be equipped with at least two of the following seven drowning-prevention safety features:

1. An enclosure that isolates the pool or spa from the home. 2. Removable mesh fencing in conjunction with a self-latching, self-closing gate that can accommodate a key-lockable device.

3. An approved safety pool cover. 4. Exit alarms on the home’s doors that provide direct access to the pool or spa. 5. A self-closing, self-latching device with a release mechanism placed at least fifty-four inches above the floor on the door of the home that provides direct access to the pool or spa.

6. An alarm placed in the pool or spa that will sound upon detection of accidental or unauthorized entry.

7. Other means of protection if determined to be equal to or greater than what is afforded by these six safety features. Before final approval is given, a building official must inspect the pool or spa to determine that the required safety features are in place and that they meet code requirements. In addition, Items 2 and 6 must meet American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) Specifications.

How to Make Your Swimming Season Safer By Sherri Butterfield WRITER AND EDITOR

ccording to the Orange County Fire Authority, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among children five years old and younger in Orange County, and adults fifty years old and older account for more than 50 percent of the drownings each year. The most common reason children drown is a lapse in active adult supervision. Adults drown because they swim alone, and no one is around

to help them if they experience a severe muscle cramp, are injured, suffer a seizure, or otherwise become incapacitated. Drowning is a preventable tragedy. Listed below are seven things you can do to make your swimming season safer. 1. Prepare yourself. Learn to swim. Brush up on rescue and lifesaving techniques—including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CRP). Continued on Page 42

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SUMMER SAFETY

Continued from Page 41

2. Prepare your pool. Mount a lifesaving ring, a shepherd’s hook, and a CPR sign near your pool. And keep a working phone close by.

3. Install at least two safety devices. For example, install an enclosure that isolates the pool from your home and place exit alarms on all doors that provide direct access to the pool. And just for good measure, place in the pool a motion-sensing alarm that will sound in the event of accidental or unauthorized entry.

4. Teach children to swim. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the likelihood of a childhood drowning death by 88 percent.

5. Supervise the pool when it is in use. Do not rely on either swimming lessons or flotation devices to make any child “water safe.” Constant supervision of children around water is crucial, and a supervising adult should always remain within arm’s reach of any very young child who is in water.

6. N ever swim alone. Even if you are a very good swimmer, always swim with a companion who can provide help if you need it.

7. A void mixing prescription medications, alcohol, and water. In far too many instances, this combination has proven to be fatal.

Drowning-Prevention Door Hanger Project By Sherri Butterfield WRITER AND EDITOR

range County REALTORS® is working with the Orange County Fire Authority to develop door hangers that will carry a drowningprevention message on one side and announce the new rules for pools on the other. The Orange County Drowning Prevention Task Force has expressed interest in the project, and the Jasper Ray Foundation has indicated a willingness to pay for the printing costs. These door hangers would include space in which REALTORS® could add contact information, and their public safety message would make them ideal farming materials. The approach will most likely be to announce the availability of the door hangers and invite

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REALTORS® to order the number they need for their farms. Using a similar approach last year Orange county REALTORS® distributed some 8,300 door hangers with a water conservation message.

A Note About the Jasper Ray Foundation: Tragically, Jasper Ray St. Clair drowned in 2014 while in the care of a babysitter. She had taken him to her family home where there was an ungated pool, and he entered the water unnoticed and drowned. His parents started the foundation as a way of honoring his memory and of preventing other parents from experiencing the same tragedy. n

THE ORANGE COUNTY HOUSING UPDATE

Although sellers are still in the driver’s seat, trends suggest the market is starting to cool.

By Steven Thomas REPORTSONHOUSING.COM

e have been talking about it for years now: there are not enough homes on the market, and the demand for homes is through the roof. That has been the storyline for the housing market not only here in Orange County but also across the United States. Every city and town is experiencing hot demand and short supply. The story has not changed much for quite some time—that is, until now. It seems as if this market can go on forever, right? Wrong! That is what everybody thought back in the early 2000s, and everybody was wrong. Housing has hot runs, leaning in the seller’s favor; and it has its cool seasons, leaning in the buyer’s favor. The good news is that, over time, in the long run, housing values continue to reach new record levels. You can count on it. You can also count on the fact that this housing run will eventually turn in favor of the buyer, though not today and not even in the immediate future. With nearly half the year in the rearview mirror, noticeable cracks have appeared that signal a cooling market. It is not as if housing has suddenly tilted in favor of buyers. No, there are still multiple offers and plenty of homes flying off the market 44

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Figure 1. From March 22 to June 1, the Orange County active listing inventory added 1,265 homes. The May increase of 726 homes was the largest one-month gain during the spring since 2007. and into escrow just moments after the For Sale sign is pounded into the front yard. Buyers are still frustrated by the lack of homes on the market priced below $1 million. Although sellers are still in the driver’s seat, trends have surfaced that suggest a cooling marketplace.

Crack—The active inventory increased by 27 percent during the Spring Market and by 15 percent in the month of May alone. After a rather dismal start to the year, the active inventory in Orange County has been surging, adding 1,265 homes from March 22 to June 1, and 726 homes in May. The May increase was the largest one-month gain during the spring since 2007. At the start of June, there were 5,950 homes on the market, well below the 8,000-home long-term average, yet the current trend is for a rapidly increasing active inventory (see Figure 1).

www.istockphoto.com/yogysic, Alhontess, Rockatansky

Figure 2. Demand, the number of pending sales over the prior thirty days, has been muted since the start of the year. This year, demand was at its lowest Spring Market level since 2008.

Crack—This is the first time there are more homes on the market than there were in the prior year since August 2016. For twenty consecutive months, the year-overyear active inventory comparison had been less. That changed at the beginning of May with 47 more homes on the market than in the prior year. On New Year’s Day, there were 674 fewer homes on the market than there had been on January 1, 2017. As the year rolled along, the difference diminished. As of June 1, the difference grew to 143 more homes than in the prior year.

Crack—Demand was at its lowest Spring Market level this year since 2008. Demand, the number of pending sales over the prior thirty

days, has been muted since the start of the year. Typically, during the Spring Market, the busiest time of the year, pending sales activity is firing on all cylinders. Yet, it was down by 9 percent compared with last spring (see Figure 2).

Crack—The asking price was reduced on a staggering 11 percent of all active listings each week during the Spring Market and the start to the Summer Market. The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) has a helpful red arrow pointing downward adjacent to the asking price if that price was reduced. In bringing up a list of homes anywhere in Orange County, there are a lot more red arrows pointing down now than there were at any time in the past several years. This phenomenon is indicative of a

market in which the property is initially overpriced. Many sellers are arbitrarily pricing and not relying on the expertise of real estate professionals, so, to be successful, they must reduce the asking price—and often more than once. While there are definite cracks in the more-than-six-year housing run, the market is still a seller’s market. It is simply not as hot as it was in the spring of 2017. These trends have developed only this year. If they continue, the market will cool further, but it will take time. This year still promises to be a very good one for sellers, only a bit more challenging, which necessitates a more cautious, deliberate approach to the housing market. Steven Thomas has a degree in quantitative economics and decision sciences from the University of California, San Diego, and more than twenty years of experience in real estate. His bimonthly Orange County Housing Report is available by subscription and provides housing market analysis that is easy to understand and useful in setting the expectations of both buyers and sellers. His website is www.ReportsOnHousing.com.

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EDUCATION

The Lowdown on the Code of Ethics

Requirement

Regardless of age, experience, or honorary status, all active REALTOR® members must complete Code of Ethics training by December 31, 2018. By Sabrina Blair DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

This article is based on an interview with Orange County REALTORS® Director of Education Cassie Cardenas.

What is the Code of Ethics? The Code of Ethics is a document first adopted by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) in 1913. It holds REALTORS® to higher standards of practice and professionalism than are expected of non-REALTOR® licensees and has been called a “golden thread” that unites those devoted to raising the standards of professionalism and service in real estate.

What is the Code of Ethics requirement? REALTORS® are required to complete NAR Code of Ethics training in each biennial period. The current biennial period began on January 1, 2017, and ends on December 31, 2018. The requirement periods are as follows: January 1, 2017–December 31, 2018 January 1, 2019–December 31, 2020 January 1, 2021–December 31, 2022 January 1, 2023–December 31, 2024

How can I check to see if I have completed the Code of Ethics training and fulfilled this requirement? You can check to see if you have fulfilled the requirement on NAR’s website. Log in to www.nar.realtor. Once logged in, click on My Account and then click on Manage Account. Under Other Links, click on View Your Education Records (NRDS). If you see one of the Course Numbers listed below, then you have completed the Code of Ethics training and fulfilled this requirement. If you do not see either Course Number listed, then you still need to complete your Code of Ethics training before December 31, 2018. Course Numbers–New Members BPP COEN 20171 BPP COEN 20181

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Course Numbers–Continuing Members BPP COEC 2017C5 BPP COEC 2018C5

Do I need to complete Code of Ethics training even if I have been given honorary status or other exempt status from the California Department of Real Estate? Yes, all active REALTOR® members must complete Code of Ethics training by December 31, 2018, with the exception of NAR Emeritus Members, who are exempt from this requirement.

What classes will satisfy my Code of Ethics requirement? Orange County REALTORS® has compiled a list of approved classes that, if taken in 2017 or 2018, will fulfill your Code of Ethics obligation. You can view the list and register for upcoming classes on our website. You can also access the online training provided by NAR. Visit www.ocar.org/coe.

I already took a Code of Ethics class, but it is not reflected on NAR’s website. What do I do? If you have taken an approved Code of Ethics class, send a copy of your completion certificate to Cassie@ocar.org for verification and processing.

Fulfill your Code of Ethics Requirement with LIVE Code of Ethics Training

Photo: www.istockphoto.com/Matjaz Slanic

at Orange County REALTORS® Laguna Hills

August 21: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM October 29: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM November 28: 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM December 19: 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM Instructor: Duane Gomer FREE for OC REALTORS® Members Sign up at www.ocar.org/live-ethics OC REALTOR®

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Photo by Albert Ornelas

LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

Members of the incoming class of the 2017–2018 Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy pose for a photograph on September 12, 2017.

Congratulations to the Orange County REALTORS®

Leadership Academy Graduating Class of 2018 Cassandra Amos, Nova Real Estate Inc. Edward Arce, Intero HomeServices, a Berkshire Hathaway Affiliate Matt Cortez, First Team Real Estate Olesya Drozdova, HomeSmart Evergreen Realty, Irvine Leslie Eskildsen, Realty One Group Inc. Spencer Hoo, RE/MAX Premier Realty Laurie Johnson, Bullock Russell Real Estate Services Sherrie LeVan, Prime OC Properties, Inc. Jonathan Leonhardt, Team Laguna Real Estate

Yami Martinez, Altamar Real Estate Larry Paul, C2/Thrive Financial, Lawrence D. Paul, Broker Joyce Purvis, Coldwell Banker Mission Viejo Hanz Radlein, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Mary Rampone, Regency Real Estate Brokers Tamara Romano, Home Point Financial Jessica Siguenza, Finance of America Mortgage Kevin Smith, First Team Real Estate Lynne Suzanski, Coast to Canyon Real Estate Tina Vo, Realty One Group Inc. Lisa Yi, NextHome Coastal

Apply Now to Be Part of the Third Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy. Applications are available online at www.ocar.org/leadership-academy and will be accepted through Monday, July 16, at 5:00 p.m.

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LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

Assemblyman Matt Harper (center) welcomes Orange County REALTORS® and Leadership Academy cadets to Sacramento on May 1 for the California Association of REALTORS® annual Legislative Day.

Leaders

Are Made, Not Born!

By Deb Shrider LEADERSHIP ACADEMY FACILITATOR

The Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy helps participants develop the skills and perspective needed to achieve effectiveness in leadership, business, and life.

“T

he best experience in my ten-year real estate career,” said Orange County REALTORS® member Donna Hollingsworth. “One of the most rewarding experiences I have had as a real estate professional!” exclaimed REALTOR® Liz Lewis. “A life changer! It empowers individuals as a person, as well as a professional,” noted REALTOR® Yami Martinez. What are these members raving about? They, along with thirty-seven other real estate professionals, are part of a select group who make up the alumni of the Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy.

The Academy is the brainchild of former OC REALTORS® President Rita Tayenaka, who saw the Academy as one way to recruit and train members to embrace a leadership role at the Association. But it’s clear from participant feedback that the eight-month intensive program delivered more than leadership training. Valuable life tools and an enhanced level of confidence have enabled graduates to embrace opportunities they might otherwise have avoided: a trade trip to China, volunteering to be “High School Principal for a Day,” and accepting leadership positions in organized real estate and in their local communities. Continued on Page 50

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LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Continued from Page 49

Leadership Academy cadets attend the annual Costume Bowl in October dressed as Three Blind Mice and a Butcher.

In May, the graduates of the Second Leadership Academy attended the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) 2018 Legislative Day in Sacramento. While in the state capital, many of them took the lead in articulating to state Assemblymembers and Senators the Hot Issues identified by the C.A.R. Legislative team. They presented a unified voice on issues such as accessory dwelling units (adding to a home to house extended family members), densification, workforce housing, and even the thornier and more complicated issues of affordability and homelessness. A shout out to Academy graduate Leslie Sargent Eskildsen, who detailed this experience in her column in the Orange County Register (see “REALTORS® Speak Out on Housing Shortage and Costs” on page 7 in the Real Estate section, on Sunday, May 8). The Third Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy begins in September and will be chaired by OC REALTOR® President Tammy Newland-Shishido.

Leadership Academy cadets joined Leadership Academy Facilitator Deb Shrider and Orange County REALTORS® Past President and Leadership Academy Founder Rita Tayenaka to attend an event hosted by the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP).

Guest speakers include faculty members from California State University Fullerton, Mihaylo College of Business and Economics, Center for Leadership. They will present “The Full Range of Leadership Behaviors” (leadership strategies), “Overview of Servant Leadership” (exploring the power and promise of service over self-interest), and “Building Self-Awareness” (the first building block of emotional intelligence). A former chief financial officer for the Colorado and California Associations of REALTORS® will present “Understanding the Budget” (aka Bean-Counting 101). A Michigan Association of REALTORS® Instructor of the Year who is also a twenty-five-year parliamentarian, will discuss “Governance, Bylaws, and Communications.” Other modules cover the business of the Association, advocacy, and personal branding. Team-building exercises and community projects round out the curriculum, ensuring that there’s never a dull moment! n

Mission Statement of the Orange County REALTORS®’ Leadership Academy

The mission of the Orange County REALTORS® Leadership Academy is to help participants develop specific skills and perspective to achieve effectiveness in leadership, business, and life; and to develop the confidence to embrace the responsibility to serve as a leader in the real estate industry.

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REAL ESTATE ANALYSIS

By David Girling

REAL ESTATE ECONOMIST, GIRLING REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT GROUP

Familiarity with these ten factors will enable you to answer questions about the real estate market, especially about real estate values and where they may be headed.

odayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s real estate market is characterized by rising home values, low housing affordability, increasing interest rates, and limited housing inventories. All these factors are interrelated, and each is examined in greater detail in a more comprehensive web version of this article, which is available at www.ocar.org/top10. The goal of Daveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Top 10 is to give you some information that will help you address issues or answer questions that may arise because of economic and other factors mentioned in the news.

Mortgage Originations.

Interest Rates. Mortgage

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interest rates have increased since the beginning of the year, and the ten-year Treasury, a benchmark for mortgage rates, is hovering at 3 percent, having reached a high of 3.11 percent in May. The interest rate for a thirtyyear fixed-rate mortgage is now approximately 4.6 percent, and the fully amortized mortgage payment on a $500,000 loan is $2,563 per month. Expect rates to be at or above 5 percent by the end of the year.

Purchasing Power. With

higher interest rates, purchasing power will decline just as it increased with lower rates. The rule of thumb is that a one-percent change in interest rate equals a 10-percent change in purchasing power.

Alternative Asset Classes (real estate and stocks).

Beginning in 2012, when the Federal Reserve lowered interest rates, the main beneficiaries were real estate and stocks, with both classes experiencing significant appreciation. Expect continued volatility in stocks, and home prices may start to correct with higher rates.

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Home Prices. Home price appreciation has ranged between 5 and 10 percent since 2014, and almost every recent measure of yearover-year appreciation continues to show significant improvement. This trend will continue; however, prices should start to level off with higher rates, especially if inventory levels increase.

6 5 4

With rising interest rates, the number of loan refinances, as a percentage of total mortgage originations, has decreased. With increasing interest rates, purchases as a percentage of total originations will continue to increase. Lenders will need to become more creative with their loan programs to promote more purchase loans and maintain the overall level of originations. And we may see a loosening of credit standards to improve purchase volume.

Housing Inventories. There are

many reasons that inventory levels will remain low (for example, potential for higher property taxes, capital gains, and loans with higher interest rates). Additional homebuilder activity might add to supply; however, price appreciation and the cost of materials affecting this sector may offset some of the relief.

U.S. and California Homeownership Rates.

With higher interest rates and continued low inventories, expect a continued leveling off of the homeownership rate. Across the United States, the homeownership rate now stands at 64.2 percent. The rate in California is 55.1 percent, and the rate in Los Angeles and Orange Counties is 48.3 percent. Look for millennials to drive the homeownership rate.

Price Indices. Price indices

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are an effective way to see where prices have been, where they are now, and where they may be going in the future. One example is the Orange County Home Price Index (OCHPI), which shows the average price since January 1, 2006, for a standard home (that is, a singlefamily dwelling between 1,800 and 2,200 square feet with three bedrooms/two baths) for ten select cities in Orange County. The current value (in the first quarter of 2018) is $740,000.

Bubble or Correction? This question is often asked in today’s market, one where prices have appreciated at rates that many believe are unsustainable. There will be no crash; however, expect prices to correct as we near the end of the housing cycle and as interest rates continue to climb. Affordability. The percentage

of Orange County homebuyers who can afford to purchase a medianpriced, existing, single-family home is currently 21 percent. In California, it is 31 percent. The income needed is $167,670 and $111,500, respectively. Affordability is a big concern, and the situation does not appear to be improving, especially with interest rates expected to go higher and inventory levels expected to remain low.

David Girling completed his undergraduate work at the University of Southern California and earned the degree of Master of Business Administration from the Anderson Graduate School of Management at the University of California, Los Angeles. In 2008, he formed Girling Real Estate Investment Group (Girling REIG) with his father, Bing. They are affiliated with Villa Real Estate. Dave was president of the Newport Beach Association of REALTORS® (NBAOR) in 2015, following in the footsteps of his father, who was president of that Association in 2001. Dave served as a NBAOR Director until December 2016 and completed three terms as chairman of the Government and Political Affairs Committee. In 2010, he was named NBAOR REALTOR® of the Year.

Special Offer Members of Orange County REALTORS® are entitled to receive a three-month subscription to Dave Girling’s Real Estate Blog as a free member benefit. To subscribe, go to www.girlingreig.com/subscribe. Register and use the code OCRFree.

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ASK AN AFFILIATE

Termites, Fumigation, and Tile Roofs By Tony Angelo

CEO / OWNER ANGELO TERMITE & CONSTRUCTION

Why periodic inspections, localized treatments, and removal of infested wood may be preferable to fumigation.

outhern California is home to drywood termites. Each year, in September and October, these destructive insects swarm and start new colonies. One common misconception is that, during swarming season, winged termites capable of reproducing fly from one area to another to start new colonies. In fact, they are transported by prevailing air currents, which explains why termites often reinfest the same areas or relocate in the same susceptible areas of adjoining or adjacent structures soon after fumigation tarps are removed.

controlled from the exterior, they can multiply rapidly, swarm, and infest attic areas and the interior of the structure. In these instances, fumigation may be the only means of control. While fumigation is an initial solution, it does not combat reinfestation. To minimize reinfestation, a powerful insecticide called Drione Dust may be injected into all accessible attic areas. It is important to understand that fumigation does not affect existing subterranean termites, fungus, or dry rot.

But the fumigation process can damage tile roofs. Fumigation requires workmen to walk on The best way to control and drag heavy tarps over the drywood termites is from roof. When workmen walk on the exterior with periodic tile roofs, they can damage the inspections and localized roof tiles and puncture the felt treatments. Localized treatments membrane underlayment. During involve both the topical application roof construction, this membrane of chemicals and the injection is applied over the plywood of termiticides directly into the sheathing to protect the interior infested channels of the timbers. of the structure from moisture Commonly known as “drill and intrusion. Then, tile is placed atop treat,” this process not only the felt membrane to protect it controls the termite colony but from the elements. also provides a barrier against reinfestation in the same area. Once the felt membrane has been Since 1976, Angelo Termite and punctured, it must be replaced. Construction has performed more The only way to do so is to remove than 300,000 localized treatments. the tile, replace the membrane, and reinstall the tile. It is important Fumigation may be necessary. to emphasize that tile roofs are When drywood termites are not not designed to be walked on.

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Doing so may cancel any existing warranties from the manufacturer of the roofing material. Fumigation can create longterm roofing problems even after escrow has closed. For this reason, the owner or agent for the property is required to sign a document releasing treatment companies from any roof damage and liability exposure caused by the fumigation process. It may be wiser to avoid fumigation and to use the money saved in this way to make structural repairs. After the structure has been inspected for termites and the damage has been assessed, infested wood can be removed from the property and replaced with new wood, leaving the structure free of active infestations; however, it is necessary to have this work done by a structural pest control company that has a construction background or is licensed as a general contractor. Once the repairs have been completed by qualified personnel, it is possible to issue warranties or certifications stating that the property is free and clear of active termite infestations, which lenders may require for escrow closing.

GADGETRY

The Foobot Indoor Air Quality Monitor Lets You Breathe Easier Launched in 2014 and redesigned in 2017, the Foobot makes constant air quality monitoring possible and frequent adjustments as easy as opening or closing a window or flipping the switch on a filter or fan. By Albert Ornelas DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

AirBoxLab co-founder and CEO Jacques Touillon, father of four children, was curious about how best to help his young son fight pediatric asthma.

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f you are like most people, you spend about 90 percent of your time indoors. For this reason, the quality of the air you breathe indoors—whether at home, at school, or at work—is vitally important to your health. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that indoor air has far more pollutants than outdoor air and says that these pollutants cause a variety of respiratory and other health issues, including asthma. The number of new cases of asthma has been rising exponentially since the early 1980s, and studies suggest that this asthma epidemic is directly related to the quality of indoor air. The

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that asthma now ranks as one of the most common chronic conditions in children. Jacques Touillon, the co-founder and CEO of AirBoxLab, was inspired by his own son’s struggle with pediatric asthma to focus his attention on indoor air quality. Touillon wondered: “How can we fight this invisible enemy?” From this question came the inspiration to create Foobot. His goal was to make invisible indoor pollution a tangible thing. Because you cannot improve or fix what you cannot see or measure, it is important to be able to monitor the quality of indoor air. The Foobot Indoor Air

The Foobot will let you know if an air pollution spike occurs inside your home. It can identify the type of pollutant and provide you with both instant readings and charts showing the amount of each pollutant and its persistence over time.

Quality Monitor, which was launched in 2014 and redesigned in 2017, makes constant monitoring possible and frequent adjustment as easy as opening or closing a window or flipping the switch on a filter or fan. The Foobot retails for $199.00 at either www.foobot.io or Amazon.com. After you have purchased this device, all you need to do is download the app, which is designed for both Android and iOS smartphones. Once you sync the Foobot and begin receiving data, your screen helps you monitor the air inside your home. Real-time data are delivered to your phone every five minutes, which conditions Foobot’s sensors over the course of six days to warm up and acclimate to your home. The “warmup” is necessary because, fresh out of the box, these sensors are encased in plastic foil, and it takes up to six days for the device to remove the foil. Once the device is prepared, you can expect accurate readings. The Foobot tracks particle pollution, a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets that get into the air. It measures the temperature, the chemical pollutants, and the humidity. By viewing the Foobot or its app, you can “see” the indoor pollution that may be damaging your health. The Foobot app provides you with both instant readings and charts of pollutants over time. It uses the color and the volume

The Foobot is designed to connect with your smartphone and with a variety of smart home products to make it easy for you to control indoor air temperature, humidity, and quality so that the air you breathe is always clean and fresh.

of its glow to let you identify pollution sources and patterns easily. If all this is starting to sound a bit too complicated, the Foobot is compatible with a suite of home automation smart devices, including the Warmup, Hive, Netatmo, and the Nest from Schneider Electric. You can use one of these smart thermostats to connect the Foobot to your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system and control airflow renewal based on real-time pollution measurements so that you can relax and, quite literally, breathe easier. After purchasing the Foobot, you can expect it to improve over time. With an internet connection, the software will receive updates. Data are securely encrypted and stored on the Cloud from the first day the device is turned on. Thus, you can retrieve the data remotely, and the information is available even if the service of the sensors is temporarily interrupted. In the end, Foobot is about clean air quality because families need answers to questions like, “Is my detergent making my air less healthy?” or “Do I need to open the window right now?” The Foobot has been designed to detect air quality trends, and it lets you know whether things are getting better or worse, thereby allowing you to make necessary adjustments quickly and putting you in control of the air you breathe. For more information about the Foobot Indoor Air Quality Monitor—including videos, a blog, and stats—visit www.foobot.io.

OC REALTOR®

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VOLUNTEERS

By Sherri Butterfield WRITER AND EDITOR

he English word volunteer comes from the Latin verb volo, meaning “to be willing, to wish.” Thus, a volunteer is a person who is willing to undertake a task or to provide a service, usually without any thought of compensation or remuneration. Where resources are inadequate, volunteering is one way to close the gap between what is and what can be, thereby, turning today’s wishes into tomorrow’s reality. In places too numerous to count and in ways too many to mention, Orange County REALTORS® Affiliate and REALTOR® members quietly go about volunteering their time and donating products and services to make a meaningful difference throughout Orange County—and the world. The purpose of this magazine feature is to celebrate some of these very important but too-seldom-sung heroes.

Tara Saljooghi

Jay Co

MBA, REALTOR®, Business Consultant, HomeSmart Evergreen Realty

REALTOR®, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Mission Viejo

Volunteer Service: Visits various orphanages in third-world countries, where she feeds the children, cooks, washes clothes, and teaches English and art. Recipient Organizations: Shelters and food banks in Southern California, a group that goes regularly to Mexico to take supplies to orphanages, and needy children in third-world countries In Her Own Words: “I make it a requirement in my life to be hands-on as often as I can. I travel abroad once or twice a year, making a long trip during which I am in different countries for one or two months at a time. All these trips are at my own expense. The biggest fulfillment for me is seeing the children smile when I spend time with them. We all want one thing, and that is to be loved and to give love.”

Volunteer Service: Receives, sorts, and stocks food donations and helps shoppers find what they need. Recipient Organization: Laguna Food Pantry, which was founded as an evacuation center for Laguna Beach residents during the 1993 fire and now provides free food to families in need In Her Own Words: “Before I became a REALTOR®, my family fell on hard times and needed assistance. Many of the places to which I had donated or at which I had volunteered didn’t work out; however, the Laguna Food Pantry took me in with no questions asked. As a way of saying ‘thank you’ for their kindness, I have been giving my time to help them out. Volunteering gives me a sense of fulfillment, and being with my fellow volunteers gives me a sense of belonging.”

Kathleen Garito

Melissa Chelius

CEO/Owner/Designer, KG Interior Design, Inc.

Broker Associate, Keller Williams (Newport Estates)

Volunteer Service: When young men and women transition out of the foster care system, they are placed in an apartment or house, are assigned a roommate, and are provided with essential furnishings and household supplies. Kathleen interviews these young people to become better acquainted with their unique interests and needs, and then transforms their assigned living quarters into a home.

Volunteer Service: As a board member for the Young Professionals of Orange County, Melissa helps chair the Happy Hour, the group’s annual fundraiser for the Children’s Bureau. In this capacity, she spends about six months planning the event and contacting food and beverage vendors and opportunity prize donors. The most recent Happy Hour attracted some two hundred attendees to eat, drink, and give, and raised more than $20,000.

Recipient Organization: Olive Crest’s Transitional Housing and Residential Youth Programs in Orange County

Recipient Organization: The Children’s Bureau, which supports services to prevent and treat child abuse

In Her Own Words: “My heart went out to children who had been in foster care, turned eighteen, and had nowhere to go. I knew that I could make a difference by turning houses and apartments into beautiful homes. I love what I do in interior design and want to help transitioning young adults gain confidence, feel safe, and have a beautiful place to come home to.”

In Her Own Words: “I believe that we need to be influencers for our incoming generation. If not us, then who? I have a passion for helping families in need, as well as empowering our next generation to be positive, well-rounded contributors to move forward and strengthen our society.”

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AFFILIATES IN ACTION

Affiliates Assist at New REALTOR® Orientations in April, May, and June Orange County REALTORS® thanks the Affiliates and others who assisted at the New REALTOR® Orientations on April 23, May 22, June 2, and June 4, and congratulates the new REALTOR® members who joined Orange County REALTORS® on these occasions.

April 23 w

Laguna Hills

Affiliates who helped Orange County REALTORS® welcome new REALTOR® members on April 23 in Laguna Hills were (from left to right) 2018 Affiliate South Chair Ellie Tipton-Ortiz, Laguna Legal; Dominica Fusaro, Fidelity National Title; Tim Doherty, Bank of America; Vanessa Williams, Homestead Escrow; Sarah Feinman, Notary on the Go; Sandy Dow, Fidelity National Home Warranty; Michelle Fairless, Michelle Fairless Photography; and Rick Davenport, Pillar to Post.

June 2 w

Laguna Hills

Affiliates who helped Orange County REALTORS® welcome new REALTOR® members on June 2 in Laguna Hills were (from left to right) 2018 Affiliate South Vice Chair Peter Giammarinaro, The Termite Guy; Jenny Porter, Peoples Home Equity/The Mazzo Group; Steve Taylor, Vision Home Tours Photography; Kendra Johnson, All Signs and Graphics; Vanessa Williams, Homestead Escrow; Gary Bridges, First American Title; and 2018 Affiliate South Chair Ellie Tipton-Ortiz, Laguna Legal.

May 22 w

Laguna Hills

Affiliates who helped Orange County REALTORS® welcome new REALTOR® members on May 22 in Laguna Hills were (from left to right) Aaron Rosen, Arc 23 Insurance Services; Ken Tavakoli, Movement Mortgage; Kristine Holliday, WFG Title; Virji Angelo, Angelo Termite and Construction; Diana Osborn, Home Warranty of America; Sarina Preston, Escrow Experts; 2018 Affiliate South Chair Ellie Tipton-Ortiz, Laguna Legal; and Brian Hannigan, Send Out Cards.

June 4 w Fountain Valley

Affiliates and others who helped Orange County REALTORS® welcome new REALTOR® members on June 4 in Fountain Valley were (from left to right) Gabby Rauff, Homestead Escrow; Rick Davenport, Pillar to Post; Jenny Porter, Peoples Home Equity/The Mazzo Group; Steve Taylor, Vision Home Tours Photography; Gina Leslie, Stewart Title; 2018 Affiliate North Vice Chair Jill Snedeker, loanDepot; Luis Mata, Farmers Insurance; and Sue Podany, Women’s Council of REALTORS®.

Correction: On page 58 of the May/June 2018 issue of OC REALTOR ®, in the caption under the photo for the New REALTOR® Orientation that took place in Laguna Hills on February 20, Affiliate Member Hamid Parsa was misidentified as being with Carpet Direct. Mr. Parsa is with Carpet Depot. 60

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MEMBERSHIP

We Offer a Twelve-Month Payment Plan— Our Most Affordable Dues-Payment Option This option is available to primary REALTORS® who are paying all REALTOR® dues and Multiple Listing Service (MLS) fees at Orange County REALTORS®.

The twelve-month payment cycle for your 2019 dues starts on August 10, 2018, and ends on July 10, 2019. The monthly payment amount of $92.55 for REALTORS® includes a $5.00 nonrefundable convenience fee. Payments made from August to December are pre-payments and are refundable if you cancel your membership before January 10, 2019; however, the $5.00 monthly convenience fee is not refundable.

New enrollees may sign up n Online by going to My Account via www.ocar.org and clicking on the link from the menu to access the enrollment form n Online by going to www.ocar.org/monthly-pay to download the enrollment form

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n In person at one of our two convenient office locations in either Fountain Valley or Laguna Hills If you already are enrolled in our monthly payment plan, no action is required unless you need to update or change the credit card on file. Please use the enrollment form to notify us of the change. The annual REALTOR® dues may change. National Association of REALTORS®, California Association of REALTORS®, and Orange County REALTORS® dues and MLS fees for 2019 will be determined by November 2018. Once that determination has been made, the monthly payment may be changed slightly (up or down) in January to reflect the new total dues amount to be collected by July 10, 2019. If you have signed up for the monthly payment plan, you will be notified in December regarding the amount of the monthly deduction starting in January 2019.

Photo: www.istockphoto.com/Ridofranz

nroll by August 10, 2018, in our automatic monthly payment plan for your 2019 Orange County REALTORS® dues and MLS fees.