2008 - September - Osceola ReVIEW by Osceola County Association of REALTORS®

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September 2008

President’s Perspective By Hope Andrews BE ON THE SAFE SIDE! Dear Members, The statistics are alarming on the number of real estate professionals that are being assaulted on the job. Due to our frequent contact with unfamiliar people in private locations, we, as real estate professionals, are facing more on-the-job risks than many other business professionals. According to the most recent statistics from the National Safety Council, there were 57 violent crimes committed against real estate practitioners in 2001. Six of them were fatal. In a recent National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) safety survey of REALTORS®, 67 percent of respondents have experienced safety concerns, incidents, or other harassing situations while working as a REALTOR®. A majority of issues involve open houses or vacant property. Other issues include unfriendly dogs, unsafe property, and threatening or harassing phone calls. What can you do to protect yourself, to stay out of potentially dangerous situations? Please take the time to read this issue of the Osceola ReVIEW as it offers many great safety tips that most of us take for granted on a daily basis. You can also visit the NAR’s website www.realtors.org and read up on their safety guidelines and in-depth Safety Tips. Please remember that until you really know a customer, remain vigilant regardless of the gender, appearance, dress, or charm. It could save your life. ■

Betty M. Dobbie President

897 Towne Center Drive Poinciana, Florida 34759 Ph: (407) 343-1560 Cell: (786) 316-9270 Fax: (407) 343-1561

SAFETY TIPS

SAFETY IS A YEAR-ROUND PRIORITY Tip #1 Keep in touch. Always let someone know where you are going; leave the name and phone number of the client you are meeting and schedule a time for your office to call you to check in. Tip #2 “After you…” When showing a home, always have your prospect walk in front of you. Don’t lead them, but rather, direct them from a position slightly behind them. You can gesture for them to go ahead of you and say, for example, “The master suite is in the back of the house.” Tip #3 Create an office distress code. Establish a voice distress code, a secret word or phrase that is not commonly used but can be worked into any conversation for cases where you feel that you are in danger. Use this if the person you are with can overhear the conversation, but you don’t want to alarm them. Example: “Hi, this is Jennifer. I’m with Mr. Henderson at the Elm Street listing. Could you e-mail me the RED FILE?” Tip #4 Protect your clients Warn your clients that not all agents, buyers and sellers are who they say they are. Strangers who stop by unannounced should be asked to make an appointment with the REALTOR®. Stress that your clients should never show a home without the presence of an agent. Tip #5 Hone your REALTOR® safety skills. Get industry-specific safety training any time, anywhere— with a complete, interactive online REALTOR® safety course, available through REALTOR® University. Visit www. learninglibrary.com/realtoruniversity to learn more. Tip #6 Lock it up! Be sure to use the lockbox property-key procedure that has been established to improve real estate agent safety. A reliable, secure lockbox system such as those made by SentriLock (www.sentrilock.com), ensures that keys don’t fall into the wrong hands.

www.prominenttitle.com bdobbie@prominenttitle.com

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September 2008

Annual Financial Financial Report-Consolidated Report-Consolidated Statements Statements of of Activities Activities Annual Annual Financial Report-Consolidated Statements of Activities For the Years-Ended 2006, 2007 Annual Financial Report-Consolidated For the the Years-Ended Years-Ended 2006, 2007 2007Statements of Activities For 2006, Annual Financial Report-Consolidated Statements of Activities For the Years-Ended 2006,of2007 Annual Financial Report-Consolidated Statements Activities For the Years-Ended 2006, 2007 12/31/2007 of Activities 12/31/2006 Annual Financial Report-Consolidated Statements For the Years-Ended 2006, 2007 12/31/2007 12/31/2006 12/31/2007 12/31/2006

For the Years-Ended 2006, 2007 12/31/2007 12/31/2007

12/31/2006

(As Restated) 12/31/2006 (As Restated) (As Restated) 12/31/2006 (As Restated)

12/31/2007 (As Restated) Support and and Revenues: Revenues: Support Support and Revenues: 12/31/2007 (As Restated) 12/31/2006 Support and Revenues: Support and Revenues: Dues: Membership $689,584 $660,422 (As Restated) Membership Dues: $689,584 $660,422 SupportMembership and Revenues: Dues: $689,584 $660,422 Membership Membership Dues: $689,584 $660,422 MLS Service Service Center: Dues: $299,815$689,584 $227,926$660,422 MLS Center: $299,815 $227,926 MLS Service Center: $299,815 $227,926 Support and Revenues: Membership Dues: $689,584 $660,422 MLS Service Center: $299,815 $227,926 MLS Service Center: Knowledge Services: $49,555$299,815 $76,175$227,926 Knowledge Services: $49,555 $76,175 Knowledge Services: $49,555 $76,175 MLS Service Center: $299,815 $227,926 Knowledge $49,555 $76,175 Membership Dues: Services: $689,584 Knowledge $49,555 $76,175 OtherServices: Income: $95,790 $42,677 $660,422 Other Income: $95,790 $42,677 Other Income: $95,790 $42,677 Knowledge $76,175 Other Income: Services: $95,790 $49,555 $42,677 Other Income: $95,790 $42,677 Publications Revenue: $15,383 $19,686 $227,926 MLS Service Center: $299,815 Publications Revenue: $15,383 $19,686 Publications Revenue: $15,383 $19,686 Publications Revenue: $15,383 $95,790 $19,686 Other Income: $42,677 Publications Revenue: $15,383 Store Revenue: Revenue: $137,904 $167,865 $19,686 Knowledge Services: $49,555 $76,175 Store $137,904 $167,865 Store Revenue: $137,904 $167,865 Store Revenue: $137,904 $167,865 Publications Revenue: $15,383 $19,686 Store Revenue: $137,904 $167,865 Interest Income: Income: $48,889 $34,589 Interest $48,889 $34,589 Other Income: $95,790 $42,677 Interest Income: $48,889 $34,589 Interest Income: $48,889 $34,589 Store Revenue: $137,904 $167,865 Interest Income: $48,889 $34,589 Total Support and and Revenues: $1,336,920 $1,229,340 $19,686 Publications Revenue: $15,383 Total Support Revenues: $1,336,920 $1,229,340 Total Total Support and Revenues: $1,336,920 $1,336,920 Interest Income: $48,889 $1,229,340 $34,589 Support and Revenues: $1,229,340 Total Support and Revenues: $1,336,920 $1,229,340 Store Revenue: $137,904 $167,865 Total Support and Revenues: $1,336,920 $1,229,340 Expenses: Expenses: Expenses: Expenses: Interest Income: $48,889 Expenses: Membership: $407,360 $327,313 $34,589 Membership: $407,360 $327,313 Membership: $407,360 $327,313 Membership: $407,360 $327,313 Expenses: Membership: $407,360 $327,313 MLS Service Center: $207,268 $218,665 MLS Service Service Center: $207,268 $218,665 Total Support andCenter: Revenues: $1,336,920 $1,229,340 MLS Center: $207,268 $218,665 MLS Service $207,268 $218,665 Membership: Knowledge Services: $107,558 $407,360 $165,935 $327,313 MLS Service Center: Knowledge Services: $107,558$207,268 $165,935$218,665 Knowledge Services: $107,558 $165,935 Knowledge Services: $107,558 $165,935 MLS Service Center: $218,665 Store Expenses: $132,963 $207,268 $107,558 Knowledge Services: Store Expenses: Expenses: $132,963 $138,463 $138,463$165,935 Expenses: Store $132,963 $138,463 Store Expenses: $132,963 $138,463 Osceola Brokerage Cooperative: $30,507 $107,558 $8,353 $165,935 Knowledge Services: Expenses: Osceola Store Brokerage Cooperative: $30,507$132,963 $8,353$138,463 Osceola Brokerage Cooperative: $30,507 $8,353 Membership: $407,360 $327,313 Osceola Brokerage Cooperative: $30,507 $8,353 Publications: $136,780 $132,963 $104,612 $138,463 Store Expenses: Osceola Brokerage Cooperative: $30,507 $8,353 Publications: $136,780 $104,612 Publications: $136,780 $170,038 $104,612 Publications: $136,780 $104,612 Management and General: $158,372 $30,507 MLS Service Center: $207,268 $218,665 Osceola Brokerage Cooperative: $8,353 Publications: Management and General: General: $158,372$136,780 $170,038$104,612 Management and $158,372 $170,038 Public Management Affairs: $29,112 $23,244 and General: $158,372 $170,038 Publications: $136,780 $104,612 Knowledge Services: $107,558 $165,935 Management and General: Public Affairs: Affairs: $29,112$158,372 $23,244$170,038 Public $29,112 $23,244 Public Affairs: $29,112 $23,244 Total Expenses: $1,209,920 $158,372 $1,156,623 $170,038 Management and General: Store Expenses: $132,963 $138,463 Public Affairs: $29,112 $23,244 Total Expenses: $1,209,920 $1,156,623 Total Expenses: $1,209,920 $1,156,623 Public Affairs: $29,112 $30,507 $23,244 Total Expenses: $1,209,920 $1,156,623 Osceola Brokerage Cooperative: $8,353 Changes In NetTotal Assets: $127,000 $72,717 Expenses: $1,209,920 $1,156,623 Total Expenses: $1,209,920 Net assets-beginning of year (as restated): $690,052 $617,335 $1,156,623 Changes In Net Net Assets: Assets: $127,000 $72,717 $104,612 Publications: $136,780 Changes In $127,000 $72,717 Changes In Net Assets: $127,000 $72,717 Net Assets-End of Year (as $817,052 $690,052 In restated): Net Assets: $127,000 Net Changes assets-beginning of year year (as (as restated): restated): $690,052 $617,335$72,717 Management and General: $158,372 $170,038 Net assets-beginning of $690,052 $617,335 Net of year (as restated): $690,052 $617,335 Changes Inassets-beginning Net Assets: $127,000 $72,717 Net assets-beginning of year (as restated): $690,052 $617,335 Net Assets-End Assets-End of of Year Year (as (as restated): restated): $817,052 $690,052 Net $817,052 $690,052 Public Affairs:of Year $29,112 $617,335 $23,244 Net Assets-End restated): $817,052 $690,052 Net assets-beginning of(as year (as restated): $690,052 Net Assets-End of Year (as restated): $817,052 $690,052 Note: Restatement of Prior Year Financial Statements Net Assets-End of Year (as restated): $817,052 Total Expenses: $1,209,920 $690,052 $1,156,623 The 2006 Financial Statements were restated to account for the change of the billing cycle of the Mid-Florida Regional

Note: Restatement of Prior Year Financial Statements Multiple Service. As result,Year net asets and net Statements income were reduced by approximately $127,000 as of December 31, 2006. Note: Listing Restatement ofaPrior Financial Note: Restatement of Prior Year Financial Statements

Note: Restatement of Prior Year Financial Statements The 2006 Financial Statements were restated to account for the change of the billing cycle of the Mid-Florida Regional A full copy the 2007 Independent Auditors' Report and accompanying Statements are available onthe ourMid-Florida website at OsceolaReators.org. Theof2006 Financial Statements were restated to account for Financial the change of the billing cycle of Regional

Changes Net Assets: $127,000 $72,717 The In 2006 Financial Statements were restated to account for the change of the billing cycle of the Mid-Florida Regional

Multiple Listing As Financial a result, netStatements asets and net income were reduced by approximately $127,000 as of December 31, 2006. Note: Restatement of Service. Prior Year Multiple Listing Service. As a result, net asets and net income were reduced by approximately $127,000 as of December 31, 2006. The 2006 Financial were restated to account the change of the billing cycle of the Multiple Listing Service. As aStatements result, net asets and net income werefor reduced by approximately $127,000 as Mid-Florida of DecemberRegional 31, 2006.

Net full assets-beginning ofwere year (as restated): $690,052 $617,335 Five ways areduced Reverse Mortgage Multiple Listing Service. As a result, net asets and net income by approximately $127,000 of December 31, 2006. copy of the 2007 Independent Auditors' Report andthe accompanying Financial Statements are available on ouras website at OsceolaReators. SAFETY TIPS TheA2006 Financial Statements restated to account for change of thewere billing cycle of the Mid-Florida Regional A full copy of the 2007 Independent Auditors' Report and accompanying Financial Statements are available on our website at OsceolaReators.

A full copy of the 2007 Independent Auditors' Report and accompanying Financial Statements are available on our website at OsceolaReators.o Multiple Service. As a result, net asets and net income were by approximately $127,000of as life of December 31, 2006. canreduced improve your quality SAFETY IS Listing A YEAR-ROUND PRIORITY Net Assets-End ofcopy Year (as2007 restated): $690,052 A full of the Independent Auditors' Report and accompanying$817,052 Financial Statements are available on our website at Osceol

1. Eliminate monthly mortgage payment 2. Receive extra monthly income 3. Eliminate credit card debt 4. Receive a cash lump sum or line of credit 5. Enjoy life a bit more

A full copy of the 2007 Independent Auditors' Report and accompanying Financial Statements are available on our website at OsceolaReators.org

Tip #7 Check cell phone reception. Sharon Prymas, CSA When showing commercial property, thick walls and/ Note:you’re Restatement of Prior Year Financial Statements For homeowners 62 or Older or remote locations may interfere with mobile phone recepFor your free Reverse Mortgage Handbook, call The 2006 Financial Statements were restated to accountSharon for thePrymas: change (407) of the361-6887 billing cycle of the Mid-Florida Regional tion. Check in advance to be sure your phone is serviceable sprymas@financialfreedom.com in the area in which youService. are showing property. Multiple Listing As athe result, net asets and net income were reduced by approximately $127,000 as of December 31, 2006 Consult Tax Advisor. ® 2007 Registered trade/service marks are property of Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation, a Subsidiary of IndyMac Bank, F.S.B. © 2007 Financial Freedom Senior Funding Corporation

3 at Os A full copy of the 2007 Independent Auditors' Report and accompanying Financial Statements are available on our website

September 2008

Osceola

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CEO Perspective By David Bennett, CAE

Do You Know Your Clients As Well As Yahoo Does? The Yahoo Real Estate folks provided the real estate industry with some really interesting information last month when they released a white paper entitled Embracing the Online Real Estate Market. The document reflects research conducted by Yahoo seeking to create a current economic and demographic profile of the Internet empowered consumer. The project further undertook to identify just what these consumers were looking for. But Yahoo went one step further. The white paper also provides, in great detail, information, tailored to the real estate professional, about how to work with each of the four consumer groups identified through the research. The information provided by the Yahoo research is important enough to dedicate this column to that work and those findings. The industry has been tracking the growing influence of the Internet for a number of years. In this case, not only has Yahoo undertaken to conduct original research, but it is also presuming to tell the real estate community how to use that information. One can only wonder how long it will take this very important information to become part of the industry’s educational mainstream. Yahoo’s research determined that at the present time there are approximately 67 million people actively engaged in real estate activities online. Their basic rolls are identified as follows: Buyers:

Purchased property in the past six months or plan to purchase property in the next six months.

Sellers:

Sold property in the past six months or plan to sell property in the next six months.

Renters:

Rented property in the past six months or plan to rent property in the next six months.

Financiers: Applied for a new mortgage, refinanced an existing 4

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mortgage, or got a home equity loan or line of credit in past six months or plan to in the next six months.

Others active in the real estate category: Worked with a real estate agent or used online sources to keep track of the real estate market. The research went on to identify the typical online real estate consumer as being 45 years old (with almost one-half between the ages of 35-54). Women were found to make up 51% of the online real estate market. 72% of these in-market consumers currently own real estate property. A detached single-family house is the primary residence type for 73% of these owners. Yahoo further reports that nearly one-half of real estate consumers have used online sites to view real estate listings, and over one-quarter keep track of the real estate market using online resources. Respondents typically use real estate sites to: • Browse homes for sale • View property photos, virtual tours and videos • Research schools and neighborhoods • Look-up home values • Use mortgage calculators From its research Yahoo evolved four specific consumer profiles: Passionates: Consumers who are highly engaged and very interested comprising 6% of the total market Conventionals: Traditional and Looking for Guidance-comprising 14% of the total market Actives: The Online Engager – comprising 19% of the total market Future Prospects: Just Looking Right Now – comprising of 61% of the total market Yahoo used the following graph to demonstrate how these four groups were allocated across the various real estate functions. In many cases a person can fall in more than one of the rolls identified above, as shown in these percentages. Continued on Page 7.

September 2008

Education Corner

All classes will be held at the Association (unless noted otherwise)

To register for any classes please visit the Association website www.osceolarealtors.org, click on “Online Member Services” button, enter your username and password and then click on the Education Calendar. If you have any questions, please call the Association at (407) 846-0117. PLEASE NOTE: If you are registered and unable to attend, please call the Association to cancel, or you will incur a $20 cancellation fee. Thanks in advance for your cooperation. MLS Training Classes There is one MLXchange Training class held each month. This is a mandatory class for new members. Even if you have already taken this class, you are invited to attend as a refresher course at any time.

GRI COURSE 3 September 2, 3, 4, 8 and 9, 2008 Time: 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Location: Osceola County Association of REALTORS® Classroom Description: Do your negotiating and counseling skills need sharpening? Have you considered expanding your business into property management? Are you current on the tax implications of buying and selling residential property? These are just a few of the time topics that are covered in GRI 3. The GRI designation – Graduate, REALTOR® Institute – is the nation’s #1 real estate designation. It is earned through state associations whose REALTOR® Institute courses of study meet the standards established by the National Association of REALTORS®. The designation is available only to members of NAR. Cost: After August 15, 2008 Members: Non-Members

$272.50 $292.50

CE Credit: Approved for 30-hours Broker Post licensing <or> 11-hours specialty CE credit.

CORE LAW (2 Sessions/Pick One) Thursday, September 4, 2008 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon or 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Instructor: Ric Giumenta

September 2008

Location: Clarion/Travel Lodge, 2261 U.S. 192, Kissimmee, 34744 Description: This course is mandatory as part of the 14-hours CE for license renewal. Subject matter includes the latest changes to law affecting real estate in Florida. Cost: Free CE Credit: 3 hours

QUADRENNIAL CODE OF ETHICS (2 Sessions/Pick One) Thursday, September 18, 2008 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon or 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Instructor: Deb Diesing Location: Osceola County Association of REALTORS® Classroom Description: All REALTORS® must fulfill the NAR Ethics Training once every four years. This session will help you handle difficult situations with proper ethical behavior. Cost: Free CE Credit: 3 hours

S.A.F.E. Monday, September 29, 2008 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon Instructor: Andrew Wooten Location: Osceola County Association of REALTORS® Classroom Description: What would you do if you were attacked! Do you know how to defend yourself? This course covers general personal and REALTOR® safety. Cost: Free CE Credit: 3 hours

EFFECTIVE PURCHASE & SALES CONTRACTS Thursday, September 25, 2008 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Instructor: Duke Tieman Location: Osceola County Association of REALTORS® Classroom Description: This program’s objective is to have the student fill out a solid, binding contract. Common pitfalls are discussed with actual contract examples. Cost: Free CE Credit: 4 hours

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Association Staff David B. Bennett, CAE, Chief Executive Officer ceo@osceola-realtors.com Gwen Dukes, Director of Communications communications@osceola-realtors.com Jeri Peyton, Deputy CEO deputyceo@osceola-realtors.com

THE OBJECTIVE: OBJECTIVE: The THE objective of the Agent Rating System, which will be known as Real Value Rating Network, is to provide consumers a process through which we can research the relative merits of Osceola The objective of the Agent Rating System, which will known asratings Real Value Network, REALTORS®, by be reviewing andRating comments provided is to provide consumers a process through which we can research the relative merits of Osceola by previous customers who have used specific REALTORS® REALTORS®, by reviewing ratings and comments provided in past. customers This system the Association’s response to a bythe previous whoishave used specific REALTORS® growing number of Internet based agent rating programs in the past. This system is the Association’s response to a growing number of Internet based agent rating programs AgentBaron AgentBaron

BrokerRate and AgentLine that have been developed BrokerRate and AgentLine that have been developed over the past 18-36 months.

Bob St. Gordon, Controller accounts@osceola-realtors.com

over the past 18-36 months.

Michelle Smith, Director of Knowledge Services education@osceola-realtors.com

VALUE STATEMENT: VALUE STATEMENT: The The Association’s goal is istotoenlighten memberstotofully fully appreciate concept and/or Association’s goal enlighten our our members appreciate the the concept and/or role role of agent rating. recognizethat that rating rating has essential partpart of the of agent rating. WeWe recognize hasbecome becomeanan essential of the American customer experience. Hotels, Hotels, restaurants, events, American customer experience. restaurants,entertainment entertainment events, airlines, automobiles andeven evenhealth health care care professionals areare all all being airlines, automobiles and professionals being actively rated. actively rated.

Stephanie Escurra-Hendricks, Member Services Representative sales@osceola-realtors.com Anneris Rivera, Member Services Representative memberservices@osceola-realtors.com

Association Office 1105 Shady Lane Kissimmee, Florida 34744 www.osceolarealtors.org Email: communications@osceola-realtors.com 407.846.0117 • 407.846.0217 fax

The Association is concerned about the relative lack of

The safety, Association concerned about the securityisor voracity regarding therelative existing lack agentof safety, security or voracity regarding theunfettered existing agent rating systems. Many companies allow and rating systems.access Manytocompanies allow unqualified their systems and unfettered do not allowand unqualified toincorrect their systems not allow for false, access bogus or ratingsand to bedo cured or removed. into this project, is the for false, bogus In orentering incorrect ratings to be itcured Association’s intent to provide the rating its or removed. In entering into thisforproject, it isofthe member agents an environment whichofisits safe, Association’s intentwithin to provide for the rating secure and appropriate to the process. member agents within an environment which is safe, secure and appropriate to the process.

Newsletter Submissions In order to share the wealth of information contained in this newsletter in an efficient manner, please submit your articles via e-mail or fax by the 10th of the month. Please clearly indicate that submission is for the Osceola Review. Editor-in-Chief: Gwen Dukes Articles: communications@osceola-realtors.com Advertising: accounts@osceola-realtors.com For advertising inquiries please contact Bob St. Gordon at the Association Office. Your advertising defrays the cost of publishing. Thank you for your support. The Osceola ReView is published exclusively for the Association by PIP Printing & Document Services Kissimmee, Florida 407.847.5565 • 407.847.2698 fax Pip@pip920.com Disclaimer: The Osceola ReVIEW is published for the members and affiliates of Osceola County Association of Realtors®, Inc. by Pip Printing and Document Services as a courtesy. Pip nor the Association assume any responsibility for article content or advertising message as submitted for inclusion in the newsletter. Advertising and articles are not endorsed by Association, nor is there any implied warranty by the Association or its staff.

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September 2008

82%

29%

None of the Above

27%

70%

10%

53%

27%

71%

21%

12%

13%

62%

#YN :ELLNER 0RESIDENT

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The white paper is rich with data regarding specific facts and insights on each of the four groups, including what they are looking for and where they can be found. The following information regarding action steps for real estate professionals working with these groups was especially valuable.

Implementing a Marketing Campaign for the Passionates:

Implementing a Marketing Campaign for the Conventionals

] 2%!,4/23Â¸ SPEAK REAL ESTATE 9OU WOULDN T WANT TO DECIPHER MEDICAL JARGON ON YOUR OWNÂ&#x2C6; YOU D WANT THE GUIDANCE OF A DOCTOR IN ORDER TO

] !LL 2%!,4/23Â¸ MUST ADHERE TO A STRICT CODE OF ETHICS 5NLIKE REAL ESTATE AGENTS WHO ARE SIMPLY LICENSED BY THEIR STATE TO DO BUSINESS 2%!,4/23Â¸ HAVE TAKEN ADDITIONAL STEPS TO BECOME MEMBERS OF THE LOCAL STATE AND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF 2%!,4/23Â¸ 7HEN USING A 2%!,4/2Â¸ YOU ARE GUARANTEED A FULLY ETHICAL HOME BUYING OR SELLING PROCESS

] 2%!,4/23Â¸ ARE SPECIALLY TRAINED TO HANDLE REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS %VEN IF YOU VE BOUGHT OR SOLD A HOME BEFORE YOUR EXPERIENCE IS PROBABLY ONLY LIMITED TO ONE OR TWO TRANSACTIONSÂ&#x2C6; EXPERIENCED 2%!,4/23Â¸ CAN HAVE THOUSANDS OF TRANSACTIONS UNDER THEIR BELTS

4HREE -ORE 2EASONS 9OU .EED A 2%!,4/2Â¸

â&#x20AC;˘ Since Passionates spend a lot of time online, develop and maintain your firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blog â&#x20AC;˘ Firms must be present on mainstream social networks and industry-targeted communities â&#x20AC;˘ Participate in other consumer focused Q&A sites in order to reach Passionates â&#x20AC;˘ Since they use search engines, it goes without saying that brokerages should have their own agent or broker web sites, and that those web sites should incorporate an ongoing search engine optimization effort, as well as a sponsored search marketing programs â&#x20AC;˘ Marketing messaging should be targeted with specific references to domain knowledge, expertise, and depth of services offered â&#x20AC;˘ Passionates are action-oriented and need real estate professionals who can help them achieve their goals quickly and successfully â&#x20AC;˘ Firms may also find Passionates on local real estate blogs, ďŹ nance related sites, large real estate search and portal sites, as well as web search engines

/SCEOLA #OUNTY !SSOCIATION OF 2%!,4/23Â¸ 3HADY ,ANE +ISSIMMEE &, s 0HONE s &AX

Renter

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Financiers

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UNDERSTAND YOUR DIAGNOSIS *UST AS DOCTORS ARE SPECIALLY TRAINED TO UNDERSTAND MEDICAL SPEAK 2%!,4/23Â¸ ARE TRAINED TO UNDERSTAND REAL ESTATE SPEAK

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WWW OSCEOLA REALTORS COM

CEO Perspective. Continued from Page 4.

â&#x20AC;˘ Conventionals rely on real estate agents as their most important source of information â&#x20AC;˘ Since they use off line sources of information before researching online, it is important to think of reaching Passionates online as an extension of your off line marketing efforts. Specifically, your marketing copy off line should reinforce your presence online, including your website URL, your blog URL, your email address, or your social network proďŹ le names â&#x20AC;˘ Keep in mind that even though their name implies that they are working off line, Conventionals spend time researching online to supplement their Continued on Page 8.

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CEO Perspective. Continued from Page 7. off line activities. Marketing messaging can be more brand-oriented with the calls to action focused on driving offline interaction to online, as suggested previously • You may reach Conventionals on local newspaper web sites and large real estate search and portal sites Implementing a Marketing Campaign for the Actives • Since Actives use multiple sites for information, you should have a presence on many real estate web sites. In particular, real estate firms should distribute their listings to as many real estate search and portal sites as appropriate • Actives are also busy ﬁnancing, so partnering with mortgage brokers, both online and offline, is a great way to reach them by sharing referrals • For this group, it’s also important to be listed in the emerging category of online real estate agent directories, as Actives are more likely to use those sites as well • From a marketing perspective, repeated “impressions” in front of this constituency is critical as Actives are still contemplating what service providers to collaborate with • You can also find Actives on local MLS sites, newspaper web sites and large real estate search and portal sites Implementing a Marketing Campaign for the Future Prospects

• Future prospects are actively looking for information about the real estate market, tracking real estate activity, and trying to keep up to date • Although they may not be in the market to purchase in the next six months, their online activity in the real estate space suggests that it is on their mind for the future • Once this segment becomes more serious about home shopping and buying they will rely on a real estate agent to assist them, so investments that get you in front of their selection process are important • For this group, awareness is the most important marketing objective, and marketing investments should be geared toward consistently putting your brand front-and-center • Graphic media campaigns on newspaper and real estate sites that enable local targeting, search engine marketing in your local market, and listing your proﬁle in the emerging

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category of online real agent directories should be considered in the marketing mix for this segment Each of these action items should be familiar to you as things you are doing with all of your consumer segments. These are the terms and actions of a contemporary brokerage-marketing program. These are the directions that your consumer centric brokerage will be taking over the next few years. There is a new trend where prominent newspaper publications are canceling the printed real estate sections, so please make use of this important and vital information! ■

SAFETY TIPS

SAFETY IS A YEAR-ROUND PRIORITY Tip #8 Choose flight over fight. While every REALTOR® should take a basic self-defense course, the primary goal in any threatening situation is to escape from immediate danger and call for help. Tip #9 Keep your phone at your fingertips. Always carry a charged mobile phone. Clip your phone on and make it part of your everyday apparel for immediate accessibility. Tip #10 Model behavior at model home showings. When a person comes through the office to view a model home, have them complete a guest register that includes their full name, address, phone number, e-mail, and vehicle information. Tip #11 Nix the glamour shots! All of your marketing materials should be polished and professional. Don’t use alluring or provocative photography in advertising, on the Web or on your business cards. There are many documented cases of criminals actually circling photographs of their would-be victims in newspaper advertisements. Tip #12 Take 2 seconds when you arrive at your destination to check out potential dangers: • Is there any questionable activity in the area? • Are you parked in a well-lit, visible location? • Can you be blocked in the driveway by a prospect’s vehicle?

September 2008

Association Leadership

SAFETY TIPS

SAFETY IS A YEAR-ROUND PRIORITY

President........................................ Hope Andrews President-Elect................................Sean Ferguson Vice-President................................... Marie Collins Secretary........................................... Len Goffredo Treasurer......................................... Minetta Garay Past President.......................................... Jack Frey Directors Riva Alexander Jose Alvarez Andrey Bustamante David DeLoach Cheryl Grieb Kemp Howland Jerry Kelley Rosebud Kinkead Richard Knapp Veronica Malolos Denise Sacks Legal Counsel.................................Danny Villazon

Tip #13 The key to home security. The first thing a burglar looks for is a hidden key, and is well acquainted with the hiding places. If you insist on hiding a key, never hide it anywhere near the entrance. More important, never leave a revealing note on the door. Tip #14 Help clients safeguard their valuables. Remind clients who are selling that strangers will be walking through their home. Tell them to put any valuables in a secure hiding place. This includes prescription drugs. Tip #15 Keep car safety in mind. When you’re alone getting into your car, the first thing you should do is lock the doors. Be observant when approaching your car; look underneath and in the back seat before entering.

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OUT

Tip #16 Be prepared: pre-program! To best prepare for an emergency, pre-program important numbers into your cell phone. These may include your office, your roadside assistance service or garage, and even 911.

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Tammy M. Bowers Rachel Haggard Julie Head Joye Tammy M. Bowers Rachel Haggard JulieAgent Head Closing Dept. Manager Trawick, Operations Manager Closing Closing Dept. Manager Operations Manager Closing Agent HomesAndLandOrlandoResort.com 407.719.2424 407-931-2889 phone 322 N. John Young Parkway 407-931-2889 phone 322 N. John Young Suite Parkway 407-931-2852 fax 1 407-931-2852 fax Suite 1 September 2008 Osceola ReVIEW e-mail:flt@cfl.rr.com Kissimmee, FL 34741

Knowledge Services News By Michelle Smith, Director of Knowledge Services REALTOR® Safety Quiz As a real estate practitioner, you’re faced with potentially risky situations every day. Meeting new clients, showing homes, and even walking to your car at night can be dangerous. It’s essential that you make safe decisions and know how to react when confronted with trouble.

1) Before showing a home for the first time, I should ask the sellers: ■ Have you ever seen ghosts in the house? ■ Do you mind if I turn on the television? ■ Do you have any dogs? ■ All of the above 2) To find a first-rate self-defense course in my area, I should: ■ Ask family and friends for recommendations ■ Look for a course with a broad focus ■ Meet the instructors before signing up ■ All of the above 3) To protect against theft during a home showing, I should: ■ Treat every potential buyer like an escaped convict ■ Be especially wary of men who come to view the home alone ■ Remind sellers to put all valuables in a safe place ■ All of the above 4) One way to stay safe on the job is to have a distress voice signal for when you want to call for help without alarming someone who can overhear you. To create such a signal, I should: ■ Establish a secret phrase that’s not commonly used but can be worked into any phone or in-person conversation when I’m feeling uneasy about a situation ■ Carry a dog whistle that is mute to humans but will irritate canines, and blow into the whistle whenever I’m feeling uneasy about a situation ■ Think of a common distress word such as “help” or “fire” that I can shout to grab everyone’s attention when I’m feeling uneasy about a situation ■ All of the above 5) When holding an open house, I should: ■ Inform a neighbor that I’ll be showing the 10

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house and ask if he or she would keep an eye and ear open for anything out of the ordinary ■ Check all rooms before anyone arrives and determine several “escape” routes. Make sure all deadbolt locks are unlocked to facilitate a faster escape ■ Don’t assume that everyone has left the premises at the end of the day. Check all rooms and the backyard prior to locking the doors, and be prepared to defend myself ■ All of the above 6) When meeting prospective clients for the first time, I can stay safe by: ■ Asking them to meet me at the brokerage office ■ Find out their motivation for buying or selling ■ Writing their first name and email address on a note card and leave it with a colleague ■ All of the above 7) The 10-second rule is a smart and quick way to keep safety at the forefront throughout the day. How does it work? ■ I take 10 seconds to review self-defense strategies right before getting out of the car ■ I breathe deeply and count backwards from 10 to gain composure before meeting new people ■ I take 10 seconds as I arrive at each destination to evaluate my surrounding and check for anything that’s out of the ordinary ■ All of the above 8) When I’m working at the office, I should take this safety precaution: ■ Make sure that my desk is not visible from the front door ■ Secure all unused doors and windows, especially if they’re in the rear of the office or out of sight and earshot ■ Listen to music on headphones to boost my concentration ■ All of the above

Leadership Meetings EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2008 8:00 A.M. – 9:00 A.M. BOARD OF DIRECTORS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2008 9:00 A.M. – 10:00 A.M. September 2008

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September 2008

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SAFETY TIPS

Arbor Ridge

SAFETY IS A YEAR-ROUND PRIORITY

Tip #17 Don’t get hooked by a “phisher.” Don’t respond to e-mails requesting personal or private information such as passwords, credit card numbers or bank account numbers. Even if a message appears to be from your bank or a trusted vendor, credible companies never request private information this way. Tip #18 Never work alone. If you encounter an individual while working late or alone in your office, indicate to that person that you are not alone. Say something like, “Let me check with my supervisor to see whether she’s able to see you now.” Tip #19 Too much information! When talking to clients and prospects, be friendly but still keep your personal information private. This means avoiding mention of where you live, your after-work or vacation plans, and similar details. Tip #20 No vacancy. When describing a listing, never say that a property is “vacant.” This may be an invitation to criminals.

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*Do not share your Social Security number or personal information unnecessarily.

September 2008

Supra News

By Stephanie Escurra-Hendricks BlackBerry for eKEY

SUPRA has announced that they are progressing very well with their development and it will be available by the end of the year. eKEY for BlackBerry will have the same great functions as the current eKEY application, plus some new features including real time showing alerts. When another agent shows one of your listings, you will instantly receive a message on your BlackBerry! eKEY for BlackBerry will run on the:

BlackBerry Pearl

SAFETY TIPS

SAFETY IS A YEAR-ROUND PRIORITY Tip #21 Final walk-through at open house. Don’t assume that everyone has left the premises at the end of an open house. Check all of the rooms and the backyard prior to locking the doors. Be prepared to defend yourself, if necessary. Tip #22 Shield your computer from e-mail viruses. Computer viruses can impair and seriously damage your computer. Viruses are often distributed via attachments in e-mail spam. Never open an attachment from someone you don’t know, and, if you receive a strange or impersonalsounding message from a familiar address, check with that person to make sure that they really sent it. Tip #23 Practice car safety. Keep roadside breakdown essentials in the trunk, including flares, a tire-inflation canister, basic hand tools, spare belts and hoses, water, a flashlight and a first-aid kit. Have your vehicle inspected regularly, keep it well maintained and learn how to change a flat tire.

BlackBerry Curve

Tip #24 Shop online safely. When shopping online, check out a Web site before entering your credit card number or other personal information. Enter this information only on secure Web pages with addresses that start with “https” and have a closed padlock symbol at the bottom of the browser window. These are signs that your information will be encrypted or scrambled, protecting it from hackers. Tip #25 Leave the lights on. Burglars prefer to work in the dark, so leave porch and garage lights on while you sleep. Also consider installing motion-detector lights if you live in a high-crime area or near a highway. Burglars strike 40 percent more often within three blocks of major thoroughfares, which offer easy escape.

BlackBerry 8800 series devices (Ex. Verizon 8830, or the T-Mobile 8820)

Because the BlackBerry does not have infrared, eKEY for BlackBerry will use a small Bluetooth to Infrared converter. It will function much like a Bluetooth headset, will be easy to set up and will feature user-replaceable batteries. For more information about BlackBerry for eKEY, please visit: www.supraekey.com ■

September 2008

Osceola ReVIEW Ter mit e Inspections ermit mite

SAFETY TIPS

Tip #26 Enlist your clients in safe practices. Inform clients who are selling that while you are taking safety precautions, and that you’ve checked and locked the home before leaving, they should immediately double-check all locks and scout for missing items immediately upon their return, in case you’ve missed any less-than-obvious means of entry.

Tip #34 Deal with suspicious e-mails. Before you act on an e-mail request, check a list of the latest e-mail scams on the Federal Trade Commission’s Web site at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/menu-internet.htm.

SAFETY IS A YEAR-ROUND PRIORITY

Tip #27 No cell phones behind the wheel! If you must use your cell phone while driving, follow this advice for best safety practices: Use a hands-free model so that you can keep your hands on the wheel; learn to operate your phone without looking at it—you should practice this before getting behind the wheel; and don’t dial while driving. Tip #28 How safe are your locks? Your home should have deadbolts with full one-inch bolts on all entry doors in addition to existing locksets. Any door with glass panels within three feet of the lock should have a double-cylinder deadbolt, which requires a key on both sides. Tip #29 Rely on good neighbors. Inform a neighbor that you will be hosting an open house, and ask if he or she would keep an eye and ear open for anything out of the ordinary. Tip #30 Commercial after dark. When showing a vacant commercial site, be aware of the time of day you meet a client. Showing a property at dusk or after dark, with no electricity on in the space you are showing, is not advisable. Tip #31 Why clean means safe. Keep your office safe: Ensure all doors other than the main entrance are secured, and all windows are clear so that passersby can see in. Also keep a clear exit route from the service desk to the door. Tip #33 Sound the alarms. Consider investing in an alarm system if you don’t already have one. If you do, make sure you have a panic button feature you can easily use in the room you use as an office. 14

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SAFETY IS A YEAR-ROUND PRIORITY

Tip #35 Take two seconds as you walk towards your destination to check out potential risks. • Are people coming and going or is the area unusually quiet? • Do you observe any obstacles or hiding places in the parking lot or along the street? • Is anyone loitering in the area? Tip #36 Plan your escape routes. Upon entering an open house property for the first time, check each room and determine at least two “escape” routes. Make sure all deadbolt locks are unlocked for easy access to the outside. Tip #37 A new use for business cards. Place one of your business cards, with the date and time written on the back, in a kitchen cabinet. Note on it if you were the first to arrive or if clients were waiting. Tip #38 Shred it! Thoroughly shred all papers with personal information before you throw them away. Shred unwanted credit card applications and “convenience checks” that come in the mail, credit card receipts with your account number, outdated financial papers and papers containing your clients’ personal information. Tip #39 Leave yourself an out. Part of being prepared to deal with a threatening situation is having “an out.” Prepare a scenario in advance so that you can leave—or you can encourage someone who makes you uncomfortable to leave. Examples: Your cell phone or pager went off and you have to call your office, you left some important information in your car, or another agent with buyers is on his way. Tip #40 Travel light when meeting clients. If you carry a purse, lock it in your car trunk before arriving at an appointment. All REALTORS® should carry only nonvaluable business items (except for your cell phone), and do not wear expensive jewelry of watches, or appear to be carrying large sums of money.

September 2008

SAFETY TIPS

SAFETY IS A YEAR-ROUND PRIORITY Tip #41 Scam alert! At an open house, be alert to visitors’ comings and goings, especially near the end of showing hours. Police have reported groups of criminals that target open houses, showing up en masse near the end of the afternoon. While several “clients” distract the REALTOR®, others go through the house and steal anything they can quickly take. Tip #42 Monitor bills and bank accounts. Open your credit card bills and bank statements right away. Check for any unauthorized charges or withdrawals and report them immediately. Call if bills don’t arrive on time. It may mean that someone has changed contact information to hide fraudulent charges. Tip #43 Friend or foe? If you’re driving at night and are approached by a vehicle with blue lights, exercise caution. Call 9-1-1 to identify the vehicle, turn on your flashers to acknowledge that you see the police car, and keep moving until you’re in a well-lit area. A legitimate law enforcement official will understand your caution. Tip #44 Get expert advice on home security. For a detailed security analysis of your home, contact a bonded professional locksmith who is an accredited member of a state or national locksmith association. At no cost to you, your police and sheriff’s department will be glad to help when needed. Tip #45 Take two seconds to pause and look around as you enter your destination. • Does anything seem out of place? • Is anyone present who shouldn’t be there or who isn’t expected? Tip #46 Show you’re a REALTOR® Always wear visible company identification such as a badge. It is also best to drive a vehicle clearly marked with your company name. These will be invaluable for identification if you need to get assistance. Tip #47 “Please check in at the desk.” When you have a new client, ask him/her to stop by your office and complete a Prospect Identification Form. Also, photocopy their driver’s license and retain this information at your office. Be certain to properly discard this personal information when you no longer need it.

September 2008

Tip #48 Safe home, safe garage. Help keep your home safe by covering garage windows. There is a lot about your garage you don’t want potential criminals to know about—such as whether someone is home, or if there are tools or ladders available to help break in to your home. If you have an attached garage, make sure the door that connects your house to the garage is a solid core exterior door with a deadbolt lock. Tip #49 Block identity theft. Contact the fraud department of any of the three consumer reporting companies— Equifax, Experian and Trans Union— to place a fraud alert on your credit report. The fraud alert automatically lets credit card companies and other creditors know they must contact you before opening any new accounts or making any changes to your existing accounts. Tip #50 Consider learning self-defense. The best way to find a good self-defense class is to learn what is available, and then make a decision. Many health clubs, martial arts studios and community colleges offer some type of class. You can also ask your fellow REALTORS®, friends and family if they have taken a self-defense class that they would recommend.

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ASSOCIATION NEWSMAKERS

seven-month January-July period, according to figures released by the national real estate heavyweight.

DOROTHY BUSE, REALTOR® Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty

On track to make Coldwell Banker’s elite President’s Premier level at year’s end, Dorothy posted 137 total transactions during the period, including 131 listings which ranked No. 1 in Florida, No. 2 regionally and No. 4 nationally.

Ranks Sixth nationally among Coldwell Banker’s more than 130,000 agents nationwide for sales production for the year’s first seven months. Dorothy, a foreclosure specialist who joined Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty shortly after the company’s inception in 1985, ranked No. 1 in Florida and No. 2 in the Region among all Coldwell Banker associates for her sales and listing efforts during the

“We’re delighted with Dorothy’s national recognition but not surprised,” says Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty President and COO Rajia Ackley. “Her strength over the years has been her innate ability to bring customers through the door and secure their property listings. Property listings are the fuel that drives the company engine.”

SAFETY TIPS

SAFETY IS A YEARROUND PRIORITY Tip #51 Park smart. When showing property or meeting someone, park your car in front of the property rather than in the driveway. You will avoid having your car blocked in, you’ll have an easier time escaping in your vehicle, and you will attract lots of attention running and screaming to your car at the curb area. Tip #52 Loose e-mails sink ships. Don’t send any vital or private information via e-mail. Keep in mind that unlike Web sites, email is never secure.

Extra Tip Keep burglars out of your basement. When safeguarding your home, pay special attention to all basement windows. If any bushes or trees hide these windows, this can provide a place for burglars to break in without being seen. Consider reinforcing your basement windows with security bars, wire mesh or Plexiglas. 16

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September 2008

Quiz Results: REALTOR® Safety 1. Do you have any dogs? Always ask clients if they own dogs and if so, what they plan to do with the dog or dogs during showings. Discuss how friendly the pets are with strangers, including children. If your clients have reason to believe their dog will react to strangers entering the home, ask that they lock the dog in a certain room or make arrangements to keep it off site if they cannot be present to control the dog. 2. All of the Above A good self-defense course will teach much more than how to physically attack someone; it will cover critical thinking about defense strategies, assertiveness, powerful communication skills, and easy-to-remember physical techniques. Many health clubs, community colleges, and martial arts studios offer these classes. To find a good course, start by asking family and friends if they have recommendations. Look for a class with a broad focus, which will include information on how to recognize dangerous individuals and situations, how to avoid them, and how to react in an attack. Ask to meet the instructors before you sign up; you will rely on these people for your knowledge. Do they appear genuinely concerned with students’ progress? Will their communication and teaching style work for you? 3. Remind sellers to put all valuables in a safe place Always be on the lookout for suspicious behavior and never put your guard down, but there’s no need to treat every potential buyer as if he or she just escaped from prison. Likewise, you shouldn’t categorize potential criminals as just one type of person, such as a single male. Women, seniors, couples, and men arriving with children can just as easily be up to no good. The best way to deter theft is to remind clients that strangers will be walking through their home and that they should put valuables in a safe, secure place. This includes items they might not initially think would attract interest, such as prescription drugs. Also, don’t leave your own briefcase, purse, or laptop in view. 4. Establish a secret phrase that’s not commonly used but can be worked into any phone or in-person conversation when I’m feeling uneasy about a situation. A distress voice signal is a safety net for situations in which you don’t want someone nearby to hear that you’re calling for help. It should be used if you’re uneasy, but not in immediate danger. The distress code could be something as simple as “red file,” used like this: “Hi, this is Jane. I’m at 510 Maple Street. Could you e-mail me the red file?” It may make the most sense for everyone in your office to share a single distress code. With your pre-arranged signal, the colleague who receives your distress code will know what to do. That may be to call 911 on your behalf, to arrange to meet you so that you are not alone, or to call you back and ask you to leave due to an “emergency situation.”

September 2008

5. All of the above An open house can be a great sales tool, but it also exposes you to numerous unfamiliar people for the first time. These are some of the things you can do to stay safe: Inform a neighbor that you’ll be showing the house and ask if he or she would keep an eye and ear open for anything out of the ordinary; check all rooms before anyone arrives and determine several “escape” routes, and make sure all deadbolt locks are unlocked to facilitate a faster escape; and never assume everyone has left the premises at the end of the day. Check all rooms and the backyard prior to locking the doors, and be prepared to defend yourself. Some other tips: Always walk behind the prospect as you’re showing the house, keep lights on and curtains open, and carry an extra fully-charged cell phone battery. 6. Asking them to meet me at the brokerage office Ask prospective clients to stop by your office before viewing properties or going to a more secluded spot. When they arrive at the office, record their car make and license number. Photocopy their driver’s license and retain this information at your office. Legitimate clients will not mind you copying their driver’s license; we freely show our license to the clerk at the grocery store when we write a check. It’s also smart to introduce the prospect to someone in your office. Would-be assailants don’t like to be noticed or receive exposure. Finally, always let someone know where you’re going; leave the full name and phone number of the client you are meeting. 7. I take 10 seconds as I arrive at each destination to evaluate my surroundings and check for anything that’s out of the ordinary Inattention is a main reason people find themselves in dangerous situations. By using the 10-second rule, you assess your surroundings everywhere you go. Here’s how it works: Take 2 seconds as you arrive at your destination to see if you’re parked in a safe, well-lit area and to make sure your car won’t be blocked in by another vehicle. Take 2 seconds as you step out of your car to look for suspicious people and to check that you know exactly where you’re going. Take 2 seconds as you walk to your destination to look for dangerous hiding places or obstacles along with way. Take 2 seconds at the door to make sure no one is following you in an to make sure you don’t have any safety concerns before entering. Take 2 seconds as soon as you enter to see if anything seems out of place or unexpected. 8. Secure all unused doors and windows, especially if they’re in the rear of the office or out of sight and earshot This is just one of many things that you can do to be safe when you’re at the office. You also should keep windows and counters clear so that people can see what is happening inside, and always carry a charged mobile phone. Whenever possible, avoid being at the office alone. But if you must be by yourself, keep a radio or TV playing fairly loudly in the back room. When office hours end, make sure you lock to doors. ■

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Sun.

September 2008

Monthly Planner

Monday

Tuesday 1

Labor Day Association CLOSED ALL DAY

9 GRI 3

22 HOLD for Professional Standards 8:30 am

MLS Marketing/ Network & Knowledge 8:30 am - 10:00 am

Introduction to MLXchange in Spanish 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

29 S.A.F.E. 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 3 CE hrs.

Monthly Planner

Quadrennial Code 18 of Ethics (2 Sessions Pick 1) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Young Professionals Network Get Together 6:30 pm - Location TBD

RPAC 6 Auction (Texas Hold ‘Em Finals) St. Cloud Civic Center 3001 17th St. Cloud 5:30 pm

Affiliate Committee Mtg. 9:30 am - 10:30 am

HOLD for Nominating Committee 1:30 pm

HOLD for Professional Standards 8:30 am

Effective Purchase & Sales Contracts 4 CE hrs. 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Foundation Meeting 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Broker Series 30 Module 5 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm MLS Marketing/ Network & Knowledge 8:30 am - 10:00 am

October 2008

Sat.

Core Law (2 Sessions–Pick1) Clarion Hotel–Ric Giumenta 9:00 am - 12:00 noon or 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm–GRI 3

10 11 New Member Welcome Board of Directors (Mandatory) 9:00 am - 10:00 am 9:00 am - 11:00 am Excecutive Committee Mtg Grievance Hearing 8:00 am - 9:00 am 1:00 pm

MLS Marketing/ 16 17 Network & Knowledge Introduction to MLXchange 8:30 am - 10:00 am 9:00 am - 12:00 noon RPAC Auction Committee Meeting Listing Maintenance 10:00 am - 12:00 noon 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Broker Forum at Association 1:00-4:00 pm

Friday

FAR Convention and Trade Expo – Lake Buena Vista

FAR Convention

Thursday

GRI 3

Property Management Meeting 9:00 am - 11:00 am

2 GRI 3

GRI 3

Wednesday

1 Public Policy Committee 3:00 pm

MLS Marketing/ 7 Network & Knowledge 8:30 am - 10:00 am Affiliate Committee Mtg. 10:00 am - 11:00 am

13 Property Management Meeting 9:00 am - 10:00 am

14 MLS Marketing/ Network & Knowledge 8:30 am - 10:00 am MLS Marketing/ 21 Network & Knowledge 8:30 am - 10:00 am RPAC Auction Committee Meeting 10:00 am - 11:30 am Broker Series–Module 6 2:00 pm–4:00 pm

28 MLS Marketing/ Network & Knowledge 8:30 am - 10:00 am

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8 New Member Welcome 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Introduction to MLXchange 9:00 am - 12:00 noon MLS Listing Maintenance 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm

Executive Committee 22 8:00 am - 9:00 am Board of Directors Mtg. 9:00 am - 10:00 am Short Sale Essentials 1:00 pm-5:00 pm

MLS Designer Tools 10:00 am - 12:00 noon MLS Pro 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Transaction Desk (MLS) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon MLS Advantage 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm Young Professionals Network Get-Together (Location TBD) 6:30 pm

How to Make the Most of Your Property Management Business 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

September 2008

Take your business to the next level with SunTrust Mortgage Real Estate Solutions. It takes talent, timing and SunTrust Mortgage, Inc. to help your clients achieve a fast and problem-free closing. Let us show you how your company can benefit from our depth of mortgage products and extensive experience in the industry. Ǧ Professional co-branded marketing tools that can help you sell Ǧ Great loan products for primary, second or vacation homes and investment properties Ǧ More than 250 diverse loan products Ǧ A robust construction to permanent program that features a one-time closing Ǧ The individual attention your clients deserve To find out how we can enhance your business, call your SunTrust Mortgage loan officer today or visit us at: 1624 W Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee, FL 34741 Millie Plass 407.925.9453 Sheree Fox 407.491.2660 Najla Jalal 407.947.1227 Nancy Knapp 321.624.1560 Dawn Lenhardt 407.435.9668 The information contained herein is intended as informational material for the sole and exclusive use of the business entities to which it was distributed and is subject to change without written notice. Equal Housing Lender. SunTrust Mortgage, Inc., 901 Semmes Avenue, Richmond, VA 23224 is licensed by the Department of Corporations under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act; is an Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee; is a Lender in Massachusetts having Mortgage Lender license #s ML1216, ML0133, ML1432, ML1914, ML1913, ML1815, ML2411, ML1214, ML2442, ML2491, and ML2538; is licensed by the New Hampshire Banking Department; is licensed by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, toll free 1-800-330-4684; is a licensed lender in Rhode Island; is doing business in Arizona as Crestar Mortgage, 7250 N. 16th Street, Ste. 100, Phoenix, AZ 85020 and is doing business in New York at 145 Pinelawn Road, Suite 330, Melville, NY 11747. ©2008, SunTrust Banks, Inc. SunTrust is a federally registered service mark of SunTrust Banks, Inc.

September 2008

Osceola

ReVIEW

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Tracy Archambeault............................................Davis Real Estate Group David Barnes...................................................... Right Choice Realty, LLC Juan Bermudez.........................................................Watson Realty Corp. Angelo Buoncervello.................................... Hometown Realty US GMAC Marty Cohn................................................................. Avatar Realty, Inc. Jennifer Davis................................................. Lifestyles Home Sales, Inc. Karen Donohoe.......................................................... Imagination Realty Nestor Espada.................................................. Pioneer Realty of Florida Alan Falkner.......................................................................... West Realty Michael Faris ............................................... Hometown Realty US GMAC Carlos B. Gonzalez..............................................Dina Realty Group, Inc. Yvonne Goodfellow.......................................Contempo Real Estate, Inc. Felicia Holmes......................................... Universal Investments & Homes Kyle Knapp....................................................................Susan B. Rosbury Alessandra Losciale...........................................Grand Realty of America Geraldine Matos.............................................................. Larimar Realty James McCormack.................................... Henry Realty & Mortgage, LLC Jamie McCormack-Demelo...................... Henry Realty & Mortgage, LLC Amy McDonah..........................................................Watson Realty Corp. Carly McDonah.........................................................Watson Realty Corp. Tamara McFeely..................... Weichert REALTORS® Hallmark Properties Jose Morales..............................................................Luxury Realty, Inc. Gladys Muralles........................................ New World Investment Realty Cathi Murphy.............................................Sunridge Realty & Investment Robert Phelps...........................................................Watson Realty Corp. Lizzette Plaud......................... Weichert REALTORS® Hallmark Properties Fredy Plazas . ................................................................WF Realty Corp. Samali Ramos........................................... Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty Elizabeth Scully..........................................Celebration Residential Realty Albert Sierra................................................. Rainbow Homes Real Estate Elaine Sorbello..........................................................Watson Realty Corp. Richard Stephan..........................................Engel & Voelkers Celebration Catherine Sweet.......................................................Watson Realty Corp. Delfina Tata.......................... Professional Property Mgmt.& Leasing, LLC. David Thompson..................................... Century 21 Premium Properties Elizabeth Turner..................................................ERA Select International Natalie Velasquez................... Century 21 – Sifonte’s Golden Realty, Inc. Christine Williams........................................................ Stag Investments Junhua Zhang...........................................................Regency Group, LLC

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS EYE FOR DETAIL........................................... DAVID BOULTON 5422 Dahlia Reserve Drive * Kissimmee, FL 34758 Phone: (407) 460-5246 * Fax: (407) 513-4333 ORLANDO SENTINEL COMMUNICATION.... JENNIFER BENGSTON 804 Emmett Street * Kissimmee, FL 34741 Phone: (407) 931-5902 * Fax: (407) 931-5910 REGIONS BANK............................................ TROY GIRDNER 4459 13th Street * St. Cloud, FL 34769 Phone: (407) 957-7823 * Fax: (407) 891-2505

NEW REAL ESTATE OFFICES AVATAR REALTY, INC....................................... MARTY COHN 896 Cypress Pkwy. * Kissimmee, FL 34759 Phone: (407) 944-4600 * Fax: (407) 944-4545 PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MGMT. & LEASING, LLC. .............................................. DELFINA TATA 2108 E. Osceola Parkway * Kissimmee, FL 34743 Phone: (407) 477-4419

Realtors® Real Knowledge Real Service Real Value

1105 Shady Lane • Kissimmee, FL 34744

Osceola

ReVIEW

September 2008