2009 - February - Osceola ReVIEW by Osceola County Association of REALTORS®

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NSTALLATION I 8 0 0 2 & AW ARDS BANQUET Saturday, January 10, 2009

Hope Andrews Realtor速 of the Year

Veronica Malolos Realtor速 Star of the Year

Stewart Title Affiliate Office of the Year

Prudential Sapphire Realty Services Realtor速 Office of the Year

John Smoley, Debbie Henderson, Rick Blubaugh Affiliate of the Year Sean Ferguson 2009 President

February 2009

President’s Perspective By Sean Ferguson OSCEOLA 2008 MARKET STATISTICS While there is plenty of negative news going around, I figured I would share some positive news with you. OSCAR has made tremendous advancements over the last few years in data tracking. I challenge every agent to not only understand these statistics but to communicate them to their family, friends and customers. Below are some final market statistics for 2008. • The Mid-Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service (MFRMLS) statistics reported that the Osceola Association of REALTORS® reported 2,426 property sales in 2007 and property sales of 2,978 in 2008. This equates to a 22.75 percent increase in 2008 property sales, when compared to 2007 figures. Osceola’s housing market has shown an upwards trend and increase in monthly sales for each of the last eight months in 2008, when compared to the same monthly periods in 2007. Osceola reported 319 December 2008 property sales, or an increase of 103 percent, when compared to December 2007 monthly reported property sales of 157. • The increase in property sales numbers appears to be attributed, in part, due to the affordability of housing. In December 2007, the monthly Average Sales Price (total sales dollar volume/number of sales) in Osceola County was $227,501. As of December 2008, the same monthly Average Sales Price had dropped to $152,504, which equates to a monthly Average Sales Price reduction of $74,997, or 32.96 percent decrease in one year. • Median Sales Price (one half property sales prices higher, one half property sales prices lower) figures confirm the price decrease trend. In December 2007, the monthly Median Sales Price in Osceola County was $210,000. In December 2008, the monthly Median Sales Price dropped to $135,000, representing a decrease in monthly Median Sale Price of $75,000, or a 35.71 percent decrease in one year. • Pending Sales statistics (properties under contract, but not yet sold) show another promising trend. At the end of March 2008, Osceola reported 348 Single Family Housing properties under contract. By the end of December 2008, Osceola reported 661 such properties pending sale, or an increase of 89.94 percent. 2

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• In December 2007, Osceola housing spent an average of 147 days on the market. In December 2008, Osceola housing spent an average of only 107 days on the market, or a 27.21 percent decrease in average days on the market from 2007. • While the current inventory levels remained comparatively the same during the year, the month’s supply in inventory (number of properties on market/number of sales for that period) had dropped significantly due to the increase in sales numbers. In December 2007, Osceola had 5,633 properties in inventory and an average month’s supply of 35.88. In December 2008, Osceola still had 5,552 properties in inventory, but average month’s supply dipped to 17.40. The Osceola Statistics above show that the housing market trend is showing positive signs of rebound. However, one must be prepared for the new challenges in obtaining financing and the new complexities of closing the sale when dealing with foreclosure and short sale properties. For these and many other weekly, monthly, or yearly statistics, please go to our website at www.OsceolaRealtors. org and click on the statistics button on the left hand side of the home page. Please note: reported sales are dependent upon timeliness of sales and totality of information reported by MidFlorida Regional Multiple Listing Service (MFRMLS) participants. The data reflects only the sales published through the MFRMLS and does not include all sales in the reported areas. Neither the Association nor the MFRMLS is in any way responsible for its accuracy. ■

Realtors® Real Knowledge Real Service Real Value

February 2009

Knowledge Services News

By Janice Murphy, Director of Knowledge Services

CONTINUING EDUCATION Q&A

Occasionally, the Association receives many inquiries regarding the questions below. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions concerning the education requirements that are mandated by both the State of Florida Real Estate Commission and the National Association of REALTORS®. Question: Can I take “specialty” continuing education courses until they add up to 45 or 60 hours to fulfill the post-licensing requirements for sales associates or brokers? Answer: No. Post-license courses for brokers and sales associates are specifically approved for that purpose and designed to build on knowledge acquired during the prelicensing education courses. A sales associate or broker’s license is provisional until completing the post-license education requirement. Question: Can I take a correspondence course to fulfill the post-licensing requirements for brokers or sales associates? Answer: Yes. Students failing a post-licensing education examination must wait at least 30 days but no more than one year from the date of the original examination to retake the examination. Only one retake is permitted. Otherwise, students who fail the end of the course postlicensing examination must repeat the course before being eligible to again take the course examination. Question: If I miss a post-licensing session due to illness, can I make up the session? Answer: Yes. Make-up classes may not extend more than 30 days beyond the scheduled end of course examination without approval of the Commission. Make-up classes must be the classes missed by the student and must consist of the original Commission prescribed course material. Question: What happens if I do not complete the sales associate’s person’s 45-hour post-license education requirement before the expiration of my initial sales associate’s license? Answer: Your license becomes void, and you have to retake the pre-license course, pass its exam, and retake the state exam. If short, you have to start from scratch. Question: What happens if I do not complete the broker’s 60-hour post-license education requirement before the expiration of my initial broker’s license? Answer: Your license reverts to a sales associate’s license.

February 2009

Question: What are the continuing-education requirements for an active or inactive broker licensee? Answer: You must take a minimum of 14 hours of commission-approved classroom instruction during each license renewal period (excluding the first renewal period of your current license when 60 hours of postlicense education is required). A minimum of three of the 14 required hours must consist of the commission prescribed Core Law. The other 11 hours may consist of “specialty” course on real estate practices approved by the Commission. A licensee who takes the 3-hour Core Law course in each year of the renewal period shall be allowed a total of 6 hours toward the 14-hour requirement. In that case, the “specialty” course hours need total only 8 hours. Question: Can I take correspondence courses to fulfill the 14-hour continuing education requirement? Answer: Yes. A FREC approved equivalent correspondence course or other FREC approved forms of distance learning may substitute for the live instruction. Question: What are the continuing education requirements for an active or inactive sales associate’s licensee? Answer: A minimum of 14 hours of commission approved classroom instruction during each license renewal period (excluding the first renewal period of your current license when 45-hours of post-license education is required). A minimum of 3 of the 14 required hours must consist of the FREC prescribed Core Law courses. The other 11 hours may consist of “specialty” courses on real estate practices approved by FREC. A licensee who takes the 3-hour Core Law course in each year of the renewal period is allowed a total of 6 hours toward the 14-hour requirement. In such an event, the “specialty” course hours need total only 8 hours. Question: Tell me something I probably don’t know. Answer: A licensee can earn 3 of the required 11 continuing education hours in the “specialty” area by attending a FREC meeting where disciplinary cases are considered. Licensees must attend the entire day of hearings to earn the credit. Seven days advance notice must be given to the Education Section of the Division of Real Estate so attendance may be monitored. Question: What do I need to know about license reactivation? Answer: If you hold an involuntarily inactive license, make sure you complete the reactivation education within two years of the first day you failed to hold a valid and active license. After the second year, the broker’s or sales associate’s right to reactivate automatically expires. If the time elapsed is less than one year, the reactivation requirement can be fulfilled by satisfactorily completing Continued on Page 4.

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Association Staff Jeri Peyton, Association Executive ae@osceola-realtors.com Gwen Dukes, Director of Communications communications@osceola-realtors.com Bob St. Gordon, Controller accounts@osceola-realtors.com

Knowledge Services News.

Continued from Page 3.

14 hours of continuing education as described in Rule 61J2-3.009. If time elapsed is more than 12 months but less than 24 months, the requirement is 28 hours of prescribed classroom hours of the prerequisite course for licensure as a salesperson. The subjects emphasized are real estate law and license law, and a 70% grade on the quiz is required to pass. Hopefully, these topics have been of some assistance to you, but if need more clarification, or have additional questions, please feel free to contact me at the Association at (407) 846-0117, ext. 224, or send me an email at education@ osceola-realtors.com. ■

Janice Murphy, Director of Knowledge Services education@osceola-realtors.com Anneris Rivera, Member Services Representative memberservices@osceola-realtors.com Jacqueline (JayCee) McEwen, Member Services Representative membership@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

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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, so maybe we can’t make you famous or turn you into a celebrity, but we can get you noticed and provide the recognition you deserve within the community. Have you won a recent award or been honored for your charitable work? If so, let us know and we will feature you in our “Realtors® Making A Difference” section of our Association magazine the Osceola ReVIEW and the Osceola News Gazette. Send your information and photo to Gwen Dukes at communications@osceola-realtors.com. February 2009

Association Executive Perspective By Jeri Peyton WHAT ARE YOUR BENEFITS AS AN OSCAR MEMBER?

Since we have just completed our membership renewal period at the Association, I thought this would be a good time to refresh our members on the benefits they receive as members of The Osceola County Association of REALTORS® (OSCAR). We provide our members with the tools to help you become successful in your businesses. Our members receive much more information and assistance than the standard real estate licensee. When you become a member of OSCAR, you have entered a new level of your profession as recognized by the public nationwide. Our local Association networking, benefits and services provide you with the tools to more efficiently and professionally serve your client’s needs, which equates to greater success in your real estate career. As a REALTOR®, you will be a step above and distinguished from other real estate licensees by pledging and adhering to a strict Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics is universally recognized as the measure of professionalism in real estate and describes the optimum performance the public

February 2009

has the right to expect and makes that performance the norm for REALTORS®. REALTORS® also agree to binding arbitration at the local level when disputes between REALTORS® associated with different firms, arising out of their relationship as REALTORS®, submit the dispute in accordance with the local Association regulations. And, only through membership can a real estate licensee use the trademark “REALTOR®” designation and nationally recognized logo. By joining OSCAR at the local level gives you state and national REALTOR® membership as well, allowing you the opportunity to utilize a wide variety of services and benefits offered at three levels. At the National level (National Association of REALTORS® - NAR), you’ll find a vast selection of retirement, life, health, national advertising exposure among other benefits. At the State level (the Florida Association of REALTORS® FAR) offers, among other services, free legal and technology hotlines, free online forms and contracts, and a free personal web page for advertising on The Florida Living Network (http:// fl.living.net). Access to Mid-Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service (MFRMLS) The opportunity to join and participate in the MFRMLS, which includes 13 local Associations/Boards of Continued on Page 7.

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we want to extend our sincere appreciation to our Sponsors! Premier Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Titanium Sponsor

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February 2009

Association Executive Perspective. Continued from Page 5.

REALTORS®, with over 30,000 participants and over 100,000 listings. New Member Orientation To help new licensees “hit the ground running”, new OSCAR members attend a 2-hour orientation class to make the transition from real estate licensee to REALTOR®. Legal & Technology Hotline Need free counsel? Call FAR at (407) 4381400. Be sure you have your real estate license number ready when you call. They also offer technology help. Ask anything from how to set-up your computer to how to search for forms on floridarealtor.org. Just call (407) 587-1450. Political Representation As a REALTOR® member, you’ll have legislative representation at the local, state, and national levels. The state and national offices have registered lobbyists on staff and a full governmental affairs program. We encourage you to become active with the REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC). The goal of RPAC is to establish the real estate industry as a concerned, involved, political constituency. RPAC raises voluntary funds for use in issues, campaigns and campaign contributions to political candidates at the federal, state and local levels. SUPRA Access Access to one of the safest and latest systems of electronic keys and lockboxes, with the ability to track the entries into your listings. Add Supra eKEY software to your SmartPhone and turn it in to your lockbox key. Certified devices fall into several families, using the Palm operating systems, Windows Mobile 5.0 and later, and the BlackBerry operating system 4.2.1 and later. Each SmartPhone has been tested and certified as compatible with Supra eKEY software. MLS Marketing Meetings Attend our weekly MLS Marketing sessions and free continental breakfast to promote your listings, network with fellow REALTORS®, participate in weekly ethics discussions and get the latest Real Estate news covering a wide variety of topics from guest speakers. We are always looking for host offices to run the meeting, so

February 2009

please give the Association a call if you are interested in hosting one of the meetings (407) 846-0117. Continuing Education Attend continuing education courses and other informative seminars held throughout the year at OSCAR covering financing, contracts, law, fair housing, property management, listing and marketing techniques for a one-time yearly fee of $15.00 included in your dues. You can now register online at our website using the following URL: http://membership.osceolarealtors.com. Just input your username (NRDS ID) and password and click on the Education calendar and then follow the instructions. If you don’t know your username and password, just give us a call at the Association. Your membership also allows for you to enroll in educational opportunities available at FAR and NAR meetings and conventions, leading to designations such as CRS, CRB, CCIM, GRI and WCR. Committee/Task Force Involvement Become active in one or more of our local Association committees where you have a voice in establishing important business contacts while working along side fellow REALTORS®. Magazines and eVIEWS Receive monthly publications, such as the Osceola ReVIEW magazine, weekly informational eVIEW emails, the Florida REALTOR® magazine from FAR, and the REALTOR® magazine from NAR, and online publications and many more keeping you updated on the latest real estate trends and news. REALTOR® Store Come shopping in our Association REALTOR® Store for signs, info tubes, lockboxes, client gifts, personal and other professional items at membership prices. AFFILIATE BENEFTIS As a valued Affiliate member of OSCAR, we offer a rewarding partnership in many ways. Benefits of Membership You and your company will be listed on OSCAR’s website and in a yearly Affiliate Directory that is mailed out to over 1,500 Continued on Page 15.

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CENTRAL FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL ALLIANCE (CFIA) By Abby Barboza, 2009 Chairperson DID YOU KNOW….. Any member of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) is in essence a member of the International Consortium of Real Estate Associations (ICREA)? Over the years, ICREA has designed many different tools that can help you increase your revenue. Among them, it is the Transnational Referral Certification (TRC). At a modest cost of $99, this training is one of the most affordable tools that you can have in your utility belt. It teaches the real estate professional how to give and receive compensation for international referrals using the patented Transnational Referral System. The certification class consists of three hours of training, which conveniently translate into three hours of continuing education credits when taken at an accredited institution. The class can also be taken on-line, however, it takes twice as long to complete and the continuing education credits are not applicable then. The Central Florida International Alliance (CFIA) is committed to bringing you the tools and training you need for your success in this unprecedented time in real estate. Our goal is to help every real estate professional increase their knowledge base, provide networking opportunities, and exposure to cultural diversity.

http:// www.OsceolaRealtors.org

In the spirit of providing more value for your money, the Central Florida International Alliance (CFIA) has combined their efforts with the efforts of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) to bring you a joint event this February. Please join us on Thursday, February 12, 2009, for a series of educational sessions. Our 8:30 am class will be sponsored by the Akerman Senterfitt Law Firm, Barry H. Gleen and Nancy Campiglia, former FREC Attorney, will discuss “Taking the Mystery out of US Immigration for the Foreign National Investor.” They will teach us about the new Visas available to Foreign Nationals and “Everything we always wanted to know about the Department of Business and Professional Regulations (DBPR), but were just too afraid to ask or find out.” The cost of our morning event is $10 per person. Registration will start at 8:30 am and breakfast is included with the class. CFIA’s applications for membership will be available at NO charge during the meeting. Our second class, “The Economic Outlook from NAHREP’s Point of View”, will begin at 11:00 am –and will conclude at 2:00 pm, NAHREP National President & CEO, Tim Sandos, and NAHREP National ViceChairman, Tino Diaz, will present Industry Updates on: Housing, Bankruptcy, Foreclosure, GSE Restructuring, Mortgage Origination and Servicing and other important issues affecting our industry and NAHREP’s role as a National Organization. The cost of the afternoon event is $5 for NAHREP’s members and $10 for non-members. Anyone joining NAHREP and paying the $100 dues for the annual membership will attend the afternoon class for FREE. Lunch will be provided for the afternoon session, too. Both the morning and afternoon classes will be held at the Golden Corral Restaurant on 5535 S. Kirkman Rd., Orlando, FL 32819 (across from Universal Studios). We hope to see you there. Continued on Page 12.

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Take your career to new levels!

February 2009

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NSTALLATION 2008 I & AW ARDS BANQUET

Sean giving presidential speech Hope presenting Sean Ferguson with President’s Award

Heidi Ferguson

Hope presenting Mike Levine with President’s Award

Hope presenting Len Goffredo with President’s Award

Hope presenting David DeLoach with President’s Award

Hope receiving her scrapbook Nick Nichols & Paula Stark

Past Presidents passing the gavel Past Presidents passing the gavel Moe Veissi - Master of Ceremonies 10

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February 2009

NSTALLATION 2008 I & AW ARDS BANQUET

Welcome Reception 2009 Officers and Directors

Eva Gordon, Nick Nichols & Ilene Ferguson

Heidi Ferguson receiving flowers

Ilene Ferguson receiving flowers

Oscar Staff

Natasha receiving flowers Jeri Peyton Association Executive

Folks enjoying good conversation Natasha Ferguson Gettin Jiggy with it

February 2009

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1/30/09 Central 12:17 FL PMInternational… Page 1

Continued from Page 8.

If you would like to learn how to market your properties worldwide with resources that are already available to you, please look for our March publication and more details about our March event: Carnivals around the World. Please contact Abby Barboza at CFIAinfo@gmail.com for reservations, additional information, event ideas and sponsorship opportunities. ■

Insurance Agency, Inc. 897 Towne Center Drive Poinciana, FL 34759 TEL: (407) 343-1560 FAX: (407) 343-1561 www.prominenttitle.com

integrity customer service professionalism

And in Florida, it’s a felony! Before you enter in to any real estate transaction, be sure your salesperson has a valid, current, active Florida real estate license. To verify a license is current and active, or to report unlicensed activity go to www.myfloridalicense.com or call toll free 866.532.1440

No matter where they go...there you are. Check out our list of products & services we deliver in one affordable price: • Quality Magazine — four-color glossy paper • Targeted to real estate consumers • Client Contact • Ads remain in the marketplace for four weeks • Targeted Direct Mail • Links to over 20 Web partners • HomesAndLand.com (attracts affluent homebuyers) • Personal Website • EZ Tours • Relocation Service Center • Targeted distribution of print media • Featured Listings (Yahoo Real Estate, WallStreetJournal.com, HomesAndLand.com)

For advertising information, 12

HomesAndLandOrlandoResort.com Osceola

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contact Joye Trawick, 407.719.2424 February 2009

ATTENTION REALTORS! Tour Schedule

The BUS is coming! Don’t miss it!

Tuesday, March 17 East Orlando

2009

Tuesday, March 24 West Orlando Tuesday, March 31 South Orlando

Hop on board the bus for an exclusive tour of the premier new home communities in Central Florida. All in air-conditioned, chauffeured comfort. A day of incredible homes —GUARANTEED! Dozens of great prizes, food and drinks, valuable sales information, and tons of fun all wrapped up in three drive-free days!

Don’t miss out… Reserve your seat now! Space will be limited .

Single Tour $5 • Any 2 for $8 • All 3 for $10 All tours depart at 8:30 am sharp, Arrive back at approx. 5:00 pm. Pick-up and drop off locations will vary depending on tour. Sorry, we can’t refund registration fees less than 7 days prior to the tour date.

Please check your requested tours: 3/17

3/24

3/31

Phone: 407-691-2185 FAX: 407-691-2195 Stacie@HBAofMetroOrlando.com

Mail or Fax to: Attn: Stacie Cornell 544 Mayo Ave, Maitland, FL 32751

CHECKS PAYABLE TO THE HBA

Name Company (Tours are for REALTORS only please) Phone #

E-Mail

Address Total $

Payment method: _Check _Visa _MC _AMEX

Card # Exp. Date

Security Code (back of card)

Billing Address City, State Zip Signature

February 2009

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Communications News By Gwen Dukes, Director of Communications

COMMUNICATION SKILLS ARE A KEY ELEMENT IN BUSINESS SUCCESS Every time the phone rings, your business is on the line, and how calls are handled will be a great determinant in your level of success. While teleconferencing and interfacing have become bywords in this high-tech world, a smile still works wonders. Your smile travels over the telephone wire and so does your attitude and energy. Try this little experiment: Without smiling, say out loud: “Good morning, this is Jack Brown speaking,” or, “Good morning, this is Jack Brown.” Now, say exactly the same thing and smile when you say it. It does sound different, doesn’t it? Personally, before I ever answer the phone, I glance at the clock or my watch and smile as I answer the call because the telephone is the most image-sensitive tool there is. If you are tired, irritated, in a hurry, inattentive, bored, breathless or half asleep, your caller will definitely get the message. Here are some helpful points to consider:

• It’s not about you. Very often, a caller will start talking when you answer, as though you are supposed to know who it is. Identify yourself as a courtesy to the person who called. • Return calls even if it is difficult at times. It is not the callers’ fault you have had a bad day, are on vacation, have a full schedule, are in a meeting that seemed to last forever, have a plane to catch or have a sick child at home. • You may look great, very professional, but how do you sound? Do you bark your name like a drill sergeant? Do you answer with your first and last name after your initial greeting? You should. • Be a good communicator. Have you ever listened to your voice? Does your voicemail message sound the way you would like to sound? A good communicator does not speak in monotone. Slang such as “catch you later,” “so long” or any number of professional utterances are strictly taboo. • Your basic voicemail message should never say you are away from your desk or on another line. Instead, be honest: “You have reached the voice mail of Captain Kirk.” You might then continue with, “Please leave your message, your phone number and the best time to reach you. Thank you.” • When you are the caller and leave a message, always

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•

• • •

•

say your number twice. Invariably one digit garbled or deleted will frustrate the person called. Even if you think the person you called knows your number, leave it anyway. It is very important for you to leave the time of day when you can be reached. This avoids telephone tag. When the response is received, the caller will have the information you need ready for you. Your recorded message should not be cute or cool. Please, no background music, spiritual bells or chimes and no jokes. Never leave a religious message on a business phone and avoid clichés such as, “Have a nice day.” If you are out of the office, record a voicemail message that announces the date you will be available. Don’t hang up on business. Always let the other person hang up first. No commercials, please. Your caller merely wants to leave a message. Offer another line to hear about your company. If another person answers your phone in your absence, think about how the message comes across. If you are “not in yet,” what message does that send? The fact that your day began with a 6 a.m. meeting is of no concern to the caller. The damage to your image has been done. Finally, think before you speak, even to a recording. Prepare your message in advance when making a call. You will get to the point and state your reasons for calling very successfully, and you will sound professional, with excellent communication skills. ■

President................................Sean Ferguson President-Elect............................ Jose Alvarez Vice-President.....................Veronica Malolos Secretary.........................Andrey Bustamante Treasurer.................................. Len Goffredo Past President......................... Hope Andrews Directors Rajia Ackley Riva Alexander Renee Clark David Courtney David DeLoach Kim Goodwin

Kemp Howland John Iannone Richard Knapp Denise Sacks Tim Weisheyer

Legal Counsel....................... Danny Villazon

February 2009

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.

COMPLETING AN EFFECTIVE P&S CONTRACT Thursday, February 12, 2009 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Instructor: Cynthia DeLuca Location: Association Classroom, 1105 Shady Lane, Kissimmee, FL 34744 Description: Learn to complete a solid binding contract. Common pitfalls are discussed with actual examples. All aspects of the contract will be clearly demonstrated and discussed. Cost: Free CE Credit: 4 hours

EFFECTIVE MARKETING

LEGISLATIVE CHANGE, PREDATORY LENDING & THE MORTGAGE INDUSTRY…WHAT EVERY REALTOR® SHOULD KNOW

Thursday, February 19, 2009 Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Instructor: Ric Giumenta Location: Association Classroom, 1105 Shady Lane, Kissimmee, FL 34744

Thursday, February 5, 2009 Times: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon Instructor: Grant Simon Location: Association Classroom, 1105 Shady Lane, Kissimmee, FL 34744

Description: The two elements that are most needed to make a sale are marketing and price. Learn various advertising sources, identify target market source, direct mail, marketing techniques, etc.

Description: You will learn about the lending process, how to identify the tactics of a mortgage predator, etc.

Cost: Free CE Credit: 4 hours

Cost: Free CE Credit: 3 hours

Association Executive Perspective. Continued from Page 7.

members and leaders in the community. You will receive the Osceola ReVIEW magazine each month, in which you may advertise in for a nominal fee. You can attend and distribute flyers at the weekly MLS Marketing Meetings. Your Affiliate dues help sponsor meetings, educational series, orientation, etc. As an Affiliate member, you can sponsor breakfast or snacks for the New Member Welcome, Committee Meetings, events and education classes.

Business Affiliate and Corporate Affiliate members are individual firm locations which, while not engaged in the real estate profession, have interests requiring information concerning real estate and support the purpose of the Association. Business Affiliate members may attend and participate in Association and committee meetings, but do not have voting rights and cannot hold an elective office. They may not use the REALTOR® logo.

You may be selected to receive the Affiliate Member of the Year Award or the Affiliate Company of the Year Award at our annual awards banquet. You are invited to attend special events, including fundraisers, parties, banquets and more.

If you have any questions about your membership or any related subject matter, please feel free to call me or any member of my staff at (407) 846-0117. ■

February 2009

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Public Policy Committee The School District of The School District of Osceola County, Florida Osceola County, Florida

On Tuesday, January 6, 2009, the Osceola School Board discussed the much debated “Workforce Housing” program known as “Signature Crossing”. At this meeting, various members from the community spoke against this project sighting the vast array of affordable housing already available in Osceola County and their dissatisfaction with tax payer dollars being used in conjunction with this project. After hearing comments from the public, School Board Chairman, John McKay, sought to clarify various items associated with this project. Mr. McKay informed the public the nearly $800,000.00 the School District collected in impact fees was collected and set aside for this project beginning in 2006. Mr. McKay Submitted by:coming from classroom funds and further clarified the funds are not Timimpact Weisheyer will not have a negative on the education a child receives Tim@YourKissimmee.com in his/her respective school. To date, both the “old” and the “new” 407-847-5428 School Board have been in support of this project and believe this project will help provide an added advantage to the Osceola School District in recruiting new teachers to our county. At the core of this The City of Kissimmee, project is a $5 million dollar grant awarded to Osceola County for the Florida purpose of building “Workforce Housing”. For more information on this controversial topic, please contact Tim Weisheyer.

Submitted by: Tim Weisheyer Tim@YourKissimmee.com 407-847-5428

Osceola County, Florida

Osceola County Board of County Commissioners Tim Weisheyer After input from the focus groups, the Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission has decided on a name for the Commuter Rail project. Out of the two names that jumped out, SunRail and SunTrax, SunRail was selected and will be the name we come to know. Also, though there are many details remaining, the SunRail project seems to be on schedule. Trains are slated to run on existing CSX tracks from Deland, in Volusia County, to Poinciana, in Osceola County. The first 31 miles, from south Volusia County to Sand Lake Submitted by: Road in Orange County, are expected to start running in 2011, with Tim Weisheyer opening in 2013. the remainder Tim@YourKissimmee.com 407-847-5428

Commissioner Arrington is Osceola County’s representative on the Central Florida Commuter Rail Commission Board of Directors. The City of Saint Cloud, Florida

Submitted by: Tim Weisheyer Tim@YourKissimmee.com 407-847-5428

The City of Kissimmee, Florida

The City of Saint Cloud, Florida

City of Kissimmee - Robert Loos

Submitted by: Insert Robert Loos Photo The City of Kissimmee will continue funding Robert@EllisRealty.net a small-business development center run by 321-284-2560

City of Saint Cloud - Mark Baker Submitted by: Mark Baker

Insert Photo

At the City Council Meeting on Jan. 8th, MarkBakerAppraisals@Earthlink.net the Osceola Legislative Effort (OLE) gave 407-709-3569 the University of Central Florida. The center, which also receives a presentation on the list of priorities for this regional lobbying group. matching funds from the Federal Government, provides counseling For a detail of the list of priorities see AroundOsceola.com for Jessica The Public Policy Committee exists to keep REALTORS® informed of what is happening in local, state and and training to prospective, emerging and established businesses. The Soils’ article to onkeep County Compiles Wish List. national politics. Further, it is the intent of the Public Policy Committee the voice of REALTORS in city spends $30,000 a year onfront the operation, housed at theFor Kissimmee/ of our elected officials. more information on or to become part of the Public Policy Osceola County Chamber of Commerce. Customers of Kissimmee Prior to the meeting on the 8th, I spoke with Council Member Mickey Committee, please contact: Weisheyer, Chairman, Public Policyabout Committee Utility Authority are not scheduled to receiveTim an increase in monthly Hopper the Economic Stimulus Committee. Councilwoman 407-847-5428 orup Tim@YourKissimmee.com. charges; however, in Poinciana, the average household may wind Hopper chairs this committee. The City of Saint Cloud has given paying approximately $32 more each month, starting in January 2009, $65,000 for mass advertising covering South Florida to Northern due to an increase of approximately 25%. Seminole County. The advertising is geared to “Why Saint Cloud should be your pick for a place to move to”. Their meetings are every Wed. at 6:00pm at the St. Cloud Chamber Board Room. They are looking for REALTOR® volunteers with knowledge of the St. Cloud market to man tour buses. Contact Brenda Terrell at brendaterrell1@ aol.com for additional information. Visitors will be welcomed Feb. 7 and March 14. They will have a new website, www.stcloudliving.net, fully loaded 01/20/09. More information can be found in the St. Cloud Chamber’s The Insider.

Submitted by: Robert Loos Robert@EllisRealty.net 321-284-2560 16

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Submitted by: Mark Baker MarkBakerAppraisals@Earthlink.net 407-709-3569

February 2009

The City of St. Cloud, FL (cont’d) The City Council had a workshop on Jan. 15th at 6:00pm in the Council Chambers for establishing a City Buy Local Policy. This was to address the concerns that local subcontractors and vendors are not getting a fair opportunity to bid on projects in St. Cloud. The meeting was open to public discussion. Council voiced great interest in local vendors having a preference in receiving the opportunity to bid on projects. Bill Newman with the Osceola County Business and Taxpayers Association stated in a letter sent to Todd Swingle, Environmental Utilities Director, “First of all and most important is to have the opportunity to bid. Most of the time, in the past, we find out about a job that has already started. Research finds that it has been awarded on the consent agenda by a so called piggy back bid to an out of county company, never a local vendor.” Mayor Donna Hart commented to Tom Hurt, City Manager, in a memo, “this policy needs to address more than just construction and should also include equipment and auto purchases”. Councilman Griffin’s comments in a letter sent to the City Manager stated, “I would like to recommend that this policy be expanded to include all business activities and purchases made by the city. The suggested policy is exclusive to the construction industry and all businesses in our city are suffering from this economy”. Council approved the Centennial Birthday party for St. Cloud on April 17th at 6:00pm with the event lasting 2 hours. The Public Policy Committee exists to keep REALTORS® informed of what is happening in local, state and national politics. Further, it is the intent of the Public Policy Committee to keep the voice of REALTORS® in front of our elected officials. For more information on or to become part of the Public Policy Committee, please contact: Tim Weisheyer, Chairman, Public Policy Committee 407-847-5428 or Tim@YourKissimmee.com

Specialty Continuing Education Classes

Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac Loans Learn the intricacies of policy and practice, including purchase/rehab loans, showing how a borrower may purchase and rehabilitate a property all in one loan.

Code of Ethics (2 classes) Provides an update on the Code of Ethics and other Professional Standards issues. This course provides 3 hours of CE as well as fulfills the NAR membership requirement.

Property Mgmt. for the RE Practitioner Basic knowledge of why you’re needed, what will be expected of you, how to operate a management office, the legal environment and ideas on where to obtain prospective tenants.

Mortgage Fraud & Identity Theft Six common mortgage fraud schemes, occupancy statuses between owneroccupied, second home and investment property. Red flags of mortgage fraud. Potential penalties for violations.

Instructor: Paul Marek Date: January 8, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Instructor: Dick Fryer Date: January 22, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9am-12pm or 1pm - 4pm

Instructor: Marilyn “Charli” Phelps Date: April 23, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Instructor: Grant Simon Date: May 7, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Legislative Change, Predatory Lending & the Mortgage Industry...What Every REALTOR® Should Know. Lending process, how to identify the tactics of a mortgage predator, etc.

Tax Law Changes Learn the tax law changes that are in effect now. Instruction of the specific requirements in dealing with taxdeferred exchanges. Errors in filing tax returns that effect real estate.

Instructor: Grant Simon Date: February 5, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Instructor: Cynthia DeLuca Date: February 12, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Instructor: Hemendra Thakkar Date: May 14, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Effective Marketing The two elements that are most needed to make a sale are marketing and price. Learn various advertising sources, identify target market sources, direct mail, marketing techniques, etc. Instructor: Ric Giumenta Date: February 19, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Short Sale Essentials This interactive workshop will prepare you to be successful in the “Short Sale” arena and avoid the many liabilities along the way. This course teaches what every REALTOR® needs to know about Short Sales. Instructor: Martin Cohen Date: March 19, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Core Law (2 Classes) Learn to verify your knowledge of and discuss the latest new laws affecting the real estate industry. Discussion regarding current laws and expiration dates and or changes. Instructor: Ric Giumenta Date: March 5, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9am-12pm or 1pm - 4pm Goal Setting Identify what a goal is, list the key elements of a goal, determine statistical info regarding sales price, calculate average commission earned, know what your time is worth at the income level you want to earn. Instructor: Cynthia DeLuca Date: April 9, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Real Knowledge, Real Value, Real Service February 2009

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Completing an Effective S&P Contract Learn to complete a solid, binding contract. Common pitfalls are discussed with actual examples. All aspects of the contract will be clearly demonstrated and discussed. Instructor: Cynthia DeLuca Date: June 18, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Home Office: Financial Rewards

Transaction Brokerage & Agency Relationships If you’re considering working as a transaction broker, you need to know what Florida law and FREC rules require of real estate professionals. Instructor: Duke Tieman Date: June 11, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Working w/ Buyers Who Have Had a Bankruptcy Learn the basics of bankruptcy and its effects on the real estate buyer, correct the misconceptions about bankruptcy, guidelines, etc. Instructor: Michael Eastham Date: June 25, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

This course will utilize an IRS Schedule C form, and you will be able to identify those items that are deductible from income. You will also learn to differentiate between direct and indirect expenses, office equipment tax.

Short Sale Essentials This interactive workshop will prepare you to be successful in the “Short Sale” arena and avoid the many liabilities along the way. This course teaches what every REALTOR® needs to know about Short Sales.

Instructor: Hemendra Thakkar Date: July 9, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Instructor: Martin Cohen Date: July 16, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

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Real Knowledge, Real Value, Real Service

Specialty Continuing Education Classes Dealing with Difficult Disclosures Learn about essential disclosures, such as lead paint, termite issues, asbestos, and mold are covered in simple detail. By the end you will be more comfortable with documentation and discussions.

Know Your Numbers and Win Sales in Any Market Fixed rate and Adjustable Rate. Examine cap margins and indexes most commonly used in Real Estate Finance. Compare and contrast amortization to interest only.

Instructor: Wallace Conway Date: July 23, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Instructor: Grant Simon Date: August 6, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Completing an Effective P&S Contract Learn to complete a solid, binding contract. Common pitfalls are discussed with actual examples. All aspects of the contract will be clearly demonstrated and discussed. Instructor: Duke Tieman Date: August 13, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Code of Ethics (2 Classes) Provides an update on the Code of Ethics and other Professional Standards issues. This course provides 3 hours of CE as well as fulfills the NAR membership requirement. Instructor: Dick Fryer Date: September 10, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9am-12pm or 1pm-4pm

ns for ebsite. Please follow these er:

Instructor: Andrew Wooten Date: September 24, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Risk Management This course will speak to and help you avoid the most common risks associated with the ownership of a brokerage firm and the practice of Real Estate. Several recommendations, but should not be construed as the final word.

Instructor: Steven David Instructor: Marilyn “Charli” Phelps w.osceolarealtors.org Date: October 22, 2009 Date: October 8, 2009 On Line Member Services”CE Hours: 4 CE Hours: 3 r log on ID (2725XXXXX) Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. r password Education Calendar” Real Knowledge, Real Value, Real Service Page 7 ur classes ure that you go all the way through the process until e that says “Print your receipt”. It is not until you that you are registered.

ve taken courses offering ucation credits, but you ember how many? Have d the continuing education needed for license ree course sponsor reported redits to DBPR? Visit the ment of Business and Prolation (DBPR) website and EXECUTIVE u’ll have the answers.

Leadership Meetings

COMMITTEE MEETING FEBRUARY 25, 2009 AT yfloridalicense.com 8:00 A.M. e of the page under User Services, click – on9:00 “ViewA.M. Con-

OF DIRECTORS irst time accessing DBPR BOARD Online Services, click on 25,informa2009 AT r Online Services Account”FEBRUARY and complete the nter Initial Pin” (should be 9:00 the last four digits of your A.M. – 10:00 A.M. y number).

e set up18 your ID and pin number, you are granted acnline account at any time.

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Preparing a Listing Contract The basics of a listing contract, different types of listing agreements, protected classes under the fair housing laws, prepare seller’s net proceeds estimate. Instructor: Cynthia DeLuca Date: November 5, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. So You Want to be a Broker... List the agency options the broker’s sale associates could offer the public; state the conflict(s) that could arise between practicing single agency for both buyers and sellers in the same brokerage firm. Instructor: Ric Giumenta Date: November 19, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Completing an Effective P&S Contract Learn to complete a solid, binding contract. Common pitfalls are discussed with actual examples. All aspects of the contract will be clearly demonstrated and discussed. Instructor: Duke Tieman Date: November 12, 2009 CE Hours: 4 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Working With the Consumer and Option Contracts Identify the appropriate circumstances and when it is in the customer’s best interest to use an “Option Contract”, properly complete forms, and whether or not it is in the best interest of the client. Instructor: Duke Tieman Date: December 3, 2009 CE Hours: 3 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Crime Awareness and Prevention Don’t be a victim! Topics covered: Introduction to safety, safety at the office, property showings, open houses, personal safety at home, and on the road. Q & A at the end.

o register for a class online Negotiating Skills Learn the motivations of the parties in the transaction and learn to funnel those motives toward significantly educational classes go higher volume of closed transactions.

Specialty Continuing Education Classes

Certified Real Estate Professional

(Osceola County Association Designation only) This designation is designed for the “new” real estate agent to better assist them in their career by obtaining the knowledge they need to further success. All modules are 1 1/2 hours long and will be instructed by leading brokers of the Association. Students must complete 10 of the 14 modules in order to receive the designation. Page 8

Real Knowledge, Real Value, Real Service

Module 1 - Sellers - Prospecting for Listings Module 2 - Sellers - Preparation and Presentation Module 3 - Sellers - Marketing the Property, Servicing the Seller Module 4 - Buyers - Prospecting for and Qualifying Buyers Module 5 - Buyers - Selecting and Demonstrating Property Module 6 - Buyers - Presenting the Offer, Negotiating Module 7 - The Order - Asking for and Obtaining Commitment Module 8 - The Order - Answering Objections Module 9 - Communications - Understanding People Module 10 - Communication - Skills Module 11 - Communication - Telephone Techniques Module 12 - The Professional - Goal Setting Module 13 - The Professional - Time Management Module 14 - The Professional - Elements of Successful Selling

Cost: $90.00 for all 14 modules Please see Association calendar for dates and times.

February 2009

Sun.

February 2009

Monthly Planner

M arch 2009

Tuesday 2

Public Policy Meeting 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

16 REO Discussion 9:00 am - 10:30 am

MLS Marketing 8:30 am - 9:30 am

Wednesday 3

Osceola Realtors Affiliate Council 9:30 am - 10:30 am

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

New Member Welcome 10:00 am - 12:00 am

MLS Marketing 8:30 am - 9:30 am

Osceola Affiliate Council 9:00 am - 10:00 am Creating Custom

18 Knowledge 17 Reports on MLS Services Team Meeting Hands On - Bring Ypur Laptop 9:30 am - 10:30 am 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm MLS Advance Training 10:00 am - 12:00 noon Hands On - Bring Ypur Laptop

MLS Marketing 24 8:30 am - 9:30 am

2 Public Policy Committee Meeting 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Osceola Realtors Affiliate Council 9:30 am - 10:30 am

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

MLS Marketing 8:30 am - 9:30 am

16 GRI-1 8:00 am - 5:00 am

BOD Meeting 9:00 am - 10:00 am

Executive Committee 8:00 am - 9:00 am

Committee Meeting 9:30 am - 10:30 am

Hispanic Network Mtg. 9:00 am - 10:30 am

MLS Marketing 8:30 am - 9:30 am

Entering & Updating Listings 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm MLXchange Training 9:00 am - 12:00 noon

MLS Marketing

Monday

10 GRI-1 8:00 am - 5:00 am

17 GRI-1 8:00 am - 5:00 am

MLXchange Training 9:00 am - 12:00 noon

Entering Listings 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

11 GRI-1 8:00 am - 5:00 am

18 GRI-1 8:00 am - 5:00 am

Thursday Legislative Change, Predatory Lending & the Mortgage Industry 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 3 CE Hrs.

Friday

Sat.

Completing an Effective Sales & Purchase Contract 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 3 CE Hrs.

WCR Meeting Association Classroom 10:30 am Speaker: Katrina Scarborough, Osceola City Property Appraisar

19 Effective Marketing 10:00 am - 1:00 pm 4 CE Hrs

Young Professionals Network (YPN) Get Together 6:30 pm Location TBD

5 Core Law (Ric Giumenta, Instructor) 9:00 am - 12:00 noon Core Law (Ric Giumenta, Instructor) 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

12 GRI-1 8:00 am - 5:00 am

Ted Jones Seminar Hosted by Stewart Approved Title 9:00 am - 12:00 noon

WCR Meeting 10:30 am - 12:30 pm

WCR Yard Sale 8:00 am 5:00 pm

Short Sale Essentials (Martin Cohen, Instructor) 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

SAM TRAM (East Tour)

MLS Marketing 24 8:30 am - 9:30 am MLS Marketing Committee Meeting 9:30 am - 10:30 am SAM TRAM (West Tour)

Executive Committee 25 Meeting 8:00 am - 9:00 am Board of Directors 9:00 am - 10:00 am Creating a Professional CMA (Hands On-Bring Your Laptop) 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Young Professionals Network (Location TBD) 6:30 pm

31 MLS Marketing 8:30 am - 9:30 am SAM TRAM (South Tour)

February 2009

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NEW REAL ESTATE OFFICES DPG REAL ESTATE GROUP. ................ PEDRO ALZATE 3708 Town Center Blvd. * Orlando, FL 32837 Phone: (407) 812-8882 * Fax: (407) 851-1011 OPTIMAL SOLUTION, LLC. ............. WILLIAM HEADLEY 5323 Millenia Lake Blvd. * Orlando, FL 32839 Phone: (407) 472-3734 * Fax: (407) 246-1155 OWN A HOME, INC............................ ALAN SINGH 117-05 115 Avenue * S. Ozone Park, NY 11420 Phone: (407) 463-0094

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Graham Aistrop..........................MortgageOne Financial Services Pedro Alzate............................................DPG Realty Group, Inc. Bradley Ankrom...........................................Overton Realty, Inc. Adolfo Chang Bonilla....Weichert REALTORS® Hallmark Properties Irma Cruz...................................................... Watson Realty Corp. William Headley........................................ Optimal Solution, LLC Richard Keeler...................................... Pioneer Realty of Florida Candice Lester..............................................................CJ Realty Justin McDonnell......................................... Watson Realty Corp. William McKelvy......................................... Watson Realty Corp. Gladys Reyes-Huesca..................................INvision Real Estate Joseph Schultz............Weichert REALTORS® Hallmark Properties Khaja Siddiqui.................................BFA International Real Estate Alan Singh....................................................... Own A Home, Inc. Genevieve Smith..........................Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty Alvany Tavarez.............................................................CJ Realty Lori Tyrell............................... Keller Williams Realty at the Lakes Francisco Viteri............................. Transcontinental Realty Group Terence Watson........................Coogan Development Group, Inc. Andrew Webster......................................... Paradise One Realty

ASSOCIATION STAFF MEMBER SPOTLIGHT This month’s Spotlight is on…… Janice Murphy Director of Education Janice Murphy began working here at the Association just a few weeks ago. She worked for the Orlando Regional REALTORS® Association (ORRA) a few years ago where she helped manage and maintain the Membership Department. She also has broad experience working in the printing industry on multiple levels. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, Janice relocated to Orlando with family in the mid 80’s. Since then, her family has moved on to Minneapolis. She brought with her a strong, southern upbringing. So, you will hear a lot of “yes, ma’am” and “no, ma’am”. She collects cookbooks and is happiest in the kitchen, which comes from her grandmother’s teaching. In her spare time, she has her hands full raising her 6 pugs ranging in age from 6 months to 6 years.

1105 Shady Lane • Kissimmee, FL 34744

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February 2009