real estate - benefits - foreclosure - banks - florida realtors - public policy
magazine 2ND QUARTER APRIL, MAY, JUNE 2016
Osceola ReView
Rising Rates Won’t Affect Home Prices PAGE9
&
5 Things You Should Never Do In Online Marketing PAGE13
& Observing The Code of Ethics Online
PAGE24
WINNING 2013 Awards
SCHOLARSHIP & Installation Luncheon S ESSAY
Highlights PAGE25
WELCOMECONTENTS
002
WELCOME/ CONTENTS APR, MAY, JUN 2016 news 4 7 9 14 19 21 22 24 25
13 23
OSCAR Announcements Second Quarter AE Message Rising Rates Won’t Affect Home Prices Learn It or Refer It Dare to Be Different Builders Taking Business From REALTORS®? A Letter From Your Board President Considering the Code of Ethics Online Winning Scholarship Essays
technology 5 Things to Avoid in Online Marketing Airbnb as an Alternate Rental Source for Investors
events
10 April, May, June 2016 Calendar 15 New OSCAR Members 16 Photos from Major Investor Award Ceremony & Casino Night
local trends
28
Market Dynamics
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Second Quarter Presidents Message: On Tuesday, February 2, 2016, the majority of the board of directors visited the Osceola County Education Foundation and enjoyed a two hour tour and presentation of their facilities and all of the wonderful program offerings available to our Osceola County students. Our association has worked closely with the foundation over the years in offering scholarships to deserving students needing assistance in moving forward with their post-secondary education endeavors. The foundation does a tremendous service for our community and offers many programs for students; however they are in need of additional funds and volunteers so they can continue to positively affect student’s lives. If you are able to spare a donation or have some time to volunteer as a mentor, then this is truly a worthy cause. Some of the programs include bookmark buddies, a literary-based mentor program; take stock in children, a mentoring and scholarship program; Got College?, a volunteer work project designed to help students plan for careers and post-secondary education; and medical and construction pipeline projects, which prepare students for potential careers in those industries.
2016 Board President, Jeff Perry
Our Board considers education an essential component to ensuring the success and prosperity of its membership and community alike. Attending Board members, Jerry Kelley, Becky Chirillo, Alexandria Arena-Gil, Karen Dierickx, Danny Hernandez, James Williams, Joe Johnson, Danny Martinez, OSCAR CEO, Carol Platt, and myself share a deep commitment to building opportunity through education and left the presentation with an even greater enthusiasm and commitment to our community. I am grateful to them for sharing in the vision of creating a positive impact in Osceola County, and I would also like to thank Osceola Education Foundation President Ken Smith and Board of Directors’ member, John Gephardt for taking the time to speak with us and share their program offerings. If you would like more information please visit their website at www.foundationosceola.org or you can call Susan Schroder at 407-870-4855 for information on how you can make a difference in a young person’s life. I sincerely hope some of our members will strongly consider either donating money or, probably more importantly, the time to spend with a child that needs the personal one-on-one attention.
magazine contact Published by Osceola County Association of REALTORS®, 1105 Shady Lane, Kissimmee, FL 34744
advocates team
contributing writers
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER / EDITOR: Carol Interested in contributing to our quarterly Platt, CRB, e-Pro, AHWD publication?! We would love to hear from you. T 4078460117 E ae@osceola-realtors.com We require that all works be original, meaning WEB MASTER: Chris Florence, CCIM, e-Pro written by you, and do not allow promotion of webmaster@osceola-realtors.com your business. COMMUNICATIONS: Nannette Cherry, e-Pro, AHWD nan@osceola-realtors.com
advertising
MEMBERSHIP SERVICES COORDINATOR: Ally Vallecillo, e-Pro, AHWD, CIPS ally@osceola-realtors.com
Digital or printed media packs available on request. HEAD OF SALES: Chris Florence, CCIM, e-Pro webmaster@osceola-realtors.com
distribution
ACCOUNTS: Bob St. Gordon, e-Pro bob@osceola-realtors.com
The ReView is printed quarterly. To subscribe contact our subscriptions team below.
Operations Director: Christina Barnhardt, e-Pro christina@osceola-realtors.com MEMBERSHIP SERVICES: Megan May, e-Pro megan@osceola-realtors.com MEMBERSHIP SERVICES: Yohanna Cruz, e-Pro yohanna@osceola-realtors.com SOCIAL MEDIA & MEMBERSHIP SERVICES: Nannette Cherry, nan@osceola-realtors.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS MANAGER: Nannette Cherry, e-Pro nan@osceola-realtors.com
www.Osceolarealtors.org
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OSCAR Announcements
OSCAR
MEMBER
RECEIVES CRS ROOKIE OF THE YEAR AWARD OSCAR member James Williams III has recently been awarded the CRS Rookie of the Year Award. His exemplary service as the 2016 Technology Leader as part of a Leadership Team with the Florida Council of Residential Specialists is cited as the reason for this award. James was amenable to taking the lead in this position as he has always prided himself in conducting business using technology regularly, and enjoys sourcing out effective options to use in his operations. His background in technology is supplemented by his position as Technology Manager at his brokerage office, where he assists agents with websites and various technology dashboards. James is a 4 year CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) designation holder - just one of many designations and certifications he holds. He also carries an ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative), ACP (Accredited Commercial Professional), AHWD (At Home with Diversity), BPOR (Broker Price Opinion Resource), CDPE (Certified Distressed Property Expert), CIAS (Certified Investor Agent
James Williams III
Specialist), CNE (Certified Negotiation Expert), CNHS (Certified New Home Specialist), e-PRO (Technology Specialist), FMS (Florida Military Specialist), FSP (FIVE STAR Professional-Short Sale & REO Certified), ILHM (Institute for Luxury Home Marketing), RSPS (Resort & Second-Home Property Specialist), SFR (Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource), SRS (Seller Representative Specialist), PPMC (Professional Property Management Certification), and 203k Specialist (FHA Home Purchase & Renovation Program). OSCAR Association CEO, Carol Platt was enthusiastic with her praise for James, saying “James is clearly a hard-working and studious individual. He understands that education is a foundation for success in any field, and has been a voracious student, accumulating a collection of designations and certifications that only top REALTORS® possess. I’m so happy to hear of his recent award. James has worked hard to earn it!”
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CONGRATS, CAROL! Chief Executive Officer, Carol Platt has earned the REALTOR® Association Certified Executive designation from the National Association of REALTORS®. Carol is pictured here being pinned by Lakeland Association of REALTORS® AE Barbara Barnes. Congratulations, Carol!
REALTOR® UNIVERSITY
BLOOD DRIVE
OSCAR cares! Taking care of Osceola County is a big priority for us, and we do our part in many ways. Just recently we brought the Big Red Bus to our parking lot to collect blood for local blood banks. Thanks to members and staff who helped replenish these vital stocks needed when someone in our community is facing a life threatening emergency. You guys are helping us in our mission to improve our community!
RECEIVES ACCREDITATION
REALTOR® University has been granted accreditation by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), an organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education. This momentous achievement is several years in the making. An institution must operate stably for 2 consecutive years to qualify. REALTOR® University opened to students in 2012 and enrolled in the accreditation process in 2014. Through this institution, REALTORS® can earn a Masters degree and will have access to the largest real estate library in the world. “Accreditation is a rigorous process that every new university must go through to be recognized as a legitimate and credible institution of higher learning,” says Sharon Millett, chair of Realtor University’s Board of Regents. “Realtor University has met the DEAC’s strict criteria for education, ethical and business practices, affirming our program’s unique blend of practical and applied learning for real estate professionals.”
Angel Ortiz takes time out of her busy day to donate
WANT TO KNOW MORE? VISIT: http://www.realtoru.com/
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MAKING POSITIVE
CHANGES IN OSCEOLA COUNTY MEDIA CONTACT: Nannette Cherry
EMAIL: nan@osceola-realtors.com
REALTORS® are committed to more than just the purchase and sale of property. They are committed to improving communities and doing their part to make the area they represent a desirable place to live. As the state association, Florida REALTORS® celebrates 100 years in existence and 100 years in service to the state, and local associations like the OSCAR are drawing attention to the outreach projects they have done to further their own goals of helping the community. In their mission to be the driving force bringing value to the community, OSCAR has just recently awarded six $1000 scholarships to high school seniors living in Osceola County. Furthering the education goals of teens in the area has been an ongoing project for the association. From its beginnings, the essay competition solicited only 2 or 3 responses, but each year the participation grows and the opportunities for local teens grow. Wanda Linscott, President-Elect at the Association explained her passion for the project, saying “These young adults have great aspirations...they have dreams they have worked very hard to achieve. We reward them for their hard work, and help make their dreams a reality.” She shares the passion and commitment with other members of the committee, adding, “Whilst we (the committee) read the essays, it amazes me as I look at the faces of each of the members as they grasp the stories...many are in tears, some of the stories are personal stories......short sales, foreclosures, how they came to learn of the financial trauma their parents were going through. A few of the essays were about Martians that came to the earth to buy land......with the use of a REALTOR®.” Member Kim Goodwin works extensively with the Osceola
Council on Aging. Over the years she has served on their Board, helped for several years in getting donations for their food pantry, donated to their Senior Santa program, and participated in the Meals on Wheels Program. She explained the Council doesn’t just help Seniors, and is quite varied in its community offerings. “The Council assists seniors, families, and the community as a whole in so many ways. They assist with food, and offer assistance with utility bills, transportation, etc. The Council on Aging also helps fill the other food banks in Osceola County.” Current Board member Angel Ortiz has been an active participant in Relay for Life with the Community Involvement Committee for several years now. As team captain for Team OSCAR for the past four years he has seen a consistent raise in donations to the American Cancer Society fundraising effort. In the last three years alone Team OSCAR has raised over $19,000. As they gear up again this Spring they are aiming to raise $8,000 for the cause. OSCAR CEO, Carol Platt emphasized how important nurturing a healthy and vibrant community is to REALTORS® and Associations like OSCAR and Florida REALTORS®, saying “As REALTORS® we strive to make our communities welcoming to new residents and businesses. Community involvement is a major focus at OSCAR, whether funding education opportunities for local students, doing toy drives for foster children at Christmas, or helping disadvantaged families obtain housing through Habitat for Humanity, we make it our mission to do our part to make Osceola County a place people want to raise their families and call home.”
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2ND QUARTER ASSOCIATION
EXECUTIVE MESSAGE NEW PARTNERS
FOR SMART GROWTH MEDIA CONTACT: Carol Platt
PHONE: 407-846-0117
As a member of the National Association of REALTORS® Smart Growth Advisory Board, I was honored to represent both the Osceola County Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS® at the 2016 New Partners for Smart Growth Conference in Portland, Oregon. Since our community combines, urban, suburban and rural agricultural areas, I attended the Preconference workshop, Intention & Innovation towards Healthy, Equitable Food Systems. New concepts of equitable food justice from grassroots to grass tops, value chain innovation clusters for regional food security planning, and growing rural economies, livability and resiliency provided a lens to the future as Osceola County grows. Looking at future opportunities in our growth here and throughout this nation on a holistic basis is a cornerstone for REALTOR® advocacy. REALTORS® were well-represented with presentations from NAR’s Holly Moskerintz and Georgia Meacham about how to work with REALTOR® associations to provide assistance in planning and funding place-making projects in our communities. As I fielded questions from a process perspective from numerous entities from around the United States, it was insightful to
2016
EMAIL: ae@osceola-realtors.com
see how quickly the relationship with REALTORS® improve with groups that have often viewed us as opponents to their growth concerns when those groups experience the engagement and genuine pride and optimism that we have within our communities. There is an innovation “coming soon” with another partner – AARP! AARP is heavily engaged with Smart Growth Partners in the development and promotion of a “Lifelong Housing Certification” program with the goal of providing adaptable homes and livable communities so that our neighbors, friends and newcomers can remain in their homes and in their communities as they age. Now, that’s a plus for all generations! OSCAR’s engagement with the Central Florida Water Initiative provided a great background to articulate our region’s concerns during the program, Resilient Strategies for an Uncertain Water Future. Listening to struggles with wildfires, drought, contamination, and desertification that other communities were dealing with really underscored how fortunate we are to live in a state that is focused on our water resource future. Kudo’s to Florida REALTORS® that made the passage of a comprehensive water bill a legislative
OSCAR CEO, Carol Platt priority this year! Often members will ask if their funds to NAR are being put to “good use”. NAR’s Hugh Morris, was a presenter for NAR, along with Portland State University and the National Home Builders Association delivering consumer data from valid, consistent and long-term studies in the program entitled, “What do Americans Really Want?” Questions were prolific and interest was high among participants. NAR exemplified one session commentary, “If you want to achieve Success, establish credibility, understand and be transparent with your own data.” NAR’s sponsorship and engagement in this national conference is a “good use” Success and a broadbrush value to our REALTOR® brand influencing today and our future. Wear your REALTOR® R® proudly!
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CLASS THIS APRIL! CALL 407-846-0117 TO REGISTER OR VISIT OSCEOLAREALTORS.ORG
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RISING RATES WON’T AFFECT
HOME PRICES MEDIA CONTACTS: Janaki Rao and Michael Canter
The long-anticipated rate hike by the US Fed has intensified concerns that the move will be a drag on the ongoing housing recovery. We think that’s unlikely. But it’s worth digging a bit deeper into what investors are really worried about. Many of the fears focus on reduced housing affordability—that higher rates mean more expensive loans, which in turn would cause the housing market to suffer. It’s a valid concern, but we think it’s overblown. What’s more, other factors—such as improvements in labor markets and easing credit standards—can help counter a decline in affordability. In fact, history shows several periods in which the housing market thrived even as interest rates rose. A Closer Look at Housing Affordability By the numbers, housing affordability tells us whether the typical family has enough income to afford a median-priced home at the prevailing mortgage rate. A widely used index (developed by the National Association of REALTORS®) that measures affordability indicates that housing is still quite affordable. The index is well over 100, a level at which the typical family has just enough income to afford a home (Display). Even if mortgage rates were to rise by one full percentage point, housing affordability would likely remain high by historical standards. Help from Improving Labor Markets Because income is a key element in housing affordability, changes in household income bear watching. And the news is positive: growth in US median income has gradually picked up pace after declining during the financial crisis. With the unemployment
BLOG: blog.abglobal.com
rate at 5% and falling, it seems very likely that wage increases will continue to accelerate, helping counter rising rates when it comes to affordability. Improving labor markets have a positive impact beyond rising wages—they help move younger workers out of the house to start the search for their own homes. As the dismal post-crisis employment picture fades further into history, we’re seeing an increase in younger household formations. That’s stoking housing demand and contributing to the US economic recovery. More Credit Means More Access to Housing Continuing economic expansion has also helped encourage greater availability of credit, which is vital in helping consumers finance home purchases. Credit standards had understandably tightened after the crisis, but they’ve been easing gradually ever since— allowing more borrowers access to home loans. What’s driving the improvement? One key element is better transparency with respect to policy changes. Higher employment and rising wages help, too. So even though some investors fret about rising rates, the US housing market appears to be on solid footing. And because rising rates are accompanied by improving labor markets and easing credit, we think there’s enough information for investors to stop focusing on the risks to the housing market and start thinking about the opportunities being created. The views expressed herein do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfoliomanagement teams.
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EVENTS THIS APR/MAY/JUNE
SEMINAR
REGISTRATION CONTACT Ally Vallecillo
EMAIL ally@ osceola-realtors.com
APRIL 4TH
APRIL 15TH
MLS CMA Tools
Quadrennial Code of Ethics (iCE)
TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
MLS Realist TIME: 1:00PM - 3:00PM
Toastmasters TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM APRIL 5TH
How Much Does Culture Really Effect the Real Estate Transaction?
3CE’s TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM APRIL 18TH
New Member Welcome TIME: 8:30AM - 12:30PM
Toastmasters TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
APRIL 25TH
MLS Basic Spanish TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
MLS Adding & Modifying Listings - Spanish
Grab Some Lunch & Earn a Bunch TIME: 11:30AM - 1:00PM SPEAKER: Eileen Kelly LUNCH PROVIDED
TIME: 3:00PM - 4:30PM
Toastmasters
TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
APRIL 11TH
TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
APRIL 19TH
APRIL 12TH & 13TH
TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
11 CE’s TIME: 7:30AM - 5:30PM LUNCH PROVIDED COST: $129 for members, $145 for non-members LOCATION: HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, 4050 Hotel Drive, Davenport, FL 33897
4 CE’s TIME: 1:00PM - 5:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Jason Jakus COST: Free to Members, $69 for Non-members
TIME: 1:00PM - 2:30PM
APRIL 8TH
Graduate REALTOR® Institute 2 Day Course - GRI 103 - Maximize Your Profitability
REALTOR® Professionalism & Follow-thru
MLS Compliance Spanish
TIME: 9:00AM - 10:00AM INSTRUCTOR: Cathy Acosta
Toastmasters
CALL
MLS Basic MLS Compliance TIME: 1:00PM - 2:30PM
MLS Adding & Modifying Listings TIME: 3:00PM - 4:30PM APRIL 21ST
Effective Risk Reduction
3CE’s TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Jason Jakus COST: Free to Members, $59 for non-members
Our office will be closed on May 30th for Memorial Day
APRIL 26TH
REALTORS® Land Institute INSTRUCTOR: Ben Crosby APRIL 27TH
REALTORS® Land Institute INSTRUCTOR: Ben Crosby APRIL 28TH
Demystifying the Appraisal Process 3 CE’s TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Pat Reass COST: Free for Members and $35 for Non-Members
407.846.0117 Unless otherwise noted
Preparing & Navigating the Listing Contract
4 CE’s TIME: 1:00PM - 5:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Cynthia DeLuca COST: Free for Members $35 for Non-Members
Toastmasters TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM MAY 2ND
Toastmasters TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM MAY 4TH & 5TH
Graduate REALTOR® Institute 2 Day Course - GRI:201 It’s All About You! 11 CE’s TIME: 7:30AM - 5:30PM LUNCH PROVIDED COST: $129 for Members, $145 for Non-members LOCATION: HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, 4050 Hotel Drive, Davenport, FL 33897 MAY 9TH
MLS Searching, Reports, & Contact Management TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
MLS The Mobile Agent TIME: 1:00PM - 3:00PM
Classes are free to members unless otherwise noted.
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Toastmasters TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM MAY 16TH
MLS Basic Spanish TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
MLS Compliance Spanish TIME: 1:00PM - 2:30PM
MLS Adding & Modifying Listings - Spanish TIME: 3:00PM - 4:30PM
Toastmasters TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM MAY 17TH
Choosing &
Writing a Successful Contract 7 CE’s TIME: 8:30AM - 4:30PM INSTRUCTOR: Steven David COST: Free for Members $129 for Non-Members
MLS Adding & Modifying Listings TIME: 3:00PM - 4:30PM MAY 25TH
Leadership Academy L200
TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Melynne Sight
Leadership Academy L300
TIME: 1:00PM - 4:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Melynne Sight
What to Expect When FREC Inspects
3 CE’s TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Danny Villazon
TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM MAY 24TH
MLS Basic TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
MLS Compliance TIME: 1:00PM - 2:30PM
MLS Basic TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
MLS Compliance TIME: 1:00PM - 2:30PM
MLS Adding & Modifying Listings TIME: 3:00PM - 4:30PM
3 CE’s TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Pat Reass COST: Free for Members and $35 for Non-Members
Preparing & Navigating the Listing Contract
TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
JUNE 10TH
Toastmasters MAY 31ST
Working With the Connected Consumer
JUNE 6TH
Toastmasters
Demystifying the Appraisal Process
MAY 30TH
4 CE’s TIME: 1:00PM - 4:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Craig Grant
TIME: 8:30AM - 12:30PM
JUNE 9TH
4 CE’s TIME: 1:00PM - 5:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Cynthia DeLuca COST: Free for Members $35 for Non-Members
Become a Social Media Superstar
New Member Welcome
4 CE’s TIME: 1:00PM - 5:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Cynthia DeLuca COST: Free to Members, $69 for Non-members
JUNE 21ST
MAY 26TH
TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Craig Grant
MAY 23RD
REALTOR® Professionalism & Follow-thru
MLS Advanced Matrix TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
MLS iMapp TIME: 1:00PM - 3:00PM JUNE 8TH
Effective Risk Reduction
3CE’s TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM INSTRUCTOR: Cynthia DeLuca COST: Free to Members, $59 for non-members
Personal Assistants and the Law (iCE) 3 CE’s TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM COST: Free for Members $35 for Non-Members JUNE 13TH
MLS Basic Spanish TIME: 9:00AM - 12:00PM
MLS Compliance Spanish TIME: 1:00PM - 2:30PM
MLS Adding & Modifying Listings - Spanish TIME: 3:00PM - 4:30PM JUNE 20TH
New Member Welcome TIME: 8:30AM - 12:30PM
Toastmasters TIME: 5:30PM - 6:30PM
CAN’T FIND AN EVENT YOU WISH TO ATTEND? Your REALTOR® Advocates work hard at providing you with the most up to date info going on here at the association. We are still human and may miss something so, if you can’t find information that you need, let us know. We welcome your encouraging input. Email: Communications @osceolarealtors. com
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Marketing Tips
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5 THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER DO IN ONLINE MARKETING MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Florence
BLOG: abrandaid.com/blog-marketing-strategies
With online marketing there are plenty of opportunities to reach new customers and gain a following. There are many businesses that are made possible by the Internet. With all this power to reach audiences, there are a new set of unwritten internet marketing rules that set the standard for what the business should look like. In fact, there are 5 things that you should never do in online marketing. These are taboo and will lead to the loss of customers and potential leads. Here are some of the best tips available: 1. Do not spam or overuse your email list When people give you their email address, they are giving you access to their personal lives. One of the worst things that a company can do is overuse this privilege. It’s important not to saturate your email list with trivial matters. If you choose to send an email, make sure that it is important. 2. Do not oversell your product Too often people will oversell what their product actually does. This is not only dishonest, but shortsighted. Creating a product that doesn’t deliver is only going to tick off customers in the long run. When marketing a product, it’s best to be honest about both its strengths and weaknesses. 3. Do not sell your customers information This is a place where online marketers often drop the ball. Companies who are willing to sell information look unprofessional and desperate. This is a terrible thing to let a customer base find out. It very quickly erodes the credibility of the company, along with scorning many loyal customers. Selling personal information is a bad
EMAIL: chris@abrandaid.com
practice, and one that should be avoided at all costs. 4. There are borders with customer engagement If your product is something that a customer will only buy once, it doesn’t make sense to often re-engage that customer. That doesn’t mean that you cannot shoot for repeat business. But engaging the customer should be done on the introduction of a new and exciting product. You don’t want to repeatedly contact the customer if you can’t provide something that is both new and exciting. The best way to look at it is this: talking to your customers is a privilege. 5. Don’t ignore consumer trends and complaints If your customers are repeatedly telling you something, it is in your best interest to listen. Too often marketers overlook the biggest trends that their customers are presenting to them. Trends will emerge if you offer a forum for communication with your base. This does not have to be an Internet forum, just a place where communication with you can exist freely. Business ultimately boils down to people, and it’s important to address the needs and concerns of your customers. Overall, your marketing will benefit by adapting these simple rules. There is so much garbage and spam out there that it is not surprising that people have their guard up. One of the best things you can do as a business is to keep your trust. By following these simple principles you will help to ensure that your online marketing has integrity. This goes a long way in building your customer base.
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LEARN IT
OR REFER IT MEDIA CONTACT: Veronica Malolos
How many times have we, as residential REALTORS®, come across the difficult decision to assist or not to assist a customer in a commercial transaction? At some point in our careers, we will come across homeowners or their friends or relatives who may want to buy or sell commercial real estate or business, invest in or sell commercial land, acquire or dispose of a commercial building, or lease commercial space, etc. How about your favorite customer who wants to get in or get out of the hotel or motel business? Whatever it is, stop for a moment and think: “do I have enough knowledge or expertise to service their need?” Many times, I have heard REALTORS® justify their decision to move forward by saying that they want to learn the commercial real estate business. Stop again. A transaction is not an “on the job training” opportunity! All real estate licensees are governed by Chapter 475 of the Florida Statutes. The main purpose of Chapter 475 is to protect the public. Particularly in Chapter 475.278 which refers to presumptive transaction brokerage relationship, one of the duties we are required to uphold by licensing law is “skill, care and diligence in a transaction”. In fact, a case may be made that if you have not developed the skill (through education and experience) in a particular discipline, for example “commercial”, you may have just violated Chapter 475.
EMAIL: vmalolos@realvest.com
such types of property or service, or unless the facts are fully disclosed to the client.” In my personal transition from residential real estate to full time commercial real estate, I knew early on that if I desired to expand my field of competence, I needed to be educated in that field. I made a commitment to get educated through the CCIM Institute and through local commercial networking and educational opportunities. I applied and was accepted to the CCIM Mentorship Program which led me to be employed by my mentor, Robin Webb, CCIM educator and 2017 CCIM National President. On my very first commercial transaction, I enlisted the partnership of a highly esteemed and established commercial REALTOR® when I answered the RFP (request for proposal) to list the $13.5 million Stevens Plantation properties for the City of Saint Cloud. That decision resulted in not only winning the listings but the success of the project. Had I not chosen to expand my skills to include commercial real estate, I would have referred the business to a competent and reputable commercial REALTOR®. Not only would it have increased the success rate of that transaction, it would have been the easiest commission I would have earned through a referral agreement.
Furthermore, as REALTORS® we have all subscribed to the Code of Ethics.
Don’t risk your license and expose yourself to liability by experimenting on a transaction that is outside your field of expertise. Learn it or refer it!
Article 11 is very specific: “REALTORS® shall not undertake to provide specialized professional services concerning a type of property or service that is outside their field of competence unless they engage the assistance of one who is competent on
* “Learn it or Refer it” is an NAR initiative encompassing all fields of real estate expertise. **CCIM Florida is a great resource for advanced commercial education. Visit http://www.flccim.com/ about-ccim/education/
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WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST
MEMBERS!
Right: New members from our January New Member Orientation. Below: New members from our February New Member Orientation.
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MAJOR INVESTOR AWARDS & CASINO NIGHT We took some time out in February to recognize the many members who gave so generously to the RPAC cause. When all the awards were handed out, we opened up the tables for our Casino Night - one of our most popular yearly networking events. Good times were had. Thanks to all who participated and who helped make the night so memorable!
OSCAR President, Jeff Perry and his fiance Tecia Norton
Carol Platt holds her award with Sue Vasquez. Also pictured, RPAC Trustee Bill Kehoe and ORRA Vice President, Bruce Elliott OSCAR Operations Director, Christina Barnhardt with Tim Weisheyer and photobomber Julio Salgado
OSCAR staff poses for a picture before the festivities get under way. Thanks to Victor Salgado of Wild Palms Productions for photographing this evening.
Mike LaRosa and family with Tim Weisheyer
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?, Tina Campbell, and Patrice DeNike
Big Winner Julio Salgado!
Leslie Zimmerly wins again!
Members browse the prize stash at the end of the evening to pick their favorites.
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DARE TO BE DIFFERENT MEDIA CONTACT: Imran Mohamed
EMAIL: imrobin@earthlink.net
The German poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe said “Daring ideas are like chess men moved forward. They may be beaten but they may start a winning game.” Be it therefore from an individual or organizational standpoint one should constantly strive to think outside the box to achieve bigger and better ideals.
County Association of REALTORS®, REALTORS® Association of the Palm Beaches, Pinellas Suncoast Association of REALTORS®, REALTORS® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Silicon Valley Association of REALTORS®, Texas Association of REALTORS®, West San Gabriel Valley Association of REALTORS®.
OSCAR’s Global Alliance Committee has been in existence for just over 5 years and during this period it has grown to capture the attention of the top echelons at the National Association of Realtors – Global. The committee was awarded the Gold status 2013 and in 2014 & 2015 we were awarded the Platinum award.
I therefore take this opportunity to thank the Global Alliance Committee members & Chairs (past & present), our Association Executive and the wonderful staff at OSCAR for their time, efforts and dedication that went into making this a reality. As we move forward in 2016 I’ll like to highlight some of the objectives the committee is tasked with. I do so with the hope of greater input and participation from our general membership.
“The Global Achievement Program is designed to recognize and reward the most active associations in global business. Among the over 100 global business councils nationwide, each of these organizations has demonstrated exceptional commitment to building members’ awareness of the global and multicultural business opportunities in their local markets. Participating councils are divided into three status classifications based on their level of activity: Silver, Gold, and Platinum” (From NAR - http://www.realtor.org/global/global-businesscouncils/global-achievement-program) For an organization of our size, being awarded the Platinum Award is nothing to be sniffed at… we are 1 of the just 17 committee/ councils nationwide to have been awarded this Platinum Status. Arcadia Association of REALTORS®, Eastern Bergen County Board of REALTORS®, Florida REALTORS®, Greater Fort Lauderdale REALTORS®, Greater Las Vegas Association of REALTORS®, Houston Association of REALTORS®, Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®, Miami Association of REALTORS®, Naples Area Board of REALTORS®, Orlando Regional REALTORS® Association, Osceola
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To provide members with exposure within the international arena as well as an opportunity to be part of an international network that will generate business and contacts. To open new international real estate markets for members To raise awareness among members of the impact and opportunities of international real estate within their local domestic markets and the tools available to them to support this business and to help them recognize risk. To minimize barriers to U.S. REALTORS® operating abroad and foreign investments in Florida. Members will be informed of the various events, opportunities, forums, workshops, etc. as the committee develops its agenda and programs. In keeping with the above, staying abreast of the global marketplace and its effects on local real estate is a must for agents. For those who’ve been keeping track we see a decline in purchases by foreign nationals which is affecting the bottom-line of many agents. This slowdown is primarily attributed to the weakening of foreign
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020 currencies against the US dollar brought about by the slowdown in the major global economies and the lower oil prices. Our biggest market during the hay days were the
http://www.x-rates.com/historical/?from=USD&amo unt=1&date=2006-01-01 Dated Jan 13th and as per CBC Business News “A day after the Lonnie (Canadian dollar) slipped below the 70-cent US level for the first time since 2003, a forecaster at investment bank Macquarie says he expects the Lonnie to lose another 10 cents to reach an all-time low of 59 cents by the end of 2016. David Doyle of Macquarie Capital Markets Canada Ltd. lowered his Canadian dollar forecast to 59 cents US on Tuesday. That would eclipse the all-time low for the Lonnie, set on Jan. 21, 2002, at 61.79 cents US” Extracted from http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/ macquarie-loonie-forecast-1.3401644 Armed with analytical data, projected market conditions, socio –economic drivers and global trends, savvy agents can retool ahead of the pack and continue to grow their business even in the face of tightening markets. Agents must look at events and situations from various angles… How for example a stronger U.S. Dollar is affecting new foreign buyers and what are the impacts on existing foreign owners.
Canadians and as of 02/04/16 the Canadian dollar (Lonnie) was worth 73 cents. This chart shows exchanges rate and provides a 10 year historical overview Feb 2016 - Jan 2006
Agents can also find new markets (niche) by targeting Americans moving to live or work abroad. In March 2015 the Association of American Residents Overseas (AARO) delegates to the “Overseas American Week” were told by the State Department official that their estimate had been raised from just over 7 million to 8 million Americans living and working around the world. That makes them equivalent to the combined populations of Chicago, Los Angeles and Philadelphia (https:// www.aaro.org/who-we-are/8m-americans-abroad). Through the members-only network, CIPS® agents have better access to foreign agents in over 80 countries that can work with them to complete referrals, etc. Oh… and I almost forgot… talk with your Accountant in respect to some of the tax benefits when travelling as a CIPS®. These are among just some of the valuable strategies and analyses used by CIPS® trained agents and I strongly urge agents to take this course which is offered right here at OSCAR for as that old saying goes … “Knowledge is power” - Francis Bacon.
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A LETTER FROM YOUR BOARD PRESIDENT: MEDIA CONTACT: Jeff Perry EMAIL: jeffperry@myfloridamove.com
The REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC) is your business insurance policy and is the best way a REALTOR® can protect his or her business. RPAC is the only grassroots force that exists to promote and protect the tradition of home ownership, real estate investment, and private property rights. The mission of RPAC is to identify candidates for elected office at the local, state, and national levels who will work with REALTORS® to promote and protect our industry and private property rights. Candidates that receive support from RPAC are selected based on their support of real estate issues and are chosen regardless of their political affiliation. You may ask yourself, where does the money go? 100% of your contribution is used to elect proREALTOR® candidates with 70% remaining in the state to be used in state and local elections. The remaining 30% is forwarded to the national RPAC to fund key U.S. House and Senate races. Currently, the RPAC committee and funds are working on influencing legislators to begin the process of reducing the sales tax on commercial leases. Florida is the only state in the nation with this sales tax. If reduced or removed altogether the savings to the small business owner would enable them to start up new enterprises or expand their business; thereby bringing additional economic activity to our communities. Governor Scott is signing SB552, which restores Florida’s water resources while protecting property rights. Senator Negron stated that the Florida REALTORS® were critical in the passage of this bill by creating a business case to protect Florida’s environmental resources. These are just a couple of examples of the many issues where RPAC makes a difference.
You should also be receiving periodic emails or text messages from the Florida REALTOR® association or the National Association of REALTORS® for calls to action on certain measures that call for our members to click on the link to notify their Senator or Representative of our position on certain realestate related issues. It is very important for you to please take the time to complete these calls for action. Unfortunately, Florida is one of the lowest percentage participants in the nation and we need to do much better in our engagement level. I am personally calling on all of our members to step up and make a fair share contribution of just $20, more if you are so inclined, and to show the state and national associations that our members are engaged, are passionate about our industry and willing to step up and do our part in continuing to protect our industry and property owners. There are many external threats to our industry, our livelihoods and to private property rights. We must be diligent and engaged in doing what we can to protect REALTORS® and our communities. For just a relatively small fair share contribution, this is the best way I know that we can all stand up as one voice to truly make a difference. Thank you for your contribution and Fair Share. Sincerely, Jeff Perry
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AIRBNB OFFERS
ALTERNATIVE TO INVESTORS SEEKING RENTAL INCOME MEDIA CONTACT: Nannette Cherry
Since its inception in 2008, Airbnb has been a key player in the travel industry, offering tourists a budget friendly alternative to hotels and resorts. Initially the site primarily matched people who had an extra room or couch to spare with travelers, but today 65% of the rentals available are private spaces that are not shared with the host. It has been a highly successful model which has proven to be a boon to homeowners looking to supplement their income. Today Airbnb lists 1.5 million properties in 190 different countries. REALTORS® have reported an increase in the number of conversations they are having with clients about the possibility of using such a site to generate income on potential or existing properties. Provided city regulations or restrictions from condo/homeowner associations don’t preclude the possibility of using a property in such a manner, a property owner can stand to make a respectable income off of a rental. A survey of Airbnb hosts, conducted by Evernote found that 6 in 10 use the site with the intention of bringing in a little added income, however 32% used the site as a main source of income. This same report found that the median annual income of an Airbnb host was $3,600. However, the average annual income was at $14,200, indicating a small portion of hosts are making a considerable amount off of their properties – generally hosts that own multiple properties. This report noted “1 in every 3,850 US hosts earn $1MM+ in gross rental income.” Of course location figures in greatly when considering potential income. Some places surveyed reported
EMAIL: nan@osceola-realtors.com
greater medians and averages than others. Topping the list for most profitable rental locations is Honolulu County, Hawaii with a median rental price of $11,841 and an average of $16,928. The most lucrative location to rent in Florida is the Miami-Ft Lauderdale area with a median of $6000 and an average of $12,346. And in Central Florida, the Orlando-Kissimmee data shows a median income of $4,064 vs an average of $7,605. With the preponderance of theme parks and tourist attractions in the Kissimmee area, talking to investors about the earning potential of short-term rentals can help cinch a deal. So, how can you help buyers looking for an investment property to use in this manner? First, make them aware of potential regulatory roadblocks or community restrictions that would prevent them from taking advantage of such a property. Have a conversation with them about how having a short term rental might affect their taxes at year’s end. Talk to them about what kind of upkeep costs they can expect as a host. And finally, advise them on practical locations that would be most suitable for attracting tourists, and research what a good rental price would be for a suggested property so they can get an idea of how financially viable such an investment might be. As a REALTOR® you play an important role in helping an investor make a sound financial decision. Your knowledge of this fast growing enterprise may just help encourage an investor to make the deal.
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Professional Standards
THE CODE OF ETHICS APPLIES ONLINE -
BEWARE WHAT YOU POST
ON SOCIAL MEDIA Subscribing to the Code of Ethics is what separates REALTORS® from licensed practitioners. The Code ensures that we conduct business in a manner that shows professionalism and courtesy to our peers and our clients. And while this Code is generally observed, some may forget that it carries over to areas of our life that may seem personal and private, like our social media channels. What holds true in the office or at networking events, holds true in the cyber-sphere as well. “What you wouldn’t say or do in front of someone, you also shouldn’t do on social media and other online platforms,” NAR advises. “In general, any guideline for offline behavior applies to online as well.” A commonly held misconception is that Facebook groups are private. It is at the group administrator’s discretion as to whether or not to make the postings viewable to the general public or not, but it’s always best to assume that anything you are saying can be made public. You’ll still need to be concerned about the people within the group who might take a screenshot of an offending comment or violation. Among the most common errors – venting about another agent. This activity risks running afoul of Article 15, prohibiting REALTORS® from making false or misleading statements about other real estate professionals. The 2016 chair of NAR’s Professional Standards Committee, Carolyn D’Agosta further advises REALTORS® to refrain from suggesting an agent’s clients take negative action against that agent – suggesting they fire the agent and work with you, for example. Be advised not to share another agent’s listing as well. This could constitute an improper advertisement on your part if these listings show up on your walls. This practice
runs against exclusive representation that practitioners hold with their clients and can get you in trouble with Article 16 of the Code of Ethics. This typically happens when an agent visits an open house and wishes to share the info in their feeds. If this is the case for you, reach out to the listing agent and get their permission before sharing with your social media contacts. Another common violation happens when agents post business on their personal pages. REALTORS® should note their role as an agent and include their business info on any page that will contain real estate listings or related content in order to remain compliant of Article 12, Standard of Practice 12-5, requiring that REALTORS® clearly identify themselves and their company when advertising online. Many REALTORS® have business pages specifically for that reason, but to those who are maintaining both a business page and a personal page, they should be vigilant to keep the real estate content in its proper place. Should you need to advertise listings on a personal page, include a link to a webpage that clearly states your business and your company logo to avoid a violation. The final most common violation of the Code of Ethics on social media is complaining about commissions. Doing so risks revealing confidential financial details about a client which will put you in violation of Article 1, SOP 1-9. This requires that REALTORS® preserve the privacy of confidential information about their clients even after their business relationship ends. If you have further questions on any aspect of the Code or how it relates to Social Media, you can contact our Professional Standards Administrator, Bob St. Gordon at bob@osceola-realtors.com, or by calling 407-846-0117. Also, the Legal Hotline through Florida REALTORS® is another free resource available to members from Monday-Friday 9am-5pm at 407-438-1409.
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WHAT VALUE DOES
A REALTOR® CONTRIBUTE TO A COMMUNITY? WINNING SCHOLARSHIP ESSAYS Each year, OSCAR’s Community Involvement Committee reaches a helping hand out to high school seniors in the county who are in need of financial assistance as they get ready to enter college. As tuition grows each year, students in high school are more and more in need to get the education they require to further their career goals and earning potential in adulthood. This year, OSCAR granted six $1000 scholarships to students who penned winning essays explaining the value Buying a house can be a very scary and emotional process. It is an important decision and a big purchase. In order to get through all the complications, buyers should enlist the help of a REALTOR®. A REALTOR® can be a trustworthy ally to have in your corner when facing the housing market. The dream of owning a house can be made possible with a REALTOR®. REALTORS® also work with sellers to come up with a good price and to show the home to potential buyers. They often work long hours doing research on homes to assist their clients. A REALTOR® will notify a buyer about various details of the house and make sure everything is functioning properly. A REALTOR® helps take the stress and pressure off buyer’s shoulders in such an emotional and important decision. REALTORS® are professionals who must pass an exam and take continuing education credits each year to stay on top of the newest regulations and trends in housing. They also must subscribe to the National Association of REALTORS’® Code of Ethics. Communities and individuals are benefitted by the professional work done by REALTORS®. Much work is done to put buyers and sellers together for a successful transaction. The hard work and determination displayed by REALTORS® help those seeking to achieve the dream of homeownership. Joshua Chanin
that REALTORS® like you bring to the community. Education is of cardinal importance for those hoping to create a successful path for themselves, and we recognize how crucial it is to help make tuition affordable. Here you will see our winning applicants and their winning essays explaining in detail from their own experience how REALTORS® have helped them and their communities in times of need.
A home is where somebody starts their life, and the development of many traditions. REALTORS® are an essential tool in the decision making process of starting one’s life. Stress free environments for homebuyers are facilitated through the completion of necessary paperwork and various other deeds. This opinion of REALTORS® has not come blindly from online research, but from personal experience. Eight years ago, I lived in Michigan, a state greatly affected by the recession. My mother was a REALTOR® for Gunther Homes. One day, she encountered a rare case, as a woman who had been touring an open house began crying. She was going through a divorce, removed from her former home due to the fact her name was not on the lease, and she was unable to have her children until she found a stable home. She had a stable job, but little money saved up since she was not expecting this shift in her life. My mom took this opportunity to show her the heart behind her occupation, offering the woman the chance to put $100 down on a $159,000 house as long as she could get a loan when the house was built. Due to my mother’s act of kindness, this woman was able to have custody of her children and finally give them a safe environment. REALTORS®, while not always showcasing their good deeds to the public, humbly improve the well-being of their community every day. - Alexis Coiner
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What does a home represent beyond the brick and mortar? To me home represents family, stability, comfort, and security. Although many people are involved in the home-buying process. one individual provides the very foundation for making their dreams a reality: the REALTOR®. These professionals work tirelessly behind the scenes and rarely receive the appreciation they deserve. Who is a REALTOR®? They wear many hats, including legal and financial consultants, family mediators, business liaisons, and relocation specialists. A REALTOR® must combine all these areas of expertise while maintaining an unwavering Code of Ethics. They are selfless individuals who serve their communities with pride and distinction. Not all heroes wear capes, in fact, they are usually nondescript, so much so that you wouldn’t even be able to spot them in a crowd. But they are the first ones to respond to your housing crisis, always making the impossible seem possible. REALTORS® are the backbone of their community, using their knowledge to incorporate personal and commercial needs. They are a driving force of economic growth, providing an invaluable resource for society. Everywhere you look, you will see the efforts of a REALTOR®. In a world where REALTORS® are under appreciated and undervalued, it’s time we recognize their valued place within our community. These unsung heroes are the light at the end of the tunnel. Providing a road map through a complicated maze. - Zachary Barton
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions a family can make - as it certainly was for mine. Often, hundreds of thousands of dollars and years of savings are poured into one sole decision; hence the importance of guidance cannot be understated. This is where the role of a REALTOR® truly comes in handy. REALTORS®, as licensed real estate professionals do so much more than simply completing a transaction; they are there to both guide and advise buyers and sellers to make the best financial - and emotional - decision. In 2006, when my family was looking to move to a better school district for my siblings contacted a REALTOR® in the area, knowing that they held significant advantages over the typical real estate agent. What drew my family to a REALTOR® was the concern for, and focus on, the customer, not just the transaction, as a REALTOR®’s fiduciary responsibility is to the client, not themselves (National Association of REALTORS®). This key difference holds great significance as it builds a trusting relationship with the community. The REALTOR® truly shapes, from the beginning, the feeling of community in a town or city. They ensure that each homebuyer is pleased and content, which only creates a compounding, cascading effect. In addition to all of this, REALTORS® make the home buying process straightforward, which only encourages individuals, and others to purchase homes again in the future, furthering economic prosperity in the community and surrounding area. - Nicholas Eynon
“We can’t accept your offer.” It was another disappointing episode in Morgan’s quest to find a home. Because her schedule allowed such a limited time to search and having located no suitable place to live, she would have to shift her search to another community. Without the aid of a REALTOR® professional, this scenario would play out all too often, ultimately affecting the prosperity of the community. If a buyer cannot find a home, she cannot establish herself in her community, therefor contribute to its economic growth and wellbeing. Ricardo Torres of HOMS Realty shared with me that having a professional representative makes the process quicker, safer, and easier for the client. A REALTOR® has the resources to match the buyer with the seller she may have otherwise never have found. There are negative impacts to an abundance of homes, often foreclosed homes, sitting in a vacant community. These include increased crime, falling property values, and deteriorating properties paving the way to deteriorating communities. According to REALTOR® Ben Schilling of Watson Realty, with whom I spoke, REALTORS® were crucial in moving countless numbers of homes out of foreclosure in Osceola County during the cash of 2008-2009. Numerous home sales may not have efficiently happened without REALTORS® who paired prequalified buyers with banks holding the foreclosed properties. Whether aiding newcomers in finding homes or locating buyers for vacant homes, REALTOR® professionals help our community thrive economically, socially, and physically. - Anna Hall
In the late summer of 2005, my aunt made the choice to buy herself a house. My aunt’s REALTOR® was constantly looking out for her best interests. My aunt had never bought a home before, so she was unfamiliar with the rules. Luckily REALTORS® stay current with updates to regulations, practices, and laws, and were able to avoid any hassle with potential sellers. Once my aunt found her soon-to-be home, her REALTOR® navigated her through the 50 pages of contracts and worked up an offer she could afford. The experience my aunt underwent is an example of what REALTOR® professionals contribute to the community; a straightforward aid in the purchase of real estate. Not only do they help us purchase our homes, but their business in certain areas economically impacts the area itself and improves the quality of life for everyone there. For example, my aunt’s new neighborhood was in ruins compared to her old one. Her REALTOR® assured her life would spark soon, and it did. My aunt’s REALTOR® along with her organization, drew up maps to help the town square budget even more life than before. The old town centers which used to hold mom and pops were rejuvenated because businesses, seeing investment returning to the area, began piling up on the newly refurbished vacant stores. REALTORS® help rejuvenate life to areas once deemed gone. Their involvement in the community is often overlooked in the grand scheme of things. They are truly heroes. - Angello Rennella
FOR AUGUST 1 ? st
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MARKET
OSCEOLA COUNTY
DYNAMICS 2 years (monthly) - 2.1.14 to 2.29.16 KEY INFORMATION CONSTRUCTION TYPE All
OSCEOLA SFH DISTRESSED VS. TOTAL SALES UNITS SOLD
BEDROOMS All
BATHROOMS All
PROPERTY TYPES Residential (Single Family Home)
LOT SIZE All SQ FT All
THIS DATA IS DEPENDENT UPON TIMELINESS OF SALES AND TOTALITY OF INFORMATION REPORTED BY PARTICIPANTS. THE DATA REFLECTS ONLY THE SALES PUBLISHED THROUGH THE MID-FLORIDA REGIONAL MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE (MFRMLS) AND DOES NOT INCLUDE ALL SALES IN REPORTED AREAS. NEITHER THE ASSOCIATION NOR THE MFRMLS IS IN ANY WAY RESPONSIBLE FOR ITS ACCURACY. DATA: TOTAL SALES = ALL MFRMLS OSCEOLA SINGLE FAMILY HOUSING (SFH) & PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD). (SFH), (PUD)-REO/BANK OWNED/SHORT SALE FROM SPECIAL SALE PROVISION. AVERAGE DAYS ON MARKET IS: DAYS TO CLOSED
SUPPLY & DEMAND NUMBER OF UNITS (FS) Monthly Change -19.20 Monthly % -0.65 Total Change -460.82 Total % Change -15.60
FOR SALE -15.6%
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MONTH’S SUPPLY OF INVENTORY (SOLD CALCULATION) Monthly Change -.06 Monthly % -0.95 Total Change -1.42 Total % Change -22.73
MSI SALE -22.7%
MEDIAN PRICE (SOLD) LOW, HIGH, AVERAGE, MEDIAN Monthly Change 963.81 Monthly % .61 Total Change 23,131.46 Total % Change 14.62
FOR SALE 14.6
OSCARAFFILIATES TECHOSCAR
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PROFESSIONAL
AFFILIATES ADVERTISING/ PUBLICATIONS 20/20 Media Joel Davis 2015 W. Donegan Ave Kissimmee, FL 34741 T 407-892-3885 joel.davis@2020mediaholdings.com Harmon Homes Pamela Cameron 4501 Hills and Dales Rd Canton, FL 44708 T 813-618-5117 F 813-661-9036 pamela.cameron@harmonhomes.com The Osceola Gazette Matt Plocha 108 Church St. Kissimmee, FL 34741 T 407-846-7600 ext107 F 407-846-8516 mplocha@osceolanewsgazette.com osceolanewsgazette.com The Real Estate Book Dustin Black 261 Specialty Point Sanford, FL 32771 T 407-878-1238 orlandorebook@ gmail.com
AGENT MARKETING SERVICES BrandAid Chris Florence 7354 Bent Grass Drive Winter Haven, FL 33884 T 863-557-7953 chris@brandaid.com www.abrandaid.com
Law Office of Daniel Villazon, P.A. 1420 Celebration Blvd. Celebration, FL 34747 T 407-483-0041 dvillazon@yahoo.com frecattorney.com Patricia Daugherty, Attorney at Law Patricia Daugherty 11 N Vernon Ave Kissimmee, FL 34741 T 407-518-7674 F 407-932-4387 pld@daughertyatlaw.com Quinones & Oliver, P.L. Leslie Zimmerly 11513 Lake Underhill Rd, Ste A Orlando, FL 32825 T 407-249-5050 F 407-249-5008 leslie@QFPO.com www.QFPO.com Roland H. Acosta & Associates Roland H. Acosta 399 Carolina Avenue, Suite 210 Winter Park, FL 32789 T 407-644-2531 F 407-628-9289 racosta@ acostaatlaw.com
CONSTRUCTION/ REPAIR/ RENOVATIONS Adams Homes of Northwest Florida Pete Chichetto 4401 VIneland Rd, Ste A-11 Orlando, FL 32811 T 407-523-1030 pchichetto@adamshomes.com
Diamondback Marketing Althea Garner 606 Chadbury Way Kissimmee, FL 34744 T 407-618-9420 diamondbackmarketing @gmail.com
Integrity Total Home Solutions Jeff Perry 2025 Hickory Tree Rd St Cloud, FL 34772 T 407-792-1101 F 407-870-9339 order@mytotalhomesolution.com www.mytotalhomsolution.com
Video Merge, LLC Joseph Terp 6917 Narcoossee Rd. Ste 716 Orlando, FL 32822 T 321-800-2121 josephterp@gmail.com www.home.buyerscallingyou.com
Linscott Plumbing Services Wayne Linscott 2009 Jaffa Dr. St. Cloud, FL 34771 T 407-891-1700 linscottplbg@aol.com
ATTORNEYS
Fred H Cumbie, Jr 100 Church St Kissimmee, FL 34741 T 407-847-5151 F 407-847-3353 fcumbie@omcflaw.com
FINANCIAL SERVICES/ INSTITUTIONS Butler Mortgage Barbara Bowling 1012 W. Emmett Street, Suite B Kissimmee, FL 34741 T 407-931-3800 F 407-931-3801 bblowling@ butlermortgage.com
Butler Mortgage Harry Urban 1012 W. Emmett St, Ste B Kissimmee, FL 34741 T 407-931-3800 F 407-931-3801 hurban@ butlermortgage.com Centennial Bank Sandra Rossetter 3552 13th Ave St. Cloud, FL 34769 T 407-556-0225 F 407-957-3022 srossetter@my100bank.com Centennial Bank Lori Giambrone 3552 13th Ave St. Cloud, FL 34769 T 407-556-0220 F 407-957-3022 lgiambrone@my100bank.com Centennial Bank Deanna Gastert Murphy 3552 13th Ave St. Cloud, FL 34769 T 407-556-0233 F 407-957-3022 dlmurphy@my100bank.com Centerstate Bank of Florida, N.A. Scott Johnson 920 North John Young Pkwy Kissimmee, FL 34746 T 407-847-3800 F 407-847-8482 sjohnson@centerstatebank.com Centerstate Bank of Florida, N.A. Fred Wright 349 W. Oak St Kissimmee, FL 34741 T 407-758-7486 fwright@nbcsecurities.com Columbus Capital Learning Yanett Bello 7232 Sand Lake Rd, Ste 103 Orlando, FL 32819 T 407-507-1492 F 786-762-3357 yanet.bello@columbuscl.com Equity Mortgage Bankers Odette Alaga-Tua 217 N Westmonte Dr, #2000 Altamonte Springs, FL 32714 T 407-504-5114 F 305-575-2580 oaliagatua@equitymb.com www.equitymb.com Farm Credit Jessica Slaughter 2301 Thonatasassa Rd, Plant City, FL 33563 T 813-719-7341 F 813-764-9741 jslaughter@farmcreditcfl.com
Farm Credit Erin Vermillion 115 S Missourri Ave, Ste 400 Lakeland, FL 33815 T 813-719-7341 F 813-764-9741 evermillion@farmcreditcfl.com Farm Credit Gayle Yanes 2301 Thonatasassa Rd, Plant City, FL 33563 T 813-719-7341 F 813-764-9741 gyanes@farmcreditcfl.com MB Financial John Rivera 13574 Village Park Dr, Ste 265 Kissimmee, FL 34741 T 407-412-5999 F 407-641-9021 jrivera@mbmortgage.com New American Funding Migues Mouriz 402 Broadway Kissimmee, FL 34741 T 321-249-6686 F 321-206-4596 miguel.mouriz@nafinc.com newamericanfunding.com Qubty Financial Group David Qubty 7680 Universal Blvd., Suite 405 Orlando, FL 32819-8998 T 407-370-3030 F 407-370-2040 dqubty@qubtyfinancialgroup.com Qubty Financial Group Sami D. Qubty 7680 Universal Blvd., Suite 405 Orlando, FL 32819-8998 T 407-370-3030 F 407-370-2040 dqubty@qubtyfinancialgroup.com Trustco Bank Sarah Near 1525 E Osceola Parkway Kissimmee, FL 34746 T 407-932-0398 F 407-932-0719 snear@branch.trustcobank.com trustcobank.com
HOME INSPECTION Amerispec Home Inspection Melinda Kalogridis P.O. Box 471038 Celebration, FL 34747 T 407-607-4302 inspect@amerispec.net
Budget Services Ed Hogan 3617 Crosley Ave St Cloud, FL 34772 T 407-892-8811
OSCARAFFILIATES REVIEWOSCAR
031 Buy Your Side Inspection Tommy Joynes 1101 Pennsylvania Ave St. Cloud, FL 34769 T 407-780-0911 thefloridainspector.@gmail.com thefloridainspector.com
Ralicon Home Inspection Jose Fernandez 10136 Silmarien St Orlando, FL 32825 T 407-408-6453 raliconjose@aol.com raliconhomeinspection.com
Closer Look Home Inspections Keith Wilson 7862 W. Irlo Bronson Hwy, #115 Kissimmee, FL 34747 T 407-319-4608 Keith@closer-look-inspections.com www.closer-look-inspections.com
Sitepoint Inspection Services, Inc Luis Nigaglioni 529 Burford Circle Davenport, FL 33896 T 321-278-9238 luis@sitepointinspection services.com
Firm Foundation Home Inspections,Inc. Aubrey Kahn 2200 Sylvan Court Kissimmee, FL 34746 T 321-624-0254 akahn.firmfoundations @gmail.com tophomeinspection.com ELG Group, LLC Geraroldo Nunez 2213 Grand Cayman CT Ste 111 Kissimmee, FL 34743 T 407-791-2991 gnunez@ELG @gmail.com Housemaster Home Inspections Colin Williams 527 Brack Street Kissimmee, FL 34744 T 407-343-4677 F 407-947-5354 cawilliams@housemaster.com osceola.housemaster.com
Housemaster Home Inspections Ruth Quinones 527 Brack Street Kissimmee, FL 34744 T 407-343-4677 F 407-947-5354 info.osceola@housemaster.com osceola.housemaster.com
Housemaster Home Inspections Erica Santana 527 Brack Street Kissimmee, FL 34744 T 407-343-4677 F 407-947-5354 sales.osceola@housemaster.com osceola.housemaster.com
Zap Home Inspections Adrian Colon 3037 Booting Dr Kissimmee, FL 34759 T 407-870-2630 zap9@juno.com
REAL ESTATE SCHOOLS/ EDUCATION IFREC Real Estate Schools Richard Fryer 5029 Edgewater Drive Orlando, FL 32810 T 407-644-7277 F 407-647-5227 robin@ifrec.com
REALTOR速 SERVICES Creating Wealth USA, LLC August Byllot P.O. Box 470654 Celebration, FL 34747 T 863-255-5858 augie@creatingwealthusa.com creatingwealthusa.com
Garrison Property Services Joe Garrison P.O. Box 510 Dundee, FL 33838 T 863-439-6550 F 863-292-0846 joe@garrisonland.com garrisonpropertyservices.com
TITLE/ESCROW/ INSURANCE SERVICES A-Z Team Title, LLC Bernard S. Edwards 102 Park Place Blvd. Kissimmee, FL 34743 T 407-932-0529 F 407-932-1587 bernie@azteamtitle.com
Pillar to Post Sam Grasso 8200 Lynch Dr. Orlando, FL 32835 T 407-512-5995 F 407-512-6707 sam.grasso@ pillartopost.com www.pillartopost.com/samgrasso
American Latin Title Maria de Fatima De Assuneao 13574 Village Park Dr. , Ste 135 Orlando, FL 32837 T 407-363-7704 F 407-363-7706 Fatima@americanlatintitle.com www.americanlatintitle.com
Pillar to Post / Kelemen Home Inspection, LLC Bryan Kelemen 5348 Mill Stream Dr St Cloud, FL 34771 T 321-895-5019 bryan.kelemen@ pillartopost.com www.pillartopost.com
Brokers Title Services, LLC Teresa C. Tavera 5401 S. Kirkman Rd, Suite 207 Orlando, FL 32819 T 407-476-2033 F 407-413-8745 teresa@brokerstitleservices.com
Brokers Title Services, LLC Fresa Tavera 5401 S. Kirkman Road, Suite 207 Orlando, FL T 407-476-2033 D 407-413-8745 fresa@brokerstitleservices.com www.BrokersTitle Services.com First American Title Catherine Acosta 150 W Oak St Kissimmee FL, 34741 T 407-335-3205 F 866-722-5957 cacosta@firstam.com First InternationalTitle Shelly Dukes 1155 Miranda Ln Kissimmee FL, 34741 T 407-350-3338 F 407-350-5966 shelly@firstplatinumtitle.com First InternationalTitle Bobbi Jo Justice 1155 Miranda Ln Kissimmee FL, 34741 T 407-350-3338 F 407-350-5966 bobbijojustice@firstintitle.com First InternationalTitle Tammy Dietz 12 S Clyde Ave Kissimmee FL, 34741 T 407-350-3338 F 407-350-5966 tammy.dietz@firstintitle.com Infinity Title Group Samantha Andrade 714 N John Young Pkwy Kissimmee, FL 34741 samantha@infinitytitlegroup.com Integrity First Title Betty M. Dobbie 3239 Lorimar Ln St Cloud, FL 34741 T 407-846-4500 F 407-846-4533 bdobbie@integrityft.com North American Title Co Kent Rayborn 1635 E Hwy 50, Ste 102 Clermont, FL 34711 T 407-466-5253 F 866-421-0261 krayborn@nat.com North American Title Co Tammy Strauch 5900 Turkey Lake Rd, Ste C Orlando, FL 32819 T 407-363-0922 tstrauch@nat.com Paragon TItle Group Tina Johnson 1222 Ingram St Kissimmee, FL 34744 T 407-847-0412 F 407-847-0429 docs@paragontitlegroup.com paragontitlegroup.com
Quality Title & Escrow LLC Lisa Bennett 1801 Lee Road, Suite 205 Winter Park, FL 32789 T 321-304-3906 F 321-304-3009 lisa@qtefl.com
Stewart Title Rhonda Owen 1401 Budinger Ave. St. Cloud, FL 34769 T 407-846-7477 F 407-846-6573 rowen@stewart.com Stewart Title Rayelynne Ketchum 1401 Budinger Ave. St.Cloud, FL 34769 T 407-957-9000 F 407-957-8055 rketchum@stewart.com Tiede Insurance Allstate Craig Tiede 2342 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial HWY Kissimmee, FL 34744 T 407-744-0043 Craigtiede@allstate.com
OTHER SERVICES Budget Blinds of St Cloud Rak Sharma 13526 Hidden Forest Cir Orlando, FL 32828 T 321-766-4023 rsharma@budgetblinds.com Cutco Closing Gifts Aaron Ludin 1035 Covington St Oviedo, FL 32765 T 407-692-8868 aaron@orlandobranding.com Heritage Park Inn Chalencia Seay 2050 E. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy Kissimmee, FL 34744 T 407-846-4545 F 407-932-2268 Sea@TheHeritageParkInn.com Kemp Howland Photography Kemp Howland 355 Falling Waters Dr Poinciana, FL 34759 T 407-222-4847 F 407-705-2562 kemp.howland@gmail.com Molly Maid Tim Rasner 4107 Neptune Rd St Cloud, FL 34769 T 407-498-2256 F 407-493-2254 timrasner@mollymaid.com Systeco Pet Control Cesar Vergara P.O. Box 623475 Oveido, FL 32765 T 407-832-9124 info@systecoservices.com Wild Palms Productions Victor Salgado 2420 Cypress Trace Circle Orlando, FL 328254 T 321-948-3512 wildpalmsproductions@gmail.com wildpalmspro.com
Osceola County Association of REALTORS® 1105 Shady Lane • Kissimmee, FL 34744
Nadia Aguilar - Premium Properties Real Estate Services Serrato Norlelly Arce - DBG Realty Magda Coromoto Arencibia - 4Sell Realty Team LLC Kelly Armstrong - La Rosa Realty LLC David Harold Azmier - Keller Williams Classic II Realty Suzy Kovacs Azmier - Keller Williams Classic II Realty Dore Ann Baratta - BHHS Florida Realty Celeste LaRue Barnes - BHHS Results Realty Amanda Bartlett - Juan Carlos Tolosa Fayek Basanda - Keller Williams Classic II Realty Lawrence August Becerra - Exit Realty Champions Edna Berastain - Weichert Realtors Hallmark Pro Justin Brian Berrier - Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty Krishnakumar Bhoj - La Rosa Realty LLC Virandeep Birdi - Exit Realty Champions Glamarlys Maria Blasetti - Homepride Realty Services Patricia Torres Calderon - Keller Williams Advantage III Elena Gabriela Cantos - My Florida Real Estate Group LLC Nilsa Ann Carlone - Robles Realty International, LLC Angelica Castro - Marcelino Correia Jose Gabriel Checo - V Properties Inc Virgilio Ciliberti - Agent Trust Realty Victorya Ann Cole Watanabe - Cole W Realty, LLC Ramon Lorenzo Colon - Keller Williams Advantage III Cheryl Knight Conway - Keller Williams at The Lakes Larry Eugene Cooke - All Star Vacation Home Realty Ballesteros Sonia Crespo - Transcontinental Realty Group Maria Olga Dancaescu - All Star Vacation Home Realty Alexandre Gomes DaSilva - Deconova International Realty Mario De Caprio - Premium Properties Real Estate Services Desmond Devariste - Florida Realty Investments Jocelyn Yvette Diaz - Cooperative Real Estate Orlando Luz Natividad Diaz - La Rosa Realty LLC Lois Harmon Dimos - Coldwell Banker Solomon Lauren Ashley Dunham - La Rosa Realty LLC Miguel Angel Elvira - Weichert Realtors Hallmark Pro Sean Esdaille - The Property Firm Alexandra Evangelista - Keller Williams Classic II Realty Christopher Fahey - Re/Max Realtec Group Jose Fernandez - Ralicon Home Inspection Trifily Antonio Forkin - Deconova International Realty Rogelio DeJesus Gallo - Anchor Homes Realty INC Joe Garrison - Fusilier Realty Group Deanna Gassert-Murphy - Centennial Bank Lori Giambrone - Exit Realty Champions Manuel Alberto Gil Pino - La Rosa Realty LLC Beatriz Goenaga - Keller Williams Advantage III Ivelisse Margarita Gonzalez Almanzar - BHHS Results Realty Lekeyra Denise Grace - The Property Pros Real Estate, Inc Richard Charles Griffin - International Florida Brokers LLC Juan David Grisales - Florida Real Estate Group, Inc Juan Gutierrez - Keller Williams Classic II Realty Maricela Guzman - HomeStar Realty LLC Eber Alcantara Heguedusch - La Rosa Realty LLC Janet Hoffman - Dorn Lane Realty Fernando Luis Homs - Keller Williams at The Lakes John Iannone - Waypoint Real Estate Group Inc Yesenia Maribel Inamagua - Keller Williams at The Lakes Dennis Junior Irizzary - Premium International Realty Bernard Jackson - Homepride Realty Services, Inc Francesca Michelle Jeanty - OneRes International Realty Aamir Khan - Rezone PLLC Cherie Justine Kittrell - DGL Realty, LLC Milinda Porferia Knollinger - DeNike Realty and Property Management LLC Michael Lagaipa - Realty of Celebration Robert Landrove - Re/Max Blue Water Kemeisha Lawrence - International Florida Brokers LLC Belinda Leonard - Watson Realty Corp. Catherine Cannon Littleton - La Rosa Realty LLC Robert Arthur Littleton - Re/Max Prime Properties Yunfei Liu - Dorn Lane Realty Cesar Jesus Lugaro - HomeStar Realty LLC Chirly Karina Luzardo - Keller Williams at The Lakes Humberto Rafael Madrid - National Real Estate LLC Molly Malone - Homepride Realty Services, Inc BHHS FL Realty Jenice Marcial - Zea Realty & Associates Nicholas Mariano - Keller Williams at The Lakes Jose Orlando Martinez - Empire Network Realty Inc. Stephanie Martinez - Exit Realty Champions Cameron Maurer - Keller Williams at The Lakes Jennifer Annette McCarty - La Rosa Realty LLC Christine McKibbin Moire - Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty Diana Medina - La Rosa Realty LLC Charlin Medina Vazquez - La Rosa Realty LLC Noel Methot - Homepride Realty Services, Inc Anthony Mondello - Resident Team Realty, LLC Wanda Evelyn Morales Feliciano - The Property Pros Real Estate, Inc Sierra Idaris Morales - La Rosa Realty LLC Cecilia Moran - La Rosa Realty LLC Migues Mouriz - Realty of Celebration Farid Nasr - Keller Williams Advantage III Andreas Neumann - Neumann Real Estate Group Milton Ovilo - Watson Realty Corp Kevin Oulds - Weichert Realtors Hallmark Pro Madeline Pagan - La Rosa Realty LLC Maribel Pagan - BHHS Results Realty Eric Daniel Palace - C21 Blue Sky Realty Maria Palavino - Homs Realty Group Inc. Brendan Paul - Prestige Realty Professionals LLC Desiree Patricia Paul - Contempo Real Estate, Inc. Yevgeniya Pavlova - Weichert Realtors Hallmark Pro Katherine Marie Perez Arroyo - Keller Williams at The Lakes Jimmy Perez - Sundance of Florida CF, Inc. Maria Pergamalis - The Property Firm David Brooke Pfautz - Empire Network Realty Inc. Stephen Pisciotta - Keller Williams at The Lakes Odette Ann Potter - Watson Realty Corp. Megan Lynn Powers - Better Homes & Gardens Fine Living
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Bi Hua Qiu - La Rosa Realty LLC Kelvin Quinones - Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty Ruth Quinonez - Housemaster Home Inspections Jean Paul Quintero - V Properties, Inc. Melissa Maria Quintero - BHHS Results Realty Victor Quintero - Keller Williams Advantage III Felix Ramos - La Rosa Realty LLC Rebecca Gail Redman Hamaoui - Team Donovan Cynthia Lee Reyes - Coldwell Banker Solomon Lucy Reyes - La Rosa Realty LLC Marie Elizabeth Riahi - Sunstar Realty LLC Nancy Newman Riffe - Davis Real Estate Group Rachel Rigby - Juan Carlos Tolosa Maria Estela Rincon Dwyer - Beaulieu Realty, LLC Dianne Rivera - Ameriteam Realty, Inc. Naida Rivera - Agent Trust Realty Corporation Rebecca Rivera - Preferred Real Estate Brokers Mary Robeants - C21 Blue Sky Realty Group Anabel Rodriguez - Odry Vargas Realty Group Geovanny Rodriguez - La Rosa Realty LLC Jacqueline Rodriguez Gonzalez - Deconova International Realty Jose Gabriel Rodriguez - Jose Orlando Rodriguez Libia Eugenia Rodriguez - American International Realty Anastasia Cristina Rojas - Orlando Rents Free, LLC Francisco Romero - Keller Williams Classic II Realty Terry Romero - Keller Williams Advantage III Morelba Rosal- Afton Properties, LLC Brenda Rosario - Weichert Realtors Hallmark Pro Roselin Rosario - Weichert Realtors Hallmark Pro Jean-Paul Ross - The Property Pros Real Estate, Inc Shandra Rosseter - Centennial Bank Jeffrey Donald Rude - Re/Max Realtec Group Cynthia Salgado - REMAX Premier Properties Louis Salvemini - Universal Trust Properties Alberto Sanchez - Century 21 All Homes & Property Lourdes Milagros Santa - La Rosa Realty LLC Eulalio Martinez Rodriguez - Keller Williams Advantage III Bellanira Aurura Santana - La Rosa Realty LLC Luis Alberto Santiago - Watson Realty Corp Pedro Santiago - La Rosa Realty LLC Melissa Santiago Villarrubia - Evista Resources Realty Inc George Scarpitta - Homs Realty Group Inc. Keith Schauer - Premium Properties Real Estate Services Maria Teresa Serrano-Colon - Broker & Partners Barry Stephen Sheehan - Dream Builders Realty Mary Shull - Watson Realty Corp Anicka Varteen Simon - La Rosa Realty LLC Larry Reid Smith - Re/Max Realtec Group Sinnia Sosa - Florida Realty Marketplace LLC Magda Regina Souza - La Rosa Realty LLC Suzette St Remy - Weichert Realtors Hallmark Pro Luz Amparo Starette - Re/Max Prime Properties Amanda Sym - Keller Williams Classic II Realty Earl Taitt - Sunstar Realty LLC Jennifer Jewell Thompson - BHHS Results Realty Carl Robert Trauger - Better Homes & Gardens Fine Living Patrica Vera - Cole W Realty, LLC Kimberly Lisa Weems - Keller Williams at The Lakes Sean Wilson - Coldwell Banker Ackley Realty Victoria Zook - La Rosa Realty LLC
AFFILIATE
OFFICES Budget Blinds of St Cloud Centennial Bank Columbus Capital Lending CUTCO Closing Gifts Garrison Property Services, LLC Integrity Total Home Solutions MB Financial Bank New American Funding Ralicon Home Inspection