SAR Annual Report - 2012-1 by REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee

2012: A New Era Begins at SAR 2012 Annual Report Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. 3590 South Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34239 Phone: 941/923-2315 FAX: 941/923-0191 www.sarasotarealtors.com www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

2012 SAR Officers President Laura Benson Michael Saunders & Company President-Elect Roger Piro Town & Country Realty Secretary Stafford Starcher RE/MAX Alliance Group Treasurer Peter Crowley RE/MAX Alliance Group Immediate Past President Michael Bruno Michael Saunders & Company Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roberts

2012 SAR Board of Directors Adam Chicoine Michael Saunders & Company David Clapp RE/MAX Alliance Group Michael Davenport King Realty Bryan Guentner RE/MAX Platinum Realty Joe C. Hembree Hembree & Associates Anthony Homer Ian Black Real Estate Debbie Judge Michael Saunders & Company Bob Milhoan Hembree & Associates Christina Pitchford Allen Real Estate Carla Rayman Coldwell Banker Drayton Saunders Michael Saunders & Company Bob Stanley Coldwell Banker Kristin Triolo Atchley International Realty Xena Vallone Xena Vallone Realty

2012 SAR Board members Stafford Stafford, Michael Bruno, Peter Crowley, Laura Benson and Roger Piro join with SAR CEO Kathy Roberts (second from right) at the July 11th groundbreaking for the new headquarters.

H H

istory was made in 2012 with the start of construction on the new headquarters for the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, a flagship, state-of-the-art

15,000-square-foot facility located at 2320 Cattlemen Road. The project, scheduled for completion in the spring of 2013, is the result of teamwork and vision that began a decade ago, and is now close to final fruition. This focus on teamwork was at the forefront as our organization began its 89th year under the leadership of President Laura Benson and Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roberts. SAR’s 20 Directors and dozens of committee members, under the direction of dynamic chairs and vice chairs, worked tirelessly in 2012 to achieve positive results and propel the organization forward. We take a look back at a remarkable year, and once again look ahead to 2013 our 90th anniversary year! As 2012 SAR President Laura Benson remarked at the beginning of her term, “I know we will have a great year because of what we will do together.” The results speak for themselves!

Contents 3

Member Benefits ... SAR members are eligible for incredible benefits

Finance ... Association remains healthy, fiscally sound

Public Policy ... We’re at the table - and we’re making a difference

Community Outreach ... Habitat for Humanity partnership continues

Green Realtors® ... Environmental initiatives on the leading edge

Global Business Council ... SAR helps attract international players

SAR Affiliates ... Strong business partnerships give SAR the edge

CID ... Commercial Realtors® enjoy a year of progress

14-15

New Era ... SAR’s new headquarters is now under construction

ear hy

he do

ues

Savings, Benefits and Privileges - SAR Advantage

Member Benefits Committee: Reviews and analyzes

proposed programs, products, and services to evaluate the potential benefits to membership and the Association. The SAR Member Benefits Committee is continually looking for products and services that are offered exclusively to members, and which can also generate non-dues revenue for SAR. These benefits help attract and retain members. SAR is committed to saving our members (Realtors®/ Affiliates) money through a variety of other professional partnerships. Below are SAR Member Benefits made available by vendors who recognize and appreciate the potential buying power of our members. - Adventure Hot Tubs and Pools: Offers Members and their clients Special Savings - AFLAC: Offers individual plans at Association pricing - Bentley’s Boutique Hotel in Osprey: SAR Members and their Clients get a special discount rate - BJ’s: Special savings on annual membership - Burritos Mexican Grill: Show business card and receive 15 percent off entire order (including take-out) - Canada Med Services: Discount on prescriptions - Constant Contact: 20 percent discount off published rate - Costco Wholesale: $10 or $20 Costco Cash Card for joining - Dignity Memorial: Bereavement Program which includes a 10 percent savings and a lot more - Eager Beaver Car Wash: $5 to $20 off Car Wash Services - Enterprise Car Rental: SAR corporate rate plan discount - Florida International University: $10,000 scholarship available for SAR Members - Goff Wireless-Sprint: 20 percent off Sprint’s monthly rate plan

- hhgregg: Exclusive offers on appliance, electronic and bedding - Hyatt Regency: Corporate rate of $129 to Dec 31, 2012 - Immobel.com: Members have the ability to set up a FREE, 13-language web site and a plug-in for Facebook. - LA Fitness: will offer our members a discount on monthly dues and enrollment fees - Legal Shield: Receive a 25 percent discount off their membership - National Cremation: Save $100 on membership fee off any pre-arranged package - Office Depot: providing a comprehensive and price competitive Business Supplies program to MFRMLS members. - On1 Cycle: Enjoy amazing savings of 25% off all classes - Realtor® Federal Credit Union: Great rates and loans for Realtors® - Realtor® Team Store: SAR members receive a 5 percent discount - Sam’s Club: $10 or $25 gift card for renewing or joining - SARDentalPlans.com: 20 percent off any plan - Sarasota Lock and Key: Offering SAR members a 15% discount off goods and services. - Send Out Cards: Providing specialized training for Realtors®/Affiliates at no charge - SRQrents.com: 50% off on Featured Property ads and Business ads - Sutherland Tax Services: 20 percent savings to all SAR members Watch for more exciting benefits in 2013! Committee Members: Chair Jayne Lupson; Vice Chair Joe C. Hembree; David Leventhal; Renee Marquis; Judith Turrentine; Tom Ulrey; and Peggy Wright.

Reliable Information Starts With Communications

Communications Committee: Assures that SAR is

the single source of accurate, reliable information on our industry in the Sarasota market. The 2012 SAR Annual Report is the brainchild of the Communications Committee, but the Committee is responsible for much more than this 16-page piece. Communications is also responsible for the public-facing web site, currently under development. The site will be launched in late 2012, and have the website URL www. livinginsarasotaflorida.com. The primary purpose is to educate the public on the importance of the Realtor® in the Sarasota area, and the value of SAR.

www.sarasotarealtors.com

In addition, the Committee provides feedback and direction to staff on a variety of media-related activities press releases, statistics, the annual statewide open house, and much more. The committee is currently studying the monthly statistical report issued by SAR with the plan to revamp the presentation to better suit our members and their day-to-day business. Committee Members: Chair Brian Meskil; Vice-Chair - Andrea Smith; Darla Furst; Debbie Judge; and David Kavolsky

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

YTD Revenues: January through October 2012

YTD Expenses: January through October 2012 MLS Public Policy Professional Development Membership

International CID Operations

SAR Financial Health Remains Strong

Careful financial planning by the Sarasota Association of Realtors® has resulted in a debt-free association, with day-today operations as well as long-term needs addressed in the annual budget process. Faced with a difficult national and local economy in the

6000 5000

SAR Membership

past few years, SAR has remained fiscally sound, and able to build a new headquarters facility (see P. 14-15). SAR Finance Committee Members: Peter Crowley, Chair; Matt Cannon; Darla Furst; Roger Piro; Bob Stanley; and Stafford Starcher.

Affiliate/Auxiliary

Realtor Member

Total Members

4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Dec. 31, 2001

Dec. 31, 2002

Dec. 31, 2003

Dec. 31, 2004

Dec. 31, 2005

Dec. 31, 2006

Dec. 31, 2007

Dec. 31, 2008

Dec. 31, 2009

Dec. 31, 2010

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 31, 2012 (projected)

SAR Membership Growing Steadily in 2012 Membership in the Sarasota Association of Realtors® began to decline in 2006 when the real estate boom ended. But SAR’s overall membership stabilized within two years and has been relatively stable since then, showing steady growth throughout 2012.

2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

Affiliate membership has been growing rapidly for the past two years. Monthly orientation classes have averaged 35 new and returning Realtors® over the past several months, and interest in careers in real estate has been steady.

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Forging Strong Relationships in Sarasota

Public Policy Committee: Involves members in the

political process through education, information, and grassroots involvement. SAR’s Public Policy Committee has been active in staying attuned to local issues that may have an effect on our members and their clients. The Committee achieves this by building close relationships with elected officials and professional staff. During the past year, speakers from the City of Sarasota, Sarasota County School Board, and Sarasota County Commission provided information about challenges and opportunities facing each of their organizations. In February SAR members traveled to Tallahassee to participate in Great American Realtor® Days. During the two day event, meetings were held with Senator Nancy Detert, Representative Ray Pilon and Senator Michael Bennett. These meetings were designed to provide information and feedback on important issues impacting the Realtor profession.

Starting in August and continuing until November Public Policy together with Florida Realtors® Leadership Academy participants worked on educating SAR members and the general public about Constitutional Amendment 4. Speakers were provided for Power Marketing and other activities and approximately 1,700 SAR members were contacted during a public policy phone bank held on October 22nd. For the upcoming year, Public Policy will continue to forge strong relationships with elected officials and staff and continue to provide input on issues relevant to SAR members and the real estate industry in general. Committee Members: Chair - Dan McLeroy; Vice-Chair - Susan Goldstein; Laura Benson; Mike Bruno; Lee Byron; Bill Geller; Brad Lindberg; Bob Milhoan; Christina Pitchford; Drayton Saunders; Larry Schaper; Pete Skokos; and Morris Smith.

Political Initiatives Keep SAR At the Table Single Family - 2012 Single Family - 2012 Condominium - 2012

RPAC (Realtor Political Action Committee): Conduct SARPAAT (Political Action Advisory Trustees): (first 10 months) (first 10 months) 10 months) awareness campaigns, programs and activities to raise(first funds Encourage Realtors to take a more active role in governmental for the support of candidates and real estate issues. affairs and inform members of the records of candidates for Sales— 10.7% 7.6% Sales— Up 7.6% SAR’s 2012Sales— RPACUpcontribution goal was $47,805. Due to Upoffice. an increase in major donors and several outreach attempts to The Sarasota Association of Realtors® Political Action membership,Months the committee wasDown able38% to surpass the goal andof Inventory— of Inventory— Months County of Inventory— Down 3 Advisory Trustees interviewed candidates for Sarasota Months Down 34% finish 2012 with total RPAC contributions of $49,773, or 4 Commission and Sarasota County Charter Review Board. percent over goal with a participation rate of 16 percent. Fifteen candidates appeared before the group, resulting in Median Price— Up 9.5% Median Sale Price— Up 12.3% worthwhile projects Median Sale Price— Up 12.3% Funds raised by RPAC help support andSalepolitical endorsements for the primary and general elections. efforts in support of the real estate industry. The contributions Fourteen of the 15 candidates endorsed won seats. Sales Volume— Up 15.4% Sales Volume— Up 15.4% Totalthe Sales Volume— Up 16% by individualsTotal amount to paying “business insurance” for Committee Members: Chair - Linda Emery; Total Vice-Chair real estate industry. Roger Piro; Laura Benson; Mike Bruno; Peter Crowley; Bill CommitteeDistressed Members: Laura Benson Chair; Bill Furst; Janet Geller; Malave; Dan McLeroy; Dan Page; Deborah Distressed Sales —Andres Down 22.3% Sales — Down 16.8% Distressed Sales — Down 16.8 Huff; Claudette Krijger; Andres Malave; and Linda Witt. Rempert; Steve Ross; and Stafford Starcher.

2012 - The Year in Numbers Single Family - 2012 (first 10 months)

Condominium - 2012 (first 10 months)

Sales— Up 7.6%

Sales— Up 10.7%

Months of Inventory— Down 38%

Months of Inventory— Down 34%

Median Sale Price— Up 12.3%

Median Sale Price— Up 9.5%

Total Sales Volume— Up 15.4%

Total Sales Volume— Up 16%

Distressed Sales — Down 16.8%

Distressed Sales — Down 22.3%

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Single Family - 2012 (first 10 months)

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Condominium - 2012 (first 10 months)

SAR provides our members and the general public with - 2012 Single Family monthly statistical charts, (first 10 months) numbers and analysis of the local real estate market. The statistics are pulledSales— on theUp 7.6% 10th day of each month for the prior month, in orderof Inventory— Down 3 Months to take into account late reporting of closings. They Median Sale Price— Up 12.3% are then distributed to the SAR leadership, membership, and the public through our Volume— Up 15.4% Total Sales media partners. These are numbers reflecting the first 10 months ofDistressed market Sales — Down 16.8 activity by SAR members, Jan. 1, 2012 through Oct. 31, 2012 2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

Single Family - 2012 (first 10 months)

Making A Difference

Community Outreach again partners with Habitat for Humanity

Community Outreach Committee:

Evaluates, recommends and organizes projects that benefit the community, enhances the image of Realtors®, and provides opportunities for networking and camaraderie. It is not an exaggeration to say that hundreds of Realtors® and affiliate members of Sarasota Association of Realtors® play integral roles in non-profit organizations throughout the Sarasota area. One of the focused efforts in recent years has been the partnership of SAR with Habitat for Humanity, rehabilitating foreclosed homes for families to purchase through the local arm of the national organization. This year’s project at 5812 Countrywood Drive was a three-bedroom home located in the Sarasota Springs neighborhood off Cattlemen Road. After the complete home and property renovation made possible by SAR, the home was purchased by Cori Heflin, a single mom raising her two-yearThe Community Outreach Committee once again assisted a local family on old son, Desmond. a Habitat for Humanity home rehabilitation project in 2012. From left are: “I’m so appreciative of SAR for Roxanne Foley; Cindi Shoe; Chair Elaine Adair; Habitat family Desmond sponsoring my new home,” said Cori as she and Cori Heflin; and David Leventhal. worked on her new yard on the first SAR project work day in early March. “This is a dream come true hours of sweat equity in order to purchase a home through the Habitat program. SAR members participated in the for me, and I can’t wait to move in with Desmond.” demolition, landscaping, painting and much more, while SAR and Habitat have worked hand in hand for several working with and getting to know Cori and her family. years on a variety of community-minded projects. This “Helping another local family achieve the dream of year’s endeavor was made possible through a Habitat for homeownership is a wonderful experience for all the Humanity Sarasota TEAM BUILD, in which dozens of local volunteers,” said Elaine Adair, chair of the committee. “Our Realtors® volunteered hundreds of hours to renovate the relationship with the entire Habitat organization and its staff home from the ground up. and volunteers has been amazing and heart-warming, and we SAR members not only provided an incredible amount hope to continue these kinds of projects for many years to of volunteer hours, but also made a $25,000 financial come. contribution to Habitat Sarasota for this TEAM BUILD. In December, the group will also help staff the Lights The sponsorship was made possible through the Sarasota in Bloom event at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens for the Association of Realtors®’ Affordable Housing Fund, second holiday season. established several years ago through The Community Members: Chair Elaine Adair; Gail Bowden; Foundation of Sarasota County, Inc. Sarasota Association Committee of REALTORS® Hylda Fenton; Like all home recipients, Cori was required to put in 300+Strategic PlanCindi Shoe; Michael Bruno; John Scherden; 2013-2015 David Leventhal; Roxanne Foley; Randy Schweitzer.

Mission The mission of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® is to advance members’ professionalism through delivery of education and resources while upholding the Realtors® Code of Ethics. We are committed to be the leading advocate of real estate in the communities we serve by protecting private property rights and expanding relationships with individuals and organizations both locally and worldwide. 6

2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com Vision To be the trusted resource for real estate professionals and the community.

GRAS Tackles Environmental Goals

Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota: Develops

education programs and resources to further the preservation of our environment and natural resources as it pertains to real estate. The mission of the Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota is to be a resource for the preservation of our environment and natural resources as it pertains to real estate. The premise of the group is that being a good steward of the environment and the community is good for real estate and future development. The trend in Sarasota and around the country is towards “green” practices in new construction, retrofitting, and environmental care. Wanda Kerr, current GRAS chair, has been a member of the group since its inception in 2007. 2012 - GRAS Accomplishments The following events were held to help Realtors® understand how being Green not only helps the environment, but adds value to real estate and saves money in property maintenance. Feb 22nd - “Greening of the MLS” New search options were added to the MLS, which was a great accomplishment. This seminar was very instructive as a teaching tool to learn both the importance of inputting green fields in entering listings and how to find these fields when doing searches. May 16th - New Building Code Attendees learned about the newly-adopted Florida Building Code and the changes that may impact the cost of construction as well as property insurance issues that impact

properties. Aug 15th - Future Trends in Green This seminar provided an opportunity to learn about the different levels of Green certification, trends in retro fitting, as well as the FHA Program for Energy Efficient mortgages. Nov 27th “Green Building- so what’s it worth?” This was an update on how the MLS is getting green, then a joint presentation with the Myakka River Branch USGBC LEED for Homes Committee and the HBAM’S Green Council to hear Sandra Adomatis, SRA, an Appraiser who teaches appraisers how to value “green” features when appraising a property. This is valuable information from an expert on evaluating “green” features. Members of GRAS also participated in the Coastal Cleanup in September. Future trends include expanding and strengthening alliances with other Green Realtor® organizations to include Manatee, Venice, and other neighboring associations and perhaps even extending to the Toronto Real Estate Board with over 35,000 members and their Green Committee. GRAS is also looking into more sharing of information with other organizations such as the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program. GRAS has accomplished a lot since its inception in 2007 as a pioneer organization, and the future is limitless. Committee Members: Wanda Kerr, Chair; Christina Pitchford, Vice Chair; Elaine Adair; Alex Boakes; Susan Matteoli; Jaclyn Ohman; Jennifer Putnam; Tracy Seider; Pauline Villeno; and Albert Wooster.

SAR Awards Scholarships to Four Students

Scholarship Committe: Solicits scholarship applications, conducts applicant interviews and selects recipients. Once again in 2012, SAR awarded four $2,000 scholarships to deserving students in our local community, helping to further the education of our greatest asset - our children. The Scholarship Committee, led by chair Margo MacKenzie, reviewed dozens of applications from SAR-related students and the general public. The process was extremely difficult, due to the high volume and high achievement level of the applicants. The four students selected were Vincent Tan (Florida State University), Gerard MacKinnon (University of Florida), Jack Jeskey (University of Central Florida) and Samantha Byrne (University of Tampa). The awardees were honored at the June 14th SAR membership meeting at the Der Dutchman Restaurant. Committee Members: Margo MacKenzie; Iva FadleyDane; Judy Hockett, Bernardo Gonzalez; Brian Hays

www.sarasotarealtors.com

From left are Vincent Tan, Jack Jeskey and Gerard MacKinnon (not pictured - Samantha Byrne), SAR Scholarship Awardees, shown at the June SAR Quarterly Membership Meeting.

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

LIVE THE G

It’s All About Location. Kenilworth Estates is a new D.R. Horton community located West of the Trail and just minutes from the Bay. Here buyers will find the tranquility and elegance of tropical coastal living without giving up the conveniences of being in town. Spacious and luxurious, Kenilworth Estates features homes range from 2,325 to 4,363 square feet.* These 1 and 2 story homes also include covered lanais with pavers, tile roofs and pool with spas.** If looking for a brand new home located in the prestigious area known as “West of Trail,” look no further than Kenilworth Estates.

At Kenilworth Estates, homeowners are close to... • Siesta Key Beach • Top-Rated Schools • Downtown Sarasota • Shopping • Dining • Arts, Culture & Entertainment

1804 Kenilworth Street Sarasota, FL 34231

Prices Starting in the Upper $500s**

Call: 866.475.3347

America’s #1 Builder for 10

CGC1513647 *Square footage dimensions are approximate. **Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities, are subject to change and prior sale at any time

GOOD LIFE.

D•R•HORTON IN LAKEWOOD RANCH

E V E R Y T H I N G YO U N E E D. . . A N D M O R E Greenbrook Village oﬀers 1 and 2 story single-family homes ranging from 1,844 to 3,015 square feet.* Located in Lakewood Ranch, this enclave is part of the largest green-certified community in the country.

COMMUNITY DETAILS • A-rated schools

• Excellent shopping and dining

• Top medical facilities

• Three masterfully designed golf courses

• Fitness center with aquatics • 18 lighted tennis courts • Over 150 miles of trails, community parks, lakes and nature preserve

Only 12 home sites are available - call today for more details!

Prices Starting in the Mid $200s**

Visit: HortonReadyNow.com

uilder for 10 Years in a Row+

or sale at any time without notice or obligation. +As reported by Builder Magazine. Pictures, photographs, features, colors and sizes are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built.

A Global Presence

SAR Global Business Council shines spotlight on Sarasota Global Business Council Steering Committee: Develop education

programs, networking events and resources to prepare Realtors® for specific cultural and economic issues that are an integral part of working with the many buyers and sellers of foreign origin. SAR’s Global Business Council was honored for the second year in a row to be named a Gold Council by the National Association of Realtors® through its Global Business Council Achievement Program, one of only a handful in the nation. This means SAR has demonstrated exceptional commitment to building members’ awareness of the global and multicultural business opportunities in their local markets. Pictured on the Marina Jack II at the International Congress are (left to Councils are evaluated in five focus areas: right): Gail Sanderson of the GBC; Erik Noordam of the Netherlands Real Communication, Community Outreach, Estate Assoc.; Bill Geller, GBC chair; and Kathy Roberts, CEO of SAR. Membership Value Creation, Education, and Below, Pat Tan leads a discussion at the Congress. Media Outreach/Social Media. GBC members, for a fee of $25, attend In fulfilling its mission, the GBC: the GBC seminars - Held three international seminars at SAR in 2012 and any networking International 101, 201, and 301 - each concentrating on events at no charge. areas of international real estate transactions in order to Council members provide local practitioners with valuable educational tools also have their name, necessary for successful international sales. contact information - Hosted a CIPS Institute in May, with new local CIPS and languages spoken instructors Carla Rayman and Pat Tan presenting some of listed on the SAR the courses. website under the - In November, held its sixth annual Sarasota International International and Real Estate Congress at the Lido Beach Resort. The event Members links. included seminars and discussions along with property To date, the Global Business Council has grown to 96 tours to showcase our local real estate market. Several social paid members, and is working hard to expand the Council events were also included in order to offer networking in 2013. opportunities. The event was held to coincide with NAR’s Global Business Council Steering Committee Members: annual conference which was held in Orlando following Chair - Bill Geller; Vice Chair - Wally Erickson; Anita SAR’s Congress. This year’s event attracted not only local Boakes; Jeff Kratz; Margo MacKenzie; Carla Rayman; Judy and out-of-state Realtors®, but real estate professionals from Schomaker; Gail Shane; Patricia Tan; Kristin Triolo; and as far away as the Netherlands and Jamaica. Linda Zuffa.

Nominating Committee Selects 2012 Award Winners

The SAR Nominating Committee is tasked each year with offering recommendations for SAR leadership positions (officers, directors, etc.) and also selects annual award recipients. This year’s SAR Annual Awards were made possible through the hard work of the Nominating Committee (see the December issue - Page 6 - for the awardees).

2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

With so many incredible members to choose from for leadership positions and awards, the committee’s work is never easy. But the results are self-evident. Committee Members: Chair - Erick Shumway; Vice Chair - Mike Bruno; Iva Fadley-Dane; Darla Furst; Bryan Guentner; Debbie Judge; Roger Piro; Carla Rayman; and Bob Stanley.

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Education is Essential

Professional Development Committee: Provides input regarding education, sales and technology training, leadership development, new member orientation, and risk management. Professional Development is the ongoing process of attaining knowledge for both career and personal advancement. Some of the methods include continuing education through formal course work, networking with other industry professionals, conferences, and more informal gatherings inclusive of technical and practice studies. Committee Directive for 2012: This year’s strategic plan directive included: Providing quality training opportunities accessible by all members. Increase membership professionalism. Promote products and services to all of our membership. Ensure a leadership succession plan. “It has been a privilege representing our membership as Chair of Professional Development for 2012,” said Chair Pam Charron. “On behalf of the committee, I am pleased to report that we have achieved our goals as per the directive issued by the Board of Directors.” An overview of our accomplishments: • Code of Ethics Training – Ongoing monthly SAR training with additional classes added to facilitate this quadrennial requirement of all members. • Leadership - The efforts put forth on the Emerging Leaders Program was rewarded by having 13 members graduate. New segments were added this year including the history of Sarasota. It continues to be a strong indicator of who may be our future SAR leaders. Graduates 2012 are: Ryndie Brusco, Tracey Bodmer, Ronnie Caron, Beth Dilley, Ellen Laura Esses, Alex Krumm, Catherine Lamphier, Brian McGreevy, Steve Robinson, David Roth, Alfredda SmithOdato, Joyce Steward and Linda Zuffa. • Tech User Group – 2012 saw the introduction of this well received program for sharing information on technology uses of smart phones and tablets. The intent was for it to be more of a bar camp style where members simply shared information. The program identified the need for more technology training and plans to revamp for 2013 to

include more focus and classroom training. A special thanks to Renee Marquiss and Barb Standish for heading up the sub-committee. • Formal Class Instruction programs including: Luxury Home Marketing by Laurie Moore-Moore, CRS Business Planning, GRI, CCIM Resimercial, and Pat Zaby Serving Repeat & Referral Customers • Ongoing MLS Training for new members and CE credit programs for license renewal. Additional programs include: • Sarasota School of Real Estate - Both pre-license and broker classes are held at our association during the evening hours. Instructor Michael Davenport reports the program is a success. All attendees who have taken their license test with the state have passed. The next broker class is slated for February 2013. A website is up and running to attract potential students. Thank you Mike….you are doing a great job for our association! • Rental & Property Management - Although two of our scheduled seminars were greeted by tropical storms, we still had an overwhelming response to these newly added educational classes. The classes included a panel of area experts and a lawyer specializing in landlord tenant law. With such a positive response, we will continue to bring more training for this segment of real estate. • Real Tech Expo – Mike Davenport and his task force did another outstanding job of delivering a quality event at the Sarasota Bradenton International Convention Center. With such sponsors as Zillow, Home-Tech, OwnAmerica and My Florida Regional MLS and over 30 table vendors, the program continues to represent our commitment to bringing the latest in technology information to our membership. Watch for much more soon! Committee Members: Chair - Pam Charron; ViceChair - Renee Marquiss; Bill Ayers; Paula Cashi; Michelle Crabtree; Michael Davenport; Darla Furst; Dean Qualls; Barbara Standish; and Diane Otis Stirling.

SAR Supports Ethical Conduct in Local Real Estate When issues arise between members of the public and Realtors®, or between real estate agents, SAR is often called upon to help resolve the issues, or arbitrate the outcomes. The process begins with the Grievance Committee and moves on to the Professional Standards Committee. 2012 has been a normal year for both groups, each vital to SAR’s purpose.

www.sarasotarealtors.com

There were 15 ethics complaints filed through Oct. 31st, with 9 forwarded for hearings to Professional Standards. The most often alleged violations cited Articles 1, 2, 9, 11 and 12. There were 4 arbitrations. Grievance Committee: Tim Mapp Chair; Joyce Steward- Vice Chair; Judith Coleman; Becky Culp; Bill Geller; Felix Power; and David Roth;

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Professional Standards: Lee Ann Willock, Chair; Stafford Starcher, ViceChair; Judy Arreola, Chris Bernstein, Mike Bruno, Kathy Carbone, Paula Cashi, Georgina Clamage, Doris Edwards, Iva Fadley-Dane, Kim Gilliland, Stephen Harris, Brian Hays, Judy Hockett, Margo MacKenzie, Terry Mathews, Betty Poma, Bob Stanley, Dave Swenson, and Xena Vallone

2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

Partners of Real Estate

SAR Affiliates are the business backbone of the Association

Affiliate Committee:

Organize and support activities and events and provide input. An Affiliate or Auxiliary membership is required. The SAR Affiliate Committee is an amazing group of professionals serving the local real estate community and SAR Realtor® members. The group has experienced a huge resurgence in the past three years. 2012 has seen continued growth and success for the Affiliate Committee. The big Affiliate-sponsored Changing of the Seasons Gala event (above) at SAR on The group has grown the Oct. 24th was yet another amazing success, as was the March 21st Party on the Porch SAR Affiliate membership by (below). another 11 percent this year and achieved all of the goals as established in the Strategic Plan at the beginning of the year. This year, the committee organized and hosted an overwhelming amount of successful events including: • 48 Power Marketing Breakfasts • 11 Business After Hours Networking events at Gecko’s on Hillview • 4 SAR Affiliate Smart Lunches • A Springtime “Party On The Porch” • A Fall “Changing of the Seasons Gala” Tina Darling and Cindi Shoe bid a fond farewell to the leadership positions within the committee, and enthusiastically anticipate the continued growth and success under the guidance of Cathleen Acosta and Sherri Spanos! Committee Members: Chair -Tina Darling; Vice-Chair Cindi Shoe

Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee Offers Education

Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee: Plan periodic legal programs for members and provide monthly Q&A for SR Magazine. Duty to stay current with real estate laws and FREC changes. The Realtor® - Attorney Joint Committee (RAJC) continues to play an integral part in the valuable educational offerings at SAR. This year the RAJC produced many seminars covering topics including: Hiring an Attorney vs. Using a Closing Agent; Things That Make Your Broker Go “Ouch”; REO’s/ Short Sales/Courthouse Step Sales; Common Title Defects; several contract updates; and short sales and tax issues .

2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

RAJC participants write monthly offerings on hot topics in the magazine to help members of SAR keep up to date on the latest industry topics. Members work together to provide valuable learning tools for SAR. Committee Members: Chair - Carolyn Barker Collins; Vice-Chair - Julie Horstkamp; Lance Bieker; Paul Blucher; Barbara Bushard; Jennifer Carver; Dennis Crowley; John Harold Curp; Margaret S. Frook; Kim Gilliland; Michelle Hermey; Troy Jenkins; Perry Joseph; Jo Ann Koontz; Marianne LeBar; Renee Marquiss; J. Geoffrey Pflugner; Claude Pierre; Ann Ross; Robert Stahlschmidt II; and Xena Vallone.

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Raising the Bar

Commercial Investment Division achieves comprehensive agenda Commercial Investment Division: CID provides

its members an important opportunity for gaining extra professional knowledge and currency in the marketing of commercial and investment properties in the Florida marketplace. The Commercial Investment Division tackled an aggressive agenda for 2012. The goals included a cooperative working relationship with residential agents to facilitate sales in commercial and residential properties by leveraging each others’ expertise. The program affectionately called C.A.R.E. ( Commercial and Residential Embracing ) opened new opportunities for sharing of strengths and opportunities. CID was awarded a grant from the NAR to improve the CID The Commercial Investment Division once again staged a successful charity golf section of the SAR website. The opportunity to make a user friendly tournament in 2012, supporting the Manasota SOLVE organization with a $7,000 check from the tournament held at the Founders Club on Oct. 29th. Pictured and more attractive site for the above: Peter Salefsky; Erick Shumway; and 2012 CID President Brad Lindberg. membership was one of the 2012 goals. The changes have begun to be implemented and the group “My goal as President is to provide the most engaging and expects a fresh new look by early informative membership meetings throughout the year, with 2013. top-rated speakers and panels, ensuring our members get The CID education committee established a scholarship good value for the time they have invested in education,” fund to award to commercial members investing in continuing said Lindberg.” education for the betterment of their profession. These awards were established to encourage the membership to seek That goal was also clearly achieved in 2012. certifications such as the coveted CCIM designation. The Commercial Investment Division of the SAR in 2012 The CID is moving towards achieving NAR accreditation raised the bar for excellence and will continue to be strong as a Commercial Division, one of only 100 in the U.S. The under the new leadership of the 2013 President, Linda Emery. criteria to meet this designation is stringent and will define CID Leadership for 2012: CID as a commercial leader in the industry. The group fully expects to achieve this level in 2013. President: Brad Lindberg, Sperry Van Ness President-Elect: Linda Emery, Sperry Van Ness The signature event each year is the Annual CID Golf Vice-President: Tim Mapp, Mapp Realty Tournament benefiting a local charity. This year’s event was held at the Founders Club on October 29th. The event was Secretary: Dave Roth, RE/MAX Alliance one of the most successful tournaments for the CID, and Treasurer: Lori Hellstrom: Osprey Real Estate Services because of the generosity of sponsors, the group was able to Past President: Anthony Homer, Ian Black Real Estate make a substantial donation of $7,000 to Manasota SOLVE Directors: Pete Skokos: Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Maternity Homes, a comprehensive program for pregnant Skokos (3 years - 2014); David Roth: RE/MAX Alliance (2 women of all ages. years - 2012); Sarah Olesen: Michael Saunders & Company 2012 CID President Brad Lindberg noted at the start of (1 year - 2012); Bob Milhoan: Hembree & Assoc. (2 years the year that he wanted the group to take advantage of the 2013); Lori Hellstrom: Osprey Management (3 years - 2013); emerging market, and also work with his industry peers to Tony Veldkamp: Sperry Van Ness (2 years - 2013); Susan improve their businesses. Goldstein: Michael Saunders & Company (1 year - 2012)

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

SAR Celebrating 90 Years of Progress

On Jan. 11, 1971, a small group gathered to dedicate the thennew downtown office of the Sarasota Board of Realtors®. The office encompassed 2,000 sq. ft.- a big improvement over the original office space of 150 sq. ft. SAR moved to our current site in 1982.

SAR established; First office 150 sq. ft.

1923 14

Real estate market crash

SAR begins MLS system

1926

1957

2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

On July 11th, 2012, the Sarasota Association of Realtors® held the official groundbreaking for the new 15,000-square-foot headquarters facility at 2320 Cattlemen Road. The facility was designed by Mark Sultana of DSDG, Inc., and is under construction by Halfacre Construction. In the spring of SAR’s 90th year, the facility will officially open for business, beginning yet another new era of progress, improvement, and leadership in the Sarasota real estate industry. SAR has a proud, vibrant history, and the next chapter will begin in an era of renewed optimism and energy. The local real estate industry has emerged from the national doldrums as a recoverying market, and SAR membership has begun to grow again following a lull from 20062008. With the new facility, which includes expanded parking to more than double the current capacity, SAR will be perfectly positioned to serve the growing needs of our membership. Watch for details soon on the grand opening!

SAR moves to 2,000 sq. ft. office downtown

1972

Supplement to Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Sarasota County population exceeds 150,000

1975

SAR moves to 3590 S. Tuttle Avenue office

1982 www.sarasotarealtors.com

oves S. e ue e

SAR extends a special thank you to our Facility Task Force: Roger Piro, Chair; Jag Grewal; Brian McCrone; Tim Mapp; Loyd Robbins; and Stafford Starcher. This group has worked tirelessly for months to bring this project to reality!

SAR facility expanded to current 12,000 sq. ft.

1991 www.sarasotarealtors.com

SAR membership hits 5,000 as real estate market explodes

2005

Market bust follows boom

SAR breaks ground on new 15,000 sq. ft. headquarters

2006 Supplement to Sarasota Realtor速 Magazine

2012

SAR new era begins!

2013 2012 SAR ANNUAL REPORT

Tampa • Bradenton • Venice • Ft. Myers • Bonita Springs • Naples • Parkland

The Ultimate Florida Lifestyle.

Homes from the mid $100s to $1 million.

Throughout Florida, WCI creates vibrant lifestyle experiences in communities that appeal to a broad spectrum of tastes and lifestyles. Our vast selection of primary, vacation and retirement homes are combined with world-class amenities that include championship golf, tennis, marinas, beaches, dining, spa and fitness facilities and much more.

Lost Key Marina & Yacht Club Pensacola Perdido Key Lost Key Golf & Beach Club

FLORIDA Palm Coast

Hammock Dunes Daytona Beach

Gulf of Mexico

Orlando

Clearwater

Westshore Yacht Club

Atlantic Ocean

Tampa

St. Petersburg

Tidewater Preserve

Bradenton

Sarasota

Venice

Venetian Golf & River Club Pelican Preserve Ft. Myers Hampton Park Raptor Bay Golf Club Bonita Springs The Colony Golf & Bay Club Tiburón Naples Manchester Square

Coral Springs

Heron Bay

Ft. Lauderdale

Miami

800-WCI-4005 wcicommunities.com In any WCI community with a community development district or special taxing district, certain amenities may be funded by district financing. All references to clubs, golf clubs and membership opportunities and other amenities are subject to fees, dues and availability. All amenities are subject to change without notice. This advertisement does not constitute an offer to sell real estate in any jurisdiction where prior registration or other qualification is required and further information cannot be provided (unless we have already complied with such requirements). Void where prohibited. ©2012 WCI Communities, Inc. All rights reserved. CBC058372