Smrmagmar2015 web by REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee

Sarasota/Manatee

REALTOR

The Official Publication of the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee ~ MARCH 2015

Don’t Gamble With Your Business Future!

Invest in RPAC! Page 6

Homes inspired by you and a lifestyle made for you.

Cypr Ever

ge At DiVosta, we believe in building communities that live up to the people who live there. That’s why we plan for the many lifestyles of our homeowners, with consumerinspired home designs, personalized options and resort-style amenities – all to enrich your everyday life.

We flex mor clien

Gourmet Kitchens ■ Zero Corner Sliding Glass Doors ■ Sunrooms Lofts ■ Walk-In Showers ■ Extended Lanais ■ Premier Amenities IslandWalk at the West Villages

Sandhill Preserve on Palmer Ranch

N OR T H P OR T

S AR A S OTA

CYP NOR FRO

From the high $100s to $300s

From the low $300s to $500s

• 1,36

1,133 – 2,589+ sq. ft.

1,659 – 2,589+ sq. ft.

9 Brand New Floor Plans!

Now Selling in Phase 2!

4 Decorated models open daily. 1-4 Bedrooms, 1.5-4 Baths Resort Center with lagoon and lap pools, tennis courts, bocce ball, activity and craft rooms, fitness center, library and more

4 Decorated models open daily. 2-4 Bedrooms, 2-4 Baths Amenities will include resort-style pool, tennis courts, fire pit, outdoor bar

13639 Salinas St. | Venice, FL 34293

11123 Shearwater Ct. | Sarasota, FL 34238

VISIT DIVOSTA.COM OR CALL 866-210-3134 TO LEARN MORE. Prices shown are estimated base prices, do not include lot premiums or options and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. Additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. ©2014 Pulte Home Corporation. All rights reserved. 10-14. CBC057850

• 2-3 wit

• 55+ Res and

S re

Cypress Falls at the Woodlands Everglades Great Room

get ready for new home designs that accommodate everything, even your client’s budget. We think your clients should get everything they want when buying a new home. That means even newer, more flexible living spaces designed to fit their lifestyle at prices they can afford. Centex is offering new floor plans and more design options so your clients can definitely find the home they’ve been waiting for. It’s everything your clients want in the affordable comfort of a new Centex home.

NOW SELLING CYPRESS FALLS AT THE WOODLANDS NORTH PORT FROM THE MID $100s

CEDAR GROVE AT THE WOODLANDS NORTH PORT FROM THE MID $100s

THE RESERVE AT CROSSING CREEK BRADENTON FROM THE LOW $200s

• 1,363-1,650 sq. ft.

• 1,674-3,172 sq. ft.

• 1,861-3,242 sq. ft.

• 2-3 Bedroom Attached Villas with 2-Car Garage

• 3-5 Bedroom, 1- and 2-Story Single Family Homes

• 3-4 Bedroom 1- and 2-Story Single Family Homes

• 55+ Community with Clubhouse, Resistance Pool, Putting Green and More

• Neighborhood Pool and Tot Lot

• Brand New Tifton Floor Plan Now Available

Schedule a visit and register your clients today. Call 866-290-9110 or visit centex.com to learn more.

Put yourself in a better place™

Prices shown are estimated base prices, do not include lot premiums or options and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. Additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. ©2014 Centex Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. 10/14. CBC057850.

Contents

Sarasota/Manatee

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Volume 12, Issue 3

REALTOR 6

RPAC = Business Insurance

The Realtors® Political Action Committee (RPAC) serves as your

ongoing business insurance, protecting your trade and livelihood

while ensuring the real estate community has a voice at the table.

10 City Election

Two seats on the City of Sarasota Commission are on the ballot

on Tuesday, March 10th, and the candidates have been interviewed

by RASM. We reveal our recommendations, and encourage voting!

13 Good Start

Real estate transactions slowed in January 2015 as expected, and

the totals wound up mirroring the previous January in both

Sarasota and Manatee counties.

Volume 12 • Issue 3 •MARCH 2015

22 Courses Abound

Educational courses are filling up fast for 2015, and we are scheduling many more at both our North and South offices to benefit the careers of our members.

MARCH 2015

Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee South Office - 2320 Cattlemen Road Sarasota, Florida 34232 North Office- 10910 Technology Terrace Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211 Phone: 941/952-3400 FAX: 941/952-3401 www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

2015 Association Officers President Stafford Starcher RE/MAX Alliance Group President-Elect Linda Formella Keller Williams Realty Manatee Secretary Greg Owens Keller Williams on the Water Treasurer Xena Vallone Xena Vallone Realty Immediate Past Presidents Peter Crowley RE/MAX Alliance Group Sherry Grooms Keller Williams On The Water Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roberts Mission Statement The mission of the Realtor ® Association of Sarasota and Manatee is to keep the Realtor ® central to the real estate transaction by advancing members’ professionalism and expertise by upholding the Realtors® Code of Ethics. We are committed to protecting private property rights in the communities we serve. Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® is published monthly by the Realtor ® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Inc.

Editorial Staff

29 Global is Changing

More than 25 percent of international buyers of property in the U.S. buy in Florida, and the dollar value of those transactions is starting to head upwards.

Director of Membership & Broker Services Dan Andrews Director of Information Technology Jesse Sunday Director of Professional Development Catherine McCaskill Governmental Affairs Director Adam R. Davis

In every issue

Production Coastal Printing, Inc.

10 - Governmental Affairs 12 - Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee 13 - Sales and Listing Statistics

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Advertising: For information on advertising rates and deadlines, contact Ray Porter at 941/952-3405 or ray@sarasotamanateerealtors.com. Subscriptions: The annual dues of every member of the Realtor ® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Inc., includes a one-year subscription to Sarasota/ Manatee Realtor ® magazine. Editorial ideas and manuscripts are welcome. Byline articles and columns express the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the policies or sentiments of the Realtor ® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Inc. All submitted copy is subject to editing.

20 - Commercial Investment Division 22 - Education Programs 28 - WCR Columns 29 - Global Business Council

32 - Membership 36 - Calendar of Events/Education MARCH 2015

Director of Communications Ray Porter

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Olga Ovchiyan: Business Partner Spotlight

Quarterly Membership Meet Changed to March 13th The first Quarterly Membership Meeting for the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee has been changed to Friday, March 13th beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the North Office, 10910 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch. Watch for program details soon! The second quarterly meeting has been tentatively slated for Friday, June 5th (location to be determined - watch your weekly emails for updates as they become available). At this meeting, the Association’s annual scholarship award winners will be announced and introduced. The Annual Membership Luncheon has been tentatively slated for Friday, Sept. 11th (location to be determined). During the meeting, the election of officers and directors for 2016 will be held. Linda Formella, current President-Elect and President of the Association for 2016, along with the elected officers and directors, will then be sworn in at the annual Installation and Holiday Banquet in December (date, time and location to be determined).

The March 2015 Business Partner Spotlight is on Olga Ovchiyan of Professional Building Inspectors. Olga is the marketing director for Professional Building Inspectors. The company specializes in protecting you and your clients by providing premium quality building inspections: commercial, residential, mold, infrared Olga Ovchiyan thermal imaging service, etc. Originally from Russia, Olga moved to Florida eight years ago. She enjoys the sand of Siesta Key more than the snow of Russia. Her passions are her family, music, art and her job. For more information you may contact Olga at 941-761-8503, or visit the company’s web site at www.inspectorsINC.com.

Cover Story 6

RPAC

It’s Your Business Insurance

Almost none of us would even think of going without health insurance, or car insurance, or fire and theft protection afforded by homeowners’ insurance. Unknown and potentially costly occurences are part of life, and practical people take the normal precautions to prepare for such events. But what about your business - your bread and butter income? How can you do your part to protect yourself, and others in your chosen profession of real eatate, against the potential loss of your hard earned dollars? Maybe you’ve heard the acronym RPAC in the halls of the Realtor® Association, or at a Florida Realtors® or NAR conference or seminar. But it just never occurred to you to look into the meaning behind the letters. First and foremost, you should know that RPAC stands for Realtors® Political Action Committee. Since 1969, RPAC has promoted the election of pro-Realtor® candidates across the United States. The purpose of RPAC is clear: Realtors® raise and spend money to elect candidates who understand and support their interests and those of property owners. The money to accomplish this comes from voluntary contributions made by Realtors®. These are not members’ dues; this is money given freely by Realtors® in recognition of how important campaign fundraising is to the political process. RPAC doesn’t buy votes. RPAC enables Realtors® to support candidates that support the issues that are important to their profession and livelihood. In the past decade, you should also know RPAC has saved the real estate community millions of dollars that’s “millions” with an “M.” In fact: • You were personally saved $1,200 with the defeat of a proposal to levy a service tax on all professionals – including Realtors®. • You were saved $260 through the defeat of a proposal to treat Realtors® as employees under the Workers’ Compensation Act. • You were saved $45 by the defeat of a proposal to tax Internet provider services used by Realtors®. The purpose of RPAC is essentially to promote and defend issues that impact the livelihood or every Realtor® member of our Association!

MARCH 2015

The Realtor® Party is all about Realtors® working together to VOTE, ACT and INVEST to protect the dream of home ownership, to build vibrant communities, and to promote a strong U.S. economy. • Vote - Realtors® should work together to protect Realtor® interests by voting and educating voters about issues that affect property owners. • Act - Realtors® should work together in support of policies and regulations that promote home ownership and the real estate industry. • Invest - Realtors® should work together to contribute to candidates who support Realtors® and private property rights. The biggest event of the year is coming soon! Almost 10,000 Realtors® and their guests are expected to gather in Washington, D.C. on May 11-16, 2015 for the annual Realtor® Party Convention & Trade Expo. They will advocate policies to protect and advance investment in residential and commercial property. Realtors® will be offered informative sessions concerning top issues impacting the industry and their business and clients. They will meet with legislators, congressional and regulatory staff, and top industry

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

Continued on P. 26, See RPAC www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Casino Night fundraiser coming in 2015! The Realtors® Political Action Committee is serious business, but your RPAC Committee puts the FUN in FUNdraising. The group is comprised of members who are energized, engaged and ready to meet the RPAC goals assigned to RASM by Florida Realtors® and NAR. The RPAC goals are lofty but are important for ensuring enough dollars are raised to truly make a positive impact on your industry. Remember - these goals and fun events are only successful when every member gets involved. A Realtor® Casino Night and Treasure Chest Raffle (details coming soon!) are just two events to look forward to in 2015! Other events include: Great American Realtor® Days, March 3-4 in Tallahassee: Join fellow Realtors® in Tallahassee and meet with elected officials, network with your peers and ensure the Realtor® voice is heard. To register or to learn more about GARD, please visit: http://www.floridarealtors.org/LegislativeCenter/GreatAmerican-Realtor-Days Realtors® Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo, May 11-16 in Washington, DC.

IAS

innovative

agent services

941-921-5027

HIGH IMPACT TARGET MARKETING

n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n n

To register or to learn more, please visit: http://www.realtor.org/midyear.nsf/ Don’t think of these as days away from your business. They are the most important days for Realtors® to keep doing business - while avoiding harmful regulations. Title: Flood Map Modernization for Sarasota County Panel Discussion Date/Time: March 17, 2015, 1:30 to 3 p.m. Location: RASM South Auditorium 2320 Cattlemen Rd. Sarasota, FL Cost: Free / limited to RASM members only Experience an informative panel discussion regarding FEMA’s proposed flood map modernization for Sarasota County, and learn the impact it will have on Realtors® and their clients. Industry experts will discuss the ins-and-outs of the proposed maps, including utilization of search tool, insurance programs and legal opportunities available. Panelist include: David Levin, Esq. - Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg, P.A.; Pete Travis - Director of Client Growth, Torrent Technologies; and Desiree Compton – Certified Floodplain Manager, Sarasota County

POSTCARDS eBLASTS BROCHURES/FLYERS DIRECT MAIL SOCIAL MEDIA SERVICES PRINTING SERVICES WEBSITE DESIGN LOGOS & BRANDING BANNERS INVITATIONS ANNOUNCEMENTS BUSINESS CARDS RACK CARDS NEWSLETTERS SIGNAGE PRESS RELEASES PROMOTIONAL ITEMS APPAREL DON’T SEE WHAT YOU NEED?

CALL US! TINA DARLING PRESIDENT

TinaDarling@comcast.net

941.921.5027 2301 Cattlemen Road Sarasota, Florida 34232

FloridaAssistant.com www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2015

Great American Realtor® Days March 3-4 Great American Realtor® Days are set this year for March 3-4 in Tallahassee, Florida, and the Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee will be well presented this year! Seize this opportunity to voice your opinions on legislative issues during the annual event. Florida Realtors® hosts this important excursion in Tallahassee when the Legislature is in session. Hill visit appointments are made by Key Contacts through the Association. The event begins with a live Legislative Issues Briefing at the Challenger Learning Center the morning of March 3. Those attending gain valuable facetime with elected officials at the state level. A block party will be held on Adams Street from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on March 3. The section of downtown Tallahassee will be blocked off and there will be “A Taste of Florida” event, where Realtors® can enjoy fresh Florida food and beverage favorites. Your registration name badge gets you in. The Capitol Courtyard Lunch is held March 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., where visitors can come and mingle with state legislators and staff, as well as fellow Realtors® from across the state. Call the Public Policy office at 850.224.1400 for more info.

ryland.com MULHOLLAND

GreyHawk Landing LOCKWOOD RIDGE RD.

4 Great Communities, 1 Great Builder!

UNIVERSITY PKWY.

Arbor Reserve

Palmer Reserve Keyway Place

Arbor Reserve GreyHawk Landing Palmer Reserve Bradenton, FL

Bradenton, FL

Sarasota, FL

Keyway Place

Single Family Homes from the $230’s For more information call Melanie Wright at 941-896-9870

Single Family Homes from the $260’s For more information call Patrick Roby at 941-896-9905

Single Family Homes from the $280’s For more information call Beverley Telemaque-Reuten at 941-378-9600

Single Family Homes from the $230’s For more information call Robin Curella at 941-475-1235

Englewood, FL

Visit ryland.com for more information. In the Tampa division, prices, plans and specifications are subject to change without notice. Map is an artist’s conception for general information purposes only and is not to scale. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. See Sales Counselor for details. © 2014 The Ryland Group, Inc. Florida (QB11846) (CBC) 1253657. RY2851

MARCH 2015

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Chair, YPN Community Outreach Committee, Chris Johnson, Innovative Agent Services Chris is a newcomer to the Sarasota real estate community. However, he is a veteran with philanthropic ventures. Chris has been involved with the Interact division of Rotary International, the Make-A-Wish and Jimmy V Foundations, and various local charities for children, the elderly, and the environment. His vision for the YPN Community Outreach Committee is to integrate philanthropy into existing YPN operations, and to provide members with opportunities to give back individually, or as a group, while making valuable connections with each other and in their communities.

Co-Chair RealTOUR/Events Committee, Valerie Roberts, of Allison James Estates & Homes Valerie Roberts is a Florida licensed salesperson and Realtor® affiliated with Allison James Estates & Homes. Additionally she is the Director of Business Development for Allison James Estates & Homes out of their Sarasota office. Valerie looks forward to serving on the RealTOUR Events Committee of RASM YPN, to help create great local experiences for our Suncoast Regional YPN members.

Upcoming events: RASM YPN RealTOUR event Ringling Museum Docent Tour followed by Networking on the Terrace; Thursday March 19th at 5 p.m. The one-hour tour is limited to

25 people, cost $10/ea; networking, drinks, and live music on the Terrace of the Ca’ d’Zan beginning at 6 p.m. for everyone else that did not make the docent tour ($10 entry, cash bar) YPN/MLS Caravan Tour Thursday March 19th after MLS Express meeting, South Office Head out on caravan to look at several homes in our area with acclaimed tour guide Marcia McLaughlin, Carol Myers of Stage One Home Showcasing, and Alex Krumm. You will learn a great deal about the inventory. We’ll tackle pricing questions, staging techniques, marketing strategies, and answer zillions of questions you haven’t even thought of yet. Looking to take a leadership role in 2015 in the Suncoast Regional YPN? Contact Jacqueline Abney at jabney@berlinpatten.com The next RASM YPN Leadership meeting is Monday, March 16th at 9 a.m. at the North office. All YPN members are welcome! What are you waiting for? APPLY TODAY at bit.ly/suncoastypnapp

Suncoast Regional Young Professionals Network

Meet More YPN Leaders for 2015!

The Ringling Museum Docent Tour on March 19th should be an incredible event, and is open to only the first 25 people who register through the YPN! Jacqueline Abney YPN Chair

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2015

Governmental Affairs Adam Davis can be reached at 941.952.3410

Our recommendations for City of Sarasota Election The Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee recommends David Morgan for City of Sarasota Commission District 2 and Shelli Freeland Eddie for City of Sarasota Commission District 3 on Tuesday, March 10. Both candidates exemplified the core beliefs needed to make the City of Sarasota a great place to live, work, visit and have fun. All candidates vying for these positions were researched and afforded the opportunity to complete a candidate questionnaire and interview by the Association’s Political Action Advisory Committee prior to recommendation approval by RASM Board of Directors. Approval also included a request for a $200 campaign contribution from the Realtors® Political Action Committee Trustees and to Shelli Freeland Eddie David Morgan seek the utilization of Realtor® Party services from Florida Realtors® and the National Q: The current Community Redevelopment Association of Realtors®. Agency (CRA) is set to expire in 2016. What are your thoughts on the current CRA and do you think The Realtor® voice can only be heard when our it should be extended? membership becomes engaged. If you are a city residents, please remember to vote on Tuesday, March Alpert: The current CRA has been very successful and 10 and encourage your friends, family and colleagues to needs to be extended. do the same! Morgan: The CRA has been successful and needs to Questions should be directed to Adam R. Davis at be extended. 941-952-3410 or Adam@SarasotaManateeRealtors. Freeland Eddie: The current CRA has allowed the com. private sector to attract long-term, financially sound projects to the city and needs to be extended. Candidate Questions and Answers Wooddall: There are numerous benefits to the existence of a CRA and it needs to be extended. from Association Interviews Zimmerman: Exemplary results with public-private The following are paraphrased, abbreviated responses collaborations creating vital urban infrastructure and from candidates on questions posed to them by RASM. tax base expansion. Yes, extend for another 30 years. Q: Do you feel the current commission is properly Q: In Sarasota, there is a continuing disagreement handling the issue of homelessness within the City of between neighborhood groups and the business Sarasota? What additional steps do you think could community on issues of economic development, job be taken? creation and urban redevelopment. How can the Alpert: No. Build coalition with city and county community reach a consensus on these issues? commissions and other government and private service Liz Alpert: Facilitate conversation between the agencies to find the ideas and resources to deal with the neighborhood groups and the business community. problem. David Morgan: Encourage dialogue business owners Morgan: No. An action plan needs to be developed and neighborhood associations. and followed through. A consultant was hired and the Shelli Freeland Eddie: Won’t always be a consensus. city and county need to work together to address the Make decisions on a case-by-case basis, distinguishing issue. between economic growth and overdevelopment. Freeland Eddie: No. The city must use coalition Matt Wooddall: By properly communicating the building, compassion and common sense. benefits of strategic growth and in fill. Wooddall: No. Coordinate with other stakeholder Stan Zimmerman: Candidate knows of no organizations in order to effect a successful outcome. neighborhood group opposed to economic development, job creation or urban redevelopment. Continued on P. 27, See CANDIDATES MARCH 2015

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Big homes. Even bigger savings.

Save Thousands on our Move-in-Ready Homes! Medallion Home has long been known for their big, beautiful custom homes located throughout the greater Sarasota area. And now those big, beautiful homes comes with big, beautiful incentives. Choose any one of our Move-in-Ready Homes and save thousands. Live in: - Riva Trace in Sarasota - Twin Rivers in Parrish - Gamble Creek in Parrish - Enclave in Bradenton

But do so soon as this offer won't last long. For more information, see your sales associate or visit MedallionHome.com Furnished Models Open Monday - Saturday 10-6. Sunday 11-6 * Prices, terms and availability are subject to change without notice. See your onsite sales associate for details. Incentives valid until November 30, 2014.

Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee 12

What is a Municipal Lien Search? By Michelle L. Hermey, Esq. RAJC Member

A municipal lien search is a search conducted to determine if there are any unpaid and/or unrecorded liens for utilities, special assessments, clearing overgrowth, impact fees, development fees, etc. that are due to the municipality. Pursuant to Section 159 of the Florida Statues a municipality is defined as “…city, town, village, or port authority in the state, whether incorporated by special act of the Legislature or under the general laws of the state.” Section 159.17 of the Florida Statute gives a municipality (that issues revenue bonds) a lien on property that has service to its water, sewer, and/ or gas systems. The lien created under this section of the Florida Statute is a lien that has priority over other liens and is equal in priority to state, county, and municipal taxes. If the lien is more than thirty days delinquent the municipality may foreclose the lien. So why do buyers need a lien search? Keep in mind that municipal lien searches are not the same as a title search. A municipal lien search is conducted to locate unrecorded liens. A title search, on the other hand, is conducted to locate recorded liens. In addition, there is no requirement in the statute that a municipal lien be recorded in the public records. These unrecorded liens may come as a surprise to the buyer, seller, and Realtors® in the transaction. This is especially true when a seller has recently purchased the property, is now reselling it, and the closing agent they used did not conduct a municipal lien search. In this instance, the seller may not realize there were unpaid fees due to a municipality. If these are unrecorded liens why do the parties

MARCH 2015

need to be concerned about unpaid fees to a municipality? First, a buyer’s title policy will contain an exception for municipal liens. Second, if the municipality enforces the lien it will be an issue the buyer has to address with the municipality and most likely the buyer will be responsible for paying the outstanding charges. Another instance arises when the buyer attempts to transfer the public utilities into their name after closing. If the public utilities are unpaid the buyer may find they cannot connect to the public utilities without paying for the unpaid amounts due from a prior owner. Further, Section 159.18 of the

Florida Statute gives a municipality the power to discontinue or shut off water, gas, and sewer services for nonpayment or not turn the public utilities on until the charges are paid. It is important to confirm that your closing agent conducts municipal lien searches in order to avoid any surprises at or subsequent to closing. Otherwise, the buyer’s title insurance policy will contain an exception for municipal liens, unexpected charges may be due to the municipality, and you will most likely receive an irate call from the buyer. Michelle Lajoie Hermey, Esq. is a Board Certified Real Estate Lawyer and Shareholder with Fergeson, Skipper, Shaw, Keyser, Baron & Tirabassi, PA

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

2015 began with property sales moderating; single family home prices up in Manatee Editor’s Note: For statistics “In recent years, we’ve also dating back to 2005, visit www. seen a resurgence in sales in sarasotamanateerealtors.com/ February and through the spring statistics and early summer.” - President Property sales, pending sales and inventory levels in January 2015 looked Stafford Starcher a lot like January 2014 in Sarasota and both Sarasota and Manatee counties in Manatee counties. In both years, sales January, hitting six month highs. There dropped from the previous month were 4,385 properties on the market in (December), while pending sales skyrocketed and inventories of available Sarasota County in January and 3,106 properties for sale in Manatee County. properties grew substantially. Those levels were last seen in June The message from the numbers was 2014. clear – holiday time home shoppers “Homeowners have obviously seen weren’t anxious to sign on the dotted the amazing sales year we experienced line, instead putting off closings to in 2014, and now that our winter later in the winter or spring. And residents and visitors are here at historic homeowners were eager to test the levels, people who have been sitting on market and determine how much their the fence are testing the market,” said property might have recovered in value. Starcher. “With continuing historic January 2015 witnessed closed sales low mortgage interest rates, and in Sarasota County total 743, with 514 all the other positive economic single family homes and 229 condos factors we’ve seen through the past changing hands. In Manatee County, two years, it’s a great time to buy a sales were 559, with 407 single family home.” homes and 152 condos sold. The median sale prices for single One major indicator of future sales family homes in the Sarasota is the pending sales figure, and both County was $190,000 in January counties saw strong pending numbers. 2015, about 3 percent lower than Sarasota County jumped up to 995 December’s figure of $195,500. from December’s figure of 691, while Manatee County saw the single Manatee County stood at 677 from family median price shoot up to December’s total of 503. $250,000, or 6.4 percent above “In real estate, there are trends, peaks the December figure of $235,000, and valleys, and over the years we’ve and the highest since the $245,000 seen a dip in closed sales in January,” figure reached in June 2014. said Association President Stafford Condo prices were at $185,000 Starcher. “In recent years, we’ve also in Sarasota County, up from seen a resurgence in sales in February December’s $177,500. In Manatee and through the spring and early innovative summer. Judging agent services from the pending IMPACT sales levels in both TARGET counties, I wouldn’t MARKETING be surprised if 2015 Elizabeth Reynolds continues in this MARKETING DIRECTOR same pattern.” 941.921.5027 elizabeth@floridaassistant.com Inventory of www.FloridaAssistant.com available properties rose significantly for connect with us.

IAS

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

County, condos were selling at a median price of $159,950, down from December’s $168,000, which was the highest level of 2014. Distressed sales, short sales and foreclosures, rose slightly to 21.8 percent in January 2015. During the 2008 market crisis, almost 50 percent of sales were distressed properties. “The market, and our Realtors®, took a much needed breath in the last month or so after a lengthy period of very active sales,” said Starcher. “But in speaking with many members, open houses have been very popular, the number of property tours after the weekly MLS marketing sessions have been at near record levels, and 2015 is shaping up to be another incredible year.”

HIGH

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2015

Monthly Market Summary - January 2015 Single Family Homes Sarasota County January 2015

January 2014

Percent Change Year-over-Year

Closed Sales

514

502

2.4%

Cash Sales

280

287

-2.4%

667

653

2.1%

1,122

1,140

-1.6%

Median Sale Price

$190,000

$188,750

0.7%

Average Sale Price

$286,887

$262,360

9.3%

-5.9%

92.5%

92.0%

0.5%

918

963

-4.7%

Inventory (Active Listings)

2,965

3,308

-10.4%

Months Supply of Inventory

4.5

5.4

-15.7%

New Pending Sales New Listings

Median Days on Market Avg. Percent of Original List Price Received Pending Inventory

800

2011

2012

2013

2014

Closed Sales

700 600 500 400 300

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

$190K

Median Sale Price

$210K

$170K $150K $130K $110K J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

4,500

Total Inventory

5,000

4,000 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

2011

2012

2013

2014

Produced by Florida REALTORS速 with2015 data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics forRealtor速 each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month. 14 MARCH Sarasota/Manatee Magazine www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com Data released on Monday, February 23, 2015. Next data release is Monday, March 23, 2015.

Prod

Data

Monthly Market Summary - January 2015 Single Family Homes Manatee County January 2015

January 2014

Percent Change Year-over-Year

Closed Sales

407

365

11.5%

Cash Sales

189

173

9.2%

New Pending Sales

473

479

-1.3%

New Listings

779

743

4.8%

Median Sale Price

$250,000

$218,450

14.4%

Average Sale Price

$302,491

$273,143

10.7%

3.6%

93.8%

93.0%

0.9%

633

733

-13.6%

Inventory (Active Listings)

2,181

2,166

0.7%

Months Supply of Inventory

4.5

4.6

-2.5%

Median Days on Market Avg. Percent of Original List Price Received Pending Inventory

700

2011

2012

2013

2014

Closed Sales

600 500 400 300 200

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

Median Sale Price

$260K $240K $220K $200K $180K $160K $140K J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

Total Inventory

3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

2011

2012

2013

2014

Produced by Florida REALTORS速 with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. StatisticsRealtor速 for each Magazine month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th dayMARCH of the following www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com Sarasota/Manatee 2015 month. Data released on Monday, February 23, 2015. Next data release is Monday, March 23, 2015.

Monthly Market Summary - January 2015 Townhouses and Condos Sarasota County January 2015

January 2014

Percent Change Year-over-Year

Closed Sales

229

264

-13.3%

Cash Sales

184

203

-9.4%

New Pending Sales

328

345

-4.9%

New Listings

528

555

-4.9%

Median Sale Price

$185,000

$176,000

5.1%

Average Sale Price

$263,754

$284,981

-7.4%

3.7%

92.8%

91.7%

1.2%

383

401

-4.5%

Inventory (Active Listings)

1,420

1,572

-9.7%

Months Supply of Inventory

4.8

5.1

-4.9%

Median Days on Market Avg. Percent of Original List Price Received Pending Inventory

500

2011

2012

2013

2014

Closed Sales

450 400 350 300 250 200 150

Median Sale Price

100

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

$210K $200K $190K $180K $170K $160K $150K $140K $130K $120K

Total Inventory

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J 3,000 2,800 2,600 2,400 2,200 2,000 1,800 1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

2011

2012

2013

2014

Produced by Florida REALTORS速 with2015 data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics forRealtor速 each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month. 16 MARCH Sarasota/Manatee Magazine www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com Data released on Monday, February 23, 2015. Next data release is Monday, March 23, 2015.

Monthly Market Summary - January 2015 Townhouses and Condos Manatee County January 2015

January 2014

Percent Change Year-over-Year

Closed Sales

152

148

2.7%

Cash Sales

108

0.0%

New Pending Sales

204

187

9.1%

New Listings

335

297

12.8%

Median Sale Price

$159,950

$126,000

26.9%

Average Sale Price

$199,327

$170,447

16.9%

-7.3%

92.4%

90.8%

1.8%

Pending Inventory

229

249

-8.0%

Inventory (Active Listings)

925

906

2.1%

Months Supply of Inventory

5.1

4.7

6.7%

Median Days on Market Avg. Percent of Original List Price Received

Closed Sales

300

2011

2012

2013

2014

250 200 150 100

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

Median Sale Price

$180K $160K $140K $120K $100K $80K

Total Inventory

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J 2,000 1,800 1,600 1,400 1,200 1,000 800 600 400 200 0

J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

2011

2012

2013

2014

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com Sarasota/Manatee Realtor速 2015 month. Produced by Florida REALTORS速 with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for eachMagazine month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th dayMARCH of the following Data released on Monday, February 23, 2015. Next data release is Monday, March 23, 2015.

50%

CONTRACT / 50%

CLASSIC DESIGN. GIRONA BY

LONDON BAY HOMES

• 3,526 Square Feet Under Air • 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths • Great Room Design plus Study • Outdoor Living with Pool, Spa and Summer Kitchen • Fully Furnished by Romanza Interior Design • $1,968,600 - Open for Viewing

BELITA

LONDON BAY HOMES

• 3,091 Square Feet Under Air • 3 Bedrooms, 3 Baths • Great Room Design plus Study • Sparkling Pool with Spa and Outdoor Kitchen • Unfurnished • $1,165,130 - Open for Viewing

CLARA

LONDON BAY HOMES

• 3,248 Square Feet Under Air • 3 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths • Living Room, Family Room plus Den • Outdoor Living with Pool and Spa • Fully Furnished by Romanza Interior Design • $1,384,900 - Open for Viewing

DELFINA BY

LONDON BAY HOMES

• 4,329 Square Feet Under Air • 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths • Open Plan, Game Room and Study • Lake & Fairway View with Pool, Spa and Outdoor Kitchen • Fully Furnished by Romanza Interior Design • $2,128,900 - Open for Viewing

SLAB

PLUS $20,000

BUYER UPGRADES.

TIMELESS BEAUTY.

INCOMPARABLE VIEWS, COURTESY OF ROBERT TRENT JONES, J R., MOTHER NATURE AND TIME. Envelope yourself in a custom home of timeless beauty set within an intimate community centuries in the making. 700 acres. 262 homes. 18 holes of championship golf. Need we say more? Luxury custom homes From $750s to over $5 million Leaseback opportunities available View Gallery at FoundersClubHomes.com

A LONDON BAY HOMES COMMUNITY

3001 Founders Club Drive, Sarasota â&#x2014;&#x2020; 941-378-0900 Visit our Welcome Center located 3 miles east of I-75 on Fruitville Road (exit 210) Monday - Saturday 10-5 Sunday 12-5 Commission and Bonus program applies to the sale of London Bay models and new home builds within Sarasota or Manatee Counties. Expires April 30, 2015. For all London Bay new home builds in The Founders Club. Prices, terms, and availability are subject to change without notice.

CBC057242

Commercial Investment Division

Commercial prospects looking up

will bring a total of 660 new Commercial properties are finally luxury apartments to the market starting to gain momentum in our between now and 2016. local markets. Several economic outlooks have confirmed that the Office and Industrial vacancy commercial market is slowly healing. rates are improving and prices are beginning to level off, Yun stated. One of the major hurdles for Retail is also starting to improve. the commercial sector today is the lack of capital available to smaller The CID heard from Ted investors. Larger projects with value C. Jones Ph.D. at the Feb. 17 greater than $2.5 million have monthly meeting. Jones, the shown notable capital improvements, Chief Economist for Stewart but financing the smaller projects Title Guaranty Company, gave remains a challenge according to us his optimistic outlook on the Lawrence Yun, National Association commercial markets and the of Realtors® Chief Economist. direction they are moving today. Local financial institutions are This month, on Tuesday, trying to compete but finding it March 16, we will look at 1031 difficult since the economic crisis. exchanges in the commercial Many local lenders are restricted by markets. the bank regulators on the amount The payment of income or of concentration they are allowed to capital gain tax on the sale of Dr. Lawrence Yun have in each sector of commercial. property can be voluntary thanks Multi family is at the forefront of the commercial to Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code which recovery and that is apparent with the ground breaking is one of the most underutilized sections of the tax of two new projects in Manatee County, which code.

CID Monthly Meeting Schedule Commercial Marketplace Sessions Increase visibility for your properties, learn of new opportunities, and exchange information with commercial professionals. Deals are made at these sessions. Commercial Marketplace Sessions - Friday, March 6, 9 a.m. - South Office, 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota - Friday, March 13, 9 a.m. - South Office

Officers:

Tim Mapp, 2015 CID President 20

CID General Membership Meeting - Tuesday, March 16, 8 a.m. - South Office - 1031 Exchanges - The monthly general membership meeting (3rd Tuesday) also includes a Marketplace session. CID Members Only

2015 CID Officers & Directors

President: Tim Mapp, Mapp Realty President-Elect: Tony Veldkamp, Sperry Van Ness Vice-President: Rico Boeras, Sarasota Commercial Realty Secretary: Ron Struthers, Coldwell Banker NRT Treasurer: Dave Roth, RE/MAX Alliance Group Past President: Lori Hellstrom, Osprey Real Estate Services MARCH 2015

- Friday, March 20, 9 a.m. – North Office, 10910 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch - Friday, March 27– South Office

Directors: Susan Goldstein: Michael Saunders & Company (1 year 2015) Roberta Kolton: Michael Saunders & Company (1 year 2015) George Brusco: Casto Lifestyle Properties (2 years - 2016) Charlie Brown: Insignia Bank (2 years - 2016) Peter Skokos: Norton Hammersley (3 years - 2017) Joe C. Hembree: Hembree & Company (3 years - 2017)

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

D 9

3 S m

Alls ope

)

HOME INSURANCE

OPTIONS

Here in Florida, your choice is clear. Everyone likes options. Our office not only offers car insurance backed by a company with 80 years of experience, but also offers home insurance from several companies. Call us today!

Dakkak Insurance LLC 941-921-6630 3629 Webber Street, Suite A Sarasota marydakkak@allstate.com

Allstate has no financial responsibility to you for any home insurance policy you purchase and would not be responsible for any claims. Allstate does not make any representations or accept liability related to operations of home insurance companies, including, but not limited to, their financial conditions. Subject to terms, conditions and availability. ÂŠ 2012 Allstate Insurance Company

43998

I OFFER

Education Programs

Does the Dodd-Frank Act impact your business? Title: Seller Financing in the Dodd-Frank Era – What You Really Need to Know Date/Time: March 11, at Noon Location: South Office, 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota Cost: $10 for RASM Members; $15 others Includes lunch, sponsored by D.R. Horton Register at www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com Peter Currin, a shareholder with the Williams Parker firm, will discuss how the Dodd-Frank Act impacts seller financing on certain residential transactions. Mr. Currin, a board certified real estate attorney,

represents lenders and borrowers on all types of lending transactions. Currin will cover the latest FAR/BAR Seller Financing Rider as well as the following topics: - Dodd-Frank Act in a nutshell - What transactions are affected? - What is a Loan Originator? - One property exclusion vs. Three property exclusion – which is better? - Other ways to sidestep Dodd-Frank - Prohibited language in loan documents

The luxury home market beckons Title: Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist Dates/Time: March 24-25, at 8:30 a.m. Location: South Office (2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota) Cost: $550 - Don’t wait! This course sold out in September in Naples! Training for the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation is designed to help sales professionals who currently work in the upper tier move to the next level, or to help beginners target the luxury market. Learn what wealthy buyers and sellers say are the “real secrets” to capturing their business. This intensive two-day CLHMS training is the first step in earning the coveted CLHMS designation. Upon completion of the training you will become

a Member of The Institute (must meet transaction requirements). Members of the Institute are part of an exclusive, international network of active luxury agents and enjoy a host of valuable benefits and discounts. Register at: www.luxuryhomemarketing.com/Sarasota

Earn Seller Representative Specialist Designation

Catherine McCaskill, Professional Development, can be reached at 941.952.3404

Title: Seller Representative Specialist Designation Date/Time: April 14-15, at 8:30 a.m. Location: South Office (2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota) Cost: $275 for Early Bird - $295 after March 31 Instructor: Marcie Roggow Register at www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com The SRS designation is the premier credential in seller representation. It is designed to elevate professional standards and enhance personal performance. Whether you are new to the industry or a seasoned veteran, the SRS course will redefine your “normal” and reinvent the way you represent sellers. Come learn tips and tools that will equip you to list in today’s marketplace. - Increase listings and grow your business - Demonstrate and communicate your value package - Understand and apply the Code of Ethics and

MARCH 2015

Standards of Practice - Understand and comply with state license laws - Understand and apply methods, tools and techniques to provide support and services that sellers want and need Marcie Roggow is a top national instructor. Earlybird discount expires on March 31, 2015.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

GRI Course Series 200 and 300 coming soon Title: GRI Course 200 Series Time: 8 a.m. Module 201- April 27-28 ($125) Module 202 - May 4-5 ($125) Location: South Office (2320 Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota) Cost for Both: $250 (11 Hours CE or 30 Hours Broker Post-License Credit) Registration deadline is April 6 If you are a newly licensed broker, the GRI Course 200 Series will offer the 30 hours of Broker Post-License education you need during the first license renewal cycle. By taking this course, you can get a leg up on earning your GRI designation while taking care of your state licensure requirement. For brokers and salespeople not in their first renewal cycle, the course offers 11 hours of continuing education. Instructors are all screened and approved by Florida Realtors®. The GRI designation indicates to buyers, sellers and other real estate industry professionals that you have made the commitment to provide a high level of professional service to your clients by securing a strong educational foundation.

Topics covered in the 200 Series are “Essential Real Estate Techniques, and provides a “sales from the ground up” approach. Module 201: It’s All About You - 8 hours Module 202: Technology and Investments - 8 hours Law - 4 hours The Association will also be providing GRI 300 series courses June 22-23 and June 29-30, 2015. Together, Series 200 and 300 provide 60 hours of Broker Post-License education for our members.

Are you eligible for Realtor® Emeritus status? Each year, NAR awards Realtor® Emeritus status to members who have held membership in the National Association as a Realtor®, Realtor-Associate®, or a combination of both, for a cumulative period of 40 years in one or more Associations of Realtors®. Upon approval by NAR, dues are waived for those members by NAR, Florida Realtors®, and MFRMLS beginning with the next billing cycle. Realtor® Emeritus members are also exempt from the Quadrennial Ethics Training requirement. If you have been a member for 40 years, our database probably reflects that, and we will submit your nomination automatically. But if you held membership in other Realtor® Associations, you will need to notify us and provide reasonable documentation to substantiate your 40 years of membership. Please send documentation showing

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

you have been a Realtor® member for 40 years to Dan Andrews, Director of Membership at Dan@ SarasotaManateeRealtors.com. If you have questions or wish to confirm our records, you may reach Dan at 952-3408. Upon approval from NAR, each Realtor® Emeritus member will receive a congratulatory letter, certificate and 40-year Realtor® Emeritus lapel pin at the next Membership meeting. Candidates for Realtor® Emeritus will be required to have served at least one year in the 40 years on a committee at the local, state, or national level or served as an NAR Director or Federal Political Coordinator. Beginning in 2020, service at the local or state level will no longer qualify.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2015

Explore ‘all four corners’ of the 2014 FR-BAR contract Title: Within the Four Corners of the FR-Bar Contract Date/Time: April 8, 9 a.m. to Noon Location: South Office (2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota) Cost: $10 (members) $20 (non-members) Understanding the Sales Contract is one of the most important aspects of your business. On October 20th of last year the new 2014 version of the FR-BAR Contract came out. The changes will be highlighted in this class. BUT, this session is primarily designed to be a thorough review of the FR-BAR Sales Contract. If you think you know the contract, come and see! We will not just be telling you what to fill in for each blank, but we will be explaining and reviewing the entire contract, section by section. What are the ramifications of each section, and how do they affect you, the Buyer and Seller. How do you explain to your customer what they are signing if you don’t fully understand it yourself? In this class you will get the best of both worlds, the perspective of a real estate attorney, and of a real estate broker. This class will be very stimulating, and make you think. This is the class you can’t afford to miss!!

Julie Horstkamp, Attorney, Berlin Patten. Julie practices primarily in residential and commercial real estate, short sales, and title insurance. Julie is a Florida Board Certified Real Estate Attorney and has been a member of the Florida Bar since 1998 and prior to that she was a real estate paralegal for 17 years. Julie is currently a member of the FR Realtor® Attorney Joint Committee which she has served on since January 2008 and is a past Chair of the committee. Julie also serves on the FR-BAR Contract Sub-Committee which is responsible for maintaining and changing the FR-BAR Contract and Addenda. David Clapp, Managing Broker, RE/MAX Alliance Group. David has been in the real estate business full time for 37 years. He has been a real estate instructor for over 30 years, having personally taught more than 6,000 Agents, Brokers, and Managers in all aspects of the real estate business. David is currently a member of the FR Realtor Attorney Joint Committee which he has been involved with since January 2010 and is currently the Vice Chair of RASM Realtor® Attorney Joint Committee. David also serves on the FR-BAR Contract Sub-Committee which is responsible for maintaining and changing the FR-BAR Contract and Addenda.

Experience The Difference...

We congratulate our members who have successfully completed the ePRO designation (ePRO). ePRO INTERNET MARKETING (ePRO) Krista P. Haynes Hendricks & Associates 24

MARCH 2015

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

CELE

Dedication and hard work pay off!!

G 11 Y E A R S O F

RVI

CONGRATULATIONS!

IN AT

Did you know that many courses are offered online through NAR? Through Realtor® University, the National Association of Realtors® offers online continuing education courses, including those for some of NAR’s most popular certifications and designations, such as ABR®, GREEN, SRES®, AHWD, BPOR, e-PRO®, and SFR®. NAR’s goal in offering these courses is to provide its members with the tools and expertise to build their business and better serve clients. Coming soon - you will be able to access these courses at www. sarasotamanateerealtors.com .

Realtor® University offered by NAR

Home Inspections SWF 20 0

3 - 201 4

Residential - Commercial Mold & Radon Testing Insurance Inspections

941-493-4334 www.swfhi.com www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Improve your MLS skills in March Pre-registration is required for all MLS classes at the web site gopherit.mfrmls.com. Please be sure you will attend if you reserve a spot! Classes are held at South Office - 2320 Cattlemen Road - or our North Office - 10910 Technology Terrace. If you need to cancel, please call MFRMLS at 800.686.7451 (not RASM).

•

MLS Basic March 3 or 19 - 9 a.m. to Noon - South March 25 - 9 a.m. to Noon - North Mandatory session for all new users, to be completed within 60 days of joining. This class will teach both new and returning agents the basic functionality including search, printing and emailing. You will also learn about additional resources and member benefits provided by My Florida Regional MLS, and more. Class is also available online: http://mfrmlsuniversity.com MLS Compliance 101 March 3 or 19 - 1 to 2:30 p.m.- South March 25 - 1 to 2:30 p.m. - North This is a mandatory class for all new members to be completed within 60 days of joining. Existing members must complete the class every two year period. In this class you will learn about the My Florida Regional MLS Rules and Regulations and compliance procedures for accurately listing properties in the MLS Database, along with additional educational materials available on MFRMLSUniversity.com. Adding/Modifying Listings March 3 or 19 - 3 to 4:30 p.m.- South March 25 - 3 to 4:30 p.m. - North This class is mandatory if you will be adding and modifying listings in the MLS (but all agents are welcome to attend!) You will be taught how to input and modify listings, enter photos, and add attachments along with valuable tips and techniques. This class is also available through live webinars. ELECTIVE COURSES Branding in Matrix March 11, 9 to 10:30 a.m. - North Branding in Matrix will go over the following: • Customizing a banner • Opening the customer’s portal • Changing the customer’s criteria • Finding previously sent email • Changing the customer’s criteria • Finding previously sent email, and much more.

Listing Tools March 11, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. - North This class will introduce you to Member Benefits that will provide you with valuable tools for your listings in MLS. • RealBiz 360- Virtual Tours • Property Panorama • ShowingTime • Data-Coop • RE Technology Advanced Matrix March 17, 9 to 11 a.m. - South Learn more advanced techniques in using the Matrix MLS system, including: Techniques on how to use the MLS to customize your criteria and utilize Wild cards; and navigate the search results Customer and Broker Reports March 17, Noon to 1:30 p.m. - South In this course you will learn how to navigate the customer and broker reports to find a wide variety of important information. Stats in Matrix March 17, 2 to 3:30 p.m. - South This class will teach you how to utilize marketplace statistics that are available through the MLS or through member benefit products.

The Mobile Agent March 11, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - North This class will provide you with resources and member benefits that help you become the Agent on the Go!

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

DocBox to go • My MLS APP/ my-mls-app.com • RBI/StatsIQ Mobile • Real Estate apps – Flipboard, Hootsuite, Dropbox – and other apps. Apps may vary depending on user’s mobile device.

Realist March 26, 1 to 3 p.m. - South Your MLS Tax Tool - Let our expert trainers show you how Realist can strengthen your position as the trusted source for accurate real estate information in your area.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2015

RASM to award six scholarships Applications are now being accepted. The application has been posted on our web site and distributed to the various local high schools. The application must be received at either our North or South office no later than May 1, 2015, at 5 p.m. Visit www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com and look for the item under News heading on the front page. Then click the item to download the PDF file and print the nine-page application and submit by mail or in person to either our North or South office. Each scholarship is in the amount of $2,000. This year, six scholarships will be awarded - three to members or immediate family members (spouse or children) of RASM; and three to students not affiliated with RASM. Please send to RASM, Attn. Scholarship Committee, 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34232, or bring to the South Office (2320 Cattlemen) or North Office

(10910 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch) prior to the deadline on Friday, May 1st (no later than 5 p.m.)

At Home With Diversity course slated Title: At Home With Diversity Date/Time: June 3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Location: RASM South Office (2320 Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota) Instructor: Charles Bonamer, CRB Cost: $49 to Global Business Council members; $99 others The At Home With Diversity course will prepare you to work effectively with today’s increasingly diverse pool of potential homebuyers. Real estate professionals who

RPAC

adapt to the increasing diversity in the market, and who wisely plan to meet the needs of diverse clients, gain a competitive advantage and are able to expand opportunities. This is the core course in order to obtain At Home With Diversity Certification. It also counts for elective credit toward the ABR, CIPS, CRS, RSPS and PMN designations. Visit www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com to register today!

From Page 6 executives who are working to provide real solutions. The meetings will focus on critical real estate issues such as preserving the mission and accessibility of Federal Housing Administration and Veterans Affairs home loan programs, protecting real estate-related tax policies, and reforming the secondary mortgage market. Advocacy for issues impacting real estate is under one banner – the Realtor® Party banner. It isn’t Republican, or Democrat, Independent or Libertarian - it’s a party onto itself, comprised of thousands of people with different backgrounds, ideologies and political persuasions, brought together by the common interest of real estate. Now more than ever, it is critical for Realtors® across America to come together and speak with one voice about the stability that a sound and dynamic real estate market brings to our communities.

MARCH 2015

From city hall to the state house to the U.S. Capitol, our elected officials are making decisions that have a huge impact on the bottom line of Realtors® and their customers. As a member of the Realtor® Party, you are encouraged to vote for candidates at the local, state and national levels who support the Realtor® Party and make the right decisions for your profession and your customers. Be sure that you register to vote, find your polling place, and help us keep our voter registration records up to date. Keep tabs on your elected officials through this magazine and other news sources. Keep up with issues important to Realtors®. You can find a wealth of information on the NAR Political Action Center web site (www.realtoractioncenter. com). You can also now download a FREE Action Center mobile app, for use on your smart phone or tablet. Just search for Realtor® Action Center in your app store. Get the latest political news and headlines on issues affecting Realtors®.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Early Voting

CANDIDATES

For the City of Sarasota election on March 10th, there will be several days of early voting offered, from Monday, March 2 to Saturday, March 7, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Supervisor of Elections, 101 S. Washington Blvd., Sarasota, FL. Two city commission seats are being contested: District 2 - Liz Alpert; David Morgan; Eileen Normile (incumbent) District 3 - Shelli Freeland Eddie; Matt Wooddall; Stan Zimmerman (incumbent) The two incumbents recently joined the city commission after being appointed to the open seats of Shannon Snyder and Paul Caragiulo, who resigned their board seats to run for the Republican party nomination for a seat on the Sarasota County Commission. Snyder lost in the primary, while Caragiulo went on to win the county seat at the general election on Nov. 4th.

Total Print Solutions

From Page 10 Zimmerman: The current city commission has no resources or authority to “handle” the issue. The county has resources and funds to do so. Q: What is the single most important challenge facing the City in the next 12 months? How would you propose to solve this challenge? Alpert: Top three priorities are development of the Bayfront cultural districts, the redevelopment of the North Trail and the rebranding of downtown as a shopping and entertainment destination. Morgan: The homeless issue along with establishing cost control. Freeland Eddie: Restoring faith in the efficacy of the body. Commissioners are public servants who serve at the pleasure of the people, and thus must be accessible to them. Wooddall: The economy/fiscal policy. Creating an environment that seeks to attract more and better jobs. Zimmerman: Creating a balanced budget, and re-creating the reserves we’ve consumed.

Bob

In today’s e-connected world print still plays a major role in marketing and communication plans. Let Coastal Printing make your words and pictures come to life, to reflect and deliver your organization’s message with maximum impact.

Chuck

Jim

George

Whether you’re looking for the latest in innovative creative design, short-run digital projects, high quality commercial printing, special effects with our full bindery capabilities, or promotional products to elevate your business–we have it all! We look forward to assisting you on your next printing project.

• Stationery Packages • Brochures • Catalogs • Calendars

• Newsletters • Presentation Folders • Notepads • Postcards

• Forms • Point of Purchase Displays • Menus • Directories

Now offering Print-on-Demand, web-based ordering, USPS Direct-to-Door Mailing and one-to-one high response direct-mail solutions.

Let Us Help Your Company Go Green

Robert Burbeck, Owner 1342 N. Lime Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237 (941) 953-3773 • (941) 713-4348 www.sarasotalockandkey.com Bonded and Insured Safes • Locks • Keys • High-security Locks • Multi-lock • Medeco Largest selection of Key Blanks in Area

1730 Independence Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34234 (941) 351-1515 / F (941) 351-8639 www.coastalprint.com / dean@coastalprint.com

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

Chamber Member since 1964 Associated Locksmiths of America Safe & Vault Techncians Association

MARCH 2015

Kristin Triolo Sarasota WCR President

The Power of Goals: Priorities for life

One of the many benefits of Women’s Council of Realtors® membership is the education component of our monthly Business Resource Meetings. All chapters provide presentations at meetings that motivate, educate and provide the necessary tools all Realtors® need for success. Success in our 2015 real estate careers today means proficiency in working with buyers and sellers, marketing, social media and more. How do we, as entrepreneurs, find the time to excel in all aspects of our business? Matt De La Cruz of the Winning Minds Group will help us put it all in balance. Please attend the meeting and hear this dynamic speaker. March 13th Business Resource Meeting Lunch Bird Key Yacht Club, 11:00 AM – 1:15 PM. Presentation: Work/Life Balance through The Power of Goals with Matt DeLaCruz of the Winning Minds Group. The presentation on personal development will help us find balance in our lives by defining our purpose and identifying our priorities. Topics include: Balancing/Counter Balancing,

Prioritizing your life; Attitude = Playing to Win, Defining your Attitude and Training and Conditioning your mind. We will also learn Sales Success Strategies on Building Your Business with New Business, Keeping Your Pipeline Full to Leverage Linkedin and Google, Building Relationships and more. Please take the time to attend a meeting to see the value of membership. Our Women’s Council of Realtors® Mission Statement: We are a network of successful Realtors®, advancing women as professionals and leaders in business, the industry and the communities we serve. Check out our Sarasota Chapter Website: http://sarasotawcr.com Leadership Team: Alfredda Odato, PresidentElect, fred@alfredda.com; Michelle Dunbar, VP of Membership, michelle.dunbar@floridamoves.com; Stacey R. Grad, Treasurer, stacey.grad@morganstanley. com; Rebecca Dalton, Secretary, Rebecca.dalton@ lakewoodranch.com; Carrie Starr Rummery, Corresponding Secretary, cstarr@starrtitle.net

Does WCR automatically work for you? No

Deeana Atkinson Manatee WCR President 28

Have you ever joined a health club and then never taken advantage of the exercise classes they offered? Before you know it a year passes by and you never made good use of having a health club membership? That is true of so many things. We sign up for things but we never really take advantage of what we signed up for. I find that to be the case with some people who join the Women’s Council of Realtors®. They feel they are going to pay for their membership and suddenly their belonging to WCR is going to bring them referrals. Well, let me tell you that is not the case. Like anything else you have to stand up, stand out and take part if you want your membership to work for you. Make an effort to meet someone new when you attend a WCR meeting. Talk with an agent or business partner you have never worked with. Attend MARCH 2015

WCR state and national meetings and educational sessions. WCR members like to refer business to WCR members. If you meet someone from the north at a state or national WCR meeting when they go back home and hear someone making a move to Florida, they will refer business to you. Use your membership like a tool. Every WCR member wants me to be successful as much as I want them to be successful and they will make a great effort to help me reach my goal of success by sending business my way whenever they can. I will do the same for them. Don’t let your membership be a useless tool. A wise woman once said if you believe your membership will bring you success it will. If you believe your membership will not bring you success - it won’t. Either way, you are correct.

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Global Business Council

The global marketplace is changing At the Florida Realtors® Global Business Committee Meeting in January in Orlando, some of the exciting facts that came out were: • 25% of foreign home buyers in the U.S. purchase property in Florida. In the 12 months ending June 2014 the dollar value of purchases of non-resident foreigners buying property in Florida is estimated at approximately $7.97 billion, an increase from the previous 12 month period’s level of $6.43 billion. • Ilona Vega with Enterprise Florida gave a presentation to the committee on foreign direct investment (FDI) in Florida and also the impact of the expansion of the Panama Canal to the state of Florida. Florida has 15 deep water seaports and 19 commercial service airports. Ilona shared that the European Union and Canada account for over 70 percent of Florida’s FDI. She also mentioned that Port Miami is currently being expanded so that they can attract bigger ships when the Panama Canal is finished. She also shared with members that the start of a relationship between Cuba and the United States will bring changes to real estate and will impact Florida’s economy.

The world has been playing havoc on the financial markets – If you have been working with Canadians you have noticed the blank look on their faces… if they are buying -- this summer their dollar was at .94 and now it has dropped to .79. On a $300,000 dollar house that is a difference of $53,660 more that it now costs them. All the other countries are facing the same thing, and think of the poor Russians, their Ruble is tumbling. Some of the upcoming events with the Global Committee are: March 26, 1-4 p.m. Jump Start your Global Business (3 cr hrs); Free to GBC members, $25 others April 9, 2-4 p.m. Panel featuring China: Free to GBC members, $25 June 3, 9 a.m. -4 p.m. At Home with Diversity (AHWD) 7 CE Hours. GBC Members, $49; others $99. If you are not a GBC member, why not join for $25 and get the discount? It pays to be Global!

Margo MacKenzie GBC Chair

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2015

On the Scene

From left, Ana Pidghirnii, Bill Howell, Amiee Rothrock and Ammi Horneman at the Business Partners After Hours Social on Jan. 27 at Geckoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Hillview.

Photos by Jesse Sunday - See thousands of faces on our Facebook page! Kristin and Hardee Richardson at the Business Partners After Hours Social on Jan. 27.

From left, Amanda Wansiewicz, Andy Olwert and Beth Dilley at the Business Partners After Hours event on Jan. 27.

MARCH 2015

Sarasota/Manatee RealtorÂŽ Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

The idylic eastern neighborhood of Laurel Oak first welcomed new residents in 1990 after completion of the west golf course and clubhouse. The course, designed by Gary Player, was joined five years later by the east course, also a Player project. The original course was later redesigned by Rees Jones, the famed “U.S. Open Doctor,” and became an even more challenging championship course. Brian Loebker, Realtor® with Michael Saunders & Company, presented a neighborhood profile late last year to the MLS Express session attendees. He noted Laurel Oak is well known for its fantastic clubhouse and friendly, active residents. “It has a culture all its own - a very special place to live,” noted Loebker. “The wildlife in the neighborhood is amazing, and once people move there, they usually stay.” While home sales may not be as frequent as some other communities, there is the occasional listing. Recent listings are hard to find, so watch close and jump on available homes! Homes have also retained their value well, but due to the Great Recession, Loebker noted there are some homes that could be purchased for below the peak of the market in 2006. “This is a safe, energized neighborhood, and has a good mix of retired people and younger families,” he explained. “The average sale is now in the $650,000 range, but there are homes well over $1 million.” Laurel Oak is a private, memberowned golf and country club, well known for its magnificent 45,000-square-foot clubhouse. There is a heated swimming pool and 12 Har Tru tennis courts. The residents enjoy socializing, and hold annual holiday events, including an unusual Halloween

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

This six-bedroom Laurel Oak home on Alister MacKenzie Drive recently sold for $1.6 million.

Neighborhood Profile

Laurel Oak: It’s all about the culture

The home, built in 1991, was sold in January 2015. tradition of riding to homes via golf carts for trick-or-treats. Some even serve hot dogs in their yards on Halloween night. There are weekly activities at the clubhouse, including a Wednesday night raffle with cash drawings. Buffet dinners are also a favorite, and residents seem to enjoy getting to know their neighbors. “This was once known as a ‘dues

for life’ club, but they recently decided that members can leave with only a one-year notice,” said Loebker. “Few have taken advantage of that option.” Editor’s Note: If you are familiar with a unique, interesting part of Sarasota, or are working a market that is currently in demand, let us know! Email Ray Porter at: ray@sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2015

Membership News Dan Andrews, Membership Director, can be reached at 941.952.3408

The Association is pleased to welcome new members! New Brokers

Almeida, Rosana: Florida Connexion Properties Avoine, Normand: Kathy Marlowe & Assoc. Realty Carothers, Kirk: Sundance Real Estate Services Clark, Candace: C Clark & Associates Realty Dear, Richard: Island Luxury Properties LLC Feuser, Daniel: The Focus Firm Good, Bradley: Good Capital & Property Grp Greenfield, William: PDQ Realty LLC Heidersberger, Virginia: Siesta Key Rental Genie Inc. Jayson, Jonathan: Jayson Real Estate King, Alicia: Kiehn Realty Company Knight, Joseph: Meadows Real Estate Services Lev, Peter: Exceptions Realty Pileggi, Stephen: Orquera & Assoc Sales & Mgnm Pletcher, John: John Pletcher R.E. Lic Broker Smith-Odato, Alfredda: Suncoast Global Real Estate Sparr, Jay: Sparr Realty LLC Streeter, Simeon: Avant Property Group LLC

New Members

Adkins, Alan: Leslie Wells Realty, Inc. Beecher, Dana: Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT Best, Lorraine: Century 21 Almar & Associates Boehmig, Kristofer: Michael Saunders & Company Bowermaster, Edward: Keller Williams Realty Gold Brown, Joseph: Keller Williams On The Water Bunn, Margaret: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Buren, Marilyn: A Paradise Inc. REALTOR Cantrell, William: Coldwell Banker Comm. NRT Carl, Terryl: Keller Williams On The Water Carr, Magdalena: RE/MAX Tropical Sands Castle, Chanitya: Premier Commercial Inc. Chaffee Jr, Mikel: Wagner Realty Chang, Min: Premier Plus Realty Channell, Ryan: GM Realty Group Chofey, Sharon: Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc. Davis, Shannon: Hook & Ladder Realty Inc. Dinning, Patricia: Coldwell Banker Comm. NRT Dustman, Danielle: Keller Williams Realty Select Feicht, William: Keller Williams Realty Select Ford, Bridget: Exit King Realty Galbraith, Thomas: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A. Galletto, Scott: Island Real Estate-Anna Maria Galvin, Owen: Premier Plus Realty Greco, Eric: Keller Williams On The Water Grigoli, Evan: ELITE Properties LLC Groshar, Elizabeth: Century 21 Almar & Associates Hall, Christopher: Allison James Estates & Homes Hall, Ersida: Allison James Estates & Homes Hamilton, Kaci: Keller Williams Rlty Manate Hammons, Barbara: Allison James Estates & Homes Harris, Deborah: London Bay Realty Inc. Helms, Mary: Key Solutions Real Estate Grp Hutchison, Barbara: Michael Saunders & Company Jasmin, Joseph: Exit King Realty Johnson, Sherry: Coldwell Banker Residential RE Johnson, Janice: White Sands Realty Group FL Johnston, Heidi: RE/MAX Alliance Group Kane, Martin: Wagner Realty Katz, Charles: Allison James Estates & Homes Lowry, Sarah: Keller Williams Realty Select McFadden, Kevin: Medway Realty MARCH 2015

McGrath, Kimberly: SunReal Estate Inc. McSweeney, John: Coldwell Banker Res R E Merriman, Warren: Premier Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Miller, Dick: RE/MAX Alliance Group Miller, PLLC, Deborah: RE/MAX Alliance Group Miner, Jason: Keller Williams Realty Select Morin, Susan: Waterfront 7 Realty LLC Morton, Noel: Michael Saunders & Company Nairnsey, Roland: London Bay Realty Inc. Nickolai, Alexandra: Florida Dream Team Realty Svcs Ortiz, Teresa: Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc. Payne, Terry: Century 21 Almar & Associates Perdew, Stephanie: Exit King Realty Perkins, Edward: Wagner Realty Piumbini, Ana: Allison James Estates & Homes Poluha, Patricia: Century 21 Almar & Associates Portale, Donna: Michael Saunders & Company Redding, Darlene: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A. Ren, Linda: Coldwell Banker Res R E Roberts, Valerie: Allison James Estates & Homes Sanger, Mary: Key Realty Schott, Marilyn: Keller Williams Rlty Manatee Seitz, Eddie: Medway Realty Smeralda, Ignazio: Keller Williams Realty Select Smith, David: RE/MAX Alliance Group Stagg, Claude: Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc. Stokes, Justin: Coldwell Banker Residential R. Straka, Donald: Coldwell Banker Res R E Stults, Bryan: Century 21 Almar & Associates Sullivan, Robert: Bright Realty Taylor, Robert: Integra Realty Group Trummer, Cecilia: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Turner, James: Coldwell Banker Res R E VanBuskirk, Jessica: Michael Saunders & Company Vane, Christopher: Keller Williams On The Water Wagner, Corrine: Coldwell Banker Residential R. Warren, Walter: Anna Maria Island Beaches RE Warren, Mitzi: Coldwell Banker Res R E Webb, Jeff: Sarabay Real Estate Inc. Yamada, Jennifer: Palm Oasis Realty and Mgmt Inc. Yavalar, Barbaros: Bright Realty York, Charles: Keller Williams On The Water Zaa, Militza: Coldwell Banker Residential RE Ziegler, Jennifer: Keller Williams On The Water

Now With ...

Armstrong, Alicia: Coastline West Rlty of Florida Barker, Erin: Tim Lester Internat’l Realty Barlan, Gyongyi: Medway Realty Barr, David: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Batista, Enrique: Medway Realty Beaver, Dianne: PalmerHouse Properties Bellenghi, Michael: Bright Realty Bouck, Lisa: RE/MAX Alliance Group Bozza, Alice: Wagner Realty Brecht, Margaret: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Bretoi, Gene: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Brickner, Joseph: Sarasota Trust Realty Company Bruno, Timothy: Horizon Realty International Cuneo, Roseanne: Century 21 All Aces Realty Dickson, Thomas: J Wood Realty Drumheller, Donna: RE/MAX Fine Properties Estep, Melissa: RE/MAX Fine Properties

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Fields, Claire: Starlink Realty Inc. Fleese, Denise: Big Fish Real Estate Inc. Fluck, Cynthia: Keller Williams Realty Select Foldes, Wendy Kay: Wagner Realty Foley, Roxanne: Atchley International Realty Geisel-Asfur, Lindsey: Stately Homes, Inc. Girimont, Teresa: Keller Williams On The Water Glade, William: Wagner Realty Goldman, Steven: Wagner Realty Gorgone, Karie: Wagner Realty Griffith, Charlene: Exit King Realty Grooms, Sherry: Keller Williams On The Water Hoopingarner, Cynthia: Michael Saunders & Company House, Rachel: Keller Williams Realty Select Hughes, Jennifer: Neal Communities Realty, Inc. Hutson, William : right Realty Kaaber, Shea: Sarasota Real Estate Group Kennedy, Deanna: Michael Saunders & Company Kirk, Robert: Keller Williams Realty Select Knoke, Theodore: SRT International Realty Kolozs, Karen: Invitation Homes Krupke, Lori: Key Realty Lamphier, Catherine: Michael Saunders & Company Londono, Pablo: Capital Real Estate Enterprise Luparell, Jarrod: Horizon Realty International Manning, Marlene: Bosshardt Realty Services LLC McCarthy, Kimberly: Medway Realty McClory-Smith, Lisa: Amtrade Realty International Melton, Raymond: Gulf Coast Executive Realty Mercier, John: Diamond Oceanside Realty Inc. Mergens, William: Keller Williams Realty Select Michael, Faith: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Orquera, Gregory: Orquera & Assoc Sales & Mgt. Pappas-Furth, Theresa: Bennett Realty Services Inc. Popovic, Charles: Keller Williams On The Water Radabaugh Jr, Jerry: Wagner Realty Randall, Kenyatta: Neal Communities Realty, Inc. Reda, Francis: Michael Saunders & Company Reid, Erin: Sperry Van Ness Commercial Remillard, Nicholas: Medway Realty Robarts, Elizabeth: Michael Saunders & Company Roth, Elsa: RE/MAX Alliance Group Ryan McRitchie, Kelly: Green Lion Realty LLC Scarpinato, Heather: Eslinger Realty Inc. Schaefer, Kathleen: Key Solutions Real Estate Grp Schomaker, Judy: Premier Sotheby’s Int’l Realty Semilof, Linda: Reynolds Realty Gulf Coast Inc. Shaw, David: Keller Williams On The Water Skirball, Phil: Big Fish Real Estate Inc. Smith, Andrea: Medway Realty Southworth, Susan: Barrett Realty, Inc. Stanley, Cecile: Coldwell Banker Residential RE Swan, Kenneth: Wagner Realty Swanepoel, Ansu: Keller Williams Rlty Manatee Swenson, David: Atchley International Realty Syfert, Christopher: Keller Williams Realty Select Van Eck, Lynne: Exit King Realty Varnadore, Beverly: Tim Lester Internat’l Realty Ventura, Daniel: Moynihan Realty Group Inc. Vogan, Julie: Wagner Realty Wentz, Lyle: Keller Williams Rlty Manatee White, Roxanna: Keller Williams Rlty Manatee Wienckowski, Donna: Medway Realty Wolfenbarger, Tamara: Bright Realty Woods, Jonathan: Medway Realty Wynne, Suzanne: Kiehn Realty Company www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

New Business Partners

Bluwater Pools 787 Commerce Dr. Unit 16 Venice, FL 34292 Phone Number: 941-484-3344 Representative: John D Ellsworth Specialty: Bluwater believes a quality swimming pool is a group effort. From the design stages through the construction and finishing details we work closely with our customer, listen to their needs and ideas to produce a beautifully finished product. To build the pool of your dreams you first need a vision, and then we provide the staff to bring to fruition. We use the latest techniques and top installers to ensure the pool you build will last a lifetime. The rest of the process focuses on having satisfied homeowners. Bluwater believes communication is the key here. We will communicate with the homeowner at every stage of construction, ensuring we create exactly the atmosphere the client desires. Email: john@bluwater-pools.com Caliber Home Loans, Inc. 1990 Main Street Ste. 750 Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 941-809-3865 Representative: Kris Davenport Specialty: As your local Caliber Home Loans representative, I’m dedicated to providing superior service and personal expert guidance throughout the home financing process. Contact me today to learn more about competitive rates and fees and innovative mortgage solutions provided by Caliber. Caliber Home Loans, Inc. is a full-service national mortgage lender and agency direct seller/servicer. Specializing in a variety of loan programs for purchase and refinance such as conforming, jumbo, and government products. Email: kris.davenport@caliberhomeloans.com Direct Inspections 6528 Seagate Ave. Sarasota, FL 34231 Phone Number: 941-251-1000 Representative: Michael Koester Specialty: Choosing the right home inspector can be difficult. Unlike most professionals, you probably will not get to meet me until after you hire me. Furthermore, different inspectors have varying qualifications, equipment, experience, reporting methods and -- yes -different pricing. The inspection I will perform for you will be of the same quality and attention to detail as one for my own family. This I promise you. Email: michael@directinspections.com Esposito Law Group P.O. Box 9266 Bradenton, FL 34206 Phone Number: 941-251-0000 Representative: Janelle L Esposito

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

Continued on P. 34, see MEMBERSHIP MARCH 2015

MEMBERSHIP From Page 33

Specialty: Mrs. Esposito has documented loans and assisted in various loan modifications, workouts and closings, served as title agent as requested, assisted in correcting title defects and documentation deficiencies and generally provided advice on other banking and credit issues. She is well versed in areas relating to debt restructure, forbearance and/or settlement, documentation, lender liability issues and creditor’s rights in bankruptcy including a creditor’s right to relief from the automatic stay and proceedings to value assets. In addition, Mrs. Esposito has represented clients in complex commercial litigation matters, contract disputes and landlord/tenant issues. Email: janelle@espositolegal.com Hamilton Group Funding 133 Bella Vista Ter. Unit B Nokomis, FL 34275 Phone Number: 703-861-3879 Representative: G. Phil Steel Specialty: Hamilton Group Funding is a national mortgage lending firm recognized for outstanding customer service. We offer a wide variety of mortgage options, competitive pricing, and sound advice about what is best for your individual situation. Hamilton Group Funding has helped make the dream of homeownership come true for thousands of homebuyers. As a mortgage banker, we are able to offer a range of products, including FHA, VA, US Department of Agriculture, jumbo and fixed or adjustable rate loans. Whether you are buying, refinancing, or building your home, Hamilton Group Funding can provide you with the right mortgage to meet your specific needs. Email: phil.steel@hgfloans.com Healthy Home Air Duct Cleaning 120 Sunnyside Drive Venice, FL 34293 Phone Number: 844-639-2474 Representative: David K. Wares Specialty: We started in the home remodeling business more than 10 years ago. Houses get sick. We make them new, and vibrant, and young again! We work around your budget, and bring you that love back. That love you either once had for your home, or thought to one day have for your home. We get it, you are too busy to do your projects. We just want to help! Help us help you. Pick up the phone and give us a call for a free consultation. We can find a way, but you have to call us to get the process started. What does your home need? Air Duct & Dryer Vent Cleaning, Painting, Pressure Washing, Roof Cleaning, Landscape Overhauling, or Curb Appeal. Email: hh4air@gmail.com

MARCH 2015

Honey Do Inc. Services PO Box 19131 Sarasota, FL 34276 Phone Number: 941-621-1931 Representative: Brian Ehrlich Specialty: A full service company to make your home sales/closings go easier. We handle all carpet/title cleaning-repair, pre-inspection maintenance/repair, pest control, carpet dyeing, dryer vent cleaning, duct/vent cleaning, furniture cleaning and odor control. We have a HandyMan division that can handle even the LONGEST HoneyDo List. Our business is built on the relationships with our customers. That is why every day we strive to deliver the best service and provide the highest quality work. Email: brian@honeydo.com Hope Home Inspections 7710 33rd Lane E. Sarasota, FL 34243 Phone Number: 941-809-2388 Representative: Robert N. Seth-Ward Specialty: At Hope Home Inspections, we are backed by 30 years of experience in real estate design and construction. We work hard to meet all of your needs. Our inspectors work with state of the art tools in the industry to help you find any and all problems, and we respect your time by working efficiently.   Hope Home Inspections, LLC is so confident you will be completely satisfied with the inspection of your property, we offer a 100% money back guarantee. Your satisfaction is our main goal. We provide home inspections, insurance inspections including 4 point and wind mitigation, mold testing and commercial inspections for all types of property including houses, condominiums, mobile homes, manufactured homes, villas, high rise, town homes, commercial buildings, etc. We work off of a detail check list and can supply you, your real estate agent and your insurance agent with any forms they may require Email: robert@hopehomeinspections.com Island Property Inspections 4802 51st St. W. #302 Bradenton, FL 34210 Phone Number: 941-315-3127 Representative: Brennan M Gilder Specialty: When purchasing a new home it is important to have a Home Inspection performed to know that all major components such as the roof, heating/air conditioning, plumbing and electrical systems are functioning properly to avoid costly repairs. After the inspection is completed you will be provided with a report that can be used for your real estate negotiations. The report shows pictures and descriptions of the defective components. The two most common insurance inspections are Four Point and Wind Mitigation Inspections. Buying a new home is one of your most important purchases. Have peace of mind with an inspection by Island Property Inspections, Inc. Email: islandpropertyinspections@gmail.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Jackson & Associates General Contractors, Inc. 6254 Colan Place Sarasota, FL 34240 Phone Number: 941-377-9911 Representative: Jeff Eslinger Specialty: Jackson & Associates General Contractors, Inc. has been instrumental in a huge number of construction projects along Florida’s west coast since 1992. We are proud of our myriad of experience in all types of construction including residential, commercial, hospitality and structural restoration. Everyone likes surprises, but not when it concerns YOUR construction project. Our approach is to dissect every aspect of the construction process to ensure each item is included in the budget, prior to beginning the actual construction. Having created and maintained mutually beneficial relationships with multiple subcontractors throughout the state, we are able to provide very competitive pricing while still delivering the superior quality and performance you deserve. Email: J.Eslingen@JacksonAssociatesGC.com Offrs.com 1680 Fruitville Rd. #316 Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 941-720-1610 Representative: Mark Dickson Specialty: Offrs.com brings qualified offers directly to you. If you are considering selling your home we have qualified buyers we can bring to your doorstep. We simply send you an offer and you tell us if you are interested. It’s that simple. We have partnerships with the leading real estate brokers in your area who have registered qualified buyers looking to buy their dream home. Email: mark@offrs.com ServiceMaster Restore 8437 Tuttle Ave Ste 147 Sarasota, FL 34243 Phone Number: 813-399-4285 Representative: Keith Whittaker Specialty: ServiceMaster Restore specializes in Water Damage, Mold Damage, Fire Damage in Commercial/ www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Residential or Natural Disasters such as Floods, Hurricanes, & Mold Removal. SericeMaster Restore has been the industry leader in the fields of Disaster Restoration. Partners with our customers to provide for their unique needs whatever the job may be. Our services are quality assured, professional, and guaranteed. Email: servicemastersrq1@gmail.com Wells Fargo Private Mortgage 1819 Main St. 2nd floor Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 813-645-8052 Representative: Mark C. Bornstein Specialty: Thank you for considering Wells Fargo for your home financing. As local mortgage professionals working in our community, we understand area lending guidelines and draw on our resources as the nation’s leading retail mortgage lender. We’ll work closely with you to help provide information so you can make informed decisions. We provide: Competitive rates and fees, An extensive product line, Prompt communication and Service that continues after your loan closes. As your Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Consultants, we’ll work with you every step of the way. Start the financing process with a free consultation. Email: mark.bornstein@wellsfargo.com Your Friends in Town 5020 Clark Rd. #405 Sarasota, FL 34233 Phone Number: 941-320-6457 Representative: Christie Renn-Lewis Specialty: Are you a seasonal resident of Sarasota or Bradenton? Who’s watching your property while you’re away? Your Friends In Town provide a thorough 26 point inspection of the interior and exterior of your home, at a frequency of your choice. Should something not be just right, we’ll get in touch with you immediately and schedule the necessary appointments to ensure the issue is resolved to your satisfaction. We also offer Vacation Concierge Services, Personal Assistant, Business Concierge Services and Rental Property Staging. Email: christie@yourfriendsintown.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2015

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID MANASOTA, FL PERMIT NO. 451

E DUCATION & E VENTS C ALENDAR

M ARCH 2015 Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

March 2

April 1

9 a.m. New Member Orientation (SOUTH) 1 p.m. Code of Ethics (SOUTH)

Great American Realtor® Days—Tallahassee 9 a.m. MLS Basic (SOUTH) 1 p.m. Compliance (SOUTH) 3 p.m. Adding & Editing (SOUTH)

Great American Realtor® Days—Tallahassee 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters (SOUTH) 9 a.m. 14 Hour CE Class (SOUTH)

9 a.m. Branding in Matrix (NORTH) 11 a.m. The Mobile Agent (NORTH) 1:30 p.m. Listing Tools (NORTH)

8 a.m. CID Membership (SOUTH) 9 a.m. Advanced Matrix (SOUTH) Noon - Customer/Broker Reports (SOUTH) 2 p.m. Stats in Matrix (S)

8:30 a.m. Luxury Home Marketing (SOUTH) 5 p.m. Business Partners After Hours Networking (Gecko’s on Hillview)

7:30 a.m. Toastmasters (SOUTH)

8:30 a.m. Luxury Home Marketing (SOUTH) 9 a.m. MLS Basic (NORTH) 1 p.m. Compliance (NORTH) 3 p.m. Adding & Editing (NORTH) 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters (SOUTH)

8 a.m. MLS Express (NORTH) 9 a.m. 14 Hour CE Class (SOUTH)

8 a.m. MLS Express (SOUTH)

8 a.m. MLS Express (SOUTH) 9 a.m. MLS Basic (SOUTH) 1 p.m. Compliance (SOUTH) 3 p.m. Adding & Editing (SOUTH)

8 a.m. MLS Express (SOUTH) 1 p.m. Realist (SOUTH)

8 a.m. MLS Express (NORTH)

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SOUTH)

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SOUTH) 11:30 a.m. Membership Luncheon (NORTH)

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (NORTH) 11:30 a.m. YPN Lunch & Listen (SOUTH)

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SOUTH)

South = 2320 Cattlemen Road Office, Sarasota, FL North = 10910 Technology Terrace Office, Lakewood Ranch, FL

My Florida Regional MLS Training

The My Florida Regional MLS training classes are offered at no cost to MLS participants. Please register for all MLS classes at the MFRMLS website: http://gopherit.mfrmls.com. Click on “Class Registration.”

Realtor® Association of Sarasota and Manatee, Inc. 2320 Cattlemen Road. Sarasota, FL 34232

Monday

Expanded Statistical Report Sarasota and Manatee Counties January 2015

For more detailed reports, visit http://www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com/statistics/

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor速 Magazine

MARCH 2015

Monthly Distressed Market - January 2015 Single Family Homes Sarasota County

Closed Sales

January 2015

January 2014

Percent Change Year-over-Year

379

354

7.1%

$233,000

$221,250

5.3%

113

118

-4.2%

$119,200

$110,150

8.2%

-26.7%

$130,000

$110,500

17.6%

Traditional Median Sale Price Closed Sales Foreclosure/REO Median Sale Price Closed Sales Short Sale Median Sale Price

2011

2012

Traditional

2013

Foreclosure/REO

2014

Short Sale

100% 90%

Closed Sales

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J $300K

Median Sale Price

$250K

$200K

$150K

$100K

$50K

$0K J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

2011

2012

2013

2014

Produced by Florida REALTORS速 with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month.

MARCH 2015

Sarasota/Manatee Realtor速 Magazine

Data released on Monday, February 23, 2015. Next data release is Monday, March 23, 2015.

www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Monthly Distressed Market - January 2015 Single Family Homes Manatee County

Closed Sales

January 2015

January 2014

Percent Change Year-over-Year

304

258

17.8%

$280,000

$255,813

9.5%

16.3%

$136,000

$120,625

12.7%

-63.0%

$176,000

$156,000

12.8%

Traditional Median Sale Price Closed Sales Foreclosure/REO Median Sale Price Closed Sales Short Sale Median Sale Price

2011

2012

Traditional

2013

Foreclosure/REO

2014

Short Sale

100% 90%

Closed Sales

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J $300K

Median Sale Price

$250K

$200K

$150K

$100K

$50K

$0K J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

2011

2012

2013

2014

Produced by Florida REALTORS速 with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th MARCH day of the following www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com Sarasota/Manatee Realtor速 Magazine 2015 month. Data released on Monday, February 23, 2015. Next data release is Monday, March 23, 2015.

Monthly Distressed Market - January 2015 Townhouses and Condos Sarasota County

Closed Sales

January 2015

January 2014

Percent Change Year-over-Year

201

221

-9.0%

$207,000

$200,000

3.5%

-36.1%

$106,000

$102,750

3.2%

-28.6%

$120,000

$102,900

16.6%

Traditional Median Sale Price Closed Sales Foreclosure/REO Median Sale Price Closed Sales Short Sale Median Sale Price

2011

2012

Traditional

2013

Foreclosure/REO

2014

Short Sale

100% 90%

Closed Sales

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J $350K

Median Sale Price

$300K $250K $200K $150K $100K $50K $0K J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

2011 40

MARCH 2015

2012 Sarasota/Manatee Realtor速 Magazine

2013

2014 www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

Produced by Florida REALTORS速 with data provided by Florida's multiple listing services. Statistics for each month compiled from MLS feeds on the 15th day of the following month. Data released on Monday, February 23, 2015. Next data release is Monday, March 23, 2015.

Monthly Distressed Market - January 2015 Townhouses and Condos Manatee County

Closed Sales

January 2015

January 2014

Percent Change Year-over-Year

133

110

20.9%

$172,500

$148,000

16.6%

-41.9%

$92,950

$65,500

41.9%

-85.7%

$124,000

$129,000

-3.9%

Traditional Median Sale Price Closed Sales Foreclosure/REO Median Sale Price Closed Sales Short Sale Median Sale Price

2011

2012

Traditional

2013

Foreclosure/REO

2014

Short Sale

100% 90%

Closed Sales

80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0% J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J $250K

Median Sale Price

$200K

$150K

$100K

$50K

$0K J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J F M A M J J A S O N D J

2011 www.sarasotamanateerealtors.com

2012 Sarasota/Manatee Realtor速 Magazine

2013

2014 MARCH 2015