Srmag feb2014 web by REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee

Sarasota

FEBRUARY 2014

REALTOR

The Official Monthly Publication of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®

On the Rise

CID President Lori Hellstrom ready to lead SAR commercial arm See Page 6

2013 was second biggest property sales year in county’s history See Page 14

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Contents

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine Volume 11, Issue 2 FEBRUARY 2014

Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. 2320 Cattlemen Road Sarasota, Florida 34232 Phone: 941/952-3400 FAX: 941/952-3401 www.sarasotarealtors.com www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

On the Rise

2014 CID President Lori Hellstrom leads the commercial arm

of the Association into a new era with optimism and energy, hoping

for a continuation of the improving local market.

What will the 2014 session of the Florida Legislature bring,

now that the state’s economic crisis seems to have subsided? Will taxes

go up? Down? How about the gambling proposal?

12 Deadlines!

Sarasota County Property Appraiser Bill Furst explains the many

deadlines facing property owners in 2014 and how you can

navigate the appraisal landscape.

Volume 11 • Issue 2 •FEBRUARY 2014

14 Strong Year

The full year 2013 saw property sales in Sarasota County hit the second highest level ever recorded, and prices are on the rise once again.

Every month, we feature many upcoming educational opportunities that give our members the edge, with information designed to help increase your business success.

12- Property Appraiser

20- Education Programs 24- On the SAR Scene 27- Pathways to Professionalism 30- Membership

ON THE COVER

2014 CID President Lori Hellstrom is shown at the Sarasota City Center in downtown Sarasota. The building is her primary focus at Osprey Real Estate Services. See story on Page 6.

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

Editorial Staff Director of Membership and Administrative Services Dan Andrews Director of Information Technology Jesse Sunday Director of Professional Development Catherine McCaskill

Sarasota Realtor® Advertising: For information on advertising rates and deadlines, contact Ray Porter at 941/952-3405 or ray@sarasotarealtors.com. Subscriptions: The annual dues of every member of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc., includes a one-year subscription to Sarasota Realtor ® magazine. A yearly subscription for Sarasota Realtor ® magazine is available to non-members for $25, plus Florida sales tax. 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 Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All submitted copy is subject to editing. 2014 Copyright© by the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

32- Calendar of Events/Education FEBRUARY 2014

Immediate Past President Roger Piro Town & Country Realty

Production Coastal Printing, Inc.

10- Governmental Affairs

18- Commercial Investment Division

Treasurer Xena Vallone Xena Vallone Realty

Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield

In every issue 15- Sales and Listing Statistics

Secretary Amy Worth-Paul RE/MAX Platinum Realty

Director of Communications Ray Porter

20 Get Educated!

President Peter Crowley RE/MAX Alliance Group President-Elect Stafford Starcher RE/MAX Alliance Group

10 On the Horizon

2014 SAR Officers

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

SAR Quarterly Membership Meeting slated March 20th The first SAR Quarterly Membership Meeting for 2014 will be held on Thursday, March 20th beginning at 11:30 a.m. The location and program will be announced soon. SAR is beginning its 91st year, and its first calendar year in our new facility at 2320 Cattlemen Road. The second quarterly meeting has been slated for Thursday, June 19th (location to be determined watch your weekly emails for updates as they become available). At this meeting, SARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual scholarship award winners will be announced and introduced. The SAR Annual Membership Luncheon has been slated for Thursday, Sept. 18th (location to be determined). During the meeting, the election of officers and directors for 2015 will be held. The year will culminate with the annual Installation and Holiday Luncheon in December (date, time and location to be determined). SAR once again thanks our dedicated members for making this organization your trusted resource for real estate professionals and the community!

Affiliate Spotlight on Cindi Shoe

The February 2014 SAR Affiliate Spotlight is on Cindi Shoe of Sarasota Catering Company. Cindi has been with Sarasota Catering Company for seven years, and in the service industry for 25 years. Born in Lakeland, FL, she moved north with family at age 7, but has been back in Florida for the past 20 years. She is an active Affiliate member of SAR, and participates frequently with the Community Outreach Committee and Habitat for Humanity. Sarasota Catering Company is dedicated to providing fabulous food and service with style for all Cindi Shoe your catering needs. They offer full-service, off-premise catering and party planning. They specialize in weddings, business & corporate catering, birthdays, QuinceaĂąeras, Bar or Bat Mitzvahs, intimate dinner parties, and special occasion catering. Cindi can be reached at 941-927-7675, or by email at cindi@ sarasotacateringcompany.com. Learn more about the business at http://www.sarasotacateringcompany.com

KNOW YOUR OPTIONS

Short Sales Foreclosure Defense

Real Estate Closings

Riddell Law Group R L G

Jefferson F. Riddell, Esq. Board Certified Real Estate Attorney

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Call 941-366-1300 For A FREE CONSULTATION The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free, written information about our qualifications and experience.

Cover Story 6

On the Rise

CID President Lori Hellstrom welcomes challenges of the new year

The involvement and interaction The year 2013 was a momentous with more than 350 CID members one for the Commercial Investment will help propel the organization Division of the Sarasota Association to new heights, Lori believes, and of Realtors®. A great deal was she is looking forward to new accomplished under the leadership ideas and directions. of President Linda Emery, as years of difficult groundwork and “I welcome your comments preparation finally came to fruition and suggestions on how CID can on many projects. provide more value to you and your business, and encourage your Now, as the dust begins the settle involvement in the activities of the and the CID looks forward to new CID,” Lori noted. “In pooling the challenges and goals, 2014 President talents of our diverse membership, Lori Hellstrom reflected on the we can accomplish great things. I recent past. look forward to a very productive “Through Linda Emery’s and successful 2014. Feel free to leadership, last year was a banner email me at lhellstrom@ospreyres. year for the CID,” said Lori, director com.” of leasing for Osprey Real Estate Lori Hellstrom earned her Services. “We achieved NAR bachelor’s degree in Business accreditation, and received the 2014 CID President Lori Hellstrom Administration from the Accredited Commercial Excellence University of South Florida. (ACE) Award.” She first became a licensed Florida real estate This important achievement and award were the salesperson in 1988, and has since been involved with crowning accomplishments for 2013. But the CID all aspects of the real estate business, from property didn’t just stop there. management, building and renovation, real estate “We launched our new web site, which was a investment, sales and leasing. longtime goal,” Lori explained. “Our annual golf She has earned the Certified Commercial Investment tournament was a huge success, raising $10,000 for Member (CCIM) designation from the CCIM our chosen charity, the American Cancer Society. Institute, one of the most coveted and respected We offered educational and informative programs, designations in the industry. providing many opportunities for networking and for members to promote their listings. Our membership As a graduate of the Sarasota Chamber of reached an all time high.” Commerce Leadership Class of 2006, and an active The list goes on and on, and Lori gives the credit for fundraiser for the American Cancer Society’s “Making an amazing year to the leadership of Linda Emery and Strides Against Breast Cancer” event and the Sarasota County EDC, Lori enjoys playing an active role in her her team. But stepping into the position after such an community. amazing year doesn’t phase her in the least. “Sarasota is an amazing place to live, and being an “This year, we will continue our pursuit of active professional in this community is a joy,” said excellence and strive to raise the bar, both in value to our members and in contribution to our community,” Lori. said Lori. “Our monthly meetings will provide Lori came to Sarasota from Bergen County, NJ over educational programming on current topics relevant 29 years ago to enjoy the year-round active lifestyle to our industry and community, as well as networking that the area offers. She is a cyclist and participates opportunities and pitch sessions.” in various cycling events, raising funds for charitable causes. Lori also enjoys boating and skiing. Another ongoing goal will be “collaborating with other professional organizations,” and “through The Sarasota area, with its year-round beautiful our community outreach initiative, expanding our effectiveness and impact as an organization.” Continued on P. 29, See RISE

FEBRUARY 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

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 of SAR for 40 years, our database probably reflects that, and SAR will submit your nomination automatically. But if you held membership in other Realtor® Associations, you will need to notify SAR and provide reasonable documentation to substantiate your 40 years of membership. Please send documentation showing you have been a Realtor® member for 40 years

to Dan Andrews, Director of Membership at Dan@ SarasotaRealtors.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 SAR Membership meeting. Note: NAR recently approved changes to the criteria that will affect all future candidates. Beginning in 2015, 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.

Realtors® Magazine seeking entries for volunteering program For six years, Realtor® Magazine’s Good Neighbor Society has helped Realtors® expand and develop their charitable efforts through the Volunteering Works Grant and Mentoring Program. The program, which assigns expert mentors to Realtors® who want to expand their community service outreach, is now seeking entries. “Realtors® can get the support and tools they need to help them achieve even greater success for their cause,” says National Association of Realtors® (NAR) President Steve Brown. The Good Neighbor Society is seeking applications from Realtors® who work on small-scale charitable efforts that have growth potential. Five Volunteering Works applicants will be selected to receive a year of one-on-one mentoring from a member of the Good Neighbor Society and a $1,000 grant as seed money to help implement improvements in their program. “Often, people are hesitant to apply for our awards because they’re nervous about putting themselves in the spotlight,” says Sara Geimer, manager of the Good Neighbor Awards with Realtor® Magazine. “But the benefit to the charity from an award like this makes the spotlight

www.sarasotarealtors.com

worthwhile, even for the shyest candidates.” Volunteering Works recipients are selected based on their dedication to the community through volunteer work, and the potential for their charitable work to be expanded or improved with the help of an expert mentor. Ideal candidates have been active in charity work, can identify specific challenges they would like to address with the help of a mentor, and specific goals for the future of their community service project. Applicants must be NAR members. For a Volunteering Works entry form, visit www.Realtor. org/gna. The entry deadline is Feb. 28, 2014. Recipients will be notified in April.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

FEBRUARY 2014

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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. ©2013 Centex Real Estate Corporation. All rights reserved. 8/5/13. CBC057850.

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98 ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. Void where prohibited. All references to clubs, golf clubs and membership opportunities and other amenities are subject to fees, dues and availability. All prices and availability subject to change without notice. ÂŠ2014 WCI Communities, 41

NORTH

Captiva Island

Governmental Affairs

Marc Mansfield can be reached at 941.952.3410

Major Issues Face Florida Legislature in 2014

Florida lawmakers will begin the 2014 Legislative Session on March 4th. 2014 is also an election year for Governor Rick Scott and three state cabinet members and many lawmakers who will be keeping an eye on their own election fortunes. What will be the major issues for 2014? It is difficult to pinpoint exactly what will transpire during the 60 day session. But according to the experts and pundits, the following issues shown below will likely be some of the major issues for the 2014 legislative agenda: The Budget Estimates show the state should have a budget surplus this year, which will make it easier to craft the new state budget while funding new priorities. Governor Scott and lawmakers are expected to continue to boost school funding and there will certainly be discussion on the projected cost increase in Medicaid. Despite the proposed budget surplus, state agencies have been asked to decrease their spending by approximately 5 percent during the next budget cycle. Tax Cuts Governor Scott has asked for $500 million in tax cuts in the next budget year. While the proposed cuts have not yet been identified they could include reduction in the number of businesses owing the state corporate income tax, lower property taxes, expanded sales tax holiday and a reduction in the communications tax that all Floridians pay on their cell phones and cable TV bills. There is also interest in cutting the motor vehicle fees that were raised in 2009 and Florida Realtors and others are interested in eliminating the state sales tax on commercial property leases.

FEBRUARY 2014

Medicaid Expansion - Governor Scott surprised lawmakers during the spring when he endorsed the expansion of Medicaid under the new health care law. The Senate passed an expansion plan in the 2013 session but it died in the House. Given the continuing discussion about this issue as well as increased pressure from health care industry and business leaders, this will certainly return as a major issue. Pensions - Speaker Weatherford is expected to attempt to end the traditional pension plan for new public employees and move to a 401 (k) style plan. The change would not impact current workers but would impact new state employees. The House backed this change during the 2013 session but if fell a few votes short in the Senate. Expect this to continue to be an issue during session. Gambling - With elections occurring this year, making any change in the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gambling regulations will be difficult. However, the gambling agreement with the Seminole Tribe will expire in 2015, which could provide a boost to potential change. A comprehensive study ordered by the Legislature has been completed and will provide a basis for debate in the upcoming session. Common Core - Florida is one of 45 states that have agreed to establish Common Core education standards for math and reading. They are scheduled to take effect next fall. There has been increased criticism from conservatives who see this as more federal involvement in state education, and there is an attempt to block Florida from participating in the program. Legislative leaders and the Governor have all supported Common Core, but as a result of the criticism there may be an attempt to seek some middle ground on the issue.

Sarasota RealtorÂŽ Magazine

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w e N s y d l il n e a od a r B M nD e p O

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Brand new luxury homes from $600s to over $3 million. We’re making the sales process at The Founders Club a whole lot easier and more attractive. New home sales on a London Bay Home will include a 3% commission, 50% of which will be paid upon contract and the remaining 50% at slab*. So you get your money more quickly and your customers get the home of their dreams nestled on oversized homesites in a financially sound golf and country club community. And be sure to ask about our remodeling commission program! 3001 Founders Club Drive, Sarasota, FL ◆ (941) 378-0900 ◆ FoundersLuxury.com Located nearly 3 miles east of I-75 on Fruitville Road (exit 210) * The above is our policy for our properties or transactions not governed by outside entities. Commission and Bonus program applies to the sale of London Bay models and new home builds within The Founders Club. Commission on LBH homiest: 50% at homesite closing, 50% at slab. On a customer’s homesite: 50% at contract (non contingent), 50% at slab.

A London Bay Homes Community

PRIVATE LABEL LIVING

Property Appraiser

Deadlines, deadlines, Have you or your clients recently: and more deadlines! • Acquired a new permanent residence as of January 1? DEADLINES, DEADLINES AND MORE DEADLINES

• • • • •

By Bill Furst, GRI, CRS, CRB

Received a new or revised disability rating from the VA? Sarasota County Property Appraiser Turned 65 in 2013 and have reduced household income? Have you or your clients recently: Opened a new business or bought an existing one in 2013? • Acquired a new permanent residence as of January 1? Established a charitable, educational or religious entity in 2013? • Received a new or revised disability rating from the VA? Began running a commercial agricultural operation? • Turned 65 in 2013 and have reduced household income? • Opened business or an existing oneoffice in 2013? All these scenarios require aannew application or bought other filing with this to ensure • Established a charitable, or religious entityapplications in 2013? maximum benefits and accurate property educational values for 2014. And those and filings come with statutory that must be met. Exemptions may be • Began runningdeadlines a commercial agricultural operation? filed in person atAll ourthese offices or, in some may be filed online. scenarios requirecases, an application or other filing with this office to ensure maximum benefits and accurate property values Homestead andforPersonal Exemptions: 2014. And those applications and filings come with statutory deadlines that must be met.notices Exemptions may be1,filed inThe person at our Current recipients were mailed renewal on January 2014. statutory offices some cases, and maypersonal be filed online. deadline for filing for or, newinhomestead exemptions is March 1. These Homestead and Personal Exemptions: include widow, civilian disability, and veteran disability and deployed military exemptions. Online filing recipients is available formailed these exemptions with exceptions, Current were renewal notices onsome January 1, 2014. The to statutory deadline for filingThe for death new homestead andor personal including revisions an existing exemption. of a spouse, a revised is March 1. These includeapplication. widow, civilian disability, and disability ratingexemptions from the VA, requires an updated Veterans receiving veteran disability and deployed military exemptions. Online filing the combat related disability discount will receive a renewal form in early is available these exemptions with some exceptions, including February. The deadline forfor revised and renewal applications is also March 1. revisions to an existing exemption. The death of a spouse, or a revised disability rating from the VA, requires an updated application. Income Qualified Seniorreceiving Exemptions: Veterans the combat related disability discount will receive a Residents who renewal receivedform this in exemption in 2013 will receivefor a renewal form in early February. The deadline revised and renewal early February.applications Using the checkboxes on1.the form, recipients must verify that is also March they are or are not qualified for theSenior exemption for 2014 and return the form to Income Qualified Exemptions: us by March 1. New applicants will receive an initial application form that a Residents who received this exemption in 2013 will receive requires proof renewal of household income be supplied. The deadline for filing form in early February. Using the checkboxes on thethat form, application is also Marchmust 1. Online is notareavailable forqualified this exemption. recipients verifyfiling that they or are not for the exemption for 2014 and return the form to us by March 1. New applicants will receive an initial application form that requires proof of Organization Exemptions: household income be supplied.literary The deadline for filing that application Qualified religious, charitable, educational, and scientific organizations is also March 1. Online filing is not available for this exemption. may be eligible for exemption from property taxes. Current beneficiaries received Organization Exemptions: renewal notices in early January. The deadline for new applicants is March 1. Online filing is notQualified availablereligious, for this charitable, exemption.educational, literary and scientific organizations may be eligible for exemption from property taxes. Current beneficiaries Greenbelt/Agricultural Exemptions:received renewal notices in early January. The deadline for newtoapplicants is March 1. Online is notNew available Renewal returns were mailed existing beneficiaries in earlyfiling January. for this exemption. applicants should contact our office for qualification and filing requirements. The Exemptions: deadline for filingGreenbelt/Agricultural renewal and new applications is March 1. Online filing is not returns were mailed to existing beneficiaries in early available for this Renewal exemption. January. New applicants should contact our office for qualification andProperty filing requirements. The deadline for filing renewal and new Tangible Personal Returns and Exemptions: applications is March 1. Online filing is not available for exemption. ForLetters more to current account holders were mailed in early January, reminding them Personal Returns and online Exemptions: to file their 2014 Tangible returns by April 1.Property Instructions for filing were included. information, to current were mailed in early January, contact theis a tutorialLetters There available on ouraccount websiteholders to assist online filers. Letters were also reminding them to theirwe 2014 returns Aprilalerting 1. Instructions for Property mailed to non-filing businesses of file which were madeby aware them that filing online were included. There is a tutorial available on our website Appraiser they are required to file a return. The $25,000 personal property exemption is to assist online filers. Letters were also mailed to non-filing businesses Bill Furst’s only available to businesses that file timely returns. of which we were made aware alerting them that they are required office at to file a return. The $25,000 personal property exemption is only 941.861.8200. available to businesses that file timely returns. 12

Statutes governing filing and application deadlines:

FEBRUARY 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

193.461(3)(a)Agricultural Lands. No lands shall be classified as agricultural lands unless a return is filed on or before March 1 of each year. 196.011(1)(a) Homestead and Organization Exemptions. Every person or organization who qualifies shall, on or before March 1 or each year, file an application for exemption with the county property appraiser. Failure to make application, when required, on or before March 1 of any year shall constitute a waiver of the exemption privilege for that year. 196.075(4)(d) Persons 65 or Older. A taxpayer claiming the exemption must submit to the property appraiser, not later than March 1, a sworn statement of household income. 196.082(2) Discounts for Disabled Veterans. The discount shall be a percentage equal tot percentage of the veteran’s permanent service connected disability. Proof of disability percentage must be submitted by March 1. 196.173(5)(a) Deployed Service Members. An eligible service member must file an application for exemption on or before March 1 of the year following the year of the qualifying deployment. 196.183(5) Tangible Personal Property. The exemption does not apply in any year a taxpayer fails to timely file a return.

For more information please contact the Property appraiser’s office at PA@SC-PA.com or 941.861.8200.

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Become a Luxury Home Marketing Specialist Title: Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) Date/Time: March 25-26, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Instructor: Laurie Moore-Moore Investment: $550 11 hours CE credit for Florida licensees and 16 units of elective credit towards the CRS designation. Register at www.luxuryhomemarketing.com/Sarasota Recognized as the mark of accomplishment in luxury markets around the world, the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) designation assures affluent buyers and sellers that the agents who have earned it have the knowledge, experience, competence and confidence they require. This intensive two-day CLHMS training course sets the standard for luxury sales training in the industry. Learn what wealthy buyers and sellers say are the “real secrets” to capturing their business and delivering outstanding service! 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 those just beginning to target the luxury market jump-start their business. Learn what wealthy buyers and sellers say are the “real secrets” to capturing their business and delivering outstanding service. This is the first step in earning the coveted CLHMS designation. Upon completion of the training you will become a Member of The Institute. Members of the Institute are part of an exclusive, international network of active luxury agents and enjoy a host of valuable benefits and discounts. You will start each day with coffee and networking at 8:30 am. Please be on time as the course starts promptly at 9 am

(the doors will close). There will be a short morning and afternoon break along with an hour for lunch. Lunch will be provided. The course will end each day at 5 pm. Attendees must be present the entire time to receive credit. Florida Realtors® are required to sign-in with their Florida real estate license number to ensure they receive 11 hours continuing education (CE) credit. Founder of The Institute for Luxury Laurie Moore-Moore Home marketing, Laurie Moore-Moore has been in the residential real estate business for 30 years. She has sold luxury real estate, managed a large real estate office, and has run two divisions of the nation’s third largest real estate company. Laurie, co-founder of REAL Trends, Inc. (an industry communications and research firm), has spoken widely in the industry, founded and managed multiple brokerage company CEO-strategy groups, trained over 9,000 luxury home agents, and is a board member of a Fortune 1000 company. It’s no wonder Laurie was chosen by The Real Estate Intelligence Report as one of the ten people having the most impact on the residential real estate business in the past 25 years.

SAR strikes news syndication partnership with World Property Channel The Sarasota Association of Realtors® (SAR) has signed a multi-year News Syndication marketing partnership agreement with Miami-based World Property Channel (‘WPC’). World Property Channel’s News Syndication Service provides an automated and customized online news feed service for the Web sites of individual real estate agents and brokers, helping them to build larger online audiences by private-labeling daily residential, commercial and vacation real estate news content. The News Syndication Service is seamlessly integrated into Web sites, www.sarasotarealtors.com

providing industry professionals with a consistent stream of daily news content. SAR member agents and brokers will receive highly discounted pricing from the World Property Channel’s News Syndication Service if they choose to set up their own web site feeds. Visit www.sarasotarealtors.com for details. WPC’s current News Syndication customers include the Miami Association of Realtors®, the Pinellas Realtor® Organization, the Greater Tampa Association of Realtors® and dozens of local and regional broker and agent sites across the U.S. “We are delighted to have the Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Sarasota Association of Realtors® as one of our newest real estate news syndication partners,” said World Property Channel founder Michael Gerrity. “We look forward to helping their 4,000 local Realtor® member base grow their web audiences with our quality news feeds.” We are pleased to offer our members another tool to expand their market reach and position them with global audiences. It is another way for our members to make these connections, important because 23 percent of international buyers are purchasing property in Florida.”

FEBRUARY 2014

Sarasota County saw second-highest sales in history Sarasota County Annual Sales ‐ 2004 to 2013 Single Family 11482

10,286

2004

7,147

6616

3,660

2005

6163

6651 5,649

FEBRUARY 2014

7,453 6,025

6,223

6,763

4,857 4,163

1,811

2,000

1,794

2006

2007

2008

Total property sales in Sarasota County in 2013 were the second highest ever recorded, according to statistics compiled in the My Florida MLS system. The 11,184 transactions represented 7,453 single family homes and 3,731 condominiums. Only the year 2004 was higher, during the “bubble” years of 2003-2005. In 2004, sales hit a record 11,482, just 298 more than the past year. The breakdown then was 7,780 single family homes and 3,702 condos The big difference between the two years was the median sales price. In 2004, single family homes sold for a median of $234,000 and condos for $210,000. In 2013, single family homes were a much more affordable $184,900, while condos were $164,900. The collapse of the national housing market brought sales in Sarasota County to a low point of 6,163 in 2007, when only 4,163 single family homes and 2,000 condos changed hands. Since that year, sales have risen by 81 percent in the Sarasota County market. The start of the “boom” years actually started in the year 2000, when the market began to see higher and higher price appreciation accompanied by a frenzied sales pace. The historic collapse that followed led to the “Great Recession” of the years 2007-2008, and the overall

9344

8056

4,805 3,702

Total 11,184

10807

8757 7,780

Condo

2,407

2009

2,732

2010

3,121

2011

3,523

3,731

2012

2013

economy appears to have finally reached a sustainable, steady pattern of growth, with unemployment dipping below 7 percent last month. Sarasota County’s economy has also appeared to return to steady footing, with the unemployment rate dropping to 6.1 percent from a high of over 10 percent in 2009. The highest median sale price for single family homes during the recent roller coaster market was $287,850 in 2005, while condos hit their highest level of $301,225 in 2006. The low median sales price for both categories was in 2010-2011, when single family homes plummeted to $132,000 and condos bottomed out at $138,000. The recent price recovery has helped many residents get back “above water,” and may create an incentive to sell in the coming years, further bouying the once depressed market. Judging from the recent high market activity, and the wave of enthusiasm sweeping over the local real estate industry, Sarasota County has recovered from the traumatic times of 2006-2011. The current market has returned to the more normal price appreciation levels seen in the 1990s, with steady, sustainable price gains. While no one has a crystal ball, hopefully the lessons of the recent past will prevent another unrealistic period of price over-escalation.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

2013 ends on high note for Sarasota County real estate

Sarasota County median sale prices for single family homes and condos in December 2013 were up double figures over last December as the real estate market ended the year on another high note. Single family home prices were at $189,950 in December, compared to $165,000 last year at this time for a 15.1 percent increase. Condos also saw a big rise, hitting $182,000 in December 2013 compared to $165,100 last year for a 10.2 percent increase. The 12-month rolling median, which moderates monthly swings, for single family homes was $184,900 in December 2013, up nearly 20 percent from last year at this time ($155,000). For condos the rolling median was $164,900, up 10.1 percent over last year’s figure at this time ($150,000). Total property sales in Sarasota County in December 2013 stood at 920, with 621 single family homes and 299 condominiums changing hands. This compares to 906 for last December. December 2013 sales bested November’s 787 sales by 16.9 percent. For the full year 2013, Sarasota County had the second highest number of sales ever tracked in the MLS system at 11,184.

“Overall, December 2013 was a great month for real estate in our market,” said SAR President Peter Crowley. “Many of our winter residents and visitors seem to have turned their attention to buying and selling homes. This could be partially attributed to the recent news that predicts increases in mortgage interest rates in 2014. Also, as homeowners see their properties appreciating in value, many are no longer under water and are now able to put their homes on the market.” Several news sources predict rising mortgage rates, falling affordability, a return of home equity for many homeowners, plus rising personal wealth will create an impetus for people to relocate in 2014. Dr. Lawrence Yun, NAR’s Chief Economist, was cautiously optimistic about 2014 at NAR’s annual conference in November. He noted he expects a transition year as prices and interest rates continue to rise but the inventory of available homes increases, too. Locally, the inventory of properties for sale is now at a 10-month high, standing at 4,417. Last month it was at 4,288 properties, and last year at this time it was 4,223. During 2013, the figure dipped to a low of 3,747 in July, so clearly more homeowners are jumping into the hot market, hoping for a favorable sale. Overall, December 2013 pending sales (properties that went under contract during the month) were at 750, almost identical to last month’s figure of 758. Last December, pending sales stood at

the

725 total. “While no one has a crystal ball, there has been a clear trend in recent years of a mild drop off in January sales, followed by higher sales in February, March, April and May,” said Crowley. “Last year we experienced an amazing spring boom. So, if historic trends continue, 2014 could be another great year in Sarasota County real estate.” The December 2013 months of inventory in Sarasota County stood at 4.8 months for single family and 4.7 months for condos. Both figures were lower than last month. A figure of 6 months is considered a balanced market between buyers and sellers. Months of inventory represents the time it would take to deplete the current inventory at the current sales rate. Last December there were 4.7 months of inventory for single family homes and 5.5 months of inventory for condos. In November 2013, the figures were 5.4 and 6.1, respectively. Currently, 552 properties listed for sale in Sarasota County in the MLS are short sales or foreclosures, compared to 567 in November 2013 and 596 properties in October. This represents 12.5 percent of available properties, down slightly from last month’s figure of 13.2 percent, due in part to the rise in inventory. Last December, the figure was 15.7 percent. Sales of distressed properties represented 22.5 percent of the overall sales in December 2013, down substantially from the November 2013 figure of 29.3 percent. In December 2012, the figure was 29.7 percent.

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FEBRUARY 2014

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - December 2013 Single Family

Unit Sales

Condo

800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Dec‐12

Jan‐13

Feb‐13

Mar‐13

Apr‐13

May‐13

Jun‐13

Jul‐13

Aug‐13

Sep‐13

Oct‐13

Nov‐13

Dec‐13

Single Family

Median Sale Price

Condo

$250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 Dec‐12

Jan‐13

Feb‐13

Mar‐13

Apr‐13

May‐13

Jun‐13

Jul‐13

Aug‐13

Sep‐13

Oct‐13

Nov‐13

Dec‐13

Single Family

#Active

#Sold

%Sold

Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months of Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending

# New Listings

% Price Original

This Month

2,973

621

20.9

$189,950

$184,900

4.8

501

16.8

776

93.8

This Month Last Year

2,647

628

23.7

$165,000

$155,000

4.7

507

19.1

665

92.1

2,886

531

18.4

$187,000

$181,700

5.4

520

18.0

760

93.5

‐

7,453

‐

$184,900

‐

8,255

‐

9,931

‐

Last Month YTD

Statistics were compiled on Sarasota County properties in the MLS as of Jan. 15th, 2014. Single-family statistics are tabulated using the property style single-family home. Condo statistics include condo, co-op, villa and townhouse. Median sales price is the middle value, where half of the homes sold for more, and half sold for less. Listings sold were closed transactions during the month. Pending sales are sales where an offer has been accepted during the month, but the sale has not yet closed. DOM indicates the average number of days that sold properties were on the market before a contract was executed.

Editor’s Note: SAR no longer reports exclusively on SAR-member sales. Beginning in Aug. 2013, the monthly report reflects all sales activity in Sarasota County reported in the MLS system, regardless of Realtor® association membership. Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors® 16

FEBRUARY 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - December 2013 Single Family Condo

Inventory 3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 Dec‐12

Jan‐13

Feb‐13 Mar‐13 Apr‐13 May‐13 Jun‐13

Jul‐13

Aug‐13

Sep‐13

Oct‐13

Nov‐13 Dec‐13

Oct‐13

Nov‐13

Single Family Condo

Pending Sales 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Dec‐12

Jan‐13

Feb‐13

Mar‐13

Apr‐13

May‐13

Jun‐13

Jul‐13

Aug‐13

Sep‐13

Dec‐13

Condo This Month This Month Last Year Last Month YTD

#Active

#Sold

%Sold

Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months of Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending

# New Listings

% Price Original

1,444

299

20.7

$182,000

$164,900

4.8

249

17.2

355

93.9

1,576

278

18.2

140

$165,150

$150,000

5.5

218

19.4

397

92.2

1,402

229

16.3

$157,750

$163,000

6.1

238

17.0

369

93.2

‐

3,731

‐

100

$164,900

‐

3,287

‐

3,971

‐

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS FEBRUARY 2014

Commercial Investment Division

CID slates flood insurance update The Commercial Investment Division of SAR will provide an informational program to members concerning the ongoing flood insurance issue at their February 18th General Membership Meeting. The meeting will be held in SAR’s auditorium, 2320 Cattlemen Road and is only open to CID members. Networking begins at 8 a.m. and the meeting starts at 8:30 a.m. Flood insurance and the impact of the new law on commercial properties will be examined. The speaker will be announced soon. The Omnibus Appropriations Bill passed by Congress on January 16th prohibits FEMA from implementing future premium increases on “grandfathered properties” for nine months. It does not limit premium increases triggered by the sale of a property, which went into effect October 1, 2013. Late in January, the Senate was scheduled to vote on a bill (S. 1926) that would place a 4-year timeout on increases for both property buyers (including buyers of a second home or business) and the owners of grandfathered properties. It will take 60 votes for the bill to move forward. Watch for a Call for Action and be prepared to contact your Senators to urge their support of the bill.

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. 1st, 2nd & 4th Fridays at the SAR Auditorium 3rd Friday at the MAR offices The monthly general meeting (3rd Tuesday) include a Marketplace session, giving members at least five opportunities each month to promote their listings and network with fellow members.

Officers:

Lori Hellstrom, 2014 CID President 18

CID General Membership Meeting - Tuesday, Feb. 18th, 8 a.m. - SAR Auditorium Update on the ongoing flood insurance issue - CID Members Only

2014 CID Officers & Directors

President: Lori Hellstrom, Osprey Real Estate Services President-Elect: Tim Mapp, Mapp Realty Vice-President: Tony Veldkamp, Sperry Van Ness Secretary: Ron Struthers, Coldwell Banker NRT Treasurer: Dave Roth, RE/MAX Alliance Group Past President: Linda Emery, Sperry Van Ness FEBRUARY 2014

Commercial Marketplace Sessions - Friday, Feb. 7, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium - Friday, Feb. 14th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium - Friday, Feb. 21st, 9 a.m. – MAR, 10920 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL - Friday, Feb. 28th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

Directors: Rico Boeras: Preferred Commercial Inc.(3 years - 2016) Charlie Brown: Insignia Bank (3 years - 2016) Susan Goldstein: Michael Saunders & Company (2 years 2015) Roberta Kolton: Michael Saunders & Company (2 years 2015) Peter Skokos: Norton Hammersley (1 year - 2014) Joe C. Hembree: Hembree & Company (1 year - 2014)

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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Education Programs

New FR-BAR Contract: Are You Ready?

In July of 2013, a new Florida Realtors®/Florida Bar-2 (FR-BAR-2) contract replaced the FR-BAR-1. The revisions to this contract had been in the making for over two and a half years. The FR-BAR-2 has some significant changes which are imperative that you be aware of, especially since the FR-BAR Contract has become the contract of choice for more companies and individual agents over the past several years. These significant changes include the following areas: Property Description; Occupancy and Possession; Leased Properties; Financing; Flood Zones; and FIRPTA. In addition to these areas, there are other language changes, and some formatting changes. Julie Horstkamp and David Clapp will discuss and review the changes made and provide the reasoning as to why the changes were made since they both were actively involved in the FR-BAR Contract Subcommittee that

Julie Horstkamp, Attorney with Berlin Patten, practices primarily in residential and commercial real estate, short sales, and title insurance. Julie is a Florida Board Certified Real Estate Attorney, has been a member of the Florida Bar since 1998, and prior to that she was a real estate paralegal for 17 years. Julie served on the FR-BAR Contract subcommittee which was responsible for the revisions to the contract. David Clapp, Managing Broker for RE/MAX Alliance Group, has been in real estate business full time for 35 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 served on the FR-BAR Contract subcommittee which was responsible for the revisions to the contract.

Increase your business with real estate auctions

Title: Increase Your Business With Real Estate Auctions 101 Date/Time: Feb. 5, 9 - 11 a.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Instructor: Laura Mancinelli, Florida Regional Director, RealEstateAuctions.com Cost: SAR Members FREE; $20 others Along with conducting a “Mock Auction” by our Licensed Auctioneer, we will be presenting the following information: What is a Real Estate Auction? * Specific time and date set for a property to sell to the Catherine highest bidder McCaskill, * Fastest most efficient way to sell real estate Professional * On site, ballroom setting, online Development, an be reached at What does a good Auction property look like? 941.952.3404 * Luxury homes, Single family, Condos, Townhomes, Villas * Commercial income properties, Multi-family units, Businesses 20

revised the contract. In addition, they will discuss the FR-BAR-2 AS IS Contract and the parallel changes made to it. This will be a very stimulating class, one guaranteed that you don’t want to miss! This session will be team taught by:

Title: The New FR-BAR Contract Date/Time: Feb. 19, 9 - 11 a.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Instructors: Julie Horstkamp, Berlin Patten; David Clapp, Broker with RE/ MAX Alliance Group Cost: $10 SAR and SCBA members; $15 others

FEBRUARY 2014

* Distressed property, Bank REOs * Land Benefits to the Buyer * All due diligence is done before auction, including home inspections * Information package provided-includes HOA docs, Title work, etc. (as applicable) * No surprises, buyer can feel comfortable with bidding * Can pay cash or finance purchase Benefits to the Seller * Definite date and time for property to sell-no more wondering “when?” * Sold AS IS, no contingencies * Fully qualified buyers bring cash deposit to auction * Contract written and signed at the auction, closing in 30-45 days Much more will be covered during this valuable seminar, which is FREE to SAR members. Register online at www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

GRI courses to be offered in 2014 Title: Graduate, Realtor® Institute 2014 Location: SAR, 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota Cost: $249 per Series (includes 2 modules) $130 (per single module) Plan on starting, or completing-, your GRI designation with GRI 200 and 300 Series. Each Series offers 30 hours of broker’s postlicense education, so if you recently earned your broker’s license, these courses together will earn you 60 hours which is all you need. Other licensees will earn 11 hours of CE with each Series. The Series can be taken in any order. GRI designees: • Have pursued a course of study that represents the minimum common body of knowledge for progressive real estate professionals. • Have developed a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to navigate the current real estate climate—no matter what its condition. • Are recognized nationally. • Act with professionalism and are committed to serving their clients and customers with the highest ethical standards.

Essential Real Estate Techniques (Series 200): GRI 201 “It’s All About You!” - April 21 & 22 GRI 202 ”Technology and Investments” - April 28 & 29 Real Estate Specialties (Series 300): GRI 301: “It’s More Than Just Sales” - June 23 & 24 GRI 302: “Thinking Outside the Box” - June 30 & July 1

SAR School of Real Estate plans 2014 courses and brokers which lead to nationally-recognized Realtor designations such as the Graduate, Realtor® Institute (GRI), thereby fulfilling two requirements at once (classes are typically offered during business hours).

Do you know anyone who wants to launch a new career in real estate? At the Sarasota Association of Realtors® School of Real Estate, they can make it happen. Learn from an experienced instructor and practicing Realtor® in the comfortable, professional surroundings at SAR Headquarters, conveniently located at 2320 Cattlemen Road in Sarasota, FL. The instructor is Michael W. Davenport. • SAR School of Real Estate has carefully designed its pre-license classes to be offered over several weeknights and weekends to enhance the learning experience. • Students will have time to digest the information and come away with the confidence to tackle the state license exam. • SAR School of Real Estate also has a range of postlicense and continuing education offerings for salespeople www.sarasotarealtors.com

2014 Sales Associate Pre-License Schedule SA-10: February 18-March 20, 2014 SA-11: May 1, 2014-May 29, 2014 SA-12: September 4-October 2, 2014 Earlybird Tuition: $339 (includes manual, Florida Real Estate Principles, Practices and Law, 35th Edition) (register at least 10 days in advance of class to receive Earlybird price) Regular Tuition: $364 In addition, SAR School of Real Estate will be the 2014 provider of the 14‐hour license renewal course for SAR, Feb. 24-25. No examination is required! This session provides the full 14‐hours of continuing education needed for license renewal. The 14‐hours CE includes 3 hours of Core Law. Or, you may opt to take Core Law only which consists of the first three hours of the 14 hours.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

FEBRUARY 2014

Former judge to deliver timely seminar Hauser will also discuss the major changes made by the 2013 legislature regarding landlord tenant law, which by the way, were mostly favorable to the landlord. Hauser’s lecture style is very interactive and he welcomes questions from the audience. Formerly a Circuit Court Judge in the 9th Judicial Circuit (1990-2007) and a County Court Judge in Orange County (1980-1990), Hauser lectures statewide on attorney’s fees and is the author of “Attorney’s Fees in Florida,” published annually since 1987. This seminar is sponsored by the Realtor®Attorney Joint Committee.

Title: Florida Residential Landlord Tenant Evictions Date/Time: March 5, 9 to 10:30 a.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Cost: FREE to SAR Members, $10 others Instructor: James C. Hauser, Esq. James Hauser will give a general overview of Florida Residential Landlord Tenant Evictions, as well as discussing other areas of interest, including, but not limited to, security deposits, retaliatory eviction and self-help eviction.

James C. Hauser, Esq.

Realtor® Safety Seminar just might save your life Title: Staying Alive! Date/Time: March 12, at 9 a.m. to Noon Location: SAR Auditorium Instructor: John Bieber, Bieber Enterprises Cost: SAR members $10; others $20 Good security habits aren’t “nice to have;“ they are a “must have.” What is your Security Quotient? How comfortable are you working an open house or meeting a new client at a property? These are the times when our vulnerability increases, and we need to practice effective security measures. No one is going to do it for us!

Jump start your international business Title: Go Global - Jump Start Your International Business Date/Time: Feb. 19, 1 to 4 p.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Instructors: Pat Tan, CIPS, NAR President’s Liaison to UK; Carla Rayman, CIPS, NAR President’s Liaison to Panama Cost: FREE to GBC Members; $30 others The Jump Start Your International Business course introduces key concepts a real estate practitioner will need to know, in order to work successfully with foreign buyers and sellers of real estate. Earn 3 hours of “specialty” CE too! This course educates the student about the importance of the global market and provides knowledge and skills that will help them make international transactions part of their overall business. Students will learn about resources they can use for research and development of marketing strategies, and basic financial concepts that are inherent in real estate transactions that involve an overseas party. 22

FEBRUARY 2014

With just the right knowledge and preparation, we can greatly increase our security quotient and decrease our vulnerability. John Bieber, owner of Bieber Enterprises, LLP, a North Port, FL consulting firm, has developed this program designed to teach and reinforce proven security methods. The class has been approved by FREC for 3 hours of “specialty” CE. This training is based upon 22 years in the Federal government working many aspects of security, from police work, to Cabinet level protection, to managing security operations overseas. The 3-hour session covers: General security awareness methodology; Realtor®-specific strategies; and Discussion of non-lethal and lethal measures.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dedication and hard work pay off!! We congratulate our members who have successfully completed the Graduate, Realtor® Institute (GRI), Certified Real Estate Brokerage Manager (CRB) designation, and Military Relocation Professional (MRP) certification! GRADUATE, REALTOR INSTITUTE (GRI)

Paula Coburn

Rosebay International, Inc.

CERTIFIED REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE MANAGER (CRB)

Michael Holland

Michael Saunders & Company

MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL (MRP)

Lisa Wolfe

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Keller Williams on the Water

www.sarasotarealtors.com

MLS training continues in February and techniques. This class is available through live webinars or you may attend at SAR. • Profile Sheets • Adding listings information to MLS • Adding Photos, attachments and open houses • ShowingTime and Virtual Tours

Pre-registration is required for all MLS classes at gopherit.mfrmls. com. All classes are hands-on in the SAR Technology Center (except for Entering and Updating). Registration is limited to 18. Please be sure that you will attend if you reserve a spot! If you need to cancel, please call MFRMLS at 800.686.7451 (not SAR). Creating a Professional CMA Feb. 6, 9 to Noon This class is designed to teach you the skills needed to create a comprehensive CMA. You will learn how to import properties that are listed outside of the MLS, into your CMA along with valuable tips and techniques for creating a professional CMA. • Create a new seller or buyer CMA • Importing subject property from MLS or tax search and entering additional information about the subject property • Adding MLS and tax Comparables • Adjustments, pricing, net sheet, selecting pages, and viewing report • Edit and remove reports • Emailing, saving, and printing CMA • Customizing a personal CMA and setting it as the default Listing Tools Feb. 6, 1 to 2:30 p.m. 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 Map-Based Searches Feb. 6, 3 to 4 p.m. This class will teach you how to utilize the map in your MLS software, creating map based searches, searching by map for CMA’s and printing maps along with map views. • Search by Radius, Rectangle or Polygon • Saving Map-Based Searches • View Listings on a Map www.sarasotarealtors.com

• Utilize the Map locator • Display Points of Interest • Driving Directions

•

MLS Basic Feb. 11 or Feb. 24 (FUSION), 9 a.m. to Noon 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 in Fusion including search, printing and emailing. You will also learn about additional resources and member benefits provided by My Florida Regional MLS, and more. The class is also available online at: http:// mfrmlsuniversity.com or you may attend the class at SAR. MLS Compliance 101 Feb. 11 or Feb. 24, 1 to 2:30 p.m. 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, current period May 1, 2012 – June 30, 2014. 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. • Rules and Regulations • Profile Sheet Terms • iSmart Tool Adding/Modifying Listings Feb. 11 or Feb. 24, 3 to 4:30 p.m. 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 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Contact Manager Feb. 20, 9 to 10:30 a.m. This class will teach you how to use the MLS as a Contact Management system. Learn how to add contacts, edit and manage contact info, importing and exporting of contact information, how to synch with Outlook and much more. The Mobile Agent Feb. 20, 11 a.m. to Noon This class will provide you with resources and member benefits that help you become the Agent on the Go! • DocBox to go • Mobile iMapp • My MLS APP/ my-mls-app.com Apps may vary depending on user’s mobile device Searching Made Simple Feb. 20, 1 to 3 p.m. 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 Data Co-Op Feb. 20, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. MLS Data Co-op from CoreLogic® MarketLinx® provides new tools, new reports, and a new way to access MLS listings. MLS Data Co-op features an innovative map-based interface that delivers a wealth of property information, and you’ll be happy to know it works on most popular browsers and platforms, including Apple® Mac® and iPad™ products. Come learn of the many NEW features that have been added to Data Co-op! FEBRUARY 2014

SAR On the Scene

December SAR Events - Revisited

Visit SAR on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

Photos by Jesse Sunday

The Dec. 4th SAR Global Business Council Holiday Celebration was well attended, and members and guests enjoyed the annual event. Shown here, left to right, are Paul Malton, Pat Tan and Bill Geller.

Above: Joe C. Hembree, Lori Hellstrom and Joe R. Hembree at the SAR Installation and Holiday Luncheon on Dec. 11th at Michael’s On East.

At right: Donna Elmore receives the 2013 Realtor® of the Year Award at the Dec. 11th Installation and Holiday Luncheon.

FEBRUARY 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

By Ed Thomas

Environmental Toxic Mold Research & Inspection Due to the increased concern about mold, the performance of mold inspections and increased access to the Internet, people are becoming more informed about microbial growth. These are a few of the most frequently asked questions I have received: Q. Is mold dangerous? A. Yes - but not all mold is dangerous. There are over 70,000 types. Q. How long does it take for mold to grow? A. Mold can begin growing in standing water in 24 to 48 hours. Q. How do you control mold growth? A. By keeping the humidity below 50%. Q. What type of air conditioner filter should be used? A. A HEPA white pleated type filter rated MERV 6 or 8 (Minimum Efficiency Report Value). Q. Is mold remediation expensive? A. The price can vary depending on the size and type of job. Q. Should air quality sampling be performed during the inspection? A. Yes. Air samples, tape samples or bulk samples should be taken and analyzed by an independent lab. Q. Are mold inspections expensive? A. It depends on the amount of samples the Inspector believes are necessary to be taken to accurately reflect the mold conditions present in the property. Q. When should I get a mold inspection? A. A mold inspection should be performed if there is a musty smell, visual water damage, visual growth or if a person has flu-like symptoms for a long period of time. Q. What is the turnaround time and when will I receive the report? A. Typical turnaround time is 3 business days for the Inspector to receive the lab results and issue the report. Q. How long after a flood or water leak should the cleanup be performed? A. As soon as possible after it happens. The leak should be repaired. Q. Does bleach kill mold? A. No. It only kills bacteria and viruses. Q. What causes mold to grow? A. All mold needs to grow is oxygen, www.sarasotarealtors.com

organic matter, moisture (water or humidity above 60%) or standing water. Q. How do you know if mold is present behind the walls? A. If mold is growing behind a wall, a cavity search can be performed by drilling a small hole and taking a sample. You must have the owner’s permission to drill the hole. The Inspector usually does not repair the hole. Q. How do I clean mold? A. An antimicrobial or biocide should be used to kill the mold spores. Q. Can a Home Inspector perform a mold inspection? A. Yes but they must be licensed and insured. Check the Department of Business and Professional Regulation web site, www.myfloridalicense.com, for license numbers. Inspectors should present all licenses at the time of the inspection. This column was provided by Ed Thomas, SAR Affiliate. He can be reached at 941-779-5178 or visit his firm’s web site at http://www.etmrservices.com.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

FEBRUARY 2014

Affiliate Focus

How can mold hurt your sale prospect?

WCR offers members ‘Exchange of Value’ “Exchange of Value” - this is not only Women’s Council of Realtors® motto; it is a concept that some business professionals recognize as a way to do good business. Realizing that you may have knowledge or experience that can benefit others is the first step in understanding the meaning of “Exchange of Value.” The second step is to recognize the value that another individual may have. The third step is wanting to share that knowledge or experience. Effective networking then begins. Business Networking is defined as a business activity by which groups of like-minded business people recognize, create, or act upon business opportunities. A business network is a type of business social network whose reason for existing is business activity. Its members may agree to meet weekly or monthly with the purpose of exchanging information and solutions, business leads and referrals with fellow members. It’s important to notice key elements. Likeminded business people are necessary to facilitate and participate in business and relationship building opportunities. Regular meetings or opportunities must be provided for a formed network to be successful. Open “Exchange of Value” is not just a concept, but a required attitude for each member to maximize their involvement. Women’s Council of Realtors® was formed to not only recognize the value that women in the real estate profession were bringing to the table but to provide a supportive atmosphere for women to learn and develop successful careers. The average years of experience in real estate of Council members is 17. That means that members

have experience and knowledge beyond what most average educational programs or workshops can offer. Members are valuable resources for each other and the Council fosters an attitude of collaboration rather than competition. A professional business plan should include building a referral base as a lead source. Isn’t “word of mouth” a part of all business growth. Women’s Council focuses on referral networking as an essential part of business activity. The average income from Council member-to-member referrals in 2012 was $11,713. Monthly Business Resource Meetings offer members opportunities to form referral networks on a local level. On a State and National level the Council is involved in at least 4 meetings that bring together other members from across the state and country. During these opportunities relationships are developing that will last a career lifetime. Since we live in one of the most popular areas of the country, referrals seem to flow in our direction very easily. The Council offers other opportunities to build a referral network. The National website at www. WCR.org has a Referral Center for members. It includes a profile that will be available to other members. A search function is included that allows a member to search an area, city, or state for a member to send her customers to.

2014 Leadership Team

Susan Phelps WCR President

Susan Phelps President Cristello and Company RE Phone: 941-906-7653 sarasotasuze@gmail.com

Catherine Lamphier Vice-President Membership Michael Saunders & Company Phone: 941-907-9595 catherinelamphier@michaelsaunders.com

Tim Calpin Secretary JP Morgan Chase Phone: 941-705-0139 timothy.c.calpin@JPMChase.com

Kristin Triolo President-Elect Florida Homes eBroker Phone: 941-725-2486 kristintriolo@floridahomesebroker.com

Alfredda Smith-Odato Treasurer RE/MAX Alliance Group Phone: 941-360-7777 fred@alfredda.com

Jacqueline Abney Corresponding Secretary Berlin Patten Phone: 941-954-9991 jabney@berlinpatten.com

FEBRUARY 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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Editor’s Note: This year, SAR’s strategic plan focuses on “Pathways to Professionalism” to help improve the professionalism of our members. We will provide monthly educational columns to promote the importance of NAR’s guidance. Please encourage your fellow members to follow these principles.While the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the National Association establishes objective, enforceable ethical standards governing the professional conduct of Realtors®, it does not address issues of courtesy or etiquette. Here is one example of the need for professional courtesy, provided by Wade Corbett, a Realtor® in Garner, North Carolina: It never ceases to amaze me how Realtors® can treat each other sometimes. I recently had an experience with a buyer’s agent who could not have been more rude or bullheaded. I never like to talk poorly about anyone as it’s not my nature and I don’t think it’s very professional, but in this case, it may be necessary for today’s lesson. There are loathsome people throughout all walks of life and it’s impossible to avoid all of them. Why though, do some real estate professionals think that being difficult to work with helps anyone? Our primary duty is to provide our client with quality service in a lawful manner. After all, we wouldn’t make it too far without our clients, would we? Recently, I sold a property that had a cracked septic system. Knowing that replacing this system would be financially impossible for my clients, I opened my bag of saved favors to ensure they would be able to sell their vacant home. I was able to convince one of my best contractors to replace the septic tank for less than cost, (yes, she actually lost money replacing it), as a massive favor for me. With breakneck speed, we obtained the appropriate permits, and the job was done in just a few days. Even www.sarasotarealtors.com

so, the buyer’s agent was not impressed, and without going into any detail, was very unprofessional during the entire ordeal. The other agent actually called my favorite contractor to fuss about the pace of the work being done. Meanwhile, this agent called me horrible names and insulted my real estate abilities to my contractor! The property did end up closing after continued scrutiny from the buying party. My sellers, a married couple who live several hours away, knew nothing of the troubles mentioned or the ugliness of the buying side. All they knew was that I was going to do everything in my power to ensure that the property sold. I ended up calling in a lot of favors and I took a significant loss on my commission. However, my hard work paid off. Since the deal closed, the sellers have referred me additional business, given me marketing space on their website—at no cost—and

called me many times to thank me for all my help! All in all, the buyer’s agent was very difficult to work with and at some point impossible to communicate with. It was clear from early on that this agent was only interested in making a commission and not on her client’s well-being. So what’s the lesson here? We should all try to be friendly and courteous to one another. There’s no reason to ever be hurtful to a fellow Realtor®!

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

FEBRUARY 2014

Pathways to Professionalism

Professional Courtesy: Where did it go?

Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee 28

Post-Closing Occupancy Agreement explored By Michael P. Infanti, Esq. Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee

Imagine that as soon as you put your client’s home on the market for sale, you immediately receive an offer for top dollar. In today’s market, such a scenario is not uncommon. Some desirable homes that are priced well seem to be selling quickly. In such an event, a postclosing occupancy agreement may be necessary. A post-closing occupancy agreement is essentially a shortterm lease agreement that is intended to provide the seller with a brief period of time within which to continue to occupy the residence after closing. Although a post-closing occupancy agreement is typically less elaborate than a traditional lease agreement, it is nonetheless a formal contract between the parties that can impart significant legal duties and obligations on the parties after closing. For this reason, all of the terms and conditions of a post-closing occupancy agreement should be thoroughly considered and carefully drafted. Typically, a post-closing occupancy agreement will include the same or similar terms as a traditional lease agreement, such as the names of the parties, the commencement and termination dates, the amount of rent (if any) that will be paid during the term of the agreement, and the responsibility for the payment of maintenance and utilities. Although the amount of rent is negotiable, it is typically a function of the duration of the term of the agreement, as well as the amounts (if any) that the buyer will be required to pay after closing. For instance, if the buyer will incur hard costs such as mortgage payments, taxes and insurance after closing, then the seller (who will continue to occupy the residence after closing) should, at a minimum, expect to pay an amount that is equal to the sum of these costs and expenses to the buyer after closing. Of course, one of the primary disadvantages to a post-closing occupancy agreement is the wear and tear on the premises during the term of the agreement. For this reason, the buyer should ensure that the agreement requires that the seller maintain the premises in good condition during the term, and gives FEBRUARY 2014

One of the primary disadvantages to a post-closing occupancy agreement is the wear and tear on the premises during the term of the agreement. the buyer adequate recourse in the event that the seller fails to return the property in such condition at the end of the term. Another important aspect of a post-closing occupancy agreement has to do with the insurance and indemnification provisions. At closing, the buyer will own the property, and may be responsible for certain accidents or injuries that are sustained by the seller on the property after closing. This responsibility may occur even if the seller maintains his insurance policy after closing, because the seller’s insurance company may deny a claim due to the fact that the seller no longer owns the property. For this reason, it is important for the buyer to obtain adequate insurance at closing that will not be denied due to the fact that the property will be rented to, and occupied by, the seller after closing. The buyer should also ensure that the postclosing occupancy agreement includes a well drafted indemnification provision that will indemnify and protect the buyer against certain claims of the seller after closing. This column is provided monthly by members of SAR’s Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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RISE

From Page 6 weather and unequaled geographic amenities was a natural fit for Lori. Lori is director of leasing for Osprey Real Estate Services, representing landlord Osprey S.A. Ltd. in all lease transactions for its one-million-square-foot office portfolio in Sarasota. Lori was named “2013 Realtor® of the Year” by the Commercial Investment Division of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, and was awarded the honor at the CID’s annual holiday party on Dec. 5th. The annual award goes to a member of the CID who is in good standing, has demonstrated exceptional skill and ability in the practice of commercial-investment real estate in the past year, and who is generally held in high regard by the membership. She has been active in the Sarasota commercial real estate market for more than 10 years. Lori encourages Realtors® who routinely engage in commercial transactions to join CID and take advantage of the many benefits offered by the organiztaion, at the very low cost of $50 per year. CID offers: - Monthly General Membership (3rd Tuesday) meetings featuring speakers and panel discussions on topics relevant to the commercial real estate market, and a property pitch session for members to promote their listings. - Weekly Marketplace sessions designed to allow members to present their listings, learn of new opportunities and exchange information with commercial professionals. - Scholarship Program - encourages members to invest in their success through educational opportunities offered by the National, State and local associations of Realtors®, CCIM, and other qualified programs. Scholarships provide one-half of the cost of the class up to $500. - Political Interaction in city, county and state legislation and initiatives important to our market. - Community Involvement - CID hosts an annual golf tournament which has contributed tends of thousands in proceeds to local charities for over 10 years. - Signature Speaker Series - Beginning with a talk by Ralph Spencer, CCIM, in January, the Speaker Series will offer nationally recognized speakers presenring commercial topics of local importance. The networking opportunities alone are well worth the membership fee of $50 per year. You’re invited to attend two meetings before becoming a member. CID members must hold current membership as a Realtor®, Affiliate or Auxiliary Affiliate member in SAR or in another Board/ Association of Realtors®. For more information, contact Marc Mansfield, CID Staff Liaison, at 941-952-3410.

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

The Association is pleased to welcome new members! Designated Realtors®

Coles, Roger: Priority Real Estate Mgmt. Boeras, Rico: Sarasota Commercial Realty LLC DeCastro, Julia: LWR Commercial Realty LLC Good, James: Hope Realty Inc. Swanson, Karin: Karin S. Swanson R E Broker

New Members

Blackwin, Venesia: Exit King Realty Bollinger, Steve: Jeffrey S. Dieter R E Broker Carrasco, Gladys: Michael Saunders & Company Coyle, Pamela: Coldwell Banker Res R E Cushing, Lawrence: Michael Saunders & Company Dean, Michael: Exit King Realty Deutscher, Lorna: RE/MAX Alliance Group Dunaway, Bradford: RE/MAX Alliance Group Elliott, Carol: Michael Saunders & Company Fiala, Tomas: Amtrade Realty International Furtado, Cindy: ERA Waterside Realty Hall, April: Keller Williams on the Water Hand, Gretchen: Kelly Gettel & Company PLLC Harland, Sonia: Deluca Realty Inc. Henson, Lora: AUM Florida Real Estate LLC Johns, Tina: Coldwell Banker Res R E Kaplan, Scott: Rosebay International, Inc. Leavitt, Dawn: Exit King Realty Lento, Tracey: Bright Realty Lionetti, Vincent: Re/Max Superior Properties Livengood, Robert: Coldwell Banker Res R E Luther, George: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Martino, Michael: Keller Williams On The Water McMahon, Rene: Coldwell Banker Res R E Meier, Sharon: Coldwell Banker Res R E Norvell, Margaret: Michael Saunders & Company Novakovic, Shea: Exit King Realty Sanchez, Harrison: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Shivalier, Angelia: Keller Williams on the Water Southworth, Susan: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Stephens, Kim: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises Syfert, Tim: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Turman, Lloyd: Michael Saunders & Company Uecker, Lucy: Medway Realty Ventura, Daniel: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Vican, Tomas: Amtrade Realty International Visser, Dennis: Coldwell Banker Res R E Wampler, Sarah: Integra Realty Group Wheary, Lindsay: Caballero Realty Services Williams, Karen: My Florida Homes Realty LLC

FEBRUARY 2014

Wood, Don: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Yates, Julian: Coldwell Banker Res R E Young, Elizabeth: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch

Now With ...

Allison, Janet: Key Realty Atkins, Fredd: Waterfront 7 Realty LLC Bangerter, Thomas: Michael Saunders & Company Banks, Ronda: Jennette Properties Inc. Bonaccorso, Grace: Exit King Realty Bromby, Ashley: Atchley International Realty Budnik, Carol: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Burgess, Lisa Marie: Realty Partners LLC Choukour, Thana: Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc. Coburn, Paula: Rosebay International, Inc. Cole, Susan: Michael Saunders & Company Flanders, Jennifer: Waterfront 7 Realty LLC Flynn, Ronald: Key Solutions Real Estate Grp Gruber, Tonna: Rosebay International, Inc. Hagan, Pamela: Waterfront 7 Realty LLC Hagman, Helmer: Tarpon Coast Realty Inc Hardy, John: Impulse Realty International Harrington, Terri: London Bay Realty Inc. Hayden, Lisa: Exit King Realty Hilding, Lori: Michael Saunders & Company Jones, Timothy: Michael Saunders & Company Kasmirski, James: Bright Realty Kennelly, Brian: Starling Realty Inc. Kimsey, Benny: ERA Waterside Realty Lliraldi, Julio: Listing Services Direct Lurz, Julia: Realty Services Inc. Moore, Rogers: Coldwell Banker Res R E Snyder, Robert: Key Realty Taylor, Kelly: Realty Partners LLC Tucker, Robert: Realty Partners LLC Werner, Allison: Michael Saunders & Company

New Affiliates

Brilliant Agent 1723 Colleen Street Sarasota, FL 34231 Phone Number: 888-222-8405 Representative: Jacques May Specialty: Custom Web Design and Marketing for Realtors. With real estate searches on mobile devices tripling in the past year, your site must be optimized to meet the needs of your visitors. Using Responsive Web Design will prepare your site for the mobile world. Our Custom IDX allows your visitors to browse listings on any device with a fully optimized layout designed to enhance the user experience while maximizing your leads. Leading Realtors® understand

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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SAR welcomed 34 new members in December 2013, and ended the year on a six-year membership high.

that your website is the first impression of your business to potential clients. Here at Brilliant Agent, we have helped countless agents take their image and business to the next level with beautiful real estate websites. You need a website that will work for you and enhance your brand, generate leads and result in your company being more successful. Email: jack@brilliantagent.com Merrill Lynch 1819 Main Street 12th Floor Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 941-364-5678 Representative: Brian J Mariash Specialty: You have important priorities, and you know what you care for most in life: let a Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor help you align your portfolio with your personal goals. When you choose a Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor, you’re entering into a unique longterm relationship. One where your advisor takes the time to develop a thorough understanding of who you are, how you think and what matters most to you. It’s a relationship that combines financial experience with intimate knowledge of your priorities to plan, protect and help fulfill your vision of the future. A Full Service Investment Advisory Firm. Email: brian_mariash@ml.com Plexus Worldwide 1624 32nd Avenue East Bradenton, FL 34208 Phone Number: 941-356-7278 Representative: Gina Gier Specialty: Plexus Worldwide is committed to providing life-changing products. In early 2011 Plexus Worldwide launched the synergistic product combination of Plexus Slim and Accelerator. The initial results were extremely impressive and sales have grown dramatically month over month. Our core beliefs are simple: Be Trustworthy, Be Honest, Be Reliable, and Be Responsible. These beliefs encompass all that we do. You can have confidence in the quality of our products, and the support we will provide to help you succeed. Email: ggierplexus@gmail.com www.sarasotarealtors.com

VanDyk Companies 136 Golden Gate Point #402 Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 941-806-7324 Representative: Karen Silver Specialty: VanDyk group of companies is a multidisciplined development corporation. We specialize in new home communities, condominium developments, commercial construction management, retail developments & property investments. Mid Rise to High Rise boutiques Builder/Developer, Sarasota to Naples. Email: ksilver@vandyk.com Waterstone Mortgage 1990 Main Street Suite 750 Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 407-309-5180 Representative: Nicole Erickson Specialty: A Strong National Mortgage Lender. At Waterstone Mortgage, our mission is to take the confusion and anxiety out of the mortgage process so our customers have a clear path to their dream of homeownership. Learn how we’re strong, solid, and we are here to help you achieve your goals. Your home may be your largest financial transaction to date, so it’s important to make the right decisions and keep an eye on the details. With the assistance of your Realtor® and our mortgage professional, it should be an efficient, headache-free, and ultimately rewarding experience. Whether you’re a first time homebuyer or an experienced homeowner, there are many things to consider throughout the mortgage process. Email: ntaranowski@waterstonemortgage.com For information on membership in the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, please visit www. sarasotarealtors.com and click the top link “JOIN SAR” for all the details. You can also contact Membership Director Dan Andrews at 941-952-3408, or by email at dan@sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

FEBRUARY 2014

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

FEBRUARY 2014 E DUCATION & E VENTS C ALENDAR Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Feb. 3

24 9 a.m. Core Law/14 Hours Continuing Education 9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing Listings

8 a.m. MLS Express (SAR) 5 p.m. Sales Associate Pre-License

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR)

March 3

8 a.m. GRI 102

9 a.m. Orientation 1 p.m. Code of Ethics

7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 9 a.m. Auction Seminar

8 a.m. GRI 103 9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing Listings

11:30 a.m. Affiliate Smart Luncheon

8 a.m. CID General Membership 5 p.m. Sales Associate Pre-License

9 a.m. 14 Hours Continuing Education 5 p.m. Sales Associate Pre-License 5 p.m. Affiliates After Hours Networking (Gecko’s) 1 p.m. Boot Camp 5 p.m. Sales Associate Pre-License

8 a.m. GRI 103

7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 9 a.m. FR/Bar Contract Seminar 1 p.m. Global Jump Start Seminar

9 a.m. Green Realtors Alliance Seminar

7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 1 p.m. Boot Camp

8 a.m. MLS Express (UPCC) 9 a.m. Creating CMA 1 p.m. Listing Tools 3 pm. Map-Based Searching 5 p.m. Sales Pre-License

8 a.m. MLS Express (SAR)

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR)

8 a.m. MLS Express (SAR) 9 a.m. 9 a.m. Contact Management CID Commercial 11 a.m. Mobile Agent Marketplace (MAR) 1 p.m. Searching made Simple 3:30 p.m. Data Co-op 5 p.m. Sales Associate PreLicense

8 a.m. MLS Express (UPCC) 1 p.m. Boot Camp 5 p.m. Sales Associate Pre-License

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR) 1 p.m. Boot Camp

Note: All events/classes are at SAR, 2320 Cattlemen Road, except where noted

My Florida Regional MLS Training

The My Florida Regional MLS training classes are offered at no cost to MLS participants. All classes are HANDS-ON in the SAR Tech Center . Please register for all MLS classes at the MFRMLS website: http://gopherit.mfrmls.com. Click on “Register for Class” on the home page under the heading “Membership Director.”

Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. 2320 Cattlemen Road. Sarasota, FL 34232

Monday