Srmag june2014 web

Sarasota

JUNE 2014

REALTOR

速

The Official Monthly Publication of the Sarasota Association of Realtors速

Why Should You Invest?

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Sadowski Funds utilized for low-income housing

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More state revenues devoted to the homeless

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Flood insurance reforms enacted

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Water quality improvements made

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Sales tax on commercial leases fought

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Protected consumers from post-claim underwriting See Page 6-7

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Contents

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine Volume 11, Issue 6 JUNE 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

6

At the Table

By supporting the Realtors® Political Action Committee (RPAC),

2014 SAR Officers

SAR members help the real estate industry push to elect candidates

who support the issues that impact their livelihood.

President Peter Crowley RE/MAX Alliance Group

10 A Big Thanks!

Members of SAR who invest $99 or more in RPAC are acknowledged

every year in the pages of our magazine, because it is through

their contributions that RPAC makes a difference.

12 Annual Report

The Sarasota County Property Appraiser has released the Annual

Report for 2013, and the numbers demonstrate a healthy overall

market value increase of 6 percent over 2012.

Volume 11 • Issue 6 •JUNE 2014 4

The District 13 Conference and Trade Show Expo is set for June 20th and SAR is organizing and promoting the event, which will bring more than 400 Realtors® from 6 area associations.

15 2nd Highest Sales Ever!

The month of April 2014 saw the second highest number of sales in a single month in the history of Sarasota County, almost topping 1,200 and continuing to demonstrate a thriving market.

Treasurer Xena Vallone Xena Vallone Realty Immediate Past President Roger Piro Town & Country Realty 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.

Sarasota Realtor® is published monthly by the Sarasota Association of Realtors® Inc.

Editorial Staff Director of Communications Ray Porter Director of Membership and Administrative Services Dan Andrews Director of Information Technology Jesse Sunday Director of Professional Development Catherine McCaskill Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield Production Coastal Printing, Inc.

In every issue

Sarasota Realtor® Advertising: For information on advertising rates and deadlines, contact Ray Porter at 941/952-3405 or ray@sarasotarealtors.com.

10- Governmental Affairs 12- Property Appraiser

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.

15- Sales and Listing Statistics 18- Commercial Investment Division 20- Education Programs

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.

27- Pathways to Professionalism 30- Membership

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 JUNE 2014

Secretary Amy Worth-Paul RE/MAX Platinum Realty

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.

13 District Gathering

President-Elect Stafford Starcher RE/MAX Alliance Group

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Quarterly Membership Luncheon The Sarasota Association of Realtors® will hold the Second Quarter Membership Meeting on Thursday, June 12th from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Der Dutchman Restaurant, 3713 Bahia Vista Street, Sarasota.

Special guest speaker will be Octavio Ortiz, general manager of The Mall at University Town Center, which is scheduled to open Oct. 16, 2014. He will provide an update on the construction and grand opening preparations. The meeting is jointly sponsored by SAR and the Sarasota Chapter of the Women’s Council of Realtors®.

In addition, the Florida Realtors® Honor Society inductees will be recognized, as well as the SAR Scholarship Winners for 2014.

The following SAR members will be recognized for membership in the Florida Realtors® Honor Society: Paula J. Cashi, David P. Clapp, Michelle Crabtree, Michael Davenport, Doris R. Edwards, Iva Fadley-Dane, William C. (Bill) Furst, Jr., Darla Furst, William Geller, Marianne LeBar, Brian McGreevy, Margo MacKenzie, Renee Marquiss, Roger M. Piro, Christina Pitchford, Carla Rayman, Ann T. Ross, Judy Schomaker, Alfredda SmithOdato, Stafford Starcher, Joyce Marie Steward, Kristin K. Triolo, Xena Vallone and Amy Worth-Paul.

Register now at www.sarasotarealtors.com in order to ensure you take part in this important meeting.

Affiliate Spotlight on Kody Klein The June 2014 SAR Affiliate Spotlight is on Kody Klein, accounts manager at Elite Landscape Services.

Kody’s parents, Joseph and Kari Klein, purchased ELS in September 2013. At the time, he was working as a journalist in Southeast Michigan. But when his dad offered him the opportunity to learn the basics of running a business, Kody moved to Sarasota and jumped on a lawn mower.

Now, Kody runs ELS with James “JP” Habib. Kody spends most of his time managing the accounting and customer relations, while JP manages the field operations.

Kody Klein ELS is a quality-driven lawn and landscape maintenance company servicing residential and commercial properties in Manatee and Sarasota counties. In addition to monthly lawn, landscape, and irrigation maintenance, ELS offers landscape design and installation.

Kody can be reached by phone at 941-737-7763, or by e-mail at info@elsflorida.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

www.rlglawfirm.com

3400 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida

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

At the Table

Realtors® invest in their future through RPAC

S

So what is this RPAC all about anyway? Maybe you’ve heard the acronym tossed around in the halls of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, or at a Florida Realtors® or NAR conference or seminar. But, busy with sales and listings and your everyday life, it just never occurred to you to look into the meaning behind the letters.

First of all, 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 did you know RPAC has saved the real estate community millions of dollars? 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®.

Read the article on Page 7 to see some of the issues the real estate community has championed in the last year at the state level, with the help of RPAC dollars.

The purpose of RPAC is essentially to promote and defend issues that impact the livelihood or every Realtor® member of our Association!

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.

JUNE 2014

• Invest - Realtors® should work together to contribute to candidates who support Realtors® and private property rights.

Nearly 8,500 Realtors® and their guests recently gathered in Washington, D.C. on May 12-17 for the Realtor® Party Convention & Trade Expo. They advocated policies to protect and advance investment in residential and commercial property.

Realtors attended informative sessions concerning top issues impacting the industry and their business and clients. They met with legislators, congressional and regulatory staff, and top industry executives who are working to provide real solutions. The meetings focused 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 has been together under one banner – the Realtor® Party.”

We are the Realtor® Party - an energized movement of real estate professionals fighting to keep the dream of homeownership alive for this country.

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.

From city hall to the state house to the U.S. Capitol,

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Continued on P. 29, See RPAC www.sarasotarealtors.com

Legislative Wins and Losses

Affordable Housing is a winner

Kathleen Peters (R-St. Petersburg) establishes challenge grants for local homeless coalitions, nonprofits and other The last time lawmakers directed Sadowski Affordable agencies that assist the homeless, and will also provide Housing Trust Funds to housing and not general revenue, these agencies with training and technical assistance. The Florida upset Ohio State to win the BCS Championship and 2014-2015 state budget provides $4 million for homeless Apple introduced the iPhone. programs. Effective July 1, 2014.

It’s a different story this year. For the first time in seven Post Biggert-Waters: Developing a private flood insurance years, a significant amount of money collected for the market. Despite reforms at the federal level to slow flood Sadowski Funds from a portion of doc stamp taxes will go insurance rate increases, Florida Realtors® and other business toward housing. It was one of several victories for Florida groups sought an alternative to the NFIP at the state level.

Realtors® during the 60-day legislative session.

SB 542 by Sen. Jeff Brandes (R-St. Petersburg) encourages “When the state faced a budget shortfall, legislators felt private insurers to enter the Florida market by giving them the need to sweep Sadowski monies into general revenue,” rate-setting flexibility and reduced regulatory burdens. Early says John Sebree, Florida Realtors®’ chief lobbyist. “This on, the House and Senate disagreed on how much flexibility year, there was a $1.2 billion budget surplus. It’s a huge to give insurance companies on the amount of coverage victory for Florida Realtors®, for the property owners who required. SB 542 requires the same coverage, deductibles and pay doc stamps and, most importantly, for the thousands of adjustment of losses as provided by the NFIP. Floridians, many of them school-age children, who benefit FIGA reforms fall at last minute: This is the second year from housing funds.” that Florida Realtors® lobbied for reforms to the Florida Of the $167 million appropriated to the Sadowski Insurance Guaranty Association (FIGA), a nonprofit Funds, lawmakers directed $100 million to the State corporation that pays claims on behalf of insolvent insurance Housing Initiative Program (SHIP) and $67.7 million to companies. HB 375, an omnibus insurance bill by David State Apartment Incentive Loans (SAIL). SHIP provides Santiago (R-Deltona), would have allowed FIGA to collect money to refurbish existing homes for low-income families assessments in monthly installments if it has enough funds and provides down payment assistance and lease-purchase to pay claims for six months or more. This was important to assistance. SAIL provides rental assistance. insurance companies considering writing policies in Florida, because unexpected assessments reduce a company’s surplus Here’s how Florida Realtors®’ other top initiatives fared and the funds available to pay its own claims. this session: Funding for water quality projects: With the goal Help for the homeless: Florida Realtors® 2014 President of developing a comprehensive statewide water plan in Sherri Meadows made homelessness a priority this year, 2015, the state budget earmarks $167.8 million for Lake and the association advocated for legislation that provides Okeechobee, Indian River Lagoon and Everglades cleanup housing for extremely low-income and homeless populations projects.

When waters in Lake Okeechobee rise to dangerous by funding local homeless coalitions. HB 979 by Rep. levels during the rainy season, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers releases the excess water -often polluted with toxic algae -- into nearby rivers and estuaries. This money will help pay for reservoirs, muck removal, elevated bridges Professional Environmental Consulting to restore Everglades water flows south of the lake and research. Additionally, lawmakers approved $25 million for springs restoration.

A state study, but no lowering of sales Experienced Assistance for the Real Estate Industry tax on commercial leases this year: Gov. Reliance offers a discount to SAR members Rick Scott’s $500 million tax cut package on Due Diligence Services: earmarked $100 million toward a phase-out of the current sales tax on commercial leases.

• Phase I and II ESAs • Ecological Surveys He understood that being the only state to • SBA Loan Experience • Soil & Groundwater Testing impose such a tax puts Florida businesses at • Dry Cleaner Assessment • Gas Station Investigations a competitive disadvantage with neighboring A realistic, no-nonsense approach. We listen to your states and online retailers. But the Legislature needs and move the process forward, fast. wanted broad-based tax cuts, such as lowering vehicle registration and title fees. In the ASSESSMENTS TO REMEDIATION—WWW.RELIANCEENV.COM Continued on P. 29, See SADOWSKI

Offices in Downtown Sarasota, FL & Lancaster, PA

888.735.2008

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

JUNE 2014

7

Cypress Falls, Vernon Hill II Great Room

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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.

NORTH

Exceptional communities.

Quality homes.

Extraordinary amenities.

Outstanding customer service.

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Live the Good Life

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Clubhouse, Tennis, Boat Slips, Dog Park

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Tampa

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Homes from the low $200s to the $700s.

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Exit 220

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Sarasota 75

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Lake Okeechobee

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Exit 195 Exit 193

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ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE 41 BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED 98 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. Š2014 WCI Communities, Inc. All rights reserved. CGC 031523

NORTH

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Governmental Affairs

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Marc Mansfield can be reached at 941.952.3410

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SAR Salutes $99 RPAC Contributors

SAR asks members to voluntarily support RPAC by contributing $99 or more each year to support RPAC activities on local, state and national levels. Major Investors are shown in red and will be featured later this year.

On behalf of the SAR Board of Directors, and the RPAC Committee we salute our $99 Club Contributors listed below!

For more information, contact Marc Mansfield at marc@ sarasotarealtors.com.

Abel, George Abramson, Bruce Acheson, Murray J Adair, Elaine Addy PA, Ian Alba, Rae M Allen, Sania Amador, Margaret F Amon, T. Mark Anderson, Robert T Arthur, Sam E Atkinson, Deeana M Babiarz, Vicki N Bagley, Mark Bailey, Steven C Bain, Brian Roland Barrington, Diane H Beacham, Deborah M Bell, Joseph A Beninato, Michael Benjamin, Gary P Benson, Laura Berger, Judie Beychok, Carey Biter, Tina Blackburn, Yvonne M Blomquist, Timothy A. Blomster, Debora R Bollinger, Steve Bradshaw, Brenda A Brantley, Pamela Keen Brennan, James A Brenner, James Bridges, Michael J Brink, John Brinkman, Deke Brittain, Bill Brock, Gregory D Brooker, Simon Brown, Glenn T JUNE 2014

Bruno PA, Michael W Brunson, Laura Buice, John A Burke-Phillips, Michelle Cameron, Tracy L Carey, Lori A Carpenter, Lora Aston Carroll, William Carson, S Dudley Carvel, Randon Joel Casella, Robert M Cashi, Paula J Cashi, Tamara L Cashi-Haught, Lora L Castleberry, Rebecca Caswell, Bernadette Cerreta, Craig Chamberlain, Janet V Chandler, Karen A Charity, Gabriele Charron, Pamela J Clammage, Georgina Clapp, David P Clary, Janice L Claydon, James Cochrane, Michael Allen Collier, Janis L Comerford, Kathleen Conklin, Mary F Conklin, Thomas W Connaughton, J Maurice Conover, Belle L Conrad, Allen Coon, Mark Sheldon Couch, Delver D Cox, Heidi Crabtree, Michelle Crane, Shawn Cristello, Gail T Crowley, Peter M Culp, Rebecca J Cunningham, Sharon Currey, Tamara Currey, Todd A Curry, Edward T Dabringhaus, Shirley Davidovich, Igor A Davenport, Michael De Manio PA, Betsy DeBellevue, Ann Watson DeCastro, Julia DeLieto Jr PA, Leon R Dean, Paige E Debbs, Gina L

Delaney-Quillen, Mary H Denapoli, Richard Lee Denton, Nancy L Derr, Terri Dickinson, Joan A Doherty, Patrick F Donnelly, Kandace F Dorr, Lora Lee Doyle, Faye Doyle, Jayde M Drake, Amy Bressler Drews, Elisa Drews, Matthew R DuPont, Kathleen Dorothy Dugan, Janet R Dumas, Albert Dunn, Brian J Edelen, Gary Charles Edwards, Doris R Ehlert, Gary Elmore, Donna Esses, Ellen Laura Fadley-Dane PA, Iva D Fava, Heather Carol Ferraro, Thomas M Figlow, Nicholas P Fingerle, Mary Ann Flagg, Cristy Lynn Flanders, Jennifer P Flannagan, Mark Flynn, William Robert Fogarty, Carl F Fogarty, Marie Helen Foley, Roxanne Forgea, Stephanie Ann Forslund, Jonas Foster, Cindy J Fous, Gregg Alan Franzetti, Paul Fraser, David S Freden, Gregory Freiwald, Kimberly A Funk, Jenifer Susan Furtado, Cindy Lee Furst, William Garden, Niles T Gardner, James G Gaukhman, Yuliya Geller PA, William A Gesell-Hirschman, Jamey Gilliland, R Kim Goldstein, Susan Grande, Jason P Grant PA, Duneska

Sarasota Realtor速 Magazine

Gray, Melinda S Gray, Robert C Greenfield, William A Griffin, Kathleen C Groom II, David C Guenther, Patricia A Guentner, Bryan L Gusto, Renee Guttman, Cynthia D Hackett Jr, Walter G Hackett, Barbara J Hagan, Pamela J Hansen, Laura Hart, Kathleen R Hayes, Stephen A Hebda, Bernice Hedge, Charlotte F Heers, Ryan Hellstrom, Lori Hembree, Joe C Hembree, Joe R Henderson, Mark S Heritage, Ellen R Hinz, Jurgen Hirschman, James E Hochstetler, Jason A Hocking, Beth M Hofmann, Angela Hogan, Chip Holbrook, Rita M Holland, Michael James Horn, Maureen Horne, Jennifer A Howse, Jennifer M Huff, Janet D Hughes, Jennifer Ann Huitema, Bart Hunt, Martha Ann Ingorvaia, Angelo Iorio, Ralph V Jaret, Laura P Jaret, Rory Thomas Jiganti PA, Ann F Jimenez PA, Melba Jones, Richard John Judge, Deborah Kaminski, Anna Kaplan, Zachary C Kedzierski, Dennis Kelley, Thomas A Kellogg, Jami Noe Kennelly, Brian J Kiesewetter, Ken King, John R

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Klee, Kim Klee, Viola R Koffman, Donna J Kotaska LLC, Dennis G Kotaska, Theresa Ann Kovacs, Laszlo Z Kozak, Ingrid D Krashchenko, Stella Krumm, Stephanie L LaFlamme, Sandra E Lamb, Tara Larus, Preston Lasky, Harold Latino, John A Laughlin, Peter G Lawhorne, Darrell Franklin LeBar, Marianne LeVine, Pamela A Leduc, Charles R Leduc, Lorna S Leereveld, Bart W Leicht, Sara Lekic, Slavisa C Lento, Tracey E Lersch, Charles D Liberman, Marlene Lichter, Debra D Liljeberg, Stacy S Lima, Karen Lindberg, Bradford W Linton, Anthony William Lockhart PA, Lori Loebker, Brian Lorie, Janet C Losch, Scott A Lupson, Jayne S MacKenzie PA, Margo L Mahoney, Gregory Peter Mapp, Timothy Marcone, Michael Anthony Marlar, Martha W Marquardt, Russell F Marquiss, Renee Maslen, Sandra T Masopust, Rudolf Mast, Tammy R Masters, John Masters, Nancy Matteoli PA, Susan R McClain, Tana M McCollum, Linda May McCulloch, Lucy A McDavit, Susan Jane McDonald, Andrew M McDonald, Barbara G McDonald, Luz Miryan

McDonald, Ryan McFarland, Marci McLaughlin, Dick McLaughlin, Marcia L McLeroy Jr, Dan H McMahon, Rene McNamara, Thomas E Mei, Barbara A Mei, Denise P Meister, James W Mejias, Fernando Meskil, Brian Miller, Lauren E Mitchel, Cary Mohan, Marsha L Monismith, Mark L Moore, Nancy H Morris, Marian E Morton, Peter M Moulton, Michael Mudgett, Pat Murphy, Jay Najmy, Barbara Nanfelt, Stephen P Naylor, Jennifer Ann Nelson, Deborah Nesci, Raymond Nguyen, Tuan Kim Nolander, Nathalie Novakovic, Shea Nutt, Carla O’Dea, Maryline J O’Neil JR, James Patrick O’Neil, Suzanne Nicole ONeil, David Ochoa, Juana Ostrowski, Susan Page, Daniel J Page, Linda A. Paige, Babette Paley, Sheldon Papineau, Lois Paquette, Bruce William Pfeiffer, Karen Phelps, Susan Phillips, Nancy E Phipps, Brian E Piro, Roger M Pitchford PA, Christina R Plummer, Jerri A Podolak, Andrew T Portman, James Power, Felix Pratt, Barbara E Pruitt, Rosemary L Rayman, Carla

Reece, Martyn C Reutter, Thomas Riddell, Jefferson F Rider, Steve Ridgeway, R Glen Riley, Bill L Riley, Linda Maureen Robbins, Kevin L Robbins, Lynn Roberts, Kathy Robinson, Janet K Rocha, Maria Cecilia Rodgers, Lori J Rogers, Cynthia Rogers, Ronna L Rogers, Virginia Alane Rosario, Mike Rosenberg, Jay David Ross, Ann T Ross, Ellen B Rossnagle, Terre L Runyon, Gail L Russell, Drew Ryan, Terry Ann Safonov, Nikolay Salisbury, Dan N Sancranti, Denise C Sandmeyer, Kira I Schomaker, Judy Schwabe, Camille Schwartz, Karen J Shah, Chuck Sieger Jr, Fred W Simons III, Charles Allen Smith, Morris Smith, Olga Borisovna Snyder, Robert C Soda, Donna Soda, Jim Souza Jr, Tony Gracia Spencer, Carolyn M Spina, Daria Sproehnle, Patricia Srur, Kristen H Stahl, Juergen Stanley, Robert Stanoch, Annette Stanoch, Mark Starcher PA, Linda I Starcher, Stafford L Starling, Fred M Stavola, Laura E Stepien, Rafal Stefan Steward, Joyce Marie Stickler, Douglas L Stoltzfus, Fannie Caroline

Strom, Jerry Strout Koken, Lauren Stultz, Victoria L Styers, James David Swanepoel, Ansu Sweeney, Pam Swenson, David E Swilley, Regina M Tan, Patricia A Terry, Robert Thomas PA, Debra A Toole, Clark Triolo, Kristin K True, William C Turgeon, Marc Ucci, Kathleen E Uihlein, Brendra B Vac, Andrew Vallone, Xena A Van Natter, Gregory Vance, Cheryll Ann Villa, Judson T Viteri PA, Fernando Wagner, Tom Waguespack, Daniel P Wajszczak, Iwona Walker, Angela Walter, John R Walters, Gregory E Ward-Paramore, Adrienne C Watkins, Samuel Wayland Jr, Terry Ray Weinstein, Gregory D Weiss, J Ruediger Westbrook, Mary L Wettlaufer, Janet White, Scott M

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Property Appraiser

Our 2013 Annual Report isReport available online Annual for real

and tangible property values

Every year our office publishes a report on real and tangible property values for the most recent tax year, including a historical overview of

By Bill Furst, GRI, years.

CRS, CRB changes in relation to previous Some of the highlights of this year’s Sarasota County Property Appraiser report are,

E

Every year Values our office publishesCounty a reportincreased on real and tangible  In 2013, Market in Sarasota almost 6% property values for the most recent tax year, including a overhistorical the previous year.of( page 4) in relation to previous years. Some overview changes of the highlights of this year’s report are:  Taxable Values all properties Sarasota County increased by - In 2013,for Market Values ininSarasota County increased almost 4.1%6% forover the first time since 2007. (page the previous year. ( page 4) 7) - Taxable Values for all properties in Sarasota County increased forinthe first time since benefited 2007. (page 7) a Homestead  40%by of 4.1% parcels Sarasota County from - 40%inof2013. parcels in Sarasota County benefited from a Exemption (page 17) Homestead Exemption in 2013. (page 17)  Increases in Market Values resulted in 82% of homestead exempt parcels realizing a Save Our Homes differential compared to only 28% in 2012. (page 18)  Non-homestead residential parcels with 9 units or fewer saw a 900% increase in the number of parcels with the 10% Assessment Limitation Cap differential.(page 19)  522 property owners transferred their accumulated Save Our Homes Cap differential, also known as Portability, to a new homestead in Sarasota County. (page 19)

 New construction values for 2013 increased approximately 160% after years of declines and stagnation. (page 22) - Increases in Market Values resulted in 82% of homestead exempt parcels realizinginaacres Save Our Homes differential  As a result, the downturn of land classified as agricultural compared to only 28% in 2012. (page 18) continues. (page 23) - Non-homestead residential parcels with 9 units or fewer saw a 900% increase in the number of parcels with the 10%  Sarasota CountyLimitation ranks 10thCap in taxable value among Assessment differential.(page 19)all Florida Counties. (page 27) owners transferred their accumulated Save Our - 522 property Homes Cap differential, also known as Portability, to a new homesteadon in these Sarasota County. (page 19) Detailed information topics, for the City of Sarasota, the City of - New construction for 2013 increasedKey, approximately North Port, the City of Venice andvalues the Town of Longboat as well as 160% after years of declines and stagnation. (page 22) the County, along with a list of the various other taxing authorities, is - Asinaour result, the downturn in acres of land classified under as available to you Annual Report found at www.SC-PA.com the agricultural continues. (page 23) “Our Office” tab.

For more - Sarasota County ranks 10th in taxable value among all information, Florida Counties. (page 27) contact the Detailed information on these topics, for the City of Sarasota, Property the City of North Port, the City of Venice and the Town of Appraiser Longboat Key, as well as the County, along with a list of the Bill Furst’s various other taxing authorities, is available to you in our office at Annual Report found at www.SC-PA.com under the “Our 941.861.8200.

Office” tab.

12

JUNE 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Typically, at this time of year, we’re giving you updates on Florida Legislative changes made to statutes governing property valuation and exemptions.

House Bill 7090 that will go to Governor for final passage will give property owners the ability to file their late filed (with cause) application for agriculture classification exemption with their property appraiser, rather than having to file a petition with the county Value Adjustment Board.

In the 2014 legislative session, there were no other changes in statutes and rules governing the operation of this office.

Fingers crossed for the 2015 session. We’ll keep you posted.

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

www.sarasotarealtors.com

District 13 Conference and Trade Expo set June 20th Don’t miss this year’s District 13 Conference and Trade Expo at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in beautiful Punta Gorda, Florida. Mark your calendars for Friday, June 20, beginning at 9 a.m.

Cost for the entire day of informative seminars, plus a delicious breakfast and lunch, as well as real estate trade expo, is only $20 through June 13.

The Sarasota Association of Realtors® is this year’s organizing association for the districtwide event.

The theme for this year’s conference is “Believe: In Yourself, Your Market and Your Business.”

Dr. John Tuccillo, Chief Economist with Florida Realtors®, is the Keynote Speaker, and his topic is “The Comeback of SW Florida: Why Won’t Anyone Believe Us?” Following a review of the Florida real estate recovery, Tuccillo will examine the arguments, statistics, and hidden agendas of those who won’t

acknowledge the recovery and insist we are headed for a new bubble.

Other speakers include: - Darla Furst and Juana Watkins, who will discuss the topic “BELIEVE … That FREC is a good thing!”: Watkins, the Director of the Florida Real Estate Commission, will share statistical information on complaints, investigations, unlicensed activity, exam performance, and others.

Commissioner Furst will review violations that are on the rise and in what areas licensees need to be especially careful.

- Barry Grooms of RE/MAX Alliance will discuss “Prospecting with Tools You Already Have”. If you are

like most agents, you have purchased a magical program or book that will get you rich, only to find it unopened the last time you cleaned out your office.

This session will help you generate new listings.

- David M. Levin, Environmental Attorney, Icard Merrill, will offer “How to Avoid Getting Sued by a Buyer of Waterfront Property”: Awareness, answers, and advantage.

- Denise Oyler, Realtor®/Trainer with Rosebay International Real Estate, will speak on “Personal, Professional & Profitable”: Customer service, communication, and lead conversion are the keys utilized on a day-to-day basis which will result in profitability.

The trade show expo will be open from 9 a.m. to noon, close briefly for lunch and the keynote address, then reopen from 1 to 3 p.m. Closing ceremonies will follow, with drawings and prize giveaways.

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Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

JUNE 2014

13

Nominating Committee submits 2015 slate The SAR Nominating Committee, chaired by Laura Benson, has submitted Officer and Director nominees for the 2015 Board of Directors.

The committee selected the following slate for the election to be held at the SAR Annual Meeting on Thursday, September 18, at a location to be determined.

Officers: President Stafford Starcher, RE/MAX Alliance Group President-Elect Xena Vallone, Xena Vallone Realty Treasurer Christina Pitchford, Allen Real Estate Services Secretary Joe C. Hembree, Hembree and Associates Directors to serve a 3-year term: Jag Grewal, Ian Black Real Estate Brian McGreevy, Sarasota Home Realty Denise Oyler, Rosebay International Alfredda Smith-Odato, Re/Max Alliance Group Joyce Steward, Joyce Steward Real Estate 1-Year Term as Director Amy Worth-Paul, Re/Max Platinum Realty

Members may submit additional nominations by petition signed by at least 20 SAR Realtor® members.

The petition must be filed with the Association by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 13. For information and forms, look under Hot Topics on SAR’s website at SarasotaRealtors.com.

Candidates for Director must be a Realtor® member of SAR for at least two years immediately prior to election, and must have served on an SAR committee prior to election. No more than three Directors from the same firm may serve.

Information about the candidates will appear in the July issue of Sarasota Realtor® Magazine If petitions are received for eligible candidates, the election will be held by ballot prior to the Annual Meeting. Otherwise, the election will be held by voice vote at the Annual Meeting in September.

Stafford Starcher, RE/MAX Alliance Group, who is serving as President-Elect in 2014, will

automatically become President on January 1, 2015.

President Peter Crowley, RE/MAX Alliance Group, will continue on the Board as Immediate Past President.

Directors whose terms continue in 2015 are: Steve Bailey, Coldwell Banker Residential; Georgina Clamage, Michael Saunders & Company; Alex Krumm, Re/Max Alliance Group; Marianne LeBar, Michael Saunders & Company; Brad Lindberg, Sperry Van Ness Commercial; Margo MacKenzie, Wagner Realty; Renee Marquiss, Xena Vallone Realty; Steve Rider, Florida Internet Realty; and Bob Stanley, Coldwell Banker Residential.

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Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

S

Property sales in county second highest in history

S

Sarasota County saw the second highest level of sales in its history in April 2014 – a total of 1,195 closed transactions recorded in the My Florida Regional MLS system. That figure was topped only by the 1,223 sales reported a decade ago, in April 2004, just preceding the real estate boom that saw rapid price escalation.

The other months close to that figure were in the spring and early summer months of 2004 and 2005, and in March, April and May of last year. In April 2014, 759 single family home sales closed, and 436 condo sales were completed. The totals were higher than March figures, (698 and 352, respectively) and last April’s figures (703 and 429, respectively).

“Activity has been robust, and clearly there continues to be tremendous interest in buying properties in Sarasota County,” said Sarasota Association of Realtors® President Peter Crowley. “Last year, June and July also continued to show a high level of sales and activity in the local real estate industry, so we are hoping for a repeat in 2014.”

In addition to the ongoing spring sales surge, distressed sales remained far below the levels experienced four years ago, indications of a strong market returning to historic norms. In April 2014, 16.6 percent of sales were short sales or foreclosure sales, compared to 22 percent in April 2013. The biggest contributing factor for the drop in distressed sales was the major decrease in short sales, with only 45 registered this April compared to 107 last April.

Median sale prices for single family homes and condos also continued to reflect a stable market, with moderate increases in April for both property categories. The median sale price for single family homes was $196,250, and for condos was $183,500. Single family was up about 3.8 percent from last month, and 4.4 percent from last April.

Condo prices were up 8 percent from last month and up 14.7 percent from last April.

The median sale price for the 12-months ending in April, which moderates monthly swings, was $189,900 for single family homes, www.sarasotarealtors.com

“Last year, June and July also continued to show a high level of sales and activity in the local real estate industry, so we are hoping for a repeat in 2014.”

- SAR President Peter Crowley about 15 percent higher than the previous 12-month period. For condos, it was $169,000, up 8.8 percent over the previous 12-month period.

Pending sales maintained a high level in April 2014, at or close to the previous several months, and economists consider pending sales to be a good indicator of potential future closed sales. If experts are again correct, we could see another very strong period of May and June sales, as we did in 2013.

Pending sales were at 1,040 after hitting 1,248 in March 2014 - a level not seen for three years.

Inventory levels dropped in April 2014 to 4,728 from the March figure of 4,810. The inventory was over

the

5,000 in February, which was the first time since May 2011 – almost three years ago. The low point in the recent market was in July 2013 at 3,747, far lower than the current level.

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15

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - April 2014 Single Family

Unit Sales

Condo

800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Apr-13

May-13

Jun-13

Jul-13

Aug-13

Sep-13

Oct-13

Nov-13

Dec-13

Jan-14

Feb-14

Mar-14

Apr-14

Single Family

Median Sale Price

Condo

$250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 Apr-13

May-13

Jun-13

Jul-13

Aug-13

Sep-13

Oct-13

Nov-13

Dec-13

Jan-14

Feb-14

Mar-14

Apr-14

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

3,297

759

23.0

75

$196,250

$189,900

5.3

715

21.7

966

92.1

This Month Last Year

2,665

703

26.3

89

$188,000

$165,000

4.6

710

26.6

797

93.3

Last Month

3,298

698

21.2

83

$189,472

$188,000

5.3

818

24.8

960

92.9

YTD

-

2,492

-

78

$192,000

-

-

2,881

-

4,054

-

Statistics were compiled on Sarasota County properties in the MLS as of May 15th, 2014. Single-family statistics are tabulat-

ed using the property style single-family home. 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.

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors速 16

JUNE 2014

Sarasota Realtor速 Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - April 2014 Single Family

Inventory

Condo

4,000 3,000 2,000 1,000 0 Apr-13 May-13

Jun-13

Jul-13

Aug-13

Sep-13

Oct-13

Nov-13

Dec-13

Jan-14

Feb-14

Mar-14

Apr-14

Single Family Condo

Pending Sales 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Apr-13

May-13

Jun-13

Jul-13

Aug-13

Sep-13

Oct-13

Nov-13

Dec-13

Jan-14

Feb-14

Mar-14

Apr-14

Condo #Active

#Sold

%Sold

Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months of Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending

# New Listings

% Price Original

This Month

1,431

436

30.5

94

$183,500

$169,000

4.7

325

22.7

400

92.1

This Month Last Year

1,456

429

29.5

101

$160,000

$156,000

5.0

365

25.0

402

92.5

Last Month

1,512

352

23.4

85

$170,900

$166,529

5.0

430

28.6

445

92.6

YTD

-

1,316

-

90

$175,000

-

-

1,434

-

1,827

-

Statistics were compiled on Sarasota County properties in the MLS as of May 15th, 2014. Condo statistics include condo, coop, villa and townhouse. 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.

Sarasota Association of Realtors速 MLS www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor速 Magazine

JUNE 2014

17

Commercial Investment Division

Repeal of tax could spur growth

F

For two years in a row, Florida Realtors® have been laying the groundwork for a repeal of the sales tax on commercial leases. Governor Scott proposed a reduction of one percent this year, with many rallying for a full repeal by 2019. Florida is the only state that levies this tax on businesses, negatively impacting our competitiveness and ability to attract new business, promote growth and create new jobs.

Opponents of the bill were concerned with the loss of revenue for the State, estimated at $1.9 billion through 2019. However, proponents indicated that the long term benefit would far exceed the loss of revenue, and proposed that the tax be phased out over the next 5 years, to minimize the fiscal impact. This proposed reduction in the cost to lease space would have a direct impact on business profitability, allowing for job creation and increase demand for commercial space, and also create a ripple effect with indirect positive impact to the economy.

Florida Realtors® commissioned Fishkind and Associates, Inc. to perform a study on the economic impact on the Florida economy from the repeal of the State sales tax on commercial leases.

The summary of their findings reveals: 1) Commercial lease sales tax charged on gross lease revenues represent an estimate $1.9 billion in revenue to the State of Florida through 2019.

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) includes 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

2) Economic analysis showed removing the lease tax increased annual employment growth by 184,500 jobs.

3) The removal of the commercial lease sales tax revenue represents an estimated five-fold increase in economic benefit to the State of Florida.

4) Removal of the commercial lease sales tax would improve the State of Florida’s business climate with respect to overall competitiveness and tax policy.

Although the bill did not pass in the 2014 Florida Legislative Session in May, it is believed that progress is being made. In building a greater awareness and understanding, the issue will be in a better position for success next year.

CID General Membership Meeting - Tuesday, June 17th, 8 a.m. - TBD - SAR Auditorium- 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 JUNE 2014

Commercial Marketplace Sessions - Friday, June 6th, 9 a.m. – TBD - Friday, June 13th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium - Friday, June 20th, 9 a.m. – MAR, 10920 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL - Friday, June 27th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

Directors: Rico Boeras: Sarasota Commercial Realty (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

www.sarasotarealtors.com

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Matrix training continues in June

By now you have seen the announcements from My Florida Regional MLS (MFRMLS) that the cut-over to Matrix (the new system replacing MLXchange and Fusion) will occur on June 10th, 20 days earlier than originally scheduled.

On that day, all adding and editing of listings will be done in Matrix and the data in MLXchange and Fusion will be frozen and not be updated. It will be available until June 30th for you to check on saved searches or contacts or other personalization you may have made, but since it won’t be updated, you should not rely on them for searches, CMAs, or any other functions.

It is, therefore, critical for you to become familiar with Matrix and begin using it on a regular basis so you are comfortable with the new system by June 10th. If you are not sure what steps you should take prior to cut-over, MFR has provided a checklist to prepare you for the switch at http://www.matrixbuzz.com Live training sessions have been scheduled at SAR and other associations. In addition, webinars will be available so you can train from the comfort of your home or office. A full schedule is available on MFR’s site, but a partial list is included below.

Sign up for courses at gopherit.mfrmls.com Matrix Training at SAR (live classes in auditorium unless noted otherwise) Transition to Matrix - Learn about navigation and basic functionality in the new Matrix system searching, adding contacts, auto e-mails, hotsheets, and CMAs. This course does not qualify for any required MLS class.

Wednesday, June 4 from 9 to 11am Friday, June 6 from 1 to 3pm Thursday, June 12 from 11am to 1pm Thursday, June 12 from 2:30 to 4:30pm Managing My Matrix - Learn about accessing and adding contacts, how to manage them, and understand the contact display. Also learn where to find your saved searches (from MLXchange/Fusion) and how to update them.

Wednesday, June 4 from 11:30am to 12:30pm Quick & Simple CMA - Learn how to run a Quick CMA (1-line comparative market analysis) and a brief overview of the full CMA feature in Matrix (no CE credit).

Wednesday, June 4 from 2:30 to 4pm Matrix Add/Edit - Learn where to find fields to enter/update your listings, upload photos, attach documents. This course does not qualify for any registered MLS class.

Thursday, June 12 from 9 to 10am

Performance Maximum speed is central to the Matrix product philosophy. Built for performance from the ground 20

JUNE 2014

up, the optimized system architecture allows agents to search, email, and operate the system faster than ever before. Test drive Matrix and see for yourself how fast the system responds to even the most complex query.

Integrated Mapping Seamlessly combining search criteria, map, and results, the dynamic mapping feature lets users click, zoom, and pan while results update in real time, automatically grouping map pins into clusters when there are too many to display.

Users can select listings from the result list or directly from the map for superior versatility. Bird’s eye view, street view, satellite view, and driving directions are just a few of the many display options available to users.

Stats Generator One of the program’s most sophisticated features, the stats generator provides agents with an endless array of statistical analysis options.

Starting with a search of any kind, agents can generate stats for a specific market area, time frame, listing status, or the entire multiple listing database!

Matrix offers numerous preset reporting options, making it easy for agents to generate up-to-date statistical reports featuring attractive charts and graphs with just a few clicks. Advanced functionality allows for the comparison of virtually any two market stats on the same chart.

Speed Bar From listing records and tax records to agents and search shortcuts, the Speed Bar dramatically reduces the time required to perform searches of any kind within the system.

Enter any value to immediately search across the entire system and across all table types. Easy-to-learn shortcuts make searching faster than you ever dreamed possible before Matrix.

Search History With Matrix, running a previous search is as simple as a single mouse click. Matrix automatically saves your recent searches—complete with a date/time stamp and the number of results—and displays them in a list conveniently located near the top of each page.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

GRI 300 series continues 2014 training Title: Graduate, Realtor® Institute 2014 Location: SAR, 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota Cost: $249 per Series (includes 2 modules) $130 (per single module) 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 Salesman’s Post-License (Series 100) GRI 101 - GRI 103: - July 21, 2014 - August 05, 2014 at 8:00 AM Plan on starting, or completing, your GRI designation with GRI - 300 Series. Or begin GRI with GRI - 100 Series in July or August. Each Series offers 30 hours of broker’s post-license 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.

Why take your GRI? Well - did you know that 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.

Real Estate Closings, Title Insurance, Short Sales and Timeshare Lien Litigation

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

JUNE 2014

21

Improve your basic MLS skills in June

Pre-registration is required for all MLS classes at the web site 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).

MLS Basic June 17 or June 30, 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 including search, printing and emailing. You will also learn about additional resources and member benefits provided by My Florida Regional MLS, and more.

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

The class is also available online at: http://mfrmlsuniversity.com at your convenience.

MLS Compliance 101 June 17 or June 30, 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

Adding/Modifying Listings June 17 or June 30, 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 and techniques.

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

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Title: 14 Hours CE License Renewal (Cost - $79 for members, $99 for non-members) Date/Times: Aug. 12-13, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Title: Core Law (Cost - $30 for members, $50 for nonmembers) Date/Time: Aug. 12 at 9 a.m. to Noon Instructor: Jim Lowe Register at www.sarasotarealtors.com The Institute of Florida Real Estate Careers (IFREC) will be the provider for this license renewal course. This session provides the full 14 hours of continuing education needed for license renewal. The 14 hour session includes 3 hours of Core Law, which can be taken separately. No exam will be required.

The course is being taught by Jim Lowe, Senior Instructor, AA, St. Petersburg College, BA, Florida State University, Licensed Real Estate Broker.

This course offers timely information for licensees in short, lively lessons, and contains all new license law and FREC rule changes.

Continuing education is vital to your real estate career.

Knowledge is power, and the real estate industry is always changing. The commitment of time and energy is well worth it for your business future!

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

JUNE 2014

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Shape up! Realtor® Boot Camp coming in June

You tune up the car, the A/C, the computer - even your smartphone and tablet. But what about yourself and your business? Think about attending one or all of these helpful sessions for a true real estate business tuneup!

Mining for Gold - June 10, 1 to 3 p.m. Instructor David Clapp provides practical pointers for obtaining hard-to-find information. Learn how to be a buyer sleuth.

Simplifying Your Success - June 11, 1 to 3 p.m. Instructor Alex Krumm provides secrets that work - a collection of tips designed to amplify your skills and simplify your work.

Efficiency is the key!

Knowledge is Power - June 12, 1 to 3 p.m. Instructor Laura Benson gives you a shot of contract power, so you can navigate contracts with confidence and competence.

Professional and Profitable - June 13, 1 to 3 p.m.

Instructor Denise Oyler explains how to put the whole package together - customer service, communication and lead conversion. Learn how to divide your time and and attention to get the most bang for your buck.

Each session is priced at $10 ($15 at the door), and space is very limited. We cannot accommodate non-members due to high demand. Register online at www.sarasotarealtors.com

Property Management is hot topic Title: 6 Hours of Property Management Law Date/Time: June 25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Registration at 8:30 a.m.)

Location: SAR Auditorium Cost: Members - $30 if you register and pay online by June 20; $40 after June 20 or at the door ($50 for nonmembers).

Instructor: Attorney Harry Heist Co-sponsored by: The Sarasota-Bradenton Chapter of the National Association of Residential Property Managers and the Sarasota Association of Realtors® 3 CE Credits—lunch included!

Join us for this marathon six hour Landlord/Tenant seminar for property managers and those interested in becoming property managers - “From Application to Eviction and Everything In Between!”

This comprehensive course covers: new notices, new laws, new case law, new dangers, applications, inspections, deposit laws, tricks, abandonment, in-depth notice studies, eviction avoidance tips, property management agreements, lease clauses, inspections, new bankruptcy laws, FDCPA, FCRA, collections, screening, mold strategies, security deposit pitfalls, terminations, success through forms and notices,

liability avoidance, vendors, pet issues, rent withholding, releases, checklists, occupancy, condos and HOAs, lease breaks, procedures, streamlining, stipulations, abandoned property, letters corporate tenants, writ procedures, documentation, hurricanes, renewals and TONS MORE. This is a comprehenmsive six hour class with over 100 pages of free handouts, forms and notices.

REGISTER ONLINE WITH NARPM:

www.sarasota.narpm.org.

Inspections, from A to Z - Avoid the pitfalls Title: Inspections & Repairs: Procedures & Pitfalls Date/Time: July 16, Noon to 1:30 p.m.

Location: SAR Auditorium Instructor: Jeff Grebe, Esq., Williams Parker Cost: SAR/SCBA Members $10, $20 (non-members) LUNCH INCLUDED

Jeff Grebe, former law professor and attorney/partner at Williams Parker, will cover the following topics: - Which inspections are right for your transaction?

- Proper procedures for completing inspection items - Cosmetic defects and gray areas

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JUNE 2014

- Repair limits - Repair standards - Inspections and repairs under “AS IS” contracts - WDO (a/k/a termite) inspections - Property Maintenance Requirement - Walk-through inspections - Repair escrows This course is part of the Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee events calendar for 2014.

Register at www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

At left, Harold Bubil, moderator of the annual event, and at right, Keynote Speaker Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for NAR.

The 2014 Sarasota Association of Realtors® International Real Estate Congress is set for Wednesday, Sept. 24, at SAR Headquarters, 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota 34232. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., lwith unch and networking reception after Register now for the annual signature program of the SAR Global Business Council. Cost is $30 for Global Business Council members, $50 for non-Global Business Council members. With a current GBC membership of 225, space is limited, so please don’t delay your registration!

Our speakers will bring you up to date on the international economy as well as on the Florida real estate recovery. You will also learn how builders and

brokers are positioning themselves to capture the lucrative international real estate market. Changes in financing, immigration, and FIRPTA may also be discussed.

Keynote Speaker will be Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist, National Association of Realtors®.

Harold Bubil, Real Estate Editor for the Sarasota Herald Tribune, will moderate a panel of builders and brokers.

Platinum sponsor for the event is Moneycorp; D.R. Horton and Morgan Stanley are also sponsors. Contact Catherine McCaskill at 941-952-3404 for other sponsorship opportunities.

GBC celebrates 200th member - Mark Monismith

Mark L. Monismith

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Mark L. Monismith of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Florida Realty, in Lakewood Ranch recently became the 200th member of the SAR Global Business Council.

The membership milestone was achieved in only two years, and once again demonstrates the scope and importance of international real estate to our association and to the local economy.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Global Business Council

International Real Estate Congress Coming Sept. 24th

Since Mr. Monismith joined, the group has added yet more members, and now stands at 225 strong.

The young organization has been recognized for the past two years with the Gold Council designation from the Global Achievement Program of the National Association of Realtors®. This year, they are aiming for the Platinum desigantion. Annual membership cost is $25 and the application is online at www.sarasotarealtors.com

JUNE 2014

25

I

Power from the Past

In 1957, a local Realtor® named Bea Novak returned from the National Association of Realtors® Convention inspired and excited about the discovery of the Women’s Council of Realtors®. Although the organization started with the encouragement of the 1938 president of the National Association of Realtors® 19 years previous, this was new and explosive news for the women Realtors® in Sarasota. approaching her 100 birthday. She is the person Bea Novak founded a chapter in 1957 with a few in the yellow blouse sitting front and center in the but passionate women to build a chapter that is still photograph. She still has an active license and is still thriving today to provide education, support and closing transactions. credibility to the current members.

Another attendee, Sylvia Grooms, the 1967 On May 2, 2014, the Women’s Council of President, told a story of an interview with a broker Realtors® gathered to pay tribute to the past in the 60s that ended with the remark that if they presidents of the Sarasota Chapter of the Council. were hiring “female” agents they would certainly hire All told, 16 Sarasota Women’s Council past presidents her. But they weren’t and didn’t expect to be hiring were in attendance to enjoy a presentation of the female agents. history of our chapter.

We’ve come a long way, and we will continue to be This is an annual celebration, but this year was “a Network of Successful Realtors® advancing women particularly special. Ann Ross and Doris Edwards, as professionals and leaders in business, the industry with the help of Tina Darling, produced a slide show and the communities we serve. depicting the birth and growth of the chapter using many original photos from scrapbooks and files handed down from President to President.

In attendance were the daughter and granddaughters of Bea Novak.

It was my surprise to discover that they all lived in my neighborhood and Michelle Chapman, a granddaughter, recognized from my business cards that I was the current President of the chapter.

She was able to provide some photos and information to Doris Edwards that made the event even more special.

Another inspiring attendee On May 2, 16 Past Presidents of the local WCR chapter gathered for was Norma Martin, who is soon a photo, along with current presiodent Susan Phelps (far right).

2014 Leadership Team

Susan Phelps WCR President

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Susan Phelps President Berkshire Hathaway Florida Realty Phone: 941-906-7653 sarasotasuze@gmail.com

Tina Darling Membership/Marketing Chair Innovative Agent Services Phone: 941-921-5027 tina@floridaassistant.com

Marla Leung Secretary Koontz & Associates Phone: 941-225-2615 marla@koontzassociates.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

JUNE 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Editor’s Note: One of the goals in SAR’s 2014 Strategic Plan is to increase the professionalism of our members so they are recognized as true professionals and trusted advisors. Pathways to Professionalism is the National Association of Realtors® voluntary guide to professional courtesy, originally created in 1998. Each issue of the magazine will include a column to increase members’ awareness of the key concepts in the document.

The National Association of Realtors® has produced a great 10-minute video that provides tips and basic information about Pathways to Professionalism.

The video offers six “Timeless Tips” that can help the average Realtor® always be mindful of conduct that will keep them in good standing with their clients and with fellow real estate professionals.

These six tips are: www.sarasotarealtors.com

1) Follow the Golden Rule - do onto others as you would have them do to you. This one simple tip can make all the difference.

2) Show courtesy and respect to everyone.

3) Communicate with all parties in a timely fashion.

4) Present a professional appearance at all times. Dress appropriately, and make sure your car is clean.

5) Be aware of, and meet all deadlines.

6) Be aware of and respectful of all cultural differences.

The video goes into much greater detail, and would be a good refresher to watch every year in order to keep Pathways to Professionalism at the forefront of your business dealings at all times.

The video can be downloaded at no charge from the NAR website, www.realtor.org (log-in required) and then type in the search bar: A Pathway to Professional Conduct. There are other good resources there, too.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

JUNE 2014

Pathways to Professionalism

NAR provides Pathways to ProfessionalismVideo

27

Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee 28

Escrow Matters: ‘It’s all about the money’

By Sylvia Golden Norris Esq. Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee

Did you know escrow-related matters are one of the top claims filed with the FREC? Make sure you understand your duties; below are the basics.

Q: When is the deadline for a Sales Associate to deliver an escrow deposit to his/her broker?

A: Florida Administrative Code § 61J2-14.009 provides that Sales Associates have until the end of the next business day following receipt of escrow funds to deposit them with the broker. (Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays (as set forth in §683.01, Fla.Stats.) are not considered business days.)

Q: How much time does a Broker have after receiving escrow funds to deposit them in the Broker’s trust account?

A: Florida Administrative Code §61J2-14.010 and §61J2-14.008(3) require the Broker to immediately deposit the funds. Immediately is defined as the end of the third business day following receipt of the item to be deposited. (Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays are not considered business days.)

Q: Is it true that the Sales Contract must include information of the name, address and telephone number of the escrow holder?

A: Yes. Florida Administrative Code §61J214.008(2)(b) puts the burden on the real estate licensee who prepared or presented the Sales Contract to include this information. While it is only required when it is a title company or attorney and not the real estate broker’s office serving as the escrow agent, it is always a great idea to fill in the blanks.

Q: What do you do if at the time the buyer is making the offer and the cooperating agent is preparing the Sales Contract, you don’t know who will serve as the escrow agent? Can you put TBD (“to be determined”)?

A: Putting “TBD” does not satisfy the requirements under the rules. If you do not know who the Buyer or Seller wants to serve as the escrow agent at the time of the offer, and if you put in TBD for the escrow agent , then you should not accept any escrow funds. You should make sure the date you put in for the due date for receipt of the escrow funds is calendared so that by that date you have determined who the escrow agent will be and where the funds will be deposited. Be sure to notify all parties in writing of same. Remember, if you receive funds, you need to deposit them. If a buyer nominated a title company or an attorney is chosen to hold the funds, then you need to comply with the escrow verification procedure.

JUNE 2014

Q: What if the bank directs you to put TBD in the escrow information section of the Contract?

A: Same as above. A Bank directive is not a legal defense to a mandated Rule.

Q: If my buyer provides me a copy of the check (in person or by fax or email) made payable to a title company or law firm, can I rely on that?

A: Absolutely not. As the selling agent, you must comply with the escrow verification procedure, unless the seller nominated and chose the title company or closing agent in writing. Even if a buyer delivers a copy of the escrow check to you, they may not ultimately deliver it to the closing agent or title company.

Q: Who is responsible for following the escrow verification procedures?

A: Anytime a deposit is to be placed with either a title company or a law firm, if you are the Realtor® who prepared and presented the Sales Contract (likely to be the case when you are the cooperating broker/ agent), you are required to do the following: 1. Put the name, address and telephone number of the title company or the attorney.

2. Within ten (10) business days after each deposit (so if there are two (2) deposits, this procedure will need to be repeated twice), you must make a written request to the title company or attorney to seek their written verification of receipt of the deposit. The only exception is if the deposit is held by a title company or by an attorney that was nominated in writing by the seller or the seller’s agent. (This is not typical, so it would be an exception rather than the rule.)

3. If after ten (10) business days, the licensee’s broker (Listen up, brokers) must provide the seller’s broker with either a copy of the written verification, or if nothing was received, notify them in writing that nothing was received.

Q: What is the procedure if the seller is not represented by a broker and my buyer designated a title company or attorney to do the closing?

A: If a seller is not represented by a broker, then you as the selling broker/licensee must notify the seller directly in writing under the same time frames noted above.

Q: Can I simply call the title company or the attorney to confirm they received the escrow funds?

A: No. A call is not a written verified receipt, and accordingly, you would not be provided any protection under 61J2-14.008.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

SADOWSKI From Page 7

end, negotiators from both chambers settled on three sales tax holidays -- back-to-school supplies, hurricane supplies and energy-efficient appliances -- and tax breaks for child car seats, children’s bicycle helmets and college meal plans. However, the House Speaker pledged to order a comprehensive state analysis on lowering the commercial lease sales tax in advance of the 2015 legislative session.

Other real estate-related bills that passed:

Further reductions to Citizens’ size and risk: The 2013 Legislature took big steps toward shrinking the state’s insurer of last resort. The list of action items remaining in this year’s main Citizens bill, SB 1672 by Sen. David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs), isn’t quite as ambitious but will have an impact. Starting this July, Citizens will no longer write new multi-peril policies on condo buildings. It will, however, offer new wind-only policies. Another provision in the bill prevents contractors from rebating all or a portion of the deductible to the policyholder. This is aimed at curbing fraud, which is a felony. Effective July 1, 2014 Protecting consumers from post-claim underwriting: SB 708 by Sen. Aaron Bean (R-Jacksonville) creates a “Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights” to help protect policyholders from having their policies canceled and claims denied illegally. The legislation seeks to stop a practice known as “post-claim underwriting” used by a large Florida insurer to avoid paying claims. Example: A home burns to the ground due to an accidental fire. The policyholder files a claim. Accidental fire is clearly covered by the policy, but the claim is denied because, years earlier, a family member answered a question on the application incorrectly. The Bill of Rights also explains the claim-filing process and informs policyholders of possible unscrupulous practices used to deny claims. Insurers will be required to complete the underwriting process in 90 days and may not deny a claim and/or cancel a policy based on the insured’s credit information after their policy has been in force for 90 days or longer. Effective July 1, 2014 Expanded duties for Community Association Managers (CAM): Despite opposition from the Florida Bar, which petitioned the courts in 2012 to define many CAM activities as the unauthorized practice of law -- a third-degree felony

RPAC

From Page 6 our elected officials are making decisions that have a huge impact on the bottom line of Realtors® and their customers.

Through the support of Realtors® like you, the Realtor® Party represents your interests.

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. www.sarasotarealtors.com

-- lawmakers approved HB 7037 . The House committee bill, filed by Ross Spano (R-Dover), allows CAMs to complete certain association forms created by statute or by a state agency, calculate and prepare assessment and estoppel certificates, negotiate financial terms of a contract on behalf of a Homeowners’ Association and draft pre-arbitration demands. Florida Realtors® supported an amendment on the House floor to prevent management companies from imposing additional charges incurred when collecting delinquent assessments. Effective July 1, 2014 New disclosure for new home construction: This disclosure is in response to an investigation of the nation’s largest homebuilder, which had retained oil, natural gas, water and other mineral rights beneath thousands of Tampaarea homes without properly notifying buyers. HB 489

by Rep. Ross Spano (R-Dover) impacts sellers who have retained, or will retain, subsurface rights of new homes and lots where a new home will be constructed pursuant to a contract with the seller. In these instances, sellers must provide a specific notice at or before the execution of a sales contract stating that the transaction does not include subsurface rights. Effective October 1, 2014 Local governments regain some “home rule” powers over vacation rentals: In 2011, the Legislature passed legislation prohibiting local governments from regulating, banning or creating new rules specific to short-term rentals.

The industry grew -- 17 million Florida tourists stay in a rental home, according to the industry’s trade group.

Budget items: - $4 million from the State Housing Initiative Program (SHIP) to the Department of Children and Families for homelessness programs - $14.7 million tax incentive to Habitat for Humanity - $3.56 million for homeless grants - $505,000 for a statewide Homeless Advocacy and Affordable Housing Campaign - $1.5 million for regional housing initiatives - Up to $500,000 to combat unlicensed real estate activity - $650,000 to complete the Department of Health’s Florida Onsite Sewage Nitrogen Reduction Strategies study - $57.5 million to Florida Forever, the state’s conservation land acquisition program

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 Realtor® Magazine

JUNE 2014

29

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

30

The Association is pleased to welcome new members!

Designated Realtors®

Ballarino, Joseph: Amerivest Realty Brand, Kenneth: Brand Realty & Associates Brock, Lynn: Brock Realty Inc. Couch, Delver: Delver Couch Lic R.E. Broker Epner, Gayle: Sarasota Luxury Realty Grooms, Leigh Ann: Integra Realty Group Hernandez, Maria: Florida Sunquest Realty Inc. Hettema, Roger: Hettema Corporation LeClair, Andre: Andre LeClair Properties McDugald, Robert: Future Home Realty, Inc. Medalie, Charles: DisneyRealty.Com Inc. Morris, Steven: Morris Williams Realty Overfelt, Marc: Florida Bay Realty Inc. Shirley, Justin: Shirley International Realty Werner, Nancy: Blue Sky Real Estate

New Members

Adams, Paul: Sarasota Real Estate Group Albrecht, Wendy: Exit King Realty Autry, Samuel: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Belknap, Matthew: Medway Realty Berkun, Rachel: Michael Saunders & Company Brennan, Ellen: Coldwell Banker Res R E Brown, Frank: Coldwell Banker Res R E Burke, Margaret: Michael Saunders & Company Carrion, Olga: Michael Saunders & Company Caswell Clark, Krystal: Dunham Calabrese Realty Inc. Cintron, Kathleen: Coldwell Banker Res R E Coury, James: RE/MAX Tropical Sands Crews, Sherry: Realty Partners LLC Czako, Adrienn: Mapp Realty & Investment Co. Dalmas, Debbie: Horizon Realty International Defer, Kristian: A Young Realty Group Inc. Donahue, Jeanie: KJIMS Real Estate LLC Emery, Leslie: Michael Saunders & Company Enright, Robert: Enright Realty Inc. Ferguson, Sara: Sarasota Luxury Realty Firlej, Romuald: Realty Executives Solutions Ford, James: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Freeman, Brandy: Realty Partners LLC Guaqueta, O. Fernando: Michael Saunders & Company Harris, Julie: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Hernreich, Sheri: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Herter, Jami: Coldwell Banker Res R E Hoffeditz, Marty: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Jackson, Kylie: Exit King Realty Kiernan, Kevin: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A. Kim, Theresa: Coldwell Banker Res R E Krumm, Andrew: RE/MAX Alliance Group Larson, Julie: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Lerner, Sharon: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Levar, Rebecca: Palm Aire Realty Partners LLC Loeppke, Cathy: DWELL Real Estate Lofthouse, Matthew: DWELL Real Estate Loose, Jennifer: Rosebay International, Inc. Mihalik, Donald: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Miles, Catherine: Premier Plus Realty Mitchell, Thomas: Sarasota Real Estate Services Moser, Julie: Palm Aire Realty Partners LLC Ospina, George: Parisi Sam J Lic R E Broker JUNE 2014

Perdisatt, Francis: Palm Aire Realty Partners LLC Rakouskas, Amy: Michael Saunders & Company Ritchie, Craig: RE/MAX Tropical Sands Santiago, Annette: Keller Williams On The Water Schroeder, Michelle: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A. Snow, Katherine: Rossi & Company Inc. Swierkowska, Dorota: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Switzer, Paul: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Taylor, Trevor: Michael Saunders & Company Walker, Ingrid: Atchley International Realty Washio, Sara: Home Realty & Management LLC Westermeyer, Melvin: Coldwell Banker Res R E

Now With ...

Alcober, Mary: Exit King Realty Alley, Peta: Coldwell Banker Res R E Banka, Adam: Allison James Estates & Homes Barchard-Grimes, Linda: Horizon Realty International Bassil, Bassil: Morris Williams Realty Billett, Nicholas: Brand Realty & Associates Birge, Joya: Andrews & Associates Realty Blefeld, Mauri: Medway Realty Busse, Eve: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Collins, Alicia: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Comerford, Kathleen: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Crawford, Marsha: J Wood Realty Derketsch, Lisa: Exit King Realty Gagg, Michael: Exit King Realty Gallatin, Michael: Genmark Property Group LLC Gold, Roni-Marie: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Gregory, Carol: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Grooms, Christopher: Blue Sky Real Estate Hampton, Eileen: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Hessler, Karen: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Hickernell, Warren: Bright Realty Hutton, Timothy: Brock Realty Inc. Kvasny, Vladimira: Horizon Realty International Lewis, Craig: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Marquard, Janice: Amerivest Realty Mazelin, Caroline: Bright Realty McLeod, Candice: Future Home Realty, Inc. Milicevic, Nelly: Parisi Sam J Lic R E Broker Minor, Louise: Coldwell Banker Res R E Muenzmay, Donald: Harry Robbins Assoc Inc Novakovic, Shea: Medway Realty Paul, Robert: Berkshire Hathaway HomeService Pidghirnii, Ana: Stringer Management Inc. Piper,, David: Amerivest Realty Preece, Susan: Harry Robbins Assoc Inc. Reid, Patricia: Keller Williams on the Water Rogers, Kelly: Keller Williams Rlty Manatee Sanchez, Maia: Exit King Realty Sanchez, Cecilio: Key Solutions Real Estate Grp Shanley, Michael: ERA Waterside Realty Snyder, Brian: Waterfront 7 Realty LLC Thierfelder, Robert: Wagner Realty Turner, Lana: Medway Realty Wagner, Harold: Florida VIP Realty Inc. Werner, John: Blue Sky Real Estate Wilcher, John: RE/MAX Fine Properties

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

New Affiliates

Bay Cities Bank 2033 Main Street, Suite 100 Sarasota, FL 34237 Phone Number: 941-552-0924 Representative: Sean Powers Specialty: At Bay Cities, we take a different approach to banking. If you have experienced the bureaucracy of dealing with a larger financial institution you know there is a better way. As a community bank, we believe in a “user friendly” approach to supporting the individuals and businesses that help our community thrive. We are part of the fabric of Tampa Bay, along side of our customers. To us, inspiration and ambition signal success as much as a bulging bank account. That’s why we go out of our way to help the organizations, professionals and local business people in our community with the financial products and services they need. Bay Cities Bank. A Bank that Means Business.

Email: spowers@bay-cities-bank.com Ed Klopfer Schools of Real Estate 4068 Cattlemen Road Sarasota, FL 34233 Phone Number: 941-379-2378 Representative: Ed Klopfer Specialty: Real Estate Training Classes. Over 165,000 students have trusted Ed Klopfer Schools of Real Estate for their Florida Real Estate Education. Ed Klopfer Schools of Real Estate offers a complete curriculum of real estate and real estate related courses that are available online, as Correspondence Courses (by mail), and in the classroom in Fort Myers, Naples, Port Charlotte, Sarasota, and Tampa. Your success is our primary goal. We prepare you for more than a State exam...we prepare you for a career.

Email: ed@edklopfer.com First Bank 4601 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, FL 34209 Phone Number: 941-708-0314 Representative: Luke Torres Specialty: First Banks, Inc. and offers a vast portfolio of products and services for both individuals and businesses. In our fourth generation of family ownership, First Banks, Inc. now serves customers in 130 locations.

Email: Luke.Torres@FBOL.com Florida Business Development Corporation 2203 N. Lois Ave, Suite 755 Tampa, FL 33607 Phone Number: 813-348-0660 Representative: Hoyt L Prindle III Specialty: Florida Business Development Corporation (FBDC) is a private, non-profit Certified Development Company and was established in 1989 to administer the SBA 504 Program.

FBDC serves Florida, Georgia and Alabama. Its purpose is to assist healthy, growing small businesses, secure long-term, below market, fixed-rate financing for acquisition of fixed assets. “The Source For SBA 504 Lending” Email: hoyt@fbdc.net www.sarasotarealtors.com

Florida Fence 5715 Pinkney Avenue Sarasota, FL 34233 Phone Number: 941-921-4659 Representative: Amy Pranger Specialty: We Build You a Better Fence. At Florida Fence, we manufacture our fences here at our local family-owned facility, offering residential and commercial customers a far superior product than you’ll find at the big home stores. We pride ourselves on building a better fence that holds up under tough Florida conditions, using heavy-duty materials, rugged hardware, and quality workmanship. Each fence is hand-crafted and custom built to order, not factory made overseas. And since we purchase our materials in bulk from longstanding suppliers, our customers enjoy competitive pricing, too. Sarasota Company for 55 years and counting.

Email: amy@floridafence.biz HouseMaids 8140 Blakie Ct. Unit B Sarasota, FL 34240 Phone Number: 941-953-4300 Representative: Brian O’Neill Specialty: HouseMaids a full-service house cleaning company first started in 2005 and has grown to be one of the best cleaning companies around. We are a family owned and operated. Today our company is well known for outstanding cleaning and reliability.

Email: brian@gohousemaids.com Island Mortgage Services 435 12th Street W. #202 Bradenton, FL 34205 Phone Number: 941-778-8448 Representative: Janine M Petrarca Specialty: Here at Island Mortgage Services we are a group of seasoned professionals, offering a full menu of Mortgage Programs to fill every clients need. Our most important task: making certain each client we serve walks away from the settlement table with the confidence that brings them back to us & encourages family, friends & associates to contact us for all their mortgage needs.

Email: jggirl@gmail.com Legacy Builders 4985 Topsail Drive Nokomis, FL 34275 Phone Number: 941-412-4901 Representative: Sybill Johnson Specialty: Focusing on quality and attention to detail, Legacy Builders leads the way in client satisfaction in custom home building throughout the Suncoast of Florida. We create a seamless and pleasurable experience when designing and building homes that meet or exceed our clients’ expectations.

With the latest building materials, methods, and technology Legacy Builders is a leader in industry standards. Coupled with our strong sense of honesty, hard work, craftsmanship, loyalty, and integrity, our talented team of experts are prepared to build homes that leave a legacy.

Email: mkgreig@comcast.net

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

JUNE 2014

31

E DUCATION & E VENTS C ALENDAR Tuesday

June 2

3

8:30 a.m.

CIPS Institute: Local Markets

8:30 a.m.

CIPS Institute: Trans. Tools

Wednesday 4

7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 8:30 a.m.

CIPS Institute: Asia/Pacific 9 a.m.—4 p.m.

Matrix Training

Thursday 5

8 a.m.

MLS Express (UPCC) 8:30 a.m.

CIPS Institute: Europe

Friday 6

8:30 a.m.

CIPS Institute: Americas 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR)

1—3 p.m.

Matrix Training

9

10

11

12

13

16

17

18

19

20

23 8 a.m.

GRI Course 300 Series (Module 301)

24

25

9 a.m.

8 a.m.

Property Management Law MLS Express (SAR) Seminar with Harry Heist

26

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR)

30 8 a.m.

GRI Course 300 Series (Module 302)

July 1 8 a.m.

GRI Course 300 Series (Module 302)

2

3 8 a.m.

MLS Express (UPCC)

4

9 a.m.

Orientation 1 p.m.

MLS Orientation 1:30 p.m.

Code of Ethics

1 p.m.

Boot Camp 5 p.m.

Suncoast Regional YPN KickOff (Libby’s Café & Bar)

1 p.m.

Emerging Leaders

9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing

8 a.m. CID General Membership Meeting 9 a.m. Matrix Training (lab) 9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing

8 a.m. GRI Course 300 Series (Module 301) 5 p.m.

Affiliates After Hours Networking (Gecko’s on Hillview)

1 p.m.

Boot Camp

8 a.m. MLS Express (SAR) 9 a.m.—4 :30 p.m.

Matrix Training 11:30 a.m. Membership Luncheon (Der Dutchman) 1 p.m. Boot Camp

7:30 a.m.

8 a.m.

Toastmasters MLS Express (SAR) 12:00 p.m. RAJC Seminar: Inspections & Repairs: Procedures & Pitfalls

7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing

9 a.m.

CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR) 1 p.m.

Boot Camp

9 a.m.

District 13 Conference (Punta Gorda)

27

Fourth of July Holiday—SAR Closed

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.

Please register for all MLS classes at the MFRMLS website: http://gopherit.mfrmls.com.

Click on “Class Registration.”

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

Sarasota, FL 34232

Monday

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

JUNE 2014