Srmag march2014 web1 by REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee

Sarasota

MARCH 2014

REALTOR

速

The Official Monthly Publication of the Sarasota Association of Realtors速

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Contents

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine Volume 11, Issue 3 MARCH 2014

Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc.

Education Excellence

The Sarasota County School District benefits greatly from the

one-mill education tax, and it’s time once again to step up

and support the tax extension to preserve our high standards.

10 Vote ‘Yes’ on Tax Extension!

The Sarasota Association of Realtors® Board of Directors

voted to support the March 25th school property tax extension,

and put $10,000 toward the campaign to promote the extension.

12 Exemption Fraud

Sarasota County Property Appraiser Bill Furst explains how his staff

investigates potential property tax exemption fraud, and how this

process helps recover revenue for the local government.

15 Good Start! Volume 11 • Issue 3 •MARCH 2014

The year 2014 started off with continued high levels of property sales in Sarasota County, and median sales prices also maintained healthy and sustainable levels.

SAR’s Global Business Council is dedicated to promoting the rapidly growing international real estate market in our area, helping our members expand their business scope.

President Peter Crowley RE/MAX Alliance Group President-Elect Stafford Starcher RE/MAX Alliance Group Secretary Amy Worth-Paul RE/MAX Platinum Realty 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. 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 Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield

In every issue

Production Coastal Printing, Inc.

10- Governmental Affairs

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

12- Property Appraiser 15- Sales and Listing Statistics

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.

18- Commercial Investment Division 20- Education Programs 24- On the SAR Scene

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

32- Calendar of Events/Education MARCH 2014

2014 SAR Officers

Director of Communications Ray Porter

25 Go Global!

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

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

SAR Quarterly Membership

Meeting changed to March 24th The first SAR Quarterly Membership Meeting for 2014 has been changed to Monday, March 24th beginning at 11:30 a.m. at the Sarasota Association of Realtors® Auditorium, 2320 Cattlemen Road, Sarasota. Sarasota School Superintendent Lori White will be the special guest speaker at the event. White grew up in Sarasota and is a product of the Sarasota County Schools. She attended Alta Vista Elementary School, Sarasota Junior High School and was a member of the first graduating class of Pine View School. She graduated from Florida State University in 1977 with both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Interrelated Areas of Special Education. She began her career in the Sarasota County Schools in 1977 as a special education teacher at Ashton Elementary School. In 1984 she accepted her first district administration position as an early childhood specialist. She subsequently served as an elementary supervisor, supervisor of curriculum, director of curriculum and executive director of curriculum before being appointed associate superintendent. During her tenure, an independent study of the district by MGT of America concluded the district was “one of the best-run school systems” the firm has ever reviewed.

Affiliate Spotlight on Kerry Koehler

The March 2014 SAR Affiliate Spotlight is on Kerry Koehler of Flagstar Bank. Kerry has been in the mortgage industry for over 10 years. She moved to Florida with her husband and three children almost two years ago from Michigan. Kerry has accomplished much in her profession, named a Top National Achiever, and has participated in the Southeast Mortgage Console. She was also a national speaker discussing best practices and part of the 2012-2013 purchase team. Flagstar Bank has over 25 years Kerry Koehler of experience and is one of the top 10 mortgage companies in the country. Loans are originated in all 50 states and the bank has been awarded “Top Tech-Savvy” lender for eight consecutive years. Flagstar offers a large range of products to help all types of clients in their mortgage needs. Please reach out to Kerry at 941-309-3252 ( office) 810-9080068 (cell) or email: Kerry.Koehler@Flagstar.com.

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Cover Story 6

Support Education!

School tax extension makes good sense for the future of Sarasota funding could certainly jeopardize future results. To that point, it is vital The future of every great that our community supports community depends to a large the upcoming March 25th extent on the quality of the referendum to extend the education system. Good education one mill property tax for is essential in so many ways, education for another four forming the foundation for our years. society, helping create healthy, Sarasota County School viable families, lowering the crime Superintendent Lori White rate, improving our economy, and explained it best in an August giving our children a better chance interview with the Sarasota to live a happy, meaningful life. Herald-Tribune, noting “It’s The success of the Sarasota critical that we renew the County School District (SCSD) is 1-mill property tax levy for Sarasota School Superintendent Lori central to all these goals. our local public schools. White and School Board Chair Jane Here are some recent Continuing shortfalls in Goodwin urge citizens to support the achievements of the local and state one-mill school tax extension. state funding are forcing school systems: the district to cut staff and District and Student services even as the general Achievement economy is improving. The referendum funds generate • SCSD ranks as the third-best district in Florida in about $40 million in revenues, roughly 12 percent of the district’s annual operating budget.” student achievement. She continued, explaining “The referendum • SCSD is one of five districts to receive an A grade approving that funding was first passed in 2002 and in 2013 among the state’s 67 school districts; 90 was renewed in 2006 and 2010. State law says we percent of elementary and middle schools are A or B must ask the voters every four years whether they schools. want to continue this funding. They will answer • SCSD 2013 average SAT scores are 33 points that question again in March. We’re fortunate in higher than the state average in mathematics, 30 this community that people understand the positive points higher in critical reading, and 24 points higher impact great schools have on everyone’s quality of life, in writing. whether they currently have children in the system • SCSD 2013 average SAT scores are 26 points or not. The quality of our schools is a key factor in higher than the national average in reading, 11 points attracting the new families and businesses that are higher in writing and nine points higher in math. necessary to our continuing prosperity.” • Dropout rate is a very low 1.5 percent and is New families and businesses are also needed to help improving. maintain the real estate industry in Sarasota County - something we as real estate professionals certainly • Graduation rate is 76.2 percent and is rising. understand. One of the first questions Realtors® often • Florida was ranked seventh in the nation for answer is “How are the local schools?” student achievement in the annual Quality Counts As Lori White noted, “Referendum funds help us report published by Education Week. attract and retain high-quality teachers, which are • Florida’s fourth-grade students are among the at the heart of our status as an ‘A’ district. Sarasota world’s best in reading. The National Council on County has been an A district every year since the Teacher Quality ranked Florida teachers the nation’s state grading system was implemented in 1999. It is best for two years in a row. one of only five of 67 Florida districts to maintain While money isn’t the only thing that has helped propel these achievements, the lack of adequate Continued on P. 29, See EDUCATION

See Page 10-11 for More Info

MARCH 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

SAR seeks applications for scholarships The 2014 Sarasota Association of Realtors® Scholarship application is now being accepted, and the deadline is fast approaching. The application has been posted on our web site and distributed to the various local high schools. The application must be received at SAR no later than May 1, 2014. Visit www.sarasotarealtors.com and look for the item under Hot Topics at the right side of the page. Then click DOWNLOAD FILE below and print the nine-page application and submit by mail or in person to SAR. Each scholarship is in the amount of $2,000, and four scholarships will be awarded - two to members of SAR (or immediate family members); and two to the public (nonSAR members). Please send to SAR, Attn. Scholarship Committee, 2320

Cattlemen Road, Sarasota, FL 34232, or bring to the office prior to the deadline onThursday, May 1st (no later than 5 p.m.)

SAR Habitat Home dedication slated March 8th The new SAR-Habitat for Humanity Team Build at 1353 21st Street is almost complete, and the home’s dedication ceremony will take place on Saturday, March 8th at noon. Lillian Sanders and her children will move in this month, after months of hard work building the home from the ground up, with the assistance of many dedicated volunteers, including dozens from the Sarasota Association of Realtors. This was the third Team Build sponsored by SAR, which donated $25,000 from the SAR Affordable Housing Fund for each project. If you have participated in previous SAR affordable housing fundraisers, your dollars have helped make the dream of home ownership possible for local families! Thanks to the hard work of the SAR Community Outreach Committee and the many volunteers who put in long hours during work days! Many of the committee members renewed their membership into 2014, and have vowed to continue to promote volunteerism among the SAR membership.

The final two landscaping days at the new SAR Habitat Home were exhausting for the many volunteers who participated. Weeds were pulled, dirt was spread over the yard, and finally the sod and mulch was layed down. Next came plantings, which were put in place on Feb. 1st. The beautiful new three-bedroom, twobath home with detached garage is almost ready for Lillian Sanders and her family!

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 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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Governmental Affairs

SAR supports School Millage Tax extension

Acting upon a recommendation from the Sarasota Association of Realtors® Public Policy Committee the SAR Board of Directors recently voted to support the continuation of the current school millage tax slated for voter approval on March 25, 2014. The SAR Board of Directors also approved contributing $10,000 in RPAC funds to help support passage of the tax after receiving a recommendation from the Sarasota Association of Realtors® Political Action Advisory Trustees (SARPAAT). In March 2002, 2006 and 2010 the voters of Sarasota County approved a millage referendum permitting the School Board of Sarasota County to levy an additional one mill of ad valorem taxes for the operating expenses of the School District. In all three of those elections SAR supported the continuation of the tax and also contributed $10,000 in RPAC funds to ensure passage of the school millage tax extension. Does the school district still need the 1 mill? The 1 mill renewed in 2010 has allowed the district to maintain existing programs, provide additional programs and continue the District’s commitment to quality education. For 2013-2014 the one mill is projected to bring in approximately $40 million dollars which is roughly 12% of the district operating budget. Since 2007, the district has reduced its annual budget by $124 million representing approximately a 30% reduction and eliminated 651 positions. Even amid signs of a general economic recovery, the district will still need to cut its budget to prevent the depletion of reserves. Will continuing the mill cost property owners more money? No! Voting to continue the mill will not increase your taxes. Voting yes will only continue the funding at the current level. One mill equals $100 for a $100,000 house. With a $25,000 homestead exemption, the owner of a house valued at $300,000 would pay $275, or approximately 75

Every Realtor® knows what surveys and studies confirm: The quality of public schools influences where people buy a home and what they are willing to pay for it. cents per day. How has the district spent the referendum dollars and what will it do with the funds if the 1 mill is renewed in 2014? As in the past the millage will be used to attract and retain high quality teachers; fund professional development and training for teachers, counselors and other instructional staff and enhance programs for art, music and career education. Additionally, referendum funds support a 30-minute longer school day, pay for security aides, elementary science teachers, guidance counselors, some assistant principals, testing and scheduling coordinators and other alternative school services. Some SAR members might ask why we are involved in an education issue. The answer is really very simple. Every Realtor® knows what surveys and studies confirm: The quality of public schools influences where people buy a home and what they are willing to pay for it. Regardless of whether they have children, buyers care about the reputation of the local schools because they know that schools directly affect a community’s vitality. A National Association of Realtors® survey showed that Americans rank quality of public schools second only to crime when deciding where to live. So yes this is an issue that impacts Realtors®. SAR encourages you to register to vote, and vote to support the extension of the school millage tax. Early voting begins on March 10th and runs through March 22nd. Election Day is March 25th.

Marc Mansfield can be reached at 941.952.3410

MARCH 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

Property Appraiser

REVENUE RECOVERY IS A BIG PART OF WHAT WE DO

Revenue recovery is a major part of what we do

It’s March 2nd, and the exemption application cycle resets for 2015.

Now the back-of-the-house-work begins for 2014. All exemption applications and renewals for 2014 are being reviewed to ensure eligibility and accuracy. When we find discrepancies or other concerns we contact the applicants to clarify the issues. Once an application is approved the By Bill Furst,appear GRI, CRS, exemption status should on ourCRB website within a few business Sarasota County Property Appraiser days. Property It’s owners who filed forms for the limited income March 2nd, andrenewal the exemption application cycle resets for senior exemptions or the 65 or older combat related veteran discount will 2015. also see their status updated. If we find that an begins applicant is not All eligible we Now the back-of-the-house-work for 2014. andofrenewals for 2014 are will send the exemption applicant aapplications formal denial their application on being July 1. reviewed to ensure eligibility and accuracy. When we find discrepancies or other concerns we contact the applicants At the same time our hard working team of investigators is following to clarify the issues. Once an application is approved the up on indicationsexemption of exemption indicators might be: statusfraud. shouldThose appear on our website within a few business days. Property owners who filed renewal forms for the • Anonymous tips limited income senior exemptions or the 65 or older combat • Returned exemption renewalwill receipts showing forwarding related veteran discount also see their status updated. If we addresses or notices that the property vacant find that an applicant is not eligibleiswe will send the applicant a formal denial of their on July 1. • Evidence found during fieldapplication visits to other properties At thedata sameincluding time our death hard working teamorofmarriage investigators • Vital statistic certificates licenses is following up on indications of exemption fraud. Those • Publicindicators records ofmight courtbe: actions including evictions

• Anonymous tips If we find evidence that a property owner is no longer eligible in the • Returned exemption renewal receipts showing forwarding current tax year that property willproperty also receive a formal denial in addresses or noticesowner that the is vacant July. However, •when we find sufficient evidence to indicate that the Evidence found during field visits to other properties property has been improperly benefiting from an exemption in marriage prior tax • Vital statistic data including death certificates or years we are licenses obligated by statute to recover that revenue. • Public records of court actions including evictions The first step isIftowenotify property ofno ourlonger findings by find the evidence that owner/applicant a property owner is eligible in the current tax that property owner will also receive a registered mail, describing theyear, information we have uncovered, citing the formal denial in July. However, when we find sufficient evidence appropriate statutes and inviting them to contact us within 30 days to to indicate that the property has been improperly benefiting determine whether not they qualified foryears an exemption. If the by property from anorexemption in prior tax we are obligated statute owner was eligible for the to recover thatexemption revenue. the matter is settled. The first step is to notify the property owner/applicant of our mail, describing therespond information we have At the end offindings 30 days,byif registered the property owner doesn’t or the uncovered, citing the appropriate statutes and inviting them improperly exempted taxes are not paid, we proceed to step two – the to contact us within 30 days to determine whether or not they filing of a lienqualified against the property for improperly exempted for an exemption. If the property owner taxes, was eligible including 15%forinterest per annum a 50% penalty calculated on the the exemption the and matter is settled. taxes only. At the end of 30 days, if the property owner doesn’t respond or the improperly exempted taxes are not paid, we proceed to step two – the filing of athe lienlien against the property Our efforts make a difference. In 2013 process resulted for in over improperly exempted taxes, including 15% interest per annum $300,000 in recovered revenue. And cancellations and denials of tax year and a 50% penalty calculated on the taxes only. For more 2013 exemptions in over $1.3 million ad valorem taxes added to information, Ourresulted efforts make a difference. In in 2013 the lien process contact thethe tax roll. That’s revenue doesn’t to come out of the pockets of resulted in overthat $300,000 inhave recovered revenue. And cancellations and denials of tax year 2013 exemptions resulted Property honest taxpayers. If you know of or suspect exemption fraud, report it! in over $1.3 million in ad valorem taxes added to the tax roll. Appraiser That’s revenue that doesn’t have to come out of the pockets of Bill Furst’s honest taxpayers. If you know of or suspect exemption fraud, office at report it! 941.861.8200. 12

MARCH 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Statutes and rules governing the exemption lien process. Section 193.155(10): If the property appraiser determines that for any year or years within the prior 10 years a person who was not entitled to the homestead assessment limitation the property appraiser shall record in the public records of the county a notice of tax lien against any property owned by that person in the county. Section 196.011(9)(a): If the owner of any property fails to notify the property appraiser that the use of the property or status or condition of the owner changes so as to change the exempt status of the property, the owner of said property is subject to the taxes exempted plus 15 % interest per annum and a penalty of 50% of the taxes exempted. Section 196.161(2): Upon determination by the property appraiser that for any year or years within the prior 10 years a person was not entitled to the homestead exemption it shall be the duty of the property appraiser to serve upon the owner a notice of intent to record in the public records of the county a notice of tax lien against any property owned by that person including 15% interest and 50% penalty on taxes.

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

www.sarasotarealtors.com

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PRIVATE LABEL LIVING

Flood insurance rate hike delay may be passed At presstime, the National Association of Realtors® and real estate professionals in Sarasota and across the state were awaiting action from the House of Representatives on the hoped for delay of flood insurance rate increases. The rate increases are due to the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act, that calls for FEMA and other agencies to make dramatic changes to the way the National Flood Insurance program is managed. The Senate passed a bill calling for rate hikes to be delayed for four years, and the House could adopt similar legislation in February or March. National Association of Realtors® President Steve Brown noted, “The Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act, S. 1926, passed by the Senate ... is the time-out Realtors® first advocated when dramatic flood insurance premium increases went into effect on October 1, 2013. “This legislation will help homeowners nationwide who are experiencing financial hardship as a result of extreme flood insurance rates that are the unintended consequence of the Biggert-Waters reforms to the National Flood Insurance Program. “Congress needs to hit pause on the unforeseen price increases and negative market effects of the reforms while the Federal Emergency Management Agency can complete an affordability study and research the true impact of the law. “NAR data show that through January 2014, four months into the law’s implementation, more than 40,000 home sales were estimated to be either delayed or canceled because of increases and confusion over flood insurance rates. “Realtors® thank the sponsors of the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act, Sens. Bob Menendez, D-N.J., Mary Landrieu, D-La., and Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., and look to the House of Representatives to take up the bill in the same bipartisan manner.” At a recent forum, hosted by the National Academy of Sciences, NAR President Brown testified that flood insurance is becoming increasingly unaffordable for homeowners who are required to purchase it. The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) is required by Congress to develop a report that assesses the affordability of flood insurance. “NAR supports an NFIP that is financially solvent and actuarially responsible” said President Brown, “but those goals must be balanced with an understanding that homeowners should not be forced into financial distress if they are unable to pay their flood insurance premium.” Since passage of the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform bill in 2012, NAR has heard about and investigated the skyrocketing cost of flood insurance from members and consumers across the country. This NAS report will help identify the issues associated with rising flood insurance rates. 14

MARCH 2014

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Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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2014 begins with Sarasota County market heating up

New listings in Sarasota County were up substantially in January 2014, sending the total inventory to a 32-month high level, up 10.6 percent from December 2013 and yet another sign of a market in a strong recovery period. In a recovering market, new listings and the overall inventory generally rise as sellers raise their estimation of a property’s value, but the increase normally occurs only after the market has turned up. Inventory levels are now 30 percent above the recent low in July 2013, only six months ago. In addition, the Sarasota County market continues to witness strong price appreciation, comparing January 2014 to the previous January numbers. The median sale price for single family homes was up 21.3 percent and for condos was up 17.1 percent. While prices are markedly higher than last year at this time, prices have actually ranged in a narrow band for the last five months for condos, and for the past 11 months for single family homes. The steady nature of the

median sales price is another indicator of a healthy market, without wild fluctuations or unsustainable price appreciation that was experienced in 2004-2006. The 12-month rolling median, which moderates monthly swings, for single family homes was $187,000 in January 2014, up about 20 percent from last year at this time. For condos the rolling median was $165,000, up 10 percent over last year’s figure at this time. Pending sales rose significantly in January from the previous several months, but were lower than last January’s figures. Because of the typical length of time it takes to bring a sale to the closing table, economists consider pending sales to be a good indicator of potential future closed sales. January 2014 closed sales were up 10 percent over last January, but down from December, a typical trend historically. During the past few years, closed sales have increased significantly in February through June. Local Realtors® are hoping that trend continues and are gearing up for a robust spring buying season. For the full year 2013, Sarasota County had the second highest number of sales ever tracked in the MLS system at 11,184, so the good start in 2014 may be a harbinger for yet another strong year. “The Sarasota County real estate market saw near record sales last spring, so anything approaching that level

the

would be welcome news,” said Sarasota Association of Realtors® President Peter Crowley. “The fundamentals of the market would certainly indicate a solid spring ahead. The state tourism level just hit a record high. We have had a mild winter while the northern states have experienced heavy snowstorms, and that tends to drive the level of visitors up. Once people see what Sarasota has to offer, many tend to want to relocate. And that’s where our members can certainly help.” Sales of distressed properties represented 24.9 percent of overall sales in January 2014, up slightly from December 2013, but much lower than the 50 percent level experienced in 2011. The current inventory includes about 12.1 percent distressed properties, down from the 12.5 percent in December. A healthy real estate market is important to not only Realtors, but to the local economy in general, with many adjunct businesses relying on home sales to spur profits. “Our real estate market is a bright spot in an economy that has turned the corner,” Crowley noted. “The strength of the market helps produce many jobs, in the real estate field and also in many other businesses that supply goods and services to the home industry. It’s really great news for everyone when home sales are up. The unemployment rate drops, salaries tend to rise, and families prosper.”

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MARCH 2014

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - January 2014 Single Family

Unit Sales

Condo

800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Jan‐13

Feb‐13

Mar‐13

Apr‐13

May‐13

Jun‐13

Jul‐13

Aug‐13

Sep‐13

Oct‐13

Nov‐13

Dec‐13

Jan‐14

Single Family

Median Sale Price

Condo

$250,000 $200,000 $150,000 $100,000 $50,000 $0 Jan‐13

Feb‐13

Mar‐13

Apr‐13

May‐13

Jun‐13

Jul‐13

Aug‐13

Sep‐13

Oct‐13

Nov‐13

Dec‐13

Jan‐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

3,314

503

15.2

$189,500

$187,000

5.4

653

19.7

1,140

92.1

This Month Last Year

2,815

482

23.7

$148,000

$156,800

5.0

681

19.1

1,034

92.3

2,973

621

20.9

$189,950

$184,900

4.8

501

16.8

776

93.8

‐

503

‐

$189,500

‐

653

‐

1,140

‐

Last Month YTD

Statistics were compiled on Sarasota County properties in the MLS as of Feb. 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.

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors® 16

MARCH 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com

ed is

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - January 2014 Single Family

Inventory

Condo

3,500 3,000 2,500 2,000 1,500 1,000 500 0 Jan‐13

Feb‐13

Mar‐13

Apr‐13 May‐13

Jun‐13

Jul‐13

Aug‐13

Sep‐13

Oct‐13

Nov‐13

Dec‐13

Jan‐14

Single Family Condo

Pending Sales 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Jan‐13

Feb‐13

Mar‐13

Apr‐13

May‐13

Jun‐13

Jul‐13

Aug‐13

Sep‐13

Oct‐13

Nov‐13

Dec‐13

Jan‐14

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

1,572

264

16.8

$176,000

$165,000

5.1

345

21.2

555

91.7

1,630

215

13.2

131

$150,000

$151,242

5.7

397

24.4

545

91.1

1,444

299

20.7

$182,000

$164,900

4.8

249

17.2

355

93.9

‐ 264 ‐ 85 $176,000 ‐ ‐ 345 ‐ 555 ‐ Statistics were compiled on Sarasota County properties in the MLS as of Feb. 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. Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2014

Commercial Investment Division

Top 10 Issues Impacting Real Estate By Scott Muldavin Counselors of Real Estate (CRE) Interest rate risk, health care demand, energy and technology changes are among the most important issues affecting real estate today. 1. Low Interest and Capitalization Rate Risks: Historically low interest rates have propelled the economy and commercial property values—and debate continues about how fast—not if—interest rate and prices will adjust, making this the top issue in the market today. 2. Health Care: Market Transition Creates Opportunity: Demand for medical services and facilities are ﬁnally reaching a point of dramatic growth, and expanded health insurance coverage will provide further impetus for change and growth. 3. Capital Markets Resurgence: After resurgence in 2012, commercial transaction volume is up signiﬁcantly in 2013, and projected to increase in 2014, in line with forecast debt availability by banks, life insurance and conduit lenders. 4. Event Risks: Event risks, like the Russian Debt Crisis, 9/11, Katrina and others have been key determinants of market performance in the past 15 years. The potential for event risk—European economic malaise, US political risk, Arab Spring, North Korea—is so high the potential for an event makes the list. 5. Effect of Climate Change/Weather on Coastal Properties: Superstorm Sandy was a game changer. Changes to the National Flood Insurance program for 5.5 million homes and businesses in special hazard zones are raising rates to cover the “true” risks and costs.

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

6. Echo Boomer Housing Demand: The 80 million people born between 1982 and 1995 are changing historic demand preferences, often preferring smaller urban multifamily dwellings over suburban homes and mortgages. Heavy student loan debt and job uncertainty contribute to these preferences. The US is the only developed country with such a large echo boom. 7. Increased U.S. Natural Gas Mining and Reserves: US oil production is up 75% from 2008 and gas is up 25% from 2006. Potential reserves have made the US more energy independent. However, while energy production increases employment in regions where resources are plentiful, many communities are pushing back due to the risk of boom-and-bust local economies and environmental degradation. 8. Global Real Estate Growth and Risk: Emerging markets present both investment and development opportunities –and risks. Foreign investment in the U.S. is strong and is moving toward secondary markets as the U.S. continues to be viewed as a safe haven. 9. Impact of Technology on Office Space: Office space per worker declined 22% from 2010 to 2012, according to CoreNet global as a result of changing worker preferences and new mobility and of fice technology that have redefined the productive workplace 10. Retail Malaise and Repositioning: Internet sales could rise from 6.5% today to exceed 15% of sales by 2020. Already, some categories (books, music, office supplies) top 40%. Smaller neighborhood stores and those in poor locations will struggle. Savvy leasing companies are repurposing space when retailers downsize. For more, visit www.cre.org/external_affairs

CID General Membership Meeting - Tuesday, Mar. 18th, 8 a.m. - Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, 1945 Fruitville Road; Update on Chamber Initiatives- 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 MARCH 2014

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

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Education Programs Catherine McCaskill, Professional Development, an be reached at 941.952.3404

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. This is the first step in earning the coveted CLHMS designation. 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. 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. Laurie Moore-Moore 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 Home marketing and co-founder of REAL Trends, Inc. (an industry communications and research firm), Laurie MooreMoore has been in the residential real estate business for 30 years.

Former judge to deliver timely seminar 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. 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. He began his legal career in 1974 as a member of the Legal Aid Society, a not-for-profit organization that offers free civil legal services to local residents who cannot afford an attorney. 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. This seminar is sponsored by the Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee.

Learn the foreclosure process - from start to finish Title: Foreclosure Process, What You Need To Know From Start To Finish Date/Time: Wednesday, April 23 at Noon Moderator: David P. Clapp, Managing Broker RE/ MAX Alliance Group Learn the Foreclosure Process, from Lis Pendens to online bidding. Gain an overview of the current foreclosure numbers MARCH 2014

for the 12th Judicial Circuit in terms of how many are pending, rate of disposition, rate of monthly filing. Get a brief overview of the process through the courts, a/k/a anatomy of a foreclosure Find out the foreclosure mediation process which will include brief overview of the various alternatives to foreclosure and resolution options

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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GRI 200 and 300 series continue 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 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. 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

147 Million Reasons to Use RPR Title: Realtors® Property Resource Date/Time: March 19, Introduction - 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.; Advanced - 10:45 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Cost: FREE to members Register at www.sarasotarealtors.com Give us an hour, and we’ll give you 147 million reasons to use RPR! Get introduced to the power of Realtors® Property Resource - a database of over 147 million property records built from public record and assessment information. Then,

MLS data is added, vital information to create the exclusive RVM – the most reliable valuation model available. On this foundation, RPR adds layers of data integrations including mortgage, lien data, plat maps, flood zone maps, school information, just to name a few! Generate comprehensive buyer and seller reports in seconds, and provide powerful analytics to determine values and list prices. This NAR member benefit is yours as a member of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® and NAR; don’t miss this session to take advantage of this great new member benefit at no additional cost to you.

Boot Camp slated in March - time to tune up! Title: SAR Boot Camp Dates/Times: March 4, 5, 6 & 7, 1 to 3 p.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Cost: $10 per session for members in advance; $15 at door Think about attending all or one of these sessions for a real estate business refresher! Tuesday, March 4: Mining for Gold - Instructor: Karen Schwartz, Prime Residential Brokers Practical pointers for obtaining hard-to-find information; learn how to be a buyer sleuth and find the need-to-know answers; listing agents will learn how to use the BEST tool possible (MLS entered data) to sell their listings. Wednesday, March 5: Simplifying Your Success - Secrets that Work! Instructor: Dave Swenson, Exit Creative Realty www.sarasotarealtors.com

A collection of the best tips to amplify your skill, while simplifying your work! Efficiency is key and you will learn top tips and tricks. Mission accomplished if you leave with even a few new tips to help your success! Thursday, March 6: Knowledge Is Power - Navigate Contracts with Confidence and Competence - Instructor: Laura Benson, Michael Saunders & Company Spend two hours and get a shot of contract power from an experienced professional! Friday, March 7: Personal, Professional and Profitable Instructor: Denise Oyler, Rosebay International Inc. Learn how to put the whole package together: customer service, communication and lead conversion; learn how to divide your time and attention to get the most bang for your buck.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2014

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!

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.

Are you ready for the Boomers? They’re coming! Title: Seniors Real Estate Specialist Designation Course Date/Time: Mar. 31-Apr. 1, 8:30 a.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Instructor: Jimmy Dague Cost: $149 (Earlybird by March 17); $179 (after March 17) Register at www.sarasotarealtors.com The largest and wealthiest buyer’s group in the country is made up of Baby Boomers. Understand what motivates this mature demographic and make your business boom with an SRES designation. SRES® Designation Course Learning Objectives: • Learn distinguishing characteristics and trends of the 50+ market so that you can discern them in your own market area. • Evaluate your market area attractiveness to the 50+ market.

• Master the vocabulary of the range of housing options for the 50+ market. • Learn the application of federal laws for Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA). • Develop business building outreach methods for communicating and gaining 50+ market share. • Adapt methods for counseling the 50+ buyer and sellers. • Stay focused on the transaction and avoid inappropriate involvement in family matters. • Develop sensitivities to 50+ issues and priorities when counseling buyers and sellers, showing properties, and managing transactions. • Develop services that win and sustain client and customer relationships and position you as a trusted real estate advisor. •Assemble a team of experts to help

you serve 50+ clients and customers. • Learn about the uses, benefits, procedures, and issues involved in reverse mortgages. • Learn about uses of pensions, 401k accounts, and IRAs in real estate transactions. • Gain an understanding of how Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security impact 50+ real estate decisions. • Recognize mortgage finance and loan schemes and scams that victimize 50+ borrowers. • Identify key life stages, viewpoints, and transitions in relation to housing choices. • Recognize how a home can be adapted for safety, comfort, and aging in place. • Help clients integrate disposition of real property into estate plans.

Learn how to best represent your Buyers with ABR designation Title: Accredited Butyers Representative Designation Date/Time: April 3-4, 8:30 a.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Cost: $149 Register at www.sarasotarealtors.com The overall goals of the ABR® Designation Course are to: - Prepare real estate professionals to thoroughly represent buyer-clients in real estate transactions and provide the quality of service and degree of fidelity to buyers that sellers have customarily enjoyed. 22

MARCH 2014

- Offer ideas and methods for building a buyer representation business. - Develop a self-customized tool for conducting a buyer counseling session. Upon completing the two-day course and successfully passing the exam, you will have achieved ABR® candidate status, a three-year period during which you must fulfill the educational and experiential requirements to become an ABR® Designee. Get more information at: www.rebac.net/abr_course.cfm

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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MLS training continues in March 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). Realist March 3, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. or 1 to 3 p.m. Realist is a public-records database that provides in-depth property and ownership data, market information, street and aerial maps (including interactive, advanced mapping features), as well as market trends. Realist will provide many businessenhancing features, such as: • Interactive mapping that shows a wealth of information (including boundaries, driving distances, market info and other reports, such RealAVM™) • Side-by-side comparisons to the data in the MLS, if the information listed in public records is different than what’s in the MLS (i.e. 4 bedrooms vs. 5 bedrooms) • Nice-looking, easy-to-print, easy-toshare reports Website Management & Customization March 6, 9 to 11 a.m. This class will cover the advanced features and customization of your Agent Website. Add unique content and hyperlinks, set up a re-direct for a custom URL and more. • Pages • Site Settings a. Domain b. Contact View c. Site Rules d. Team Settings • Lead Capture – where do leads appear • Website Activity Gadget • Consumer view of AWP a. Setting up user Login b. Contact Me

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• Custom Link for www. myfloridahomesmls.com • Website Banner Images Statistics & Quick CMAs March 6, Noon to 1:30 p.m. This class will teach you how to utilize marketplace statistics & quick CMAs that are available through the MLS or through member benefit products. • Data Co-op • Fusion stats • iMapp stats • Stats IQ • Market Conditions • Quick CMA (previously known as One-line CMA) Auto-Notification Searches/ Prospecting March 6, 2 to 3:30 p.m. This class will teach you how to automatically notify your prospects of newly matching and updated properties based off of their specific criteria. We will also teach you how to manage those searches and communicate with your prospects through the Personalized Website. • Contact Website Agent View • Contact Website Customer View • Link Contacts to Listings • Saved Search Manager i. Deleting Searches ii. Re-activating Searches iii. Changing expiration dates • Contact Manager i. Searches ii. Saved Listings iii. Contact Webpage (Gateway) iv. Recent Website Activity Gadget MLS Basic March 11 or March 31, 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 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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 March 11 or March 31, 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 March 11 or March 31, 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 listings information to MLS • Adding Photos, attachments and open houses • ShowingTime and Virtual Tours

MARCH 2014

SAR On the Scene

SAR members enjoy comraderie, networking

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

Photos by Jesse Sunday

The Feb. 6th MLS Express at University Park Country Club was well attended. Shown here are Maureen Maglione and Amanda Meddaugh.

Above: Tom and Pat Hanly enjoy the Jan. 29th Affiliate After Hours event at Gecko’s on Hillview.

MARCH 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

Above: Stacey Grad and Bill Howell are shown at the Jan. 29th event at Gecko’s on Hillview. The next Affiliate After Hours event is set for Tuesday, March 25th.

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Title: CIPS Institute Dates/Times: June 2-6, 2014, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Cost (full Institute): $550 for SAR members; $600 for non-members Registration form at www.sarasotarealtors.com

GLOBAL

Achievement Program

Get your CIPS designation while the price is right! For complete information about this recently revised and streamlined designation, please go to http://www.realtor. org/cipshome.nsf/pages/education. CIPS Institutes concentrate five of the required international CIPS courses into a 5-day format over one week, allowing students to save travel costs and to complete the program quickly. Global Real Estate: Local Markets (June 2): This course is an analysis of the international real estate business environment, government regulations and cultures. The practical aspects of international brokerage, networking, marketing and selling are discussed (David Lauster) Global Real Estate: Financial Concepts (June 3): This course provides the tools needed to present investment information to international clients—in their currency and area. HP-10B calculator required. (David Lauster). Asia/Pacific and International Real Estate (June 4): This course covers real estate practices in Asia and the Pacific with emphasis on cultural influences, economic trends and assessment of investment opportunities. A special chapter on working with the Japanese is included (Pat Tan and Carla Rayman)

2013

GOLD

Europe & International Real Estate (June 5) : This course provides information on working with clients in Western and Central Europe. The European Union and its impact on international real estate are covered, along with economic and real estate trends, networking and relationship building, plus marketing and selling practices (Tan & Rayman) The Americas & International Real Estate (June 6): Practical information for professionals who work with Caribbean, North, Central and South American investors. Historical and cultural influences, regional relationships, and investment opportunities are covered along with a special focus on Mexico (Tan & Rayman)

Get started on your international real estate career Title: International 101: Financial Issues for Foreign Nationals and Corporations Buying, Owning and Selling Florida Real Estate or Businesses Date/Time: March 12, 2 to 4 p.m. Location: SAR Auditorium Cost: Free to Global Business Council Members; $10 others Register at www.sarasotarealtors.com Join the SAR Global Business Council for an informative seminar and panel discussion on financial issues for foreign nationals or entities. A wine and cheese reception follows from 4 to 5 p.m. Accountant Renea Glendinning of Kerkering Barberio

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will discuss “Accounting and Taxation,” with a specific emphasis on FIRPTA. Real Estate Attorney Jo Ann Koontz of Koontz & Associates will discuss “Issues Regarding Holding Title to Real Estate in Florida.” A local banking expert (TBA) will discuss “Loan Financing for Non US Citizens or Corporations.” The event is free to members of the Global Business Council, and $10 to non-members.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2014

Global Business Council

Certified International Property Specialist Course Set

WCR - Where leaders arise!

The real estate industry in the past five years has celebrated several important anniversaries. In 2008, the 100th anniversary of the Realtor® organization was marked. In 2013, the 75th anniversary of the Women’s Council of Realtors® was remembered and the 100th anniversary of the Realtor® Code of Ethics was realized. These anniversaries not only show the remarkable advancement of the industry in promoting credibility and professionalism, they also prove that the leaders of the real estate profession are doing a stellar job. Locally, we’ve seen the 90th anniversary of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® pass with one of the best years in real estate sales in 90 years. Most outstanding was the move into a new debt-free facility with a comfortable place for Realtors® and affiliates to build business and attend classes for continued development. A stunning recovery from a crash that affected the Sarasota area harder than many places brought Realtors® back into business. Our association now has 3,650 Realtor® members! How do all of these accomplishments happen? From the beginning, industry leaders have paved the way from the inception of the national organization to the birth of the Affiliated organizations such as the Women’s Council of Realtors®. The Council was formed to give women a chance at equal pay for the same work male Realtors® received and to provide support to advance women in the market place. Another development with the Code of Ethics - it now includes Gender Identity. Who are these people that pave the way to progress and change? Within our Realtor® community you can follow the path of those who lead. Are they “born leaders.” Or are they trained leaders? John Maxwell says “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” Does this imply that leaders are born? On the other hand Warren Bennis has said, “The

most dangerous leadership myth is that leaders are born - that there is a genetic factor to leadership. That’s nonsense; in fact, the opposite is true. Leaders are made rather than born.” Whether one or all of these quotes are fact, I hold without question the words of Henry Miller to be true: “The real leader has no need to lead - he is content to point the way.” The real estate profession offers many avenues to leadership. Programs are available to help you recognize your potential, develop skills and incorporate the leadership path into your business to help you create success. SAR is proud to have Michelle Crabtree, Alfredda “Fred” Smith-Odato and Marianne LeBar selected to be among only 19 Realtors® to participate in Florida Realtors® Leadership Academy this year! And Michael Bruno has been named District 13 Vice President for Florida Realtors®. All of these leaders are also members of Women’s Council of Realtors®. The Council’s path to leadership doesn’t stop within the Council. Many professionals at many levels of leadership throughout the industry have been and still are Women’s Council of Realtors® members. If you want to experience and learn about possibilities in this organization and how it can enhance your career, come to our next meeting at Lakewood Ranch Country Club, 7650 Legacy Blvd. on March 14th at 11 a.m. Catherine Lamphier, VP of Membership can be reached at: CatherineLamphier@ Michaelsaunders.com for more information.

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

MARCH 2014

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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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.

Call if you are delayed or must cancel an appointment or showing.

Before you enter a property, always check the listing information to determine if there are pets, and any special instructions. Retrace your steps when the showing is complete to check doors and lights. If lights were one when you arrived, leave them on, because there could be another showing after you. But if they were off, be sure they are all off when you leave.

Never allow buyers to enter listed property unaccompanied.

This is less of an issue with use of electronic Despite your best efforts to allow plenty of time lockboxes, but some properties have combination between showings, you may occasionally find boxes. yourself running late. Be sure to let the listing Never give out a combination, even if the agent know so they can alert the seller, who may not property is vacant. And don’t be tempted to have have left the property yet. someone unlock the property and leave the buyers If buyers cancel their appointment with you, alone. You may not think about it, but it can be a always let the listing agents know you won’t be there liability issue if a buyer was injured or items turn up that day. Has this happened to you? You pull up missing when the seller returns. in front of the property and the buyer takes one look and decides they don’t want to see it? The proper response would be to say that you need to take just a minute to run in to leave a card so the seller and the agent know that you were there. It is also a good idea to call the listing agent to let them know, and it might be a good opportunity for you to provide the agent feedback about why your buyer was not interested – that they might use to help With Interstate 75 backups becoming more commonplace every year, running late for client appointments and listing showings is a growing problem. the seller.

When the occupant is absent, leave the property as you found it. If you think something is amiss, contact the listing broker immediately.

Have you ever received a phone call from a seller whose property you have listed to inform you that when they returned home after a showing, they found doors unlocked, lights on or off, pets missing?

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Besides, once the buyer has the combination, you have no way to prevent them from returning to the property at any time later. In another part of the country (where they have basements), an agent gave a combination to a buyer to look at an REO property. Moving through the dark property, they noticed just in time that the basement stairs were missing! Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

APRIL 2014

Pathways to Professionalism

Show consideration for clients, listing agents

Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee 28

Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Relief Act not extended By Jo Ann Koontz Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee

MDFRA expired December 31, 2013 and has not been extended to 2014, although an extension is being considered by Congress. In December of 2007, Congress passed the Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Relief Act (MDFRA) to provide relief to struggling homeowners potentially facing crippling tax liability. When the United States Senate and House passed the 2012 American Tax Payer Relief Act it extended the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act (MFDRA) through December 31, 2013. To date, MDFRA has not been extended into 2014. Congress is considering an extension of the MDFRA, and although there is bi-partisan support to extend, there is nothing definitive to report as of this writing. Many people are very concerned about this; however, it is important to note that there are other exclusions which are not subject to expiration which can be more helpful in reducing or eliminating the tax impact of cancellation of debt income. Why Isn’t This Bad News for potential Short Sale Sellers? The Internal Revenue Code provides for several exclusions pursuant to Section 108, which can help taxpayers reduce or eliminate the tax due as a result of the cancellation of debt. Most commonly, the insolvency exclusion can be claimed, which exempts forgiven debt for a taxpayer, to the extent of their insolvency. Insolvency is the difference between the taxpayer’s outstanding liabilities and the fair market value of all assets held on the date of sale or debt forgiveness. To the extent that the taxpayer’s liabilities are greater than the value of the assets, that difference can be used to exclude cancellation of debt income from taxable income. For example, assume the taxpayer’s liabilities, including the mortgage debt forgiven, total $500,000 and the fair market value of all the assets, including the property sold, total $400,000. The difference ($500,000-$400,000) of $100,000 is the extent of their insolvency. That means up to $100,000 of 1099-C income can be excluded from taxable income. Assets used in this calculation include creditor protected assets, such as retirement accounts. A borrower should never assume that they qualify for this exemption by virtue of the fact that there is negative equity in their home. To determine eligibility for the insolvency exclusion, a detailed analysis of a taxpayer’s assets and liabilities needs to be performed. Unlike the exemption provided by the Act, this exclusion is available for investors. The insolvency exclusion does not require the taxpayer to have ever lived in the property. The taxpayer also is not required to prove how the money borrowed was used, which can be especially problematic when sellers have owned the property for a long time. The only documentation the taxpayer must gather is the support to show the value of the assets and balance of any debts MARCH 2014

or liabilities included in the insolvency calculation. This can be much easier to gather and can be much less intimidating to sellers. The problem is, many of them just don’t know about it! Many potential sellers have been paralyzed by fear and confusion regarding the process and the tax impacts, which have caused them to not take action. Alternatively, some sellers have mistakenly believed that they will avoid the liability for reasons that are inaccurate. The following are some issues that result from those beliefs. Many people intend to advise their lender not to issue a 1099-C to them. However, lenders are required by law to report on Form 1099-C any release of debt greater than $600 and have no discretion to withhold such information. The resulting tax liability occurs upon the release of loan obligation, not upon the issuance of the 1099-C. Not only does the lender have a reporting obligation, but the borrower must also report this liability on their tax return for that year. Failure to do so can result in a 25% underreporting penalty and an increased audit period from three to six years. Some borrowers believe that foreclosure may allow them to circumvent tax liability, but release of debt may occur following completion of a foreclosure. Again, the borrower has no ability to request the lender not issue the 1099-C, and if the lender chooses to release the debt following the foreclosure action, either on its own accord or in response to post-deficiency negotiations, the debt forgiven will likely be much larger and the incidental tax liability much greater due to the additional costs and fees that accumulate and grow the balance of a loan throughout a foreclosure action. Borrowers also believe bankruptcy to be a potential solution to tax liability. This may be accurate depending upon when bankruptcy is filed. Income tax liability is not typically dischargeable and if the forgiveness of debt occurs prior to the bankruptcy filing, it will likely remain. Therefore, if the seller fails to complete the bankruptcy prior to the short sale debt forgiveness would result in the 1099-C income being taxable and not dischargeable in the bankruptcy. Tax consequences resulting from short sales, loan modifications, and foreclosures are fact specific and should always be evaluated by a professional. In many cases, tax planning can help a seller legally avoid or minimize the tax consequences of their transaction. If the seller proceeds without planning for the tax impact of the transaction, they are often unpleasantly surprised with the outcome. Don’t let the expiration of the MDFRA affect your business. Notify your potential sellers that there are alternatives that remain available to assist them! For questions regarding the cancellation of debt and insolvency issues, consult with a tax attorney or Certified Public Accountant familiar with IRS requirements. This column is provided monthly by members of SAR’s Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee.

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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EDUCATION From Page 6

that grade when new, more stringent grading standards were adopted in 2013.” “Referendum funds make it possible for the district to provide high-quality services to students, such as a school day that includes 30 minutes more instructional time than is required by the state, and nationally recognized art and music programs. Sarasota County voters have consistently supported our high level of services and we trust that they will continue to do so at this difficult time when state funding is still at an inadequate level.” The Economic Downturn Sarasota has certainly not been immune to the recent national economic downturn, and as the superintendent explained, “Over the past five years the district has made more than $120 million in budget reductions and eliminated 651 positions. The additional 1-mill referendum funds have helped cushion some of these impacts, but as with most Florida districts, we’ve had to rely on our reserves to a greater extent than we would like. Our ongoing challenge is to continue to provide students with a highquality education that has lifelong value with as little use of non-recurring fund sources as possible. It’s important to note that we are still maintaining our reserve fund within 7.5 to 10 percent of our annual operating expenditures, following our School Board policy. This range is far more conservative than the 5 percent level recommended by the state.” Even with the much-publicized increase in state funding for the coming school year, the state is still allocating less money to the district per student than it did in 2007-08, said White. In addition, the increased funding has been allocated for specific additional state mandates. Although the district will receive about $7 million more revenue, less than $500,000 may be spent at the discretion of the local School Board. “Due largely to the state education funding formula, about three quarters of the district’s operational dollars come from local property taxes,” she explained. “If our funding from state sources were higher, we would not need to rely as much on our reserves as we’ve done in these recent challenging economic years. Having said all that, it’s important to note that a 2012 privately funded independent study by MGT of America concluded that the district is one of the best-run school systems the company has reviewed, citing high performance and innovative practices.” Sarasota County Schools, along with one other Florida school district, has received the highest financial rating among the state’s public school systems from all three national independent rating agencies, Moody’s Investor Service, Fitch Ratings and Standard and Poor’s Rating Services. A successful, sound education system that benefits everyone - why would anyoneNOT support such a system? Vote “Yes” on March 25th! www.sarasotarealtors.com

Bob

Chuck

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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®

Aguirre, Matilde: RE/MAX United Realty Castro, Juan: Elite Realty Partners Cole, Charles: Award Winning Real Estate Inc. Connaughton, Maurice: Sarasota Signature RE Eldredge, David: Realty Solutions of Florida Hirschman, James: Sarasota Land and Homes LLC Krol, John: Realty World, Top Producers RE McGregor, Warren: McGregor Real Estate Co. Payne, Tammy: Vantage Real Estate

New Members

Almanzor, Sheila: Medway Realty Bastek, Ronald: Davenport Realty Group LLC Bell, James: Medway Realty Bello, Lisa: Premier Properties Blackman, Brittany: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises Blackwell, Mary: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Bromby, Scott: Atchley International Realty Calvo, Jesus: Precise Realty Corp. Campbell, Samantha: Keller Williams on the Water Canaveral, Luis: Keller Williams Rlty Englewood Capeto, Michael: Michael Saunders & Company Chapman, Amy: Michael Saunders & Company Cryan, Frank: McGregor Real Estate Co. Decker, Kathy: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises DeSoto, Daniel: Michael Saunders & Company Dunn, Judith: Bright Realty Durham, Opal: Florida VIP Realty Inc. Fesler, Tanya: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises Fossum, Donna: Michael Saunders & Company Gallagher, Zulay: Keller Williams On The Water Gardini, Elizabeth: Michael Saunders & Company Green, April: Keller Williams Rlty Manatee Haut, Timothy: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Herten, Benjamin: RE/MAX Platinum Realty Hughes, Leonard: Stateside International Realty Ippolite, Sandra: Key Realty Kennedy, Deanna: McGregor Real Estate Co Kosinski, Karen: Rosebay International, Inc. Kruse, Maria: Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc. Lento, Tracey: Bright Realty Lonsinger, Beth: Charles Rutenberg Realty Inc. Miller, Bettina: Coldwell Banker Res R E Minor, Louise: Dolphin Bay Real Estate LLC Montchal, William: Michael Saunders & Company Morton, Cindy: Atchley International Realty Newman, Garrick: London Bay Realty Inc. Notary, David: Allison James Estates & Homes Parsons, Michael: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises Phillips, Anna: Shirley International Realty Pillsbury, Robert: Coldwell Banker Res R E Prokop, Kenneth: Prokop Realty Remillard, Nicholas: Re/Max Superior Properites Remillard, Nathan: Re/Max Superior Properites Richardson, Suzanne: Keller Williams on the Water Rovnak, Robert: Sanderling Real Estate Saldivar, Kristine: Kelly Gettel & Company PLLC Schaekel, Kirk: Murray Realty Sessions, Patricia: Listing Services Direct Shuttleworth, William: Coldwell Banker Res R E Smith, Judy: Waterfront 7 Realty LLC Thomason, Scotty: Sel-Fast Coastal Comm. Realty Thomason, Tammy: Sel-Fast Coastal Comm. Realty Thompson, William: RE/MAX Alliance Group Treat, Lucinda: Florida Home Team LLC Treibly, Susan: The Rollings Company LLC Watermann, Allyn: Bright Realty Weaver, Alisha: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Wentzel, Joshua: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch MARCH 2014

Westgate, Arika: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Wilson, Craig: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises Yeo, Andrew: Century 21 Almar & Associates Yeo, Marie: Century 21 Almar & Associates

Now With ...

Anzellini, Elizabeth: RE/MAX United Realty Benedick, Janice: True Real Estate Inc. Brinkman, Deke: Bright Realty Coon, Mark: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Cozy, Brenda: Coldwell Banker Res R E Delosh, Edward: RE/MAX Alliance Group Dickson, Thomas: Century 21 Beggins Enterprises Drake, Amy: Ascendia Real Estate Gesell-Hirschman, Jamey: Bright Realty Grabo, Alfred: Quantum Realty Solutions LLC Grenier, Nancy: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Griffith, Eric: Coldwell Banker Res R E Haas-Goodwin, Stacy: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Hameed, Melanie: One Sarasota Realty Group Hawkins, Valerie: Coldwell Banker Res R E Hickey, Sean: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Jacob, Arlette: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A. Klein, Sharon: Atchley International Realty Lamb, Carrie: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Lewis, Sharon: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Lopez, Jose: Keller Williams On The Water Loughman, Lauren: EXIT Creative Realty Marra, Massimiliano: Allison James Estates & Homes Marschner, Richard: Bright Realty McDonald, Robert: Coldwell Banker Res R E McGayhey, Donald: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty McLaughlin, Deborah: True Real Estate Inc. McLoughlin, Robert: Michael Saunders & Company Montagano, Cory: RE/MAX Alliance Group Nutt, Carla: Medway Realty Pereyra, Patricia: ROEM Realty LLC Piras, Carlo: Sarasota Signature Real Estate Reece, Martyn: University Park Lifestyles Inc. Sancranti, Denise: Michael Saunders & Company Schomaker, Judy: Re/Max Superior Properites Soda, Donna: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Soda, Jim: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Tebo, Patti: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. Realty Uecker, Lucy: True Real Estate Inc. Willborn, Mark: Elite Realty Partners Woods, Charles: DWELL Real Estate Young, Margaret: Jennette Properties Inc.

New Affiliates

Above All Home Inspections 8543 Karpeal Drive Sarasota, FL 34238 Phone Number: 941-894-4141 Representative: David Polosky Specialty: At Above All Home Inspectors we believe in providing real value. From pre-purchase home inspections, to wind mitigation and four point insurance inspections. With nearly 10 years of inspection and construction experience we can provide you with the value that comes from engaging a true home inspection professional who really cares about doing the best job possible for their clients. We don’t just say that, we mean it. Email: inspector8543@gmail.com Abovegrade Home Inspections 7586 Trillium Blvd Sarasota, FL 34241 Phone Number: 941-586-1789 Representative: Salvatore Bordonaro Specialty: Abovegrade Home Inspections is an

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

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experienced home inspection company that serves the Sarasota and Manatee Counties. We are a Florida certified home inspection service and a member of the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). We offer accurate, thorough and detailed electronic reporting, and our inspection reports are available by email within 24hrs. Email: abovegradehi@yahoo.com AmeriLife 4960 Fruitville Road Sarasota, FL 34232 Phone Number: 941-378-9111 Representative: Greg Smith Specialty: Representing more than 30 national top-rated insurance carriers, AmeriLife provides independent agents with an array of proprietary products and policy options. As of 1/1/2014 Certified through the Federal Government to assist with the (Affordable Health Care/ObamCare) Other products are Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans to prescription drug plans (Part D) and various income-providing annuities, life and health insurance policies, and long-term care products, AmeriLife strives to deliver the best products to meet its clients’ needs. Email: gjsmith1@yahoo.com Benderson Development Company LLC 7978 Cooper Creek Blvd University Park, FL 34201 Phone Number: 941-360-7229 Representative: Mark Curran Specialty: With over 60 year’s experience, Benderson Development Company has engineered impressive growth through innovation, insight and determination. Benderson owns and manages over 700 properties encompassing over 40 million square feet in 38 states. The diverse Benderson portfolio includes retail, office, industrial, hotel, residential, and land holdings. Benderson Development has assembled a skilled managerial team who together facilitate an effective and efficient collaboration in managing and maintaining the company’s extensive property portfolio. Email: markcurran@benderson.com Center for Sight 1360 E. Venice Avenue Venice, FL 34285 Phone Number: 941-488-2020 Representative: Maureen Maglione Specialty: Center For Sight is one of the leading, multiphysician, vision, cosmetic and skin care practices in the United States. Center For Sight doctors and staff are dedicated to providing the latest advances in healthcare to meet your changing needs. These services range from Laser Cataract Surgery, to All-Laser LASIK, to comprehensive vision care; including our award-winning optical and hearing departments. We treat important eye conditions such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. At Center For Sight we offer more than eye care to help you achieve a better quality of life. Email: mmaglione@centerforsight.net Eagle Home Mortgage 8480 Cooper Creek Blvd Ste 103 University Park, FL 34201 Phone Number: 941-539-2414 Representative: Brian Benson Specialty: Eagle Home Mortgage, known for fiscal stability and sound business practices, is committed to helping our clients with everything from selecting the right product to smooth closings with in-house underwriting and processing. Our experienced, expert professionals provide exceptional service and peace of mind, whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner. Email: brianbenson@eaglehm.com www.sarasotarealtors.com

Elite Landscape Services 7350 S. Tamiami Trail Ste 146 Sarasota, FL 34231 Phone Number: 941-737-7763 Representative: Kody Klein Specialty: Quality-driven lawn and landscape maintenance. Mowing, edging, weeding. Pruning bushes, hedges and trees. Maintaining irrigation system. Also offer fertilization and landscape installation. Licensed, insured and employees have studied best practices under FL Dept. of Environmental Protection. Email: info@elsflorida.com JigSaw Home Investments Inc 411 Bee Ridge Road, #426 Sarasota, FL 34233 Phone Number: 941-961-8683 Representative: Carolyn Arbogast Specialty: Welcome to JigSaw Home Investments, Inc. We are based in Sarasota County and we service Sarasota, Manatee and Desoto Counties. We offer inspection services by our NAHI licensed Home Inspector along with the following perks:* A 100% - 90 day warranty, * Membership with the Home Owners Network and * RecallChek services. See our “Home Inspections” tab for more information. We Are Impartial and Work For You. Email: jigsawhomeinvestmentsinc@gmail.com Prime Lending 1819 Main Street Suite 300 Sarasota, FL 34236 Phone Number: 941-296-6115 Representative: Bob Ward Specialty: At PrimeLending, we understand that buying a home is a big decision. We understand because we help hundreds of homebuyers through the process every day. Our goal is to guide you through each step of the process, from application through closing, making you feel at home before you even begin searching for a house. Email: rward@primelending.com Swim, Incorporated 2119 Global Court Sarasota, FL 34240 Phone Number: 941-371-2252 Representative: John D Ellsworth Specialty: Design and construction of new concrete in ground swimming pools and spas. We lead the industry in innovation – developing the Swim-Safe® - Drainless Pool™ circulation system and developing “green” pool technology – we build the safest, most energy efficient, environmentally friendly pools you can buy – period Email: swimincjohne@gmail.com University Lending Group 9040 Town Center Pkwy, Ste 106 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 Phone Number: 941-266-3746 Representative: Thomas Tahmosh Specialty: Today, University Lending Group (ULG), a subsidiary of University Bank, continues that same tradition of customer service by being a full service mortgage bank whose goal is to provide a comprehensive selection of competitively priced loan products. Our products and services are designed to meet your needs. Service is more than just a word, it’s our commitment to you. Our diversified, geographic footprint affords our customers exceptional service levels. Our footprint, business philosophy, and experienced staff already in place, has created a significant opportunity for our customers. Our objective is to offer comprehensive mortgage services by focusing on providing personal and specialized services to meet each customer’s specific needs. Email: ttahmosh@university-lending.com

Sarasota Realtor® Magazine

MARCH 2014

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

MARCH 2014 E DUCATION & E VENTS C ALENDAR March 3

Tuesday 4

9:30 a.m. Realist Training 1 p.m. Realist Training

Wednesday 5

1 p.m. Boot Camp 5 p.m. Sales Associate Pre-License

7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 9 a.m. Residential Tenant Evictions Seminar 1 p.m. Boot Camp

Thursday 6

8 a.m. MLS Express (UPCC) 1 p.m. Boot Camp 9 a.m. Website Management 1:30 p.m. Stats & CMA 2 p.m. Auto Notification 5 p.m. Sales Pre-License

Friday 7

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR)

1 p.m. Boot Camp

24 11:30 a.m. Quarterly Membership Luncheon at SAR

8 a.m. MLS Express (SAR) 5 p.m. Spring Fling

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR)

April 1

9 a.m. Orientation 1 p.m. MLS Overview 1:30 p.m. Code of Ethics

9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing Listings 5 p.m. Sales Associate Pre-License

8 a.m. CID General Membership Meeting 9 a.m. Intro RPR 10:45 a.m. Adv. RPR 12:30 p.m. Intro RPR 2:15 p.m. Adv. RPR 5 p.m. Sales Pre-License

8 a.m. Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) course 9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing Listings

8 a.m. Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist Institute 5 p.m. Affiliate After Hours Networking (Gecko’s)

8 a.m. Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) course

9 a.m. Safety Seminar 2 p.m. International 101

7:30 a.m. Toastmasters

8 a.m. Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist Institute

7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 8 a.m. Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) course

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

8 a.m. MLS Express (SAR) 5 p.m. Sales Associate PreLicense

8 a.m. MLS Express (UPCC) 8 a.m. Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) course

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR)

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (MAR)

9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR)

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