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SarasotaREALTORThe Official Monthly Publication of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®

APRIL 2014

CGC1513647 *Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. Pictures, features, colors and sizes are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from homes as built. ** Square footage dimensions are approximate. ***Pools are not available in all home sites

• Floor Plans from 2,392 - 4,363 sq. ft.**

• Master Down and One Story Plans Available

• Highly Appointed Interior & Exterior Finishes

• Pools w/ Covered Lanais***

• Just minutes to Siesta Key, Shops &Downtown Sarasota

• Located in an A-rated school district

Come Preview Our Furnished Model!Visit 1959 Bougainvillea Street, Sarasota

Or, for more information call:(941) 924-1777

West of the Trai l

Other Sarasota Homes

Available

EmeraldHomes.com

New Homes from the Upper $500s*

“Tradition of Building Excellence”

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 Pulte Home Corporation. All rights reserved. 8/5/13. CGC1505166

Sandhill Preserve on Palmer Ranch SARASOTA

Coming Soon – Join the Interest List for Exclusive Updates

The Isles on Palmer Ranch SARASOTA

From the low $300s

1,911 – 2,488 sq. ft.

Less than 10 Homesites Remain!

2 Decorated models open daily.3 bedrooms, 2-3 baths Village Center with heated lagoon pool, fitness center, tennis, bocce ball, activity rooms and more

1907 Burgos Drive | Sarasota, FL 34238

IslandWalkat the West Villages NORTH PORT

From the high $100s

1,392 – 2,488 sq. ft.

New Cambridge Model Now Open!

5 Decorated models open daily. 2-3 bedrooms, 2-3 baths Resort Center with lagoon and lap pools,tennis courts, bocce ball, activity and craft rooms, fitness center, library and more

13575 Salinas Street | Venice, FL 34293

Homesinspired byyou and alifestyle

made for you.

Schedule a visit and register your clients today.

It’s time for a fresh start in a place that has everything you want, right where you want to be. And with world-class amenities, personalized designer options and built solid block wall construction, at DiVosta you’ll discover a home inspired by you and the lifestyle you love.

866-210-3134 | divosta.com

CGC1513647 *Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. Pictures, features, colors and sizes are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from homes as built. ** Square footage dimensions are approximate. ***Pools are not available in all home sites

• Floor Plans from 2,392 - 4,363 sq. ft.**

• Master Down and One Story Plans Available

• Highly Appointed Interior & Exterior Finishes

• Pools w/ Covered Lanais***

• Just minutes to Siesta Key, Shops &Downtown Sarasota

• Located in an A-rated school district

Come Preview Our Furnished Model!Visit 1959 Bougainvillea Street, Sarasota

Or, for more information call:(941) 924-1777

West of the Trai l

Other Sarasota Homes

Available

EmeraldHomes.com

New Homes from the Upper $500s*

“Tradition of Building Excellence”

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 Pulte Home Corporation. All rights reserved. 8/5/13. CGC1505166

Sandhill Preserve on Palmer Ranch SARASOTA

Coming Soon – Join the Interest List for Exclusive Updates

The Isles on Palmer Ranch SARASOTA

From the low $300s

1,911 – 2,488 sq. ft.

Less than 10 Homesites Remain!

2 Decorated models open daily.3 bedrooms, 2-3 baths Village Center with heated lagoon pool, fitness center, tennis, bocce ball, activity rooms and more

1907 Burgos Drive | Sarasota, FL 34238

IslandWalkat the West Villages NORTH PORT

From the high $100s

1,392 – 2,488 sq. ft.

New Cambridge Model Now Open!

5 Decorated models open daily. 2-3 bedrooms, 2-3 baths Resort Center with lagoon and lap pools,tennis courts, bocce ball, activity and craft rooms, fitness center, library and more

13575 Salinas Street | Venice, FL 34293

Homesinspired byyou and alifestyle

made for you.


It’s time for a fresh start in a place that has everything you want, right where you want to be. And with world-class amenities, personalized designer options and built solid block wall construction, at DiVosta you’ll discover a home inspired by you and the lifestyle you love.

866-210-3134 | divosta.com

Sarasota Realtor® MagazineVolume 11, Issue 4

APRIL 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

2014 SAR OfficersPresident

Peter Crowley RE/MAX Alliance Group

President-Elect Stafford Starcher

RE/MAX Alliance GroupSecretary

Amy Worth-Paul RE/MAX Platinum Realty

Treasurer Xena Vallone

Xena Vallone RealtyImmediate Past President

Roger Piro Town & Country RealtyChief Executive Officer

Kathy RobertsMission 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 StaffDirector of Communications

Ray PorterDirector of Membership

and Administrative ServicesDan Andrews

Director of Information TechnologyJesse Sunday

Director of Professional DevelopmentCatherine McCaskill

Governmental Affairs DirectorMarc Mansfield

ProductionCoastal Printing, Inc.

Sarasota Realtor® Advertising: For information on advertising rates and deadlines, contact Ray Porter at 941/952-3405 or [email protected].

Subscriptions: The annual dues of every member of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc., includes a one-year subscription to Sarasota Realtor® magazine. A yearly subscription for Sarasota Realtor® magazine is available to non-members for $25, plus Florida sales tax.

Editorial ideas and manuscripts are welcome. Byline articles and columns express the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the policies or sentiments of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All submitted copy is subject to editing.2014 Copyright© by the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. V

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6 Green Growing There is a blossoming awareness of the benefits of ‘Green’ standards in construction, real estate, and lifestyle choices, both in Sarasota County and across the nation.

10 Lobbying for You Several members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® traveled to Tallahassee in March to participate in the Great American Realtor® Days event, designed to lobby local legislators.

12 Homestead Transitions How do property transitions impact Homestead Exemptions? The Property Appraiser’s office explains how caps impact the bottom line.

15 Inventory Spikes The Sarasota County inventory of available properties on the market has reached a three-year high, topping 5,000 in February, and sales are continuing at a high rate.

25 Global Rising SAR’s Global Business Council is closing in on 200 members, and the new Steering Committee is seeking to further expand the reach and importance of international real estate.

In every issue10- Governmental Affairs12- Property Appraiser15- Sales and Listing Statistics18- Commercial Investment Division20- Education Programs24- On the SAR Scene27- Pathways to Professionalism30- Membership32- Calendar of Events/Education

RiddellLaw Group

R L G

3400 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida

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.

Call 941-366-1300 For A FREE CONSULTATION

www.rlglawfirm.com

KNOW YOUR OPTIONSShort Sales Foreclosure Defense Real Estate Closings

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

ON THE COVER:From left to right,

GRAS members Elizabeth Evans, Chair Christina Pitchford, Staff Liaison Catherine McCaskill, Vice-Chair David Consbruck and Susan Matteoli visit the Culverhouse Community Garden in the Palmer Ranch subdivision.

4 APRIL 2014 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Affiliate Spotlighton Melia Favorite

The April 2014 SAR Affiliate Spotlight is on Melia Favorite, Loan Officer at Regions Bank.

Melia just joined the bank in March 2014 to offer a greater lending portfolio and poduct line. Regions does everything from Jumbo mortgages to government loans and construction permanent, with hundreds of product options to fill every need.

Melia has been working in banking for 25 years and in mortgage origination for the past 15 years in Sarasota and Manatee counties. She and her husband, Steve, have lived in Sarasota for 10 years.

Melia is also very active with the Sarasota Association of Realtors® and Sarasota Women’s Council of Realtors®, along with the Home Builders Association.

Melia is extremely proud to be part of the Excellent Award Winning Regions Bank Mortgage Team. She can be reached at 941-807-0303 anytime or e-mail: [email protected]

RiddellLaw Group

R L G

3400 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida

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.

Call 941-366-1300 For A FREE CONSULTATION

www.rlglawfirm.com

KNOW YOUR OPTIONSShort Sales Foreclosure Defense Real Estate Closings

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

Melia Favorite

SAR seeks prospectiveleaders for 2015 and beyond

In just a few months, SAR members will vote to elect the Officers and five new Directors to represent them in 2015, along with the Directors whose terms carry over. Through our new leadership program and other efforts, SAR has been striving to identify and train new leaders that reflect the diversity of the SAR membership. Our business model is constantly evolving, adapting to new paradigms and anticipating what we need to do next in order to not only survive, but thrive, and remain a strong, viable organization and the Board of Choice for our members.

Would you, or someone you know, consider a nomination to one of the elected positions? During the three-year term, beginning January 1, 2015, one of your most important responsibilities as a Director would be to participate in the development of policy and major decision-making at monthly Board meetings. Service on a committee or task force as well as participation in Association events are also key to being an effective leader.

For additional information and to help guide you in the process, we have posted information on our website SarasotaRealtors.com - 2015 Nominations under Hot Topics. If you wish to be considered as a candidate for the Board of Directors, or an officer, please send in the nomination form, located on the site, by April 4th. If you have questions, contact Kathy Roberts, CEO, at 952-3403.

GSarasota striving to promote sustainable lifestyle

Cove

r Sto

ry The Future Is Green“Green,” gardens and the sustainable

Sarasota lifestyle - why should the real estate community care?

What is “Green” about a community garden, aside from the obvious color connection? How does this relate to Realtors® and real estate?

We asked David Consbruck, local Realtor®, member of the Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota *(GRAS), and Chair of the Friends of Culverhouse Community Garden to explain the vital connection.

“I think ‘Green’ buildings and ‘Green’ homes are all about living the healthy lifestyle in a sustainable environment,” said Consbruck. “What is so exciting about the Culverhouse Community Garden in Palmer Ranch’s new Culverhouse Nature Park is just that - the garden helps empower connections between people, places and sustainable living.”

Culverhouse Community Garden, one of the largest community gardens in the state of Florida, is up and thriving in its second year of operation. It is located within Sarasota County’s newest park, an unimproved 80+ acre natural area within the famous Palmer Ranch planned development, where 60 percent of the land area is designated as “open space”. It is one of eight community gardens in the county, where residents can apply for plots and grow their own small crops - vegetables, flowers, tropicals.

The Culverhouse park, located on land donated by the Culverhouse family of Tampa Bay Buccaneers football fame, also created a new access point to the north end of the highly popular Legacy Trail. The trail is a paved bike and jogging path which extends 18 miles north to south and ends far away at the shoreline in Venice.

“The new garden is striving to uphold organic principles, with use of natural fertilizers and pest control measures,” explained Consbruck “Composting is a key part of the process, which involves recycling of garden materials, kitchen waste, and other natural materials from local sources. It is 100 percent recycling at its best!”

The garden is self managed by volunteers under the oversight of the Sarasota County Agricultural Extension Service, in cooperation with Sarasota County Department of Parks and Recreation.

“Green living is more than owning or living in an energy efficient home, that is built with non-toxic materials, and minimal waste of natural resources,” said Consbruck. “It’s about clean living, walking,

biking, playing, living close to nature, eating healthy fresh local foods, and sharing in low impact community activities and events.”

The significance of this new development to Realtors® is enormous. In Sarasota, “Lifestyle is what we sell,” said Consbruck. “Sarasota has so much to offer in the way of choices, but the integration of diverse recreational opportunities within our community is becoming a major reason so many people want to live here.

“Many of our residents, and those who are moving here, want healthy, active lifestyles, community involvement, and access to nature within walking or biking range. The interconnection of this community garden with others in the county system, and with the Sarasota County Parks and Recreation volunteer program, builds links to almost unlimited programs for growth, learning, and adventure,” Consbruck explained. “There are so many things to do here on Florida’s ‘Best Coast’, for young, old, and everyone in between. It’s all about active lifestyles with choices.”

The basis of “Green” living is living with our environment to make the world a safer, healthier, and better place to live now and into the future, he noted. Building an awareness of the lifestyle impacts created by our planned residential communities, recreational opportunities, and close connection to our natural world is important.

“I urge our Realtors® to get the word out,” said Consbruck. “Share your knowledge of your newest community organic garden and the nature park with your clients, friends and visitors. Together we will build the kind of community of the future that we all want to live in today.”

Explore ‘Green’ MortgagesNationwide, more buyers and current homeowners

are weighing the merits of a “Green” mortgage, according to U.S. News & World Report (Feb. 10, 2014 issue).

Continued on P. 29, See GREEN

“Together we will build the kind of community of the future that we all want to live in today.” - David Consbruck, GRAS Member and Chair, Friends of Culverhouse

Community Garden


How can we make our community more sustainable?Title: GRAS Seminar - “The Role of Affordable Housing and Land Conservation in a Vibrant, Sustainable Community”Date/Time: Thursday, April 17,1 to 4 p.m.Location: SAR Auditorium, 2320 Cattlemen Road, SarasotaCost: FREE to All

Affordable Housing and Land Conservation are critical components of sustainable/balanced communities that serve the needs of all residents.

Providing a variety of housing types and open space within our neighborhoods and throughout Florida promotes healthy, vibrant, and economically sustainable development for our region, its residents, and visitors.

At this seminar, sponsored by the Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota (GRAS), nationally recognized speakers discuss the “why” and “how” for ensuring our communities invest in both land protection and affordable housing: two complementary elements of smart growth.

Jaimie Ross, Affordable Housing Director at 1000 Friends of Florida and President, Florida Housing Coalition, will explain the context for the development and preservation of affordable housing within Florida’s growth management laws. She will also provide examples of what practices can be implemented at the local level to further affordable housing and conservation, including mixed income and mixed use development, accessory dwelling units, community land trusts, and best practices for ending homelessness and saving taxpayer money.

Debi Osborne, Director of Land Protection for the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast and previously the Director of Real Estate for National Audubon Society, will discuss the benefits of land conservation to people, the environment, our communities and the economy. She will also explain

how land is conserved, and give examples of community greening and land protection projects that support community needs and priorities.

SAR urges our members to attend

this important, free seminar on April 17th. Register today at www.sarasotarealtors.com.

Non-members, please call Catherine at 941-952-3404 to register.

Debi OsborneDirector of Land Protection,Conservation Foundation of

the Gulf Coast

Jaimie RossAffordable Housing Director,

1,000 Friends of Florida

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine APRIL 2014 7


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.

get ready for new home designs that accommodate everything, even your client’s budget.

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

Call 866-290-9110 or visit centex.com to learn more.

RIVERWOODPORT CHARLOTTE FROM THE HIGH $100s•1,641-1,911sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomAttachedVillasand SingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,GolfCourseandBeachClub

CypREss FallsNORTH PORTFROM THE MID $100s•1,641-1,911sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomSingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,ResistancePool, PuttingGreenandMore

THE REsERVE aT CROssING CREEK BRADENTONFROMTHELOW$200s•1,911-3,242sq.ft.

•3-4Bedroom1-and2-Story SingleFamilyHomes

•2NewDecoratedModelsNowOpen

Cypress Falls, Vernon Hill II Great Room

Put yourself in a better place™

V e n i c eb r a d e n t o n n o r t h V e n i c e

Exceptional communities. Quality homes. Extraordinary amenities. Outstanding customer service.

LakeOkeechobee

LakeOkeechobee

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FLORIDA TURNPIKE (TOLL)

674

Orlando

Exit 195

Exit 220

Exit 193

Tampa

Bradenton

Sarasota

Captiva Island

Venice

NORTHNORTH

wcicommunities.com

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. Void where prohibited. All references to clubs, golf clubs and membership opportunities and other amenities are subject to fees, dues and availability. All prices and availability subject to change without notice. ©2014 WCI Communities, Inc. All rights reserved. CGC 031523

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

Golf, Tennis, Planned Clubhouse with dining, fitness and pool

(941) 234-4470

Golf Club, River Club,

Tennis

(941) 485-5063

Clubhouse, Tennis, Boat Slips, Dog Park

(941) 465-4001

Live the Good Life


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.

get ready for new home designs that accommodate everything, even your client’s budget.

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

Call 866-290-9110 or visit centex.com to learn more.

RIVERWOODPORT CHARLOTTE FROM THE HIGH $100s•1,641-1,911sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomAttachedVillasand SingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,GolfCourseandBeachClub

CypREss FallsNORTH PORTFROM THE MID $100s•1,641-1,911sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomSingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,ResistancePool, PuttingGreenandMore

THE REsERVE aT CROssING CREEK BRADENTONFROMTHELOW$200s•1,911-3,242sq.ft.

•3-4Bedroom1-and2-Story SingleFamilyHomes

•2NewDecoratedModelsNowOpen

Cypress Falls, Vernon Hill II Great Room

Put yourself in a better place™

V e n i c eb r a d e n t o n n o r t h V e n i c e

Exceptional communities. Quality homes. Extraordinary amenities. Outstanding customer service.

LakeOkeechobee

LakeOkeechobee

75

75

75

75

95

95

95

95

27

98

92

75

4

4

301

301

17

17

17

98

27

6464

275

275

19

19

19

41

41

41

41

41

60

60

92

FLORIDA TURNPIKE (TOLL)

674

Orlando

Exit 195

Exit 220

Exit 193

Tampa

Bradenton

Sarasota

Captiva Island

Venice

NORTHNORTH

wcicommunities.com

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. Void where prohibited. All references to clubs, golf clubs and membership opportunities and other amenities are subject to fees, dues and availability. All prices and availability subject to change without notice. ©2014 WCI Communities, Inc. All rights reserved. CGC 031523

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

Golf, Tennis, Planned Clubhouse with dining, fitness and pool

(941) 234-4470

Golf Club, River Club,

Tennis

(941) 485-5063

Clubhouse, Tennis, Boat Slips, Dog Park

(941) 465-4001

Live the Good Life

SSAR lobbies Legislature on Realtor® issues

Gov

ernm

enta

l Aff

airs

Editor’s Note: Many SAR members joined other Realtors® from across the state in Tallahassee on March 19th to lobby legislators on these issues.

Sales Tax on Commercial Leases (see more on P. 18)

Florida is the only state in the union that charges a sales tax on commercial leases. For Florida to be competitive with other states and considered to be business friendly by prospective employers and companies seeking to relocate, Florida must begin to phase out the sales tax on commercial leases. Florida Realtors® support SB176 and HB 11 that lower the commercial lease sales tax from 6% to 5% beginning in 2014.

Sadowski Affordable Housing Trust FundsIn 1992 Realtors® strongly supported an increase in

the documentary stamp tax on deeds for all real estate transactions by 10 cents per $100 value IF all of the monies collected went to housing. Unfortunately, that has not been the case since 2002. During years of state budget shortfalls legislators swept Sadowski monies into general revenue.

Florida Realtors® support dedicating all monies collected from the Sadowski Affordable Housing Trust Funds for their intended purpose - housing - or reduce the amount of documentary stamp tax charged for the fund.

Property InsuranceContinue to develop a private insurance market

alternative to the National Flood Insurance Program. Florida’s nearly 2 million flood insurance policyholders contribute more in premiums than they get back in claim payments. And for that reason Florida lawmakers should continue to seek to provide a framework that will attract private market alternatives.

Florida Realtors® also support bills that lengthen the amount of time property insurance companies have to pay assessments to the Florida Insurance

Guaranty Association (FIGA). FIGA is a nonprofit corporation that pays claims on behalf of insolvent insurance companies.

If FIGA does not have sufficient funds to pay claims when another company goes bust, FIGA can issue two types of assessments against solvent companies to raise funds-emergency and regular assessments.

HB 143/SB346 would allow FIGA to collect assessments in monthly installments if it has enough funds to pay claims for six months or more. This is important to insurance companies considering writing policies in Florida because unexpected assessments reduce a company’s surplus and the funds available to pay its own claims.

Water QualityFlorida Realtors® support programs that keep our

springs, lakes and other water bodies free of harmful pollutants. Any approach to manage these levels should be science based and comprehensive. Florida Realtors support $650,000 in funding to complete the Department of Health’s Florida Onsite Sewage Nitrogen Reduction Strategies Study.

Some areas of the state are starved for fresh water only to be inundated during the rainy season with more water than ecosystems can handle. This has been the case in the Indian River Ragoon and Lake Okeechobee basin.

When water levels rise to dangerous levels the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers releases excess water often polluted with toxic algae into nearby rivers and estuaries. Florida Realtors® support funding alternative storage options that alleviate some if not all of these disastrous outflows.

Marc Mansfield can be reached at 941.952.3410

Florida must begin to phase out the sales tax on commercial leases, according to Florida

Realtors®


S

Prop

erty

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er Tips on the caps:Property transitions

and their impactsBy Bill Furst, GRI, CRS, CRBSarasota County Property Appraiser

Several property owners have contacted us in recent weeks for information about the effect on assessed value when a property transitions from non-homestead to homestead classification and vice versa. Here’s a quick summary:

Since 1994, increases in assessed value on Homestead property have been limited to an increase of no more than 3% or the change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is lower. However, in the year a homestead is established (the grant year), the property will be assessed at just value. Whether the property is new to the owner or previously owned but not homesteaded this statutory requirement applies. The only exception, since 2008, is tied to whether the owners of the new homestead are transferring any homestead assessment difference from a previous homestead – this is commonly called portability. Any difference between just value and assessed value as a result of the cap is sheltered from ad valorem taxes.

Since 2010, non-homestead residential and non-residential real properties have benefited from a 10% cap on increases in assessed value for all but school tax levies. In the first year of a change of ownership or control, or when there is a transition from homestead to non-homestead status, the property will be assessed at just value. Any accumulated assessment difference will disappear. There is no provision for portability for non-homestead property

For example, let’s say a non-homestead property that has had the 10% cap for many years transitions to homestead status and the owner did not have any portability. For purposes of demonstration we’ll hold the just value equal from one year to the next, (an unlikely circumstance).

To see what would happen in reverse simply flip the scenario. The previous year homestead with a $100,000 cap would have taxable values of $350,000/$375,000. In the current year, with the homestead removed, the taxable value would increase to $500,000. In both cases the appropriate cap would take effect in year two of the new status.

For more information, contact the Property AppraiserBill Furst’s office at 941.861.8200.

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Tips on the Caps Several property owners have contacted us in recent weeks for information about the effect on assessed value when a property transitions from non-homestead to homestead classification and vice versa. Here’s a quick summary: Since 1994, increases in assessed value on Homestead property have been limited to an increase of no more than 3% or the change in the Consumer Price Index, whichever is lower. However, in the year a homestead is established (the grant year), the property will be assessed at just value. Whether the property is new to the owner or previously owned but not homesteaded this statutory requirement applies. The only exception, since 2008, is tied to whether the owners of the new homestead are transferring any homestead assessment difference from a previous homestead – this is commonly called portability. Any difference between just value and assessed value as a result of the cap is sheltered from ad valorem taxes. Since 2010, non-homestead residential and non-residential real properties have benefited from a 10% cap on increases in assessed value for all but school tax levies. In the first year of a change of ownership or control, or when there is a transition from homestead to non-homestead status, the property will be assessed at just value. Any accumulated assessment difference will disappear. There is no provision for portability for non-homestead property For example, let’s say a non-homestead property that has had the 10% cap for many years transitions to homestead status and the owner did not have any portability. For purposes of demonstration we’ll hold the just value equal from one year to the next, (an unlikely circumstance). Prior Year Non-Homestead → Current Year Homestead Just Value $ 500,000 $500,000 Accumulated Cap $ 100,000 $ 0 Assessed Value $ 400,000 $500,000 First Homestead $ 0 $ 25,000 Second Homestead $ 0 $ 25,000 Taxable Value Non-School $ 400,000 $ 450,000 Taxable Value Schools $ 500,000 $ 475,000 To see what would happen in reverse simply flip the scenario. The previous year homestead with a $100,000 cap would have taxable values of $350,000/$375,000. In the current year, with the homestead removed, the taxable value would increase to $500,000. In both cases the appropriate cap would take effect in year two of the new status.

Constitutional Articles, Statutes, Rules and Court Cases related to Homestead and Non-homestead Residential Assessed Value Capping.

Article VII Section 4(d)(4): New homestead property shall be assessed at just value as of January 1st of the year following the establishment of the homestead, unless provisions of [portability] apply.

Section 193.155 Florida Statutes: Property receiving the homestead exemption shall be assessed at just value as of January 1 of the year in which the property receives the exemption unless the provisions of [portability] apply.

Section 193.1554 Florida Statutes Subsections (2) and (3): (2) For all levies other than school district levies, non-homestead residential property shall be assessed at just value as of January 1 of the year that the property becomes eligible for assessment pursuant to this section. (3) Beginning in the year following the year the non-homestead residential property becomes eligible for assessment pursuant to this section, the property shall be reassessed annually on January 1. Any change resulting from such reassessment may not exceed 10 percent of the assessed value of the property for the prior year.

FL Administrative Code 12D-8.0061: Real property shall be assessed at just value as of January 1 of the year in which the property first receives the [homestead].

District Court of Appeal of Florida, Fifth District, No.5D11-240, 84 So.3d 1277, April 20, 2012: The Court agreed with the Orange County Property Appraiser that once the property changes classification from homestead to non-homestead, it must then be revalued at its fair market value for ad valorem tax purposes before it can receive the benefit of the ten percent limitation in future tax years. The Court cited Art. VII, Sec 4(d)(4), (see above) in support of their decision.

For more information please contact the Property appraiser’s office at [email protected] or 941.861.8200.


Sometimes, dreams do come true.The dream of homeownership has been in

Lillian Sanders’ heart for a lifetime. For years, she has wanted to provide her family with a safe, happy environment to enjoy peace, security and a successful future.

Now, thanks to her persistence and devotion, and with the help of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Habitat for Humanity, and many other partner organizations, Lillian’s dream is a reality.

In March, Lillian closed on the new home at 1353 21st Street, a former neighborhood eyesore and crime magnet that was torn down and has been reborn as a beautiful three-bedroom home with amazing fenced backyard and detached two-car garage.

For the third year in a row, SAR has helped provide a home for a deserving family, thanks to a $25,000 contribution from SAR’s Affordable Housing Fund, and hundreds of volunteer work hours by SAR members.

Welcome home, Lillian!

Lillian Sanders and family move into new home, thanks to SAR-Habitat for Humanity Team Build

The first days of the SAR-Habitat for Humanity Team Build in May 2013 were devoted to digging the foundation, followed by wall building and raising, and then major construction. Finally, sodding and landscaping, along with interior finishing, culminated in the beautiful completed three-bedroom home with detached garage.

After months of dedicated service and hundreds of hours of hard work, Lillian Sanders and her children - Michael, Myla, Solace and Mekayla - are now enjoying the fruits of their labor - a brand new home!


PDistrict 13 Conference Slated June 20th

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

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

The Sarasota Association of Realtors® is this year’s organizing association for the districtwide event. Affiliated real estate-related businesses can optimize their visibility by reaching an elite audience of real estate professionals all on one day in one location from six Realtor® Associations in Florida’s Suncoast region.

The theme for this year’s conference is “Believe: In Yourself, Your Market and Your Business.” SAR’s own Michael Bruno, District 13 Vice President, has worked behind the scenes to put together an incredible conference, filled with informational sessions.

The keynote speaker will be Dr. John Tuccillo, Chief Economist of Florida Realtors®. Former chief economist for the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) and a highly respected business and planning consultant, Tuccillo is also

head of the Industry Data and Analysis Department for Florida Realtors®.

Other speakers include:- Darla Furst and Juana

Watkins, who will talk about the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC). Darla, a member of SAR with 33 years experience in real estate, customer service, marketing and leadership, was appointed to FREC by the Governor in 2010. She is a member of the leadership team of Michael Saunders & Company. Juana currently serves as Director of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Division of Real Estate. Before coming to the DBPR, she was Senior Counsel to Florida Realtors.

- Barry Grooms, 14-year real estate veteran and marketing specialist, will speak on the topic “Prospecting With Tools You Have.”

- David M. Levin, Environmental Attorney, Icard Merrill, will provide a review of waterfront property laws entitled “Waterfront Issues.”

- Denise Oyler, Realtor®/Trainer with Rosebay International Real Estate since 2008, will speak on the topic “Personal, Professional & Profitable.”

The trade show expo will be open

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

About 60 of the area’s premier affiliated businesses are expected to participate, and more than 300 Realtors® turned out last year for the don’t miss event of the year in District 13.

For information on how your business can participate, call 952-3402 before June 10th, or visit www.district13conference.org

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PSarasota County market sales maintain steady pace

Property sales in Sarasota County for February 2014 maintained a very steady pace, and median sale prices for single family homes and condos also reflected market stability and integrity. Single family prices have been remarkably even for the past 12 months, while condo prices have seen somewhat more volatility.

February 2014 closed sales of 787 were down slightly (2.4 percent) from last February, when they were at 807, but up slightly from January 2014 (767).

The other notable market statistic was the recent marked decrease in short sales. Only 32 of the total 787 sales in February 2014 were short sales, compared to 98 in February 2013. Short sales have been trending lower since August 2013, and saw a significant drop off beginning in January 2014, when only 27 sales were short sales in the county. In June 2010, at the low point of the market, short sales accounted for almost 200 of the 933 total sales, and foreclosure sales represented another 207.

Foreclosures were still trending at about the same pace in February 2014, with 131 recorded. The lack of short sales may reflect the growing reluctance of mortgage lenders and banks to negotiate with delinquent property owners as the economy emerges from the great recession and the unemployment picture in Florida and across the nation improves.

Sarasota County continues to see healthy year-over-year median sales price increases. Comparing February 2014 to the February 2013 numbers, the median sale price for single family homes was up 10.3 percent and for condos was up 6.3 percent. During the last 12 months, March 2013 through February 2014, there has been a steady pattern of median sales prices in the single family category, fluctuating between $180,000 and $195,000 in that time period. Condo prices have fluctuated between $159,000 and $182,000.

The median sale price for the 12-months ending in February, which moderates monthly swings, was

$188,000 for single family homes, about 20 percent higher than the previous 12-month period. For condos, it was $165,000, up 9.2 percent over the previous 12-month period.

Pending sales maintained a high level in February from 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 March, April and May sales, as we did in 2013.

Inventory levels went up again in February 2014, topping 5,000 for the first time since May 2011 – almost three years ago. The low point in the recent market was in July 2013 at 3,747 – about 34 percent lower than the current level. In a recovering market, new listings and the overall inventory generally rise as sellers raise their estimation of a property’s value. The increase normally occurs only after the market has turned up.

“If you had to describe the market with one word, it would certainly be steady,” said Sarasota Association of

Realtors® President Peter Crowley. “Volatility in real estate isn’t historically a healthy climate, so we don’t really mind the current state of the market. Sales levels are still quite high, and the moderation in median sales prices means the market has found a good equilibrium between buyers and sellers. We hope for the traditional price appreciation that this area normally enjoys as the season progresses.”

Sales of distressed properties represented about 20 percent of overall sales in February 2014, down from January’s 24.9 percent, and much lower than the 50 percent level experienced in 2011. The current inventory includes about 10.9 percent percent distressed properties, down from the 12.1 percent in January 2014.

“We anticipate the level of distressed sales and listings to continue to drop in 2014, as the overall health of the economy and real estate market improves,” Crowley noted. “That is the traditional pattern, and unless there are some major economic headwinds that haven’t yet been forecast, we should see a very good 2014.”

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“Unless there are some major economic headwinds that haven’t yet been forecast, we should see a very good 2014.”

- SAR President Peter Crowley


Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - February 2014 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - February 2014

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

Single Family

#Active #Sold %Sold Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months ofInventory

Pending Reported %Pending # New

Listings % Price Original

This Month 3,430 532 15.5 78 $185,000 $188,000 5.5 695 20.3 988 92.3 This

Month Last Year

2,870 514 23.7 89 $167,725 $156,800 5.0 682 19.1 910 93.4

Last Month 3,314 503 15.2 74 $189,500 $187,000 5.4 653 19.7 1,140 92.1

YTD ‐ 1,035 ‐ 76 $188,000 ‐ ‐ 1,348 ‐ 2,128 ‐

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

Feb‐13 Mar‐13 Apr‐13 May‐13 Jun‐13 Jul‐13 Aug‐13 Sep‐13 Oct‐13 Nov‐13 Dec‐13 Jan‐14 Feb‐14

Single Family

CondoMedian Sale Price

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800


Unit Sales Single Family

Condo


Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - February 2014 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - February 2014

Condo

#Active #Sold %Sold Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months ofInventory

Pending Reported %Pending # New

Listings % Price Original

This Month 1,592 255 16.0 96 $170,000 $165,000 5.2 334 20.1 427 93.3 This

Month Last Year

1,621 293 13.2 131 $160,000 $151,242 5.6 379 24.4 432 91.6

Last Month 1,572 264 16.8 85 $176,000 $165,000 5.1 345 21.2 555 91.7

YTD ‐ 519 ‐ 90 $175,000 ‐ ‐ 679 ‐ 982 ‐

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0100200300400500600700800900


Pending Sales Single FamilyCondo

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000


Inventory Single Family

Condo

Statistics were compiled on Sarasota County properties in the MLS as of March 15th, 2014. Condo statistics include condo, co-op, 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.


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Officers:President: Lori Hellstrom, Osprey Real Estate ServicesPresident-Elect: Tim Mapp, Mapp RealtyVice-President: Tony Veldkamp, Sperry Van NessSecretary: Ron Struthers, Coldwell Banker NRTTreasurer: Dave Roth, RE/MAX Alliance GroupPast President: Linda Emery, Sperry Van Ness

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)

2014 CID Officers & Directors

Commercial Marketplace SessionsIncrease 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 Auditorium3rd Friday at the MAR officesThe 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.

Commercial Marketplace Sessions- Friday, April 4, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium- Friday, April 11th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium- Friday, April 18th, 9 a.m. – MAR, 10920 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL- Friday, April 25th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

CID General Membership Meeting- Tuesday, April 15th, 8 a.m. - Update on MFCRE system - SAR Auditorium- CID Members Only

CID Monthly Meeting Schedule

Lori Hellstrom, 2014 CID President

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

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Florida Realtors® urge sales tax phase outOne of the top legislative issues impacting

commercial real estate in Florida is the Sales Tax on Commercial Leases.

Florida stands alone as the only state that has a tax on commercial leases. Bringing new companies to Florida — to provide jobs, build strong communities and generate tax revenues — is critical to the state’s economic growth and development.

One is the loneliest number, particularly when you’re trying to attract new business and you’re the only state in the country that charges a sales tax on commercial leases.

For Florida to be competitive with other states and online retailers — and considered business-friendly by prospective employers and companies seeking to relocate — we must begin to phase out the sales tax on commercial leases.

The time is now. Compared to other states, Florida ranks No. 36 in attracting new business from a tax perspective, according to a 2012 survey by Site Selection.

We rank No. 20 in “Competitiveness” and No. 10 overall — well behind neighboring states of Georgia and Alabama, and other Southeastern states.

A commercial lease sales tax shouldn’t be a deal breaker for companies looking to relocate to Florida. In the first year, a complete repeal of the tax would create 185,000 new jobs and $20 billion in economic impact. That’s five times more than the tax revenue impact

(according to Economic Impacts of Sales Tax Reduction on Commercial Property Leases, Fishkind & Associates, August 2013).

State legislators are being urged to VOTE YES for SB 176 by Sen. Dorothy Hukill (R-Port Orange) and HB 11 by Rep. Greg Steube (R-Sarasota) to lower the commercial lease sales tax from 6% to 5% beginning in 2014. Eventually, we hope this tax is eliminated entirely, creating a new surge of jobs and economic growth.

The state capitol is ground zero for the commercial lease tax fight.


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)

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

I OFFERHOME INSURANCE

OPTIONS

3629 Webber Street, Suite [email protected]

George Dakkak, CLU, ChFC941-921-6630

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

4402

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Catherine McCaskill, Professional Development,can be reached at 941.952.3404

Title: Foreclosure Process, What You Need To Know From Start To FinishDate/Time: Wednesday, April 23, Noon to 1:30 p.m.Moderator: David P. Clapp, Managing Broker RE/MAX Alliance GroupCost: $10 (members); $20 (non-members)

I. The Foreclosure Process; from Lis Pendens to online bidding what can you expect?

Nancy Cason, Attorney/Partner, Syprett, Meshad, Resnick, Lieb, Dumbaugh, will provide:

• An overview of the current foreclosure numbers for the 12th judicial circuit in terms of how many are pending, rate of disposition, rate of monthly filing.

• Brief overview of the process through the courts, a/k/a anatomy of a foreclosure

• The foreclosure mediation process which will include brief overview of the various alternatives to foreclosure and resolution options, including, of course, short sales and trends with that.

• Update on the Mortgage Debt Forgiveness Relief Act.

II. The Online Bidding Process The New “Auction on the Courthouse Steps” what can you expect?

Irene Plank, Attorney, Sarasota County Clerk of the

Court, Karen Rushing, will present:• Courthouse Steps v. Online Auctions• How to Get Started: Registration, Deposit Payment,

Judicial Sales Calendar• Bidding Process• What Happens after the Sale?III. Foreclosure Title- What are the aftermath

implications?Tom Fitzgibbons, Esq., with Norton Hammersley will

address:• Incorrect legal descriptions• Foreclosing subject to superior liens• Efficacy of terminator lawsuits• Omitted junior liens• Claims by HOA’s and condo associations.

Learn the Foreclosure Process: Start to Finish

Learn how to best represent your buyersTitle: Accredited Buyers Representative DesignationDate/Time: April 2-3, 8:30 a.m.Location: SAR AuditoriumCost: $149Register at www.sarasotarealtors.com

The overall goals of the Accredited Buyers Representative® 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.

- 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.

There are currently 16 courses you can select from to complete your elective course option.

Get more information at: www.rebac.net/abr_course.cfm


GRI 200 and 300 series continue in 2014Title: Graduate, Realtor® Institute 2014Location: SAR, 2320 Cattlemen Road, SarasotaCost: $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 & 22GRI 202 ”Technology and Investments” - April 28 & 29Real Estate Specialties (Series 300):GRI 301: “It’s More Than Just Sales” - June 23 & 24GRI 302: “Thinking Outside the Box” - June 30 & July 1

New Agent Forum: How to become a success in real estateTitle: New Agent ForumDate/Time: April 16, 1 to 3 p.m.Location: SAR AuditoriumCost: FREE

Have you been licensed for less than two years, and are wondering just how to become successful? The New Agent Forum has been especially designed for agents with less than two years experience, and can provide your pathway to success!

Michael Davenport, licensed real estate instructor for the SAR School of Real Estate, will help keep you “out of trouble” by discussing the top 10 common mistakes made by newer agents.

John Sorenson, Loan Officer with Movement Mortgage, will clarify and explain the differences between a Pre-Approval, Loan Approval, and a Loan Commitment Letter.

Joseph Sikora, Assistant Vice President with Innovative Insurance, will explain the basics of home owners insurance

and policy coverages. He will also cover why Wind Mitigation and Four Point Inspections Reports are important.

Denise Oyler, Corporate Trainer and FAR Faculty Instructor, shares her experience and suggestions on how to prospect for new leads with a smaller marketing budget.

FHA 203K Renovation Program: Economic stimulus for your businessTitle: FHA 203K Renovation ProgramDate/Time: April 16, 9 a.m. to NoonLocation: SAR AuditoriumCost: $10 members; $15 non-members3 HR CE

Learn how to increase your business immediately by closing properties “AS-IS” with only 3.5% down from the total loan amount. Learn how to use the FHA 203K that allows:

Structural repairs; Room additions; Garages; Roof replacement; legal additions; HVAC; Termite Damage repairs; No limit to the amount of repairs.

The seminar is set for Wednesday April 16, from 9am – 12pm. It offers 3 Hours of CE Credit, and the cost is $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

Register online at www.sarasotarealtors.com.


Matrix training to begin in late AprilTraining dates have been announced for

the new Matrix MLS system, the My Florida Regional MLS substitute for Fusion.

The MFR Board of Directors last year moved forward with testing of a new MLS System that will replace the current system. SAR members will learn much more in the coming weeks - watch for informative emails and web site posts!

The goal was one MLS system that was quick, fully mobile, performed seamlessly on any platform and on any device. MFR’s ultimate goal is to consolidate the MLS into one easy, smart, and intuitive system.

Matrix should make life easier for agents after the less-than-successful roll out of Fusion, which has not provided the results all hoped it would.

SAR will offer Matrix Overview classes on the following dates and times (Sign up for courses at gopherit.mfrmls.com):

Tuesday, April 29th, 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. or 2:30 p.m.Thursday, May 1, 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. or 2:30 p.m.Thursday, May 22, 11 a.m. or 2 p.m.Wednesday, June 4, 9 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.Thursday, June 12, 11 a.m. or 2 p.m.Thursday, July 10, 11 a.m. or 2 p.m.Agent FeaturesDesigned to power top-producing agents across North

America, Matrix has been developed to boast the utmost speed and functionality. Offering the latest in agent-driven features, CoreLogic constantly strives to find new and innovative ways for agents to better serve their buyers and sellers.

PerformanceMaximum speed is central to the Matrix product philosophy.

Built for performance from the ground 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 MappingSeamlessly 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 GeneratorOne 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 BarFrom 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

CartsThe program’s cart functionality offers agents greater listing

management control. Users can drop listings into any client’s cart from virtually anywhere in the program, and then easily view, email, map or print the listings at their convenience. This functionality provides a tidy way to work with multiple clients while navigating around Matrix.

Search HistoryWith 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.

Search History is a terrific time-saving feature that is perfect for the busy agent serving multiple clients at once.


Improve your basic MLS skills in AprilPre-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).

MLS BasicApril 2 or April 15,9 a.m. to NoonMandatory session for all new users, to be completed within 60 days of joining.This class will teach both new and returning agents the basic functionality in Fusion including search, printing and emailing. You will also learn about additional resources and member benefits provided by My Florida Regional MLS, and more. The class is also available online at: http://

mfrmlsuniversity.com or you may attend the class at SAR.

MLS Compliance 101April 2 or April 15,1 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 ListingsApril 2 or April 15,3 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

Fair Housing seminarslated April 24th

A Fair Housiing seminar has been slated for April 24th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Northern Trust Bank, 1515 Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, (11th Floor Conference Room, Northern Trust Bank Building).Park in the garage attached to the building.

The seminar is sponsored by the Sarasota Office of Housing & Community Development. Facility and refreshments will be provided by Northern Trust Bank—includes a free continental breakfast.

RSVP to Penny Francis at 951-3640 ext 3777 or e-mail [email protected]

This 4-hour training session is FREE. Topics will include:• Description of the Fair Housing Act & What Is

Required• Avoiding Liability• Best Practices• Question & Answer Session- Can I make my rental units just for Seniors?- I don’t want pets in my rental unit-is that ok?- Do I have to rent to families with children?- Will I be required to build a wheelchair ramp?

GRADUATE, REALTOR® INSTITUTE (GRI)Ricardo Souza J Wood Realty

CONGRATULATIONS! Dedication and hard work pay off!! We congratulate

our members who have successfully completed the GRI (Graduate, Realtor® Institute), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS),

Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Green Specialist (GREEN), Accredited Buyers Representative (ABR), and

Military Relocation Professional (MPR) courses.

SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST (SRES)Thomas Wentzel Keller Williams LWRKathleen Marlowe Kathy Marlowe & Assoc.

CERTIFIED INTERNATIONAL PROP. SPEC. (CIPS)Judy Smith Waterfront 7 RealtyAnnette Santiago Keller Williams OTW

CERTIFIED RESIDENTIAL SPECIALIST (CRS)Rita Lasky Berkshire Hathaway

GREEN SPECIALIST (GREEN)Annette Stanoch Keller Williams LWR

ACCREDITED BUYERS REP. (ABR)Joseph Harris Premier Sotheby’s Intl.

MILITARY RELOCATION PRO. (MRP)Jonette Jones Jones & Co. Realty


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Visit SAR on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

Photos byJesse Sunday

SAR members network for fun (and profit!)

The Feb. 25th Affiliate After Hours event at Gecko’s on Hillview brought out networkers of all ages! Shown above - Mark Huber, his daughter Pamela, and her daughters Gia and Bella.

The Affiliate Smart Lunch on Feb. 26th at SAR attracted scores of Realtors® for a very informative session. The monthly event, featuring a great lunch and educational program, has proven a big success, and is a great opportunity for Realtors® to interact with Affiliates.

The Feb. 25th Affiliate After Hours event at Gecko’s on Hillview was another big hit! Here, Kerry and Sean Hegarty enjoy the event.


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

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 native land. 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)

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)

Certified International Property Specialist Course Set

GOLD2013

GLOBALAchievement Program

GBC seeks more members, improved trainingThe Global Business Council of the Sarasota Association

of Realtors® has a new Steering Committee, devoted to increasing the scope and importance of international business in our association.

Led by Chair Robin Adair, the GBC hopes to achieve membership of 250 by the end of the year, and earn Platinum status in NAR’s Global Achievement Program. These are daunting goals, but Adair is convinced now is the perfect time to move in a strong direction toward the international real estate market.

“We have a tremendous organization already, but now we want to take GBC to an even greater level,” explained Adair, a native of Great Britain. “Educating our membership on the international real estate arena is our major goal. As an example, when dealing with buyers from the UK, it’s important to understand that there is no such thing as Realtor® loyalty in Britain. There is no national MLS system, and real estate firms are mostly mom and pop operations. Agents should make it understood up front when working with a client from the UK that if they are working diligently to find them a property, they expect a certain loyalty to them for the eventual sale. It’s simply a matter of politely educating your potential clients.”

International transactions are usually more complicated and generally require the assistance of a real estate

attorney schooled in international business, a currency exchange expert, and other professionals trained in foreign business standards.

“Knowledge of culture and customs is also crucial,” said Adair. “In short, international real estate requires that agents raise their education to a whole new level.”

In 2014, GBC hopes to give them that opportunity!


T

Susan PhelpsWCR President

RPAC gains support of Council

Susan Phelps President Cristello and Company RE Phone: 941-906-7653 [email protected]

Kristin Triolo President-Elect Florida Homes eBroker Phone: 941-725-2486 [email protected]

2014 Leadership TeamCatherine Lamphier Vice-President Membership Michael Saunders & Company Phone: 941-907-9595 [email protected]

Alfredda Smith-Odato Treasurer RE/MAX Alliance Group Phone: 941-360-7777 [email protected]

The NAR Midyear Meeting is now known as the Realtor® Party Convention & Trade Expo.

The Realtor® Party Convention & Trade Expo is the event where Realtors® and association leaders come together to speak in unison on issues that pertain to real estate. And it’s an opportunity for all members to respond to and initiate change at all levels of government – federal, state and local. This event will be held May 12-17, 2014 in Washington, DC, with the Trade Expo on May 14-15. More than 8,000 Realtors® and Realtor® Association staff are expected to attend.

Sound interesting? Women’s Council of Realtors® has been part of that common voice that is heard by national political leaders in Washington. The Realtor® Party Convention allows real estate professionals to learn about issues and act to impact decisions made by our Capitol Hill leaders. During this time, meetings will take place with Senators and key senior staff for the House of Representatives who are tuned in to real estate issues. Many Women’s Council members have been and will be attending those meetings.

The Sarasota Chapter of Women’s Council of Realtors® supports the Realtors® Political Action Committee, RPAC, with a $1,000 donation every year. Our members are encouraged to contribute.

This statement is included in every meeting on our slideshow and/or in our agenda.

Since 1969, the Realtors® Political Action Committee (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. 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.

This donation is not to a partisan committee. Some might be surprised that the committee’s efforts are focused on issues, not politics. It’s important that our members understand the impact that RPAC has had on recent issues. The most recent and perhaps one of the most important topics is the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act. NAR supports the act that will delay the costliest increases until FEMA can investigate and report to Congress with affordability solutions.

Strengthening regulatory oversight of Freddie Mac/Fannie Mae with a focus on increasing the conforming loan limit for homebuyers is also a legislative priority. As well, RPAC continues to work to ensure that persons engaged in real estate only are exempt from any proposed mortgage registration requirements.

The Women’s Council of Realtors® Mission Statement says it all: We are a network of successful Realtors®, advancing women as professionals and leaders in the business, the industry, and the communities we serve. We must be aware and focused on the issues that affect our ability to complete our mission. RPAC will be working to educate the decision makers on Capitol Hill and make a difference for the industry and the homeowners of America. It’s the best investment you can make in your career. Invest Now!

Tim Calpin Secretary JP Morgan Chase Phone: 941-705-0139 [email protected]

Jacqueline Abney Corresponding Secretary Berlin Patten Phone: 941-954-9991 [email protected]


Path

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lismEditor’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.

BE CONSIDERATE OF SELLER’S PROPERTY - DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO EAT, DRINK, SMOKE, DISPOSE OF TRASH, USE BATHING OR SLEEPING FACILITIES, OR BRING PETS. LEAVE THE PROPERTY AS YOU FOUND IT UNLESS INSTRUCTED OTHERWISE.

Please advise your buyers prior to beginning showings that the use of bathroom facilities in the properties you are going to visit is strictly prohibited.

This might have happened to you OR could happen. A past client asked for assistance with her brother and his wife in locating the perfect home for them in the Sarasota area.

On a beautiful sunny March afternoon I met the clients along with her brother and his wife at a villa in Lakewood Ranch, the first of four they were scheduled to see.

The villa was unoccupied and had no furnishings. The prospective buyers, former clients and I toured the villa. We wound up in the kitchen, reviewing the benefits of the villa as far as meeting the buyers’ wants and needs. While continuing conversation with the past clients I noticed that the buyers were taking a second look at various rooms.

Realizing that buyers often prefer to take second looks without their Realtor® accompanying them, I stayed in the kitchen area. The wife of the buyer couple returned to the kitchen area and after additional conversation we all left the villa.

The door was locked and everyone began to move to vehicles. It was then that I noticed that the husband of the buyer couple was not with the group. I returned into the villa and shouted his

name. I heard him respond “coming” and observed him leaving the master bedroom moving toward the front door. When he made it to the front door he informed me that he had used the master bath toilet and found the water was not turned on.

He indicated that it was VERY important to get the water turned on. I searched the property and could not locate the turn on valve for the water. I wound up having to go to the next property that we were scheduled to visit, locating a bucket; filling it with water and taking it back to the villa where the problem was. Rather than taking care of the problem personally, I asked the husband of the buyer couple to take the water into the bathroom to allow the toilet to empty.

Lesson learned - make sure you specifically advise clients when you begin showing property that they are not to use the bathroom facilities of any property visited!

Simple rules can help avoid embarrassing issues


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tee Fighting like cats and dogs: Pet restricted communities

By Tamela Eady, Esq.Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee

When planned communities became prevalent in Florida long ago, legal disputes arose over the rights of community associations to implement and enforce restrictive covenants. Florida courts recognized the rights of associations to impose conditions on ownership, occupancy and use which were more restrictive than those imposed by governmental entities.

Over time, though, the authority of associations to enforce restrictions has been eroded by various Federal and state laws intended to prohibit housing discrimination against certain protected classes of individuals. The latest battleground is the right of associations to enforce pet restrictions vs. residents who claim that a diagnosed disability requires an animal for assistance, including “emotional support”, despite such restrictions.

When is a pet not a pet? Community associations are subject to the Federal

Housing Act (FHA). Under the FHA, unlawful discrimination means “a refusal to make reasonable accommodations in rules, policies, practices or services, when such accommodations may be necessary to afford such person equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling.” The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the agency that interprets and enforces the FHA, cares little about private pet restrictions.

According to HUD, associations are required to make reasonable accommodations for a person with a “disability” to have an “assistance animal”. Included in the definition of assistance animal is an “emotional support animal”, or ESA. An assistance animal is not a service animal, is not just limited to a dog and does not have to be specifically trained. Perhaps most importantly, an assistance animal is not considered a “pet”, which automatically puts an association trying enforce pet restrictions behind the eight ball when faced with a request to allow an assistance animal.

What is a reasonable request?When an association receives a request to allow an

exception to its pet restrictions, it must grant the request if the person making it suffers from a defined “disability” and if the exception will accommodate the disability. A disability is a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, including sleeping, bathing, walking and working.

Many disabilities may not be readily apparent or known to an association, including mental conditions, such as anxiety or depression. An association may not refuse a request for an assistance animal just because it is uncertain whether the person seeking the request has

a disability-related need for the animal. An association may request that the applicant provide documentation from a physician, psychiatrist, social worker or other mental health professional that the animal provides emotional support that alleviates one or more of the identified symptoms or effects of an existing disability.

Associations have to navigate legal minefields even when it comes to requesting documentation from an applicant. Associations are not allowed to require access to medical records or to medical providers. Associations also cannot require extensive information or documentation of an applicant’s physical and/or mental impairments.

So an association may have to make a decision based upon a note scribbled on a prescription pad from someone they do not know and cannot contact.

Therefore, association decisions are highly fact-specific. Denying a reasonable accommodation request is risky business. The burden to prove that such a request is “unreasonable” seems to be firmly upon an association. Denying a request may result in an association being on the losing end of a discrimination complaint.

How about the rights of everyone else?These developments are bad news for residents in pet

restricted communities who may fear animals or made a housing decision because pets were banned, restricted to owners only, or limited by size, number or breed. The law does not address these types of concerns.

Also vague is an association’s recourse if an assistance animal, once approved, becomes a nuisance. What can or should an association do if the animal barks excessively, exhibits threatening behavior to other residents or other pets, or if the owner cannot or does not properly pick up after the animal? These issues are already being litigated.

ConclusionPet restricted communities face increasing numbers

of requests from individuals seeking exemptions based upon a claim of a medical need for an assistance animal. Certainly, some of these claims are valid. The problem is that because of the broad provisions of the FHA and the policies of HUD, concerns have been raised that certain individuals are using the law to do an end run around association pet restrictions. Associations need to take requests for reasonable accommodations for assistance animals seriously. Harsh penalties exist for improperly disapproving such requests. As HUD has stated, “it is the housing provider’s responsibility to know the applicable laws and comply with each of them.”

This column is provided monthly by members of SAR’s Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee.


Energy-efficient mortgages allow homeowners to roll the cost of “Green” home improvements – such as solar panels, geothermal heating, tank-less water heaters and more energy-efficient heaters or air-conditioning systems – into their mortgage financing.

Fannie Mae, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the Veterans Administration (VA) offer loan programs that include energy-efficient mortgages. On FHA loans, the cost of improvements usually can’t exceed 5 percent of the property’s value and is capped at $8,000.

With VA loans, veterans can usually add up to $6,000 in energy-efficiency improvements. On conventional loans, funding for energy improvements is often capped at 10 percent of the appraised value of the completed property.

Lending experts warn borrowers to be careful and make sure they’re comfortable with the higher monthly mortgage payments spurred by a bigger loan. But over the long-term, the decrease in a home’s energy costs may make up the difference. In fact, many lenders won’t even process an energy-efficient mortgage unless it will result in a net cost savings.

The average homeowner spends about $2,200 annually on energy bills, according to the Department of Energy’s Energy Star Program. The Environmental Protection Agency says that adding insulation and improving the sealing of a home has the potential to curb total energy costs by 10 percent.

According to Energy Star, programmable thermostats can save homeowners $180 annually; replacing single-pane windows can offer a $500 annual savings; solar water heaters offer a $140 savings; and energy-efficient HVAC systems can offer $200 or more in savings.

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

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Let Us Help Your Company Go Green

GREENFrom Page 6

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 (non-SAR 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 seeks applications for scholarships


Mem

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New

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

Bommersheim, Fiona: Platinum Bay Realty LLCBrahler, Christine: Regal Touch Realty IncCoppola, Thomas: Coppola RealtyDeCastro, Julia: LWR Communities LLCFerrari, John: Ferrari Realty LLCJacques, Normand: By Giving Referral NetworkTrimpe, Julie: Community Realty Services

New MembersAnderson, William: Century 21 Beggins EnterprisesAtwood, Molly: Coldwell Banker Res R EBogdan, Dragan: Century 21 Beggins EnterprisesBommersheim, Fiona: Hook & Ladder Realty Inc.Brando Perez, Juliana: Michael Saunders & CompanyBrilliant, Robert: Coldwell Banker Res R EBrossard, Mike: Rosebay International, Inc.Bryceland, Kevin: RE/MAX Alliance GroupBurns, Robert: Blakeley & Associates RealtyCadmus, Lacey: Keller Williams on the WaterChanney, Renee: Florida Resorts RealtyCollier, Ronald: Michael Saunders & CompanyDavis, Kimberly: Keller Williams On The WaterDuthie, Veronica: Integra Realty GroupEaston, Herdis: Blakeley & Associates RealtyElson, Kimberly: AUM Florida Real Estate LLCFields, Ivana: Keller Williams On The WaterFilosa, Jane: Coldwell Banker Res R EGiusti, Christian: Bright RealtyGoar, Torii: The Real Estate StoreGuerra, Abraham: SRQ International Realty LLCHynes, Patrick: Keller Williams Rlty EnglewoodJeltema, Alana: Atchley International RealtyKuty, Dennis: Premier Plus RealtyLang, Kaley: Coldwell Banker Res R ELilja, Brian: AUM Florida Real Estate LLCLilja, Nicole: AUM Florida Real Estate LLCLowry, Sarah: Atchley International RealtyLyon, Antoinette: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. RealtyLyons, Amy: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. RealtyMacDougall, Amy: Ian Black Real Estate LLCMesarosova, Jana: Impulse Realty InternationalMiller, Adam: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchNiedospial, Kathleen: Meadows Real Estate ServicesNunez, Maria: Coldwell Banker Res R EParker, Pamela: Keller Williams On The WaterPatella, Jonathan: Wagner RealtyPidghirnii, Ana: Mount Vernon Property Mgmt Inc.Playter, Jamie: Generous PropertyProden, Robert: Exit King RealtyReardon, Linda: Coldwell Banker Res R EReed, Janice: Michael Saunders & CompanySkowronski, Jason: Coldwell Banker Res R ESlaalien, Noreen: Coldwell Banker Res R ESmith, Alexander: Danielle Gladding R.E. BrokerSoiman, Daniela: Coldwell Banker Res R EStoltzfus, Raymond: Exit King RealtyStone, Mary: Moynihan Realty Group Inc.

Telis, Kimberly: Exit King RealtyVan Riper, Elizabeth: Michael Saunders & CompanyWaters, Larry: Xena Vallone Realty Inc.Wisdom, Thomas: Community Realty Services

Now With ...Anzellini, Elizabeth: RE/MAX United RealtyAnderson, Linda: Swilley & Associates RealtyBeausang, John: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A.Beriault, Richard: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A.Bosela, Hajasoa: Coldwell Banker Res R ECarver, E Rian: Ocean Real Estate LLCChartier, Mike: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A.Cihal-Philpot, Carole: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchDrake, Amy: Ascentia Realty Group IncDreyer, Nelle: Coldwell Banker Res R EFerguson-Brown, Rachael: One Stop Realty of SarasotaFlorand, Pearl: Sunset RealtyFreeman, Eric: Medway RealtyFuchs, Todd: Premier PropertiesGibson, Jo Ellen: RE/MAX Platinum RealtyGibson, Fred: RE/MAX Platinum RealtyGordon, George: Realty Masters of FloridaGray, Michael: Florida Internet Realty LLCGuthrie, Carol: Coppola Realty GroupHaga, Elizabeth: Impulse Realty InternationalHorne, Jennifer: Ocean Real Estate LLCKhalil, Jacklen: Venice Real Estate CompanyKing, Stephanie: Century 21 Beggins EnterprisesKovach, Frank: Hope Realty IncKrashchenko, Stella: Key Solutions Real Estate GrpLang, Gaylyn: Coldwell Banker Res R ELaver, Sean: Key RealtyLosch, Scott: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. RealtyLucas, Cynthia: Horizon Realty InternationalMcDonough, Meg: Horizon Realty InternationalMcWilliams, Andrew: Coldwell Banker Res R EMerriott, Robert: Keller Williams On The WaterMoore, Jason: Andrews & Associates RealtyMorris, Robert: Sperry Van Ness CommercialMorris, Lisa: Michael Saunders & CompanyPillsbury, Robert: Keller Williams on the WaterReid, Patricia: Joyce Marie Steward R E BrokerSarajew, Nancy: Coldwell Banker Res R EShape, Leslie: Johnston Realty of SarasotaSteele, Deborah: Exit King RealtyTaylor, Kelly: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchUecker, Lucy: Keller Williams On The WaterValenti, JoAnne: The Real Estate StoreWallace, Bret: Argus Realty Group IncWarren, Charles: Bright RealtyWaters, J Allen: Florida Internet Realty LLCWeiler-Hill, Ruth: Horizon Realty InternationalWilcher, John RE/MAX Alliance GroupWilliams, Barbara: Impulse Realty InternationalWingardh, Peggy: DWELL Real EstateWinkle, Holly: Michael Saunders & CompanyWolfe, Lisa: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A.

Dan Andrews, Membership Director, can be reached at 941.952.3408


New Affiliates24-7 Floors2108 Whitfield Park LoopSarasota, FL 34243Phone Number: 860-250-1733Representative: Scott D. PerronSpecialty: We at 24-7 Floors are committed to selling top quality flooring for residential and commercial at low, affordable prices. We sell a wide range of goods including carpets, vinyl flooring, laminates and carpet underlay. We are a service supplier.Email: [email protected]

Island Mortgage Services435 12th Street W. #202Bradenton, FL 34205Phone Number: 941-778-8448Representative: Janine M. PetrarcaSpecialty: We offer a full range of Conventional and Government Loan Programs. We offer clients customized mortgage solutions to obtain the BEST rate possible. Our client-centric process is straight-forward and simple: We Always Put the Client First We provide a broad array of financing options for home buyers Our knowledgeable mortgage professionals have deep industry insights and years of experience as they have handled every aspect of the mortgage process from Origination to Closing. Email: [email protected]

Manasota Professional Title1275 Whitefield AvenueSarasota, FL 34243Phone Number: 941-727-0040Representative: Amiee RothrockSpecialty: At Manasota Professional Title we provide comprehensive title services to buyers, sellers, lenders, mortgage brokers and realtors. We handle all types of closings from simple residential refinances to commercial transactions. We do whatever it takes to ensure that closings are handled in a professional, efficient and timely manner.Email: [email protected]

MCS Mortgage Bankers Inc.2212 Shadow Wood LaneSarasota, FL 34240Phone Number: 941-323-1733Representative: Leigh DurstSpecialty: 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: [email protected]

Mr. Sandless of Sarasota4679 Hackamore RoadSarasota, FL 34241Phone Number: 941-586-2787Representative: Neil Bass

Specialty: Mr. Sandless is the Quick, No Sanding Solution for Beautiful Wood Floors. Most projects completed in 1 day. Satisfaction Guaranteed. The Mr. Sandless service uses wet solutions and our high speed machine to prepare your floor, and then we seal your floor with two coats of our commercial grade sealer and then two top coats of your choice: matte, satin or gloss finish! Mr. Sandless is not just a solution for your floors, we refinish All wood! Cabinets, Tables, Doors, Benches, Stairs, Hand Rails, Dressers, Quarter Round and More!Email: [email protected]

Robert Reynolds Landscaping4605 Watkins AvenueSarasota, FL 34233Phone Number: 941-356-2761Representative: Robert ReynoldsSpecialty: At Robert Reynolds Landscape, we offer lawn maintenance and lawn care services for both commercial and residential clients located throughout the Sarasota, FL and surrounding areas. With our complete lawn maintenance services as well as our landscaping and irrigation system services, we are the single source for all of your outdoor landscaping and lawn care needs. To learn more about any of the lawn maintenance services that we offer or to schedule lawn maintenance services to keep your lawn looking its best, contact Robert Reynolds today!Email: [email protected]

Sarasota Family YMCAOne South School Ave Ste 301Sarasota, FL 34237Phone Number: 941-951-2916Representative: Craig KroegerSpecialty: Life Changing Experiences. The Sarasota Family YMCA, located in Southwest Florida, has been at the heart of Sarasota for over 65 years. Today, we touch over 70,000 lives through our four fitness branches and offer more than 50 youth and family development programs within four counties in Southwest Florida. We live our not-for-profit mission by providing life changing experiences and assistance to everyone of all ages, background, ability, race or religion.Email: [email protected]

Satterfield & Pontikes Const.8141 Lakewood Main St. #N211Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202Phone Number: 941-684-3131Representative: T. Craig CampbellSpecialty: Satterfield & Pontikes Construction is a Construction Management/Design-Build firm with annual revenues of $500MM. The Florida office is located in Lakewood Ranch and is focused on Commercial and Industrial projects. Quality, budget, safety—the way we see it, you shouldn’t have to compromise any one for the others. This is where we outperform. Much of what we do, we do ourselves, which gives us the flexibility to adapt to the demands of each client and every project without sacrificing any of the important things along the way.Email: [email protected]


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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday March 31 8:30 a.m. Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) course 9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing

April 1 8:30 a.m. Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) course

2 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 8:30 a.m. Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) course 9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing

3 8 a.m. MLS Express (UPCC) 8:30 a.m. Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) course

4 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR)

7 1 p.m. Emerging Leaders

8

9 11:30 a.m. WCR luncheon

10 8 a.m. MLS Express (SAR)

11 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (SAR) 11:30 a.m. Portraits by Anthony Barbacane

14 9 a.m. Orientation 1 p.m. MLS Orientation 1:30 p.m. Code of Ethics

15 8 a.m. CID General Membership Meeting 1:30 p.m. Listing Book 9 a.m. MLS Basic 1 p.m. Compliance 3 p.m. Adding & Editing

16 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 9 a.m. FHA Rehab Seminar 1 p.m. New Agent Forum

17 8 a.m. MLS Express (SAR) 1 p.m. Affordable Housing & Land Preservation Seminar 2 p.m. FIND Seminar

18 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (RE/MAX Alliance Group 2000 Webber St.)

21 8 a.m. GRI Course 200 Series (Module 201)

22 8 a.m. GRI Course 200 Series (Module 201) 5 p.m. Affiliates After Hours Net-working (Gecko’s on Hillview)

23 12 p.m. RAJC Seminar: What Happens on the Virtual Courthouse Steps

24 8 a.m. MLS Express (SAR)


28 8 a.m. GRI Course 200 Series (Module 202)

29 8 a.m. GRI Course 200 Series (Module 202) 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. Matrix Training 5 p.m. Sales Associate Pre-License Class

30

May 1 8 a.m. MLS Express (UPCC) 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. Matrix Training 5 p.m. Sales Associate Pre-License Class


APRIL 2014

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.”

EDUCATION & EVENTS CALENDAR

Documents

Srmag april2014 web