sarasota realtor magazine - april 2011

Notice: My Florida MLS and MFCRE fees are due May 16th - See Page 22!

Giving Back!SAR Adopts a Habitat

for Humanity Home for a Deserving Local Family

See Page 6

APRIL 2011

excitingwhere

comes to live.

With ideal locations and year-round amenities and events, our communities are a haven for your clients looking for an exciting new chapter in their lives. Call today to register your clients, and schedule a tour of our new decorated models.

Now your clients can experience the lifestyle they’ve always wanted.

Ask about our 2011 REALTOR® incentive program!

Prices listed are base prices, do not include lot premiums or options, and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. 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. CBC057850 ©2011 Centex Homes. All rights reserved. 1/5/11

Stonehaven SarasotaCondosfrom the $100s

Venetian Falls RiverwoodPort CharlotteCarriage Homes & Single-Family Homesfrom the $150s

VeniceAttached Villas &Single-Family Homesfrom the $170s941-927-5721941-408-8291 941-764-6660

The Isles on Palmer Ranch S A R A S O TA | 941-926-3933

Carriage Homes, Attached Villas & Single Family Homes from the high $100s

Attached Villas & Single FamilyHomes from the high $100s

IslandWalk at the West Villages N O R T H P O R T | 941-408-8179

High standards. High expectations.

Ask about our 2011 REALTOR® incentive program!

TOGETHER, UNDER ONE ROOF.

The next stage in life can feel like a new lease on life. Why not make a fresh start in a new home? With well-designed living spaces, attractive details, welcoming curb appeal and solid block wall construction, DiVosta homes have everything you want – all within a resort-style master-planned community. Start your search today. Visit DiVosta.com.

*Prices listed are base prices, do not include lot premiums or options, and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. 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. CGC1505166 ©2011 Pulte Home Corporation. All rights reserved. 1/5/11

Sarasota Realtor® MagazineVolume 8, Issue 4

APRIL 2011

Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc.

3590 South Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34239

Phone: 941/923-2315 FAX: 941/923-0191

www.sarasotarealtors.com www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

2011 SAR OfficersPresident

Michael Bruno Prudential Palms Realty

President-Elect Laura Benson

Michael Saunders & CompanySecretary

Dave Swenson EXIT Creative Realty

Treasurer Roger Piro

Town & Country RealtyImmediate Past President

Erick Shumway RE/MAX Alliance GroupChief 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 941/328-1168 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.2011 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 Giving Back This year, SAR expands its partnership with Habitat for Humanity by adopting a home to rehabilitate for a deserving local family.

10 State Agenda The Florida Legislature is tackling several issues in 2011 that impact local and state real estate, and SAR is taking a proactive approach.

12 Income Producers The Sarasota County Property Appraiser is seeking the help of local Realtors® in providing data on properties that produce income.

15 Great Numbers February 2011 sales were up 27 percent over the previous year, and the number of properties on the market fell to a six year low.

18 Economic Development Pushing for quality economic development in Sarasota County can begin with a positive conversation in the elevator.

In every issue10- Governmental Affairs12- Property Appraiser14- On the SAR Scene15- Sales and Listing Statistics18- Commercial Investment Division20- Education Programs26- Making A Difference27- Broker Corner28- WCR29- Global Business Council30- Membership32- Calendar of Events/Education

ON THE COVER: The Community Outreach

Committee meets at the Habitat for Humanity home at 2478 Huffton Circle in Kensington

Woods on March 15th to review the project. From letf to right,

Hylda Fenton, Cindi Shoe, Renee Snyder (Habitat Executive

Director), Committee Chair Elaine Adair, John Scherden, Michael Bruno, Mary Smedley, Blanda

Glisson and Bill Geller.

4 APRIL 2011 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Ed Thomas: SAR Affiliate of the Month for AprilEd Thomas is the SAR Affiliate of the

Month for April 2011.The owner of Environmental Toxic

Mold Research & Inspection, Ed has enjoyed working in the Sarasota area since 2008, having relocated here from Philadelphia, Pa. where he worked for 11 years in the maintenance and construction industry.

Ed was certified in Mold Inspection and Remediation in 2003 by CAL Environmental Services, Inc. He is certified as an Environmental Inspector, Environmental Consultant and Mold Specialist by the Environmental Assessment Association.

Ed is also licensed by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation for the State of Florida.

A member of the National Association of Mold Professionals (NAMP), the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI), the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Angie’s List, Ed is a valued SAR affiliate.

Ed Thomas is available to provide air quality testing in homes and commercial properties. He can be reached at 941-779-5178 or by email at [email protected].

You can also visit his website at www.etmrservices.com.

SAR seeking future leaders of associationIn just a few months, SAR members will vote to elect the

Officers and five new Directors to represent them in 2012, 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, 2012, 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.

We have posted information on our website to help guide you in this process. You can visit our website at www.sarasotarealtors.com and look for Leadership Nominations under Hot Topics on the front page of the site.

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 8. If you have questions, contact Kathy Roberts, CEO, at 328-1170.

Ed Thomas

Don’t forget - Great American Realtor® Days April 12-13It’s almost time for the 41st annual Great American Realtor®

Days to be held in Tallahassee on April 12th and 13th.This year, you can join other local Realtors® from District

13 on a special chartered bus to Tallahassee. For more information please visit our web site - www.sarasotarealtors.com - and look under the Hot Topics section.

This is the annual opportunity for Realtors® across the state to be briefed on the most up-to-date legislative information

and to meet with their Legislators.For further information, you can also contact Marc

Mansfield, Governmental Affairs Director, at 328-1159 or [email protected].

Visit www.floridarealtors.org for the latest information about the event. Reserve a hotel room early!

Realtors® deserve a seat at the table - participate in Great American Realtor® Days this year!

Once again, the Sarasota Association of Realtors® is offering four scholarships, each for $2,000, to local students.

Two scholarships will be awarded to students (high school seniors or college students) who are members, or the children or spouses of SAR members (Realtors® or Affiliates), and two to students who are not related to SAR members.

For a complete 2011 scholarship application, please visit our web site - www.sarasotarealtors.com - and view the Hot Topic regarding scholarships. Please note - the deadline for submittals is Monday, May 2, 2011 - NO EXCEPTIONS!

In addition to the web site, applications will be available at SAR, and have been distributed to all the local high schools.

$2,000 Scholarships Available From SAR

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine APRIL 2011 5

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Every house where love abidesAnd friendship is a guest,Is surely home, and home sweet homeFor there the heart can rest.~Henry Van Dyke

It takes hands to build a house, but only hearts can build a home. ~Author Unknown

This year, members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® will do much more than help people buy and sell homes. They will participate in the complete rehabilitation of a foreclosed home for a deserving local family by adopting a Habitat for Humanity home.

The home, located at 2478 Huffton Circle in Kensington Woods, was purchased by Habitat through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. The SAR Board of Directors in March committed $25,000 from the Association’s “Affordable Housing Fund” administered by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. This money has been provided to Habitat for Humanity of Sarasota, Inc. for the purpose of rehabilitating the home.

The first date for SAR members to work on the home is Saturday, April 9th from 8 a.m. to Noon. Please register today and sign up for the first work day at www.sarasotahabitat.com/volunteer.html

Also, watch for updates in your weekly email, and at www.sarasotarealtors.com

“We’re very grateful to the Sarasota Association of Realtors® for taking on this very worthwhile project,” said Renee Snyder, Habitat’s executive director. “We look forward to completing this home in 2011, and handing the keys over to the new owners.”

Information about the family will be featured in the May issue of Sarasota Realtor® Magazine.

SAR established the Affordable Housing Fund several years ago, and the fund is administered by the Community Foundation. Elaine Adair, chair for SAR’s Community Outreach Committee, worked hard behind the scenes to put together the partnership between SAR, Habitat and the Community Foundation. She then met with her committee to determine how to best put the money to work in the community.

“This is the perfect time to partner with Habitat for Humanity on home rehabilitation projects,” said

Elaine. “The foreclosures are available at very low cost, and with the funds we can provide, Habitat can very affordably rehabilitate the homes and provide families with a new home and a zero-percent interest rate mortgage.”

The way the Habitat for Humanity program works is simple and quite effective.

Habitat selects families who live in substandard or overcrowded housing, and whose incomes are between 30 and 70 percent of our regional median income. This places the focus on families who would have very little chance of becoming homeowners without Habitat. The organization selects families based upon need for housing, ability to pay the mortgage, and willingness to partner with Habitat to either build or rehabilitate the homes.

Selected families are required to contribute at least 300 hours of “sweat equity” on the projects. This helps instill a certain “pride of ownership,” and a commitment to the program. Once a family takes ownership of a home, the positive impacts are usually very obvious. Childrens’ grades and personal expectations for the new home owners improve. Partner families gain confidence and satisfaction from helping build or rehabilitate the home.

The project fits perfectly with SAR’s strategic plan, and the goal of increasing volunteerism within the community.

Twice each week, once the project gets underway, SAR members will have the opportunity to participate on the rehabilitation of the home, working side by side with the family members and other coordinators and volunteers from Habitat for Humanity.

There will be several major work days scheduled, and also routine Thursday and Saturday morning opportunities to participate.

SAR President Michael Bruno believes the project will serve as the perfect catalyst for future endeavors and more projects with Habitat.

“This won’t be the only home we work on with Habitat for Humanity,” said Bruno. “I see this as a growing partnership, and I hope we can handle two or three homes next year. We want to expand this relationship, to help improve our community, increase home ownership, rehabilitate foreclosed homes to increase the neighborhood’s property values, and make a difference in the lives of our fellow Sarasota

One Home at a TimeSAR adopts Habitat for Humanity home for rehabilitation

Continued on P. 8, See HABITAT


J o i n th e C lu bWCI Introduces the

6% Commission

CluB*

Who AlreAdy QuAlifies for 6% Commission? • Any current actively licensed Realtor® who resides in one of the following WCI Communities, Pelican Preserve, Venetian Golf & River Club or Tiburón.

• Any Realtor® who sold a new WCI Home from July 1 – Dec. 31, 2010.

hoW CAn you QuAlify? Sell one new WCI Home in 2011 at 4% Commission and automatically be eligible for 6% Commission on all subsequent new WCI Home sales until June 30, 2011.

WCICommunItIes.Com • 800-WCI-2290

AddItIonAl ProgrAm elements

• ACCess to CluB FACIlItIes – use of Club dining facilities and VIP rates for golf.**

• reCognItIon as a 6% Commission Club member in our monthly Realtor® communications.

• PrIorItY lIst stAtus – be the first to receive new product info and invitations to special events.

*Contact Sales Director for complete terms & conditions of the 6% Commission Club program. The commission on each residence shall be paid at closing to applicable broker for contracts on new WCI Homes that are fully executed between January 1 and June 30, 2011. Contact Sales Director at Community Sales Center for specific closing requirements. This expires June 30, 2011, and is subject to cancellation without notice. The 2011 6% Commission Club Program cannot be combined with any other WCI commission program. The commission shall be calculated and paid in accordance with WCI’s Co-Broker Commission Program Agreement. This program is subject to the registration procedures, terms and conditions set forth in WCI’s Co-Broker Commission Agreement. **Eligibility and access to dining, club facilities and VIP Golf Rates vary by community and are subject to individual club rules and regulations.Pricing and availability subject to change without notice. All references to clubs, membership opportunities and other amenities are subject to fees, dues and availability. Void where prohibited. ©2011 WCI Communities, Inc. All rights reserved. CGC 058796

FoRt MyeRs

239-985-1600Homes from the mid $100s

NoRtH VeNICe

941-485-5063Homes from the low $200s

NaPles

239-593-9199Homes from the $700s

NaPles

239-598-2370Homes from the $200s

residents.”Last year, and in previous years, SAR

worked with Habitat for Humanity on home painting projects. But this year, there will be many more tasks to complete. The home on Huffton Circle is a three-bedroom, two-bath ranch style home with a big backyard and a fireplace. Built in 1986, the home needs a lot of work to bring it up to current hurricane construction standards. A new roof will be put in place, new storm-proof windows and sliding glass doors, and many other hurricane-related improvements will be made to the home.

In addition, a brand new kitchen with all new, energy-saving appliances will be installed.

Renee Snyder explained that after the project is completed and the mortgage papers signed, Habitat continues to work with the new homeowner to ensure financial stability is maintained.

“We don’t just walk away once the family is in the home,” said Renee. “That’s one of the reasons we want to make our homes energy efficient. This assits our new homeowner to afford the monthly expense of owning a home, and it also makes sense to produce a more sustainable future.”

Landscaping for the yard will be Florida-friendly, in keeping with Habitat’s “Green” focus on their home building and rehabilitation ventures.

The SAR adoption of the Habitat home means our organization will be promoting volunteer activities at the home until the project is completed. Several members of the Community Outreach Committee will be devoting many hours to both work on the home and promote and encourage other SAR members (both Realtors® and Affiliates) to participate.

“This is just a tremendous way to get involved in our community at the grassroots level,” said Elaine Adair. “On top of all the benefits to the community and the family, I think everyone who participates will get a

great sense of personal satisfaction and pride in knowing they are making a difference.”

SAR will devote a page in every issue of the magazine during the coming months to detail progress on the home in words and pictures. In addition,

videos will be posted periodically on our web site and Facebook page to show everyone how the home is progressing.

We’ll also be on hand for the big key passing and home warming party.

Stay tuned!

www.medallionhome.com/sar • 2212 58th Ave East • Bradenton • 941-359-9000

• Cultivate Clients • Dig the Dirt on our Plots of Land. Get to the root of what makes a Medallion Home unique... from quality construction to semi-custom design, we have a bouquet of fresh floor plans with enough variety to appeal to all of your clients.

• Tour our Neighborhoods. Walk the models. Talk to our Sales Associates. Collect a Gold Medallion worth $500 at each neighborhood.*

• Sow Seeds by showing your clients the Garden of Medallion and watch your Bonus Bloom

• Water your Garden by attending our Garden Party on Thursday, April 28th from 5-7:30 pm at Country Meadows. Food, fun and more Gold Medallions.

• Harvest your Profits by selling any new Medallion Inventory Home in the month of April. Redeem your Gold Medallions for up to $5000 bonus per sale, in addition to your commission.*

• Reap Additional Profit. Continue collecting Gold Medallions to redeem during the fall harvest.

• Enter drawing for Backyard Makeover. Visit six Medallion neighborhoods by June 31, 2011 to qualify. Winner receives a Garden Center Shopping Spree worth $2500. Pick up our special Home and Garden Almanac for complete details. Available at any Medallion neighborhood or at SAR meetings.

* Medallion Home Gold Coins have no cash value until the closing of a Medallion Home. Must present coins at time of registration. No more than 10 Medallions ($5000 value) may be redeemed per any Medallion inventory home sold up to April 30, 2011. Not valid with any other promotion.

HABITATFrom Page 6

Habitat for Humanity Sarasota, Inc. Executive Director Renee Snyder along with Fred Scheerle, Director of Family Support, at the SAR-sponsored Habitat home.

During the initial stages of the project, Habitat for Humanity Sarasota, Inc. Executive Director Renee Snyder (top center) and Fred Scheerle (bottom right) met with SAR Community Outreach Committee members Hylda Fenton, Elaine Adair and Mary Smedly to review the details.


www.medallionhome.com/sar • 2212 58th Ave East • Bradenton • 941-359-9000

• Cultivate Clients • Dig the Dirt on our Plots of Land. Get to the root of what makes a Medallion Home unique... from quality construction to semi-custom design, we have a bouquet of fresh floor plans with enough variety to appeal to all of your clients.

• Tour our Neighborhoods. Walk the models. Talk to our Sales Associates. Collect a Gold Medallion worth $500 at each neighborhood.*

• Sow Seeds by showing your clients the Garden of Medallion and watch your Bonus Bloom

• Water your Garden by attending our Garden Party on Thursday, April 28th from 5-7:30 pm at Country Meadows. Food, fun and more Gold Medallions.

• Harvest your Profits by selling any new Medallion Inventory Home in the month of April. Redeem your Gold Medallions for up to $5000 bonus per sale, in addition to your commission.*

• Reap Additional Profit. Continue collecting Gold Medallions to redeem during the fall harvest.

• Enter drawing for Backyard Makeover. Visit six Medallion neighborhoods by June 31, 2011 to qualify. Winner receives a Garden Center Shopping Spree worth $2500. Pick up our special Home and Garden Almanac for complete details. Available at any Medallion neighborhood or at SAR meetings.

* Medallion Home Gold Coins have no cash value until the closing of a Medallion Home. Must present coins at time of registration. No more than 10 Medallions ($5000 value) may be redeemed per any Medallion inventory home sold up to April 30, 2011. Not valid with any other promotion.

tWhat are 2011 Legislative prioritiesimpacting real estate in Florida?

Gov

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By Marc MansfieldGovernmental Affairs Director

The 2011 Legislative Session began on March 8, 2011. During the session, the Florida Realtors® lobbying team will be working on a number of issues including those shown below:

• Push for a more equitable property tax system for business and new residents from out-of-state. Florida Realtors® is working closely with legislators to sponsor a proposed constitutional amendment that would provide tax breaks to commercial property owners, a 3 percent assessment cap on non-homestead properties, and some limited first-time buyer relief. The bills would also need to fix the recapture provision that’s resulting in property owners paying higher taxes despite declining property values. Florida Realtors®’ Office of Public Policy is also monitoring a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow counties to exempt eligible senior citizens with homesteads from increases in the property tax millage rate.

• Make Florida more attractive to voluntary market insurers and curb sinkhole claims abuses. Despite five years without a major hurricane, large national insurers have fled the state, making state-run Citizens Property Insurance Corp. the largest insurer, with billions of dollars more in exposure than it has in reserves or reinsurance. Meanwhile, fraudulent and excessive sinkhole claims have skyrocketed. And while most claims come from four Florida counties, all policyholders pay a sinkhole claims tax. SB 408 addresses the primary cost-drivers within the Florida insurance market and provides ways to attract new insurance capital to the state. It also establishes substantial sinkhole reforms. Support SB 408.

• Utilize monies generated by doc stamp taxes for the Sadowski Affordable Housing Trust fund for housing, or initiatives that provide opportunities for Floridians to obtain affordable housing. Since its inception, the Sadowski Affordable Housing Trust Fund — supported entirely by documentary stamp taxes — has enabled more than 200,000 families to realize the American Dream of Homeownership. But at the height of the real estate boom, the Legislature imposed a $243 million cap on the amount that flows into the housing trust funds. In the past eight years, more than $1 billion has been swept from the fund for expenses other than housing. The governor’s budget calls for the elimination of about 124 trust funds. While lawmakers appear reluctant to eliminate all

trust funds, it’s likely they will continue to sweep large amounts to general revenue. Florida Realtors® remains committed to utilizing monies generated for the Sadowski fund to provide housing for Florida’s families and stimulate the housing market.

• Support periodic inspection of onsite septic tank systems that may negatively impact the state’s largest springs and other bodies of water. Florida Realtors® would like the Legislature to fund the final phase of a statewide study to determine ways to reduce emissions of nitrogen from septic tanks. Florida Realtors® oppose time-of-sale inspection requirements and we oppose requiring all systems to be improved to meet current performance standards.

• Allow real estate licensees to participate in a short sale without having to obtain a loan originator license. Licensees currently participate in short sales under an Office of Financial Regulation safe harbor letter, but this exemption to the federal SAFE Act needs to become part of Chapter 494, Florida Statutes.

• Hold the line on real estate-related taxes and fees. Economists are projecting a budget shortfall for the coming fiscal year. Political pressure will be placed on legislators to uncover new and examine existing revenue sources. Florida Realtors® must be part of the solution to the state’s budget woes while protecting a vital economic engine for our state.

• Secure funds to prevent, combat and publicize the dangers of unlicensed real estate activity. Florida’s budget in 2011 will continue to be the most challenging task before the Legislature. Florida Realtors® will work hard to ensure funding for our industry is maintained out of the Real Estate Trust Fund.

In the past eight years, more than $1 billion has been swept from the Sadowski Affordable Housing Trust Fund for expenses other

than housing. The governor’s budget calls for the

elimination of about 124 trust funds.


Want to make your voice heard in Tallahassee? Join fellow members of

SAR for Great American Realtor® Days, April 12-13 in Tallahassee. A special

District 13 bus trip is planned. Contact Marc Mansfield at 328-1159 for more

details!

wPr

oper

ty A

ppra

iser Help us on income producing property valuations

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

By Bill Furst, GRI, CRS, CRBSarasota CountyProperty Appraiser

When it comes to income producing property valuation, we need your help.

The goal of the Property Appraiser’s Office is to produce an accurate, fair and equitable tax roll. To accomplish that goal we use mass appraisal techniques that incorporate the three recognized approaches to value:

1. The Sales Comparison Approach utilizes the sales prices of properties most similar to the subject property, occurring before or near the appraisal date of January 1. This approach has wide application. It can be used for most property types. Information is found in the public records.

2. The Cost Approach uses total current costs to reproduce or replace existing improvements and is adjusted for depreciation. Valuation by this approach adds land value and consideration of entrepreneurial profit. This approach also has wide application and is frequently used for special purpose properties. It does not typically lend itself to the valuation of fractured ownership interests, such as single condominium units.

3. The Income Capitalization Approach may be employed when the market indicates the typical buyer is expecting revenue as part of a purchase decision. This approach is most useful in the appraisal of income producing properties, such as commercial or industrial property.

Accurate results can only be arrived at using the best available information – that’s where the owners of income producing property play a crucial role.

Every year, in January, the Property Appraiser requests information from market participants – investors/landlords who lease real property to others and owner/operators who do business on their real property – to identify the revenue stream applicable to their real property. This information can take the form

of financial statements, rent rolls and vacancy and collection records, private appraisals establishing value for financing or to determine a sale price, leases or lease summaries, or details of any changes in the property’s use or condition. The allocation of value to real property in the transfer of ownership by commercial contract between business entities is information that is not readily available but relevant to the valuation of income producing real property. Listing information is also valuable in identifying market expectations.

In the case of investors, whose motivation is to lease real property, the attribution of income to the real property is a fairly straightforward process. These property owners are usually not engaged in any separate business on their property.

Determining the income attributable to the real property of an owner whose motivation is the operation of a non-real estate business can be more complicated. The income generated by the real property is often inextricably intertwined with the income attributable to business operations. In this case the Property Appraiser will work with the property owner and their accountant to allocate the income between the business and the real property. It is not our intent to inquire into the operation and profitability of the business – only to identify the income related to the real property.

The statutes and rules cited in the side bar guarantee that the information provided to the Property Appraiser in the course of our valuation of income producing property is considered confidential.

Fairness to all taxpayers begins with the best available market information and ends with accurate assessments. Cooperation is voluntary. However, by sharing information with the Property Appraiser’s office, income producing property owners are playing an important role in that process,

ensuring that all taxpayers pay no more than their fair share of the tax burden.

When it comes to income producing property valuation, we need your help. The goal of the Property Appraiser’s Office is to produce an accurate, fair and equitable tax roll. To accomplish that goal we use mass appraisal techniques that incorporate the three recognized approaches to value:

1. The Sales Comparison Approach utilizes the sales prices of properties most similar to the subject property, occurring before or near the appraisal date of January 1. This approach has wide application. It can be used for most property types. Information is found in the public records.

2. The Cost Approach uses total current costs to reproduce or replace existing improvements and is adjusted for depreciation. Valuation by this approach adds land value and consideration of entrepreneurial profit. This approach also has wide application and is frequently used for special purpose properties. It does not typically lend itself to the valuation of fractured ownership interests, such as single condominium units.

3. The Income Capitalization Approach may be employed when the market indicates the typical buyer is expecting revenue as part of a purchase decision. This approach is most useful in the appraisal of income producing properties, such as commercial or industrial property.

Accurate results can only be arrived at using the best available information – that’s where the owners of income producing property play a crucial role.

Every year, in January, the Property Appraiser requests information from market participants – investors/landlords who lease real property to others and owner/operators who do business on their real property – to identify the revenue stream applicable to their real property. This information can take the form of financial statements; rent rolls and vacancy and collection records; private appraisals establishing value for financing or to determine a sale price; leases or lease summaries; or details of any changes in the property’s use or condition. The allocation of value to real property in the transfer of ownership by commercial contract between business entities is information that is not readily available but relevant to the valuation of income producing real property. Listing information is also valuable in identifying market expectations. In the case of investors, whose motivation is to lease real property, the attribution of income to the real property is a fairly straightforward process. These property owners are usually not engaged in any separate business on their property. Determining the income attributable to the real property of an owner whose motivation is the operation of a non‐real estate business can be more complicated. The income generated by the real property is often inextricably intertwined with the income attributable to business operations. In this case the Property Appraiser will work with the property owner and their accountant to allocate the income between the business and the real property. It is not our intent to inquire into the operation and profitability of the business – only to identify the income related to the real property. The statutes and rules cited in the side bar guarantee that the information provided to the Property Appraiser in the course of our valuation of income producing property is considered confidential. Fairness to all taxpayers begins with the best available market information and ends with accurate assessments. Cooperation is voluntary, however, by sharing information with the Property Appraiser’s office, income producing property owners are playing an important role in that process, ensuring that all taxpayers pay no more than their fair share of the tax burden.

Statutes and Rules Governing the Valuation of Commercial Property §192.0105(4): Taxpayers’ Bill of Rights – (a) The right to have information kept confidential. (b) The right limiting access to a taxpayer’s record to such records determined to be necessary in determining either the classification or the value of non‐homestead real property. §193.074: Confidentially of Returns – All returns submitted by the taxpayer pursuant to the law shall be deemed to be confidential in the hands of the property appraiser. §193.011: Factors to consider in deriving just valuation – In arriving at a just valuation as required under s. 4, Art.VII of the State Constitution, the property appraiser shall take into consideration the following factors: (7) The income from said property. Chapter 12‐D1.005 FAC Access to Financial Records. (1)The property appraiser shall have the right to inspect and copy financial records relating to non‐homestead property which are reasonably necessary to determine the property assessment of the property in question. (3)All records produced under this rule shall be deemed to be confidential in the hands of the property appraiser.

NEED A SPEAKER FOR YOUR MEETING? BILL FURST WILL COME AND TALK WITH YOUR GROUP AND ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS. To set an appointment call our office at 941.861.8200 or email us at PA@SC‐PA.com.


RiddellLaw Group

KNOWYOUR OPTIONS

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3400 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Floridawww.toomuchdebtsarasota.com

Short SalesForeclosuresBankruptcy

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.

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

Cynthia A. Riddell, Esq.

Call For AFREE CONSULTATION

941-366-1300

NAR is anticipating aspring thaw in real estateBy Ronald L. PhippsRealtor® Magazine

It’s said that when the going gets tough, the tough get going.

In the world of real estate, the going has been tough—and we have been going. These are the most challenging economic times that most of us have ever known. This has been a cold, long, and bitter economic winter in real estate. There are, how ever, hints of spring. And, yes, we are so ready to warm up. Among the encouraging signs are:

Pending home sales. In late January, we reported the fifth monthly gain in six months.

Home sales. We anticipate 5.3 million sales in 2011.Consumer confidence index. The Conference Board’s measure

of consumer confidence dipped in December but was up again in January to levels not seen since spring 2010.

These are all indicators of what is going to happen. They’re consistently positive.

Beyond that, we have much to be thankful for. Think about how much worse the market would be without the U.S. Treasury’s actions to keep the economy flush and interest rates low. How would we have fared last year without the 2010 home buyer tax credit? What would it be like without a secondary market or the mortgage interest deduction? Where would we be without the National Association of Realtors® advocating for property owners? The answer to all of these questions is that the market would be much worse. We would have a harder time making a living.

Our toughness and perseverance—combined with our strength as an organization—will help carry us through. We’re building on our strength by engaging in some serious listening. The NAR Leadership Team had its first Virtual Town Hall on Jan. 24. President-elect Moe Veissi, Vice President and Liaison to Government Affairs Vince Malta, Vice President and Liaison to Committees Elizabeth Mendenhall, and I responded to questions from members around the country. It was a true conver sation. (To watch it at Realtor.org, search for the term “Town Hall” and click on the link to National Association of Realtors® Town Hall. You’ll need to log in to access the page.)

In March, we made Home Ownership Matters Bus Tour stops in Chicago (March 4–6), Denver (March 17–20), and Portland (March 24–27). On the first day of each stop, NAR leaders met with and listened to local Realtors®. We shared our key messages with consumers: The mortgage interest deduction matters, the secondary mortgage market matters, and Home Ownership Matters.

NAR PresidentRonald L. Phipps

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Visit SAR on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtorsfor hundreds of additional photos!

SAR members enjoy networking

Brian McGreevy and Jane Johnstone at the March 22nd Affiliate Business After Hours Networking event at The Loft Ristobar.

Photos byJesse Sunday

Kim Bailey and John Brink at the March 22nd Affiliate Business After Hours Networking event at The Loft Ristobar.

Chris Lind, Rhonda Anderson and Shannon Rogers at the March 22nd Affiliate Business After Hours Networking event at The Loft Ristobar.

Shawn Drourr and Kirsten Suss at the March 22nd Affiliate Business After Hours Networking event.


tSales up and inventory drops

to six-year low in Sarasota marketThe number of available properties in the Sarasota real

estate market dropped to a six-year low in February 2011, and sales were up 24.2 percent from the previous month. Median sales prices for both single family homes and condominiums dropped as bargain hunters continued to grab foreclosures and short sales, which represented almost 47 percent of all sales.

Compared to this time last year, sales were up 27 percent to 673 total sales, from February 2010’s total of 528 sale. There were 472 closings on single family homes and 201 closings on condos last month by members of the Sarasota MLS.

In addition to the positive sales figures, pending sales also registered above the 1,000 level in February, with 1,023 total properties going under contract last month. In January 2011, 1,013 properties went under contract. This statistic is a strong indicator for the next two or three months of sales, as pending sales reflect current buyer activity.

Last February, pending sales reached 967. But that figure was pushed upward by the approaching April 2010 deadline for the homebuyer tax credits. This year’s upward trend is being fueled by buyers of all sorts – investors, second-home buyers, and those who realize that today’s lower home prices coupled with low interest rates present buyers an opportunity not seen in years.

Lower median sales prices, which dropped slightly for single family homes (to $137,500 from $138,700) and condos (also to $137,500 from $142,500), were the only cloud. The decreases were likely associated with the continued price pressure of distressed property sales. Normal arm’s length sales still average nearly three times the price of distressed properties in the Sarasota market.

On the positive side, the drop to the lowest inventory level in six years (5,864) could mean upward pressure on sales prices moving forward, according to SAR President Michael Bruno.

“Traditionally and historically, fewer properties on the real estate market usually causes price appreciation,” explained Bruno. “It’s simply a matter of supply and demand. If there are more buyers competing for a smaller number of properties, selling prices are usually driven up. Hopefully, we’ll soon see a return to the traditional local appreciation levels of between 5 and 7 percent annually. That would represent a very healthy market.”

The higher sales totals combined with the lower inventory caused a sharp drop in the months of inventory to 8.0 months from 10.2 months in January 2011 for single family homes, and to 10.4 months from 14.1 months for condos. Only two years ago, in January 2009, there were 25.3 months of inventory for single family homes and 38.4 months of condo inventory. The market

is considered to be in equilibrium between a buyers and sellers market once the figure reaches the 6 month level.

The median price for the last 12 months stands at $160,000 for both single family homes and for condominiums. The single family figure was exactly the same as a year ago, while the condo figure dropped from last year’s figure of $185,000.

“Hopefully, we’ll soon see a return to the traditional local appreciation levels of between 5 and 7 percent annually. That would represent a

very healthy market.”- SAR President Michael Bruno


Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - February 2011 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - February 2011

Statistics were compiled on properties listed in the MLS by members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® as of March 10th, 2011,including some listings in Manatee, Englewood, Venice, and other areas. Single-family statistics are tabulated using property styles of single-family and villa. Condo statistics include condo, co-op, and townhouse.

Single Family – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2010 94.4 92.8 95.2 94.8 95.2 95.3 94.7 95.2 94.6 95.2 94.8 94.1 2011 94.5 94.1 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

Single Family

#Active #Sold %Sold Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending # New Listings

# Off Market

This Month 3,782 471 12.5 178 $137,500 $160,000 8.0 735 19.4 647 123

This Month Last Year

4,031 379 9.4 174 $150,000 $160,000 10.6 701 17.4 868 224

Last Month 3,916 384 9.8 179 $138,700 $161,000 10.2 749 19.1 726 146

YTD ‐ 855 ‐ 177 $137,750 ‐ ‐ 1,484 ‐ 1,373 ‐

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

Feb‐10 Mar‐10 Apr‐10 May‐10 Jun‐10 Jul‐10 Aug‐10 Sep‐10 Oct‐10 Nov‐10 Dec‐10 Jan‐11 Feb‐11

Single Family

CondoMedian Sale Price


0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700


Unit Sales Single FamilyCondo

Note: Sales figures spiked during the pre-deadline period for the Homebuyer Tax Credit.


Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - February 2011 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - February 2011

Median sales price is the middle value, where half of the homes sold for more, and half sold for less. Listings sold were closed transac-tions during the month. Pending sales are sales where an offer has been accepted during the month, but the sale has not yet closed. Even though some pending sales never close, pending sales are an indicator of current buyer activity. DOM indicates the average number of days that sold properties were on the market before a contract was executed.

Condo

#Active #Sold %Sold Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months ofInventory

Pending Reported

%Pending # New Listings

# Off Market

This Month 2,082 201 9.7 223 $137,500 $160,000 10.4 288 13.8 312 110

This Month Last Year

2,298 149 6.5 206 $169,000 $185,000 15.4 266 11.6 326 255

Last Month 2,152 153 7.1 204 $142,500 $162,500 14.1 264 12.3 334 118

YTD ‐ 354 ‐ 214 $140,000 ‐ ‐ 552 ‐ 646 ‐

Condo – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2010 92.5 92.4 92.5 93.2 94.2 93.7 94.2 93.5 93.2 94.3 94.5 92.9 2011 93.4 91.2 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900


Pending SalesSingle FamilyCondo


0

1,000

2,000

3,000

4,000

5,000


InventorySingle FamilyCondo


CID

(Com

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cial

Inve

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ent D

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ion)

Grassroots EDC starts in the elevator

Officers:President: Anthony Homer, LWR CommercialPresident-Elect: Brad Lindberg, Hembree & AssociatesVice-President: Linda Emery, Michael Saunders & Co.Secretary: Diane Lee, Wagner RealtyTreasurer: Tim Mapp, Mapp RealtyPast President: Lee DeLieto, Jr., Michael Saunders & Co.

Directors:Pete Skokos: Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos (1 year - 2011)Eric Massey: Michael Saunders & Co. (1 year - 2011)David Roth: RE/MAX Alliance (2 years - 2012)Sarah Olesen: Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch (2 years - 2012)Bob Milhoan: Hembree & Assoc. (3 years - 2013)Lori Hellstrom: Osprey Management (3 years - 2013)

2011 CID Officers & Directors

By Anthony HomerCID President

The commercial markets continue to improve across the board, with multi-family staying at the head of the pack, with vacancies in our area averaging around 8 percent. The office category showed no significant changes, with most landlords trading tenants and filling larger spaces with multiple smaller tenants.

For more information on market data, log in to MFCRE.com and look for the “View Market Statistics” button. You can even print out a PDF that shows how particular areas have performed over the last few months with numbers of transactions and new listings.

The MFCRE committee recently recommended approval for extending our data feeds to Enterprise Florida, which will give our local listings exposure to national site selectors working with the state’s economic developers. They also recommended approval for a feed to be extended to the NAR’s commercial portal, CommercialSource.com.

One of the existing portals where many of our CID members can see their listings being pushed is the Sarasota EDC’s GIS-enabled website at SarasotaCountyProspector.com. Within that website, users can layer businesses, consumer expenditures and other demographics for site selection.

As new technologies and platforms become available, the MFCRE committee will continue to look for new areas in which we can gain exposure for our members’ listings.

The hottest topics around Sarasota and Manatee watering holes these days are revolving around Sanborn Studios and Jackson Labs. While most of us in the

industry realize what a positive impact these businesses have on the local economy and understand the ripple effect their dollars have on the merchants, hotels, restaurants and laborers they hire, those benefits are not being touted strongly enough to the general public. Each one of our members needs to be a voice for the economic incentives the county has awarded and be able to stand up for why they are necessary for us to be competitive with other counties and municipalities.

We are going to face a referendum should Jackson Labs get the money they are requesting. While the general sentiment is positive, there are some very vocal minorities who consistently battle any economic growth.

Let’s polish off our elevator pitches for how economic incentives work and benefit the local economy as we get closer to becoming the new home for Jackson Labs!

Each one of our members needs to be a voice for the economic incentives the

county has awarded and be able to stand up for why they are necessary for us to be competitive with other counties and

municipalities.


Community service is not for the faint of heartBy Brad LindbergCID President-Elect

There is an old saying, “you can’t get fired from a volunteer job!” but you can be denied the privilege to do it. When researching for some pithy way of presenting how performing Community Service is for the committed, I ran into an article that brings a whole new meaning to the word “committed”.

In the Sunday Times, a Scottish newspaper, the headlines read Community Service “too hard” for felons. As reported, “Judges are refusing to impose community service orders, as they consider them too tough for offenders, a study shows.” Judges and sheriffs said they were more likely to send criminals to jail because they do not believe most can stand the rigors of daily manual labor.

I was thinking about community service and how it was an honorable activity performed by volunteers to help the unfortunate and the needy. It takes a special person or group of persons to give of themselves to help others for the betterment of our society.

Then I got to thinking. If this is a good thing, and it is, then why would a court sentence someone to community service as a penalty for their crime?

Community service is rewarding work and makes you feel good about yourself. Is that what we want criminals to do? Do we want them to be happy for their

wrong doings?So ... while thinking along these lines

I ran upon the article about community service being too hard on the felons. Ironic as it may seem, the true meaning of community service became apparent to me.

The giving of oneself for others when one could be doing something fun, or spending time with family, or just lazing around the house takes a special commitment.

It relies on individuals who always consider others before they think of

themselves. Individuals who would rather give than take, are the essence of what this country was built on.

There are many ways to give back to your community, but demanding or forcing people to give diminishes the very essence of the spirit of giving back. I guess the judges got it right. Community service is a privilege earned by those who appreciate others in need, not for those who violate our freedoms.

The next time you feel the need to help, please remember - community service is not for the faint of heart!

CID slates meetings for April 2011CID General Membership Meeting- Tuesday, April19th, 8:30 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

Commercial Marketplace Sessions- Friday, April 1st, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium- Friday, April 8th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

- Friday, April 15th, 9 a.m. – Manatee Association of Realtors®, 10920 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL- Friday, April 22nd, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium- Friday, April 29th, 9 a.m. – SAR AuditoriumPlease Note: These meetings are open only to current CID members. Guests of current CID members may attend two events before being required to join CID.

The giving of oneself for others when one could be doing something fun, or spending time with family, or just lazing around the house

takes a special commitment.


Educ

atio

n Pr

ogra

ms

Title: NAR GREEN DesignationDates: April 5-6, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Instructor: Jean Dorazio, Vice President, North American Title CompanyCost: SAR Members, $149; Others, $199At presstime, 37 spots were taken, with five remaining available

Take advantage of this special low price and start on your GREEN designation now! Green homes that are good for the environment while saving home owners money are in demand, and Realtors® are responding by enhancing their multiple listing services to showcase green homes and green features. Sarasota is known to be the greenest county in the state.

To prepare themselves to better serve this market, thousands of Realtors® have already earned NAR’s Green designation.

In order to earn the NAR Green designation, the student must successfully complete the Core Course and one of three elective courses (which may also be done online):

1. Green Residential Real Estate2. Green Commercial Real Estate3. Green Property Management.Students who complete the Core Course receive a one

year membership in the NAR Green Resource Council.

After taking this course, you will be able to:• Recognize the features that make a home or

building green and resource efficient in construction or remodeling, use and operation

• Inform customers and clients of the significance of LEED, Energy Star, and other rating systems

• Discuss the cost-benefit of resource-efficient building and home systems, materials and land usage

• Recognize, validate and respond to concerns and priorities of the green consumer, seller, buyer, tenant, builder, developer

• Make the appropriate disclosures consistent with NAR Code of Ethics and state regulations

• Describe the interrelationships of sustainable communities, Smart Growth, natural habitat conservation and New Urbanism.

NAR Green designation class in April

Title: Making Next Year’s Taxes EasierDate/Time: April 20th, Noon to 1:30 p.m.Cost: FREE to SAR Members, $10 others

Presented by: the Realtor® Attorney Joint Committee (a joint committee of the Sarasota Association of Realtors and the Sarasota County Bar Association). Bring a brown bag lunch and munch while you learn. Members, please register online at www.sarasotarealtors.com. Non-members will be charged $10, but will

need to call Catherine at 941-328-1167 for registration information. Speakers are: John Compton, Esq of Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos, P.A., and Monique Joannette, CPA of Christopher, Smith, Leonard, Bristow & Stanell, P.A.

Next month’s seminar, slated for May 18th, is entitled “How to Reduce the Chances of Getting Sued” - another valuable topic.

Simplify your tax preparation with RAJC seminar

Title: Realtors® Essential Technology ToolboxDate/Time: April 13th, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.Location: SAR Main AuditoriumInstructor: Craig Grant, VP of Sales, Marketing & Education, EasyRealtySites.com4 Hours CE CreditCost: $30 (SAR Members) $40 (others)

The “Realtors® Essential Technology Toolbox” 4 CEU class is intended to help any Realtor®, no matter what their tech knowledge or skill level, learn how to properly utilize and leverage the technology in their personal and

business practices in a fast paced, yet fun & easy to follow environment.

This course explores understanding the changing needs and habits of today’s consumer and how Realtors® can use technology tools to find new business, grow and nurture their circle of influence, become more efficient in their daily lives and provide better service consumers. The course also covers the legal, risk management and online safety concerns a Realtor® needs to be aware of in the technical world.

Get technology tools for today’s Realtor®


Title: Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource CertificationDate/Time: June 1, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.Instructor: Jimmy DagueCost: SAR Members: $99; Non-SAR Members: $119Registration deadline: May 18thAfter May 18th, add $25

Designed for real estate professionals at all experience levels, the NAR Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource Certification, or SFR for short, gives you a framework for understanding how to:

• Direct distressed sellers to finance, tax and legal professionals

• Training on both the buyer and seller side of short sale and foreclosure transactions

• Free webinars that you can download anytime, anywhere• Access to SFR logo and marketing materials• Differentiation as an SFR at www.realtor.com and www.

realtor.org. Becoming SFR CertifiedThe path to pursuing the SFR certification is

straightforward:1. Be a member in good standing of the National Association

of Realtors

2. Complete a qualifying core course (this one or CRS 111)

3. Complete three 1-hour webinars (free at www.realtor.SFR.org)

4. Download application from www.realtorSFR.org5. Submit application—send completed application with

$175 application fee to [email protected] more information at www.realtorSFR.org.

Get Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource Certification

Title: GRI Course 2, “Essential Real Estate Techniques”Dates: May 2-4 & 10-11, Exam May 12thApproved for 30 hours of Broker Post Licensing or 11-hours specialty CE Tuition: On or before April 18th, SAR, FAR Members & Realtors® pay $265After April 18th, SAR, FAR Members & Realtors® pay $290

This course covers appraising, construction, investments, personal promotion, sales and marketing, elements of e-mail. 30 hours of broker post-license credit and 11 hours of “specialty” credit are offered.

Generate more leads, referrals and income through the GRI network of Real Estate Professionals.

According to NAR, Realtors who have not earned a designation have a median income of $40,900 while those who have earned a designation have a median income of $82,900.

The GRI designation indicates to buyers, sellers and other real estate industry professionals that you have made the commitment to provide a high level of professional service to your clients by securing a strong educational foundation.

The GRI designation (Graduate, REALTOR Institute) is the nation’s #1 real estate designation. It is earned through state associations whose courses of study meet the standards established by NAR. and the designation is available only to members of NAR.GRI 3 - July 25-27 and Aug. 2-3Cost - Realtors® $265

This course carries 30 hours of Broker’s Post-License credit and 11 hours CE.Topics include: Appraising; Construction; Brokerage Management; Land, Environment & Private Property Rights; Property Management & Common Ownership; and International Real Estate.

GRI Course 2 slated in May; Course 3 in July, August


Sarasota’s Premier Real Estate Printer

Award-winning printing and customer service

Specializing in pocket portfolios,die-cutting and foil -stamping

done in-house

FSC and SFI certified to help you go green

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

[email protected]

Senior Real Estate Specialist designation availableTitle: SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist)Dates: Oct. 11-12Cost - SAR Member, $199; Others, $229

Adults aged 50+ represent more than 20% of the U.S. population. For most senior adults, the homes that they live in are their largest asset and account for most of their net worth.

Completion of the Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) Designation Course is an essential step for Realtors® in understanding the distinct real estate goals, concerns, and needs of seniors today. This course looks at key differences in housing options, from age-restricted communities to age-in-place design to assisted living; applications of the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA); the ins and outs of reverse mortgages; the use of pensions, 401k accounts, and IRAs in real estate transactions; and developing a team of senior specialists, including estate planners, reverse mortgage lenders, clutter and staging specialists, and more. Instructor: Jim Dague

ACCREDITED BUYER’S REPRESENTATIVE (ABR)

Maria J. Atkins Real Estate Boutique LLC

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

who has successfully completed the National Association of Realtors designation Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR).

My Florida Regional MLS and My Florida Commercial Real Estate fees will be posted to your MFRMLS account in early April.

The fee to subscribe to MFRMLS for 2011-2012 will be $360 (June 1, 2011 to May 31, 2012). The fee to subscribe to MFCRE/Catylist for 2011-2012 will be $366 (June 1, 20011 to May 31, 2012).

MFRMLS will be sending out Email Invoices in early April. All fees must be paid by 5:00 pm on May 16, 2011. To view and pay your MLS invoice please log on to MFRMLS website www.mfrmls.com and select “Pay Your Bill” .

Any questions concerning your invoice should be directed to MFRMLS/MFCRE at 1-800-686-7451.

My Florida Regional MLS and MFCRE fees deadline May 16th


MLXchange - the system is the solution!Pre-registration is required for all MLXchange ses at www.mfrmls.com. All classes arclase 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).MLXchange BasicApril 4, April 18, 9 a.m. to NoonMandatory session for all new users.Learn the basic tools of MLXchange. It does the work for you, emailing the listings that match your client’s criteria automatically through auto notification. Learn the quick way to find a listing or view your inventory with one click right from the home page or create a professional CMA in less time than it takes to drive to work.- Review the home page features - Add a new client from the search module, saving a search and setting prospecting notification features - Searching and viewing listings, using the map, showing road, aerial, hybrid, and locator features - Adding additional search criteria - Viewing/printing/emailing reports, images, virtual tours, tax, map, driving directions and MLS listing history - Customizing hotsheet configurations - Search Tax - Creating a professional CMA - Personalize user contact informationEntering and Updating Listings in MLXchangeApril 4, April 18, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.Mandatory class if you will be entering and updating your own listings. You will be taught how to input and modify listings, enter photos, and add attachments along with valuable tips and techniques.- Listing maintenance authorization forms - Explain the importance of accurate data - Rules and Regulations - Review the profile sheet - Entering a new listing, using tax auto pop, reviewing the fields that have specific entries in the Rules and

Regulations - Adding images, attachments, open house information, Supra Key and ShowingTime - Inventory watch-easiest way to modify the listingsMLXchange AdvancedApril 26, 9 a.m. to NoonTake MLXchange to the next level! In this session you will learn how to customize a search & display screens, personal website links and setup & save advanced searches.- Creating a custom template, adding fields, changing the display order - Foreclosure, fixer upper, and vacant listings with lockbox access - Customizing columns, adding/removing fields, changing the column headers and changing the field sort order- Edit favorite reports, personalize home page resource link, setting defaultsDesign Web Pages, Capture LeadsApril 26, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.One of the most crucial components in today’s real estate professional’s day-to-day business is capturing and handling leads along with time management. This course will teach you how to set up your personal agent and client web pages, contact management and scheduling features that go hand-in-hand with a successful real estate business.- Changing the site style, domain name, search engine tools and redirecting web sites - Designing the web page content, adding featured properties - Illustrating the property search - Lead capture shows in today’s summary and schedule - Reviewing schedule, adding/editing appointments, tasks, adding notes and reminders

- Plans manager, copying and modifying the action plan - Emailing the client private webpage - Customizing email templatesCreating a Professional CMAApril 27, 9 a.m. to NoonThis class is designed to teach you the skills needed to create a comprehensive CMA. You will learn how to import properties that are listed outside of the MLS, into your CMA along with valuable tips and techniques for creating a professional CMA. - Create a new seller or buyer CMA - Importing subject property from MLS or tax search and entering additional information about the subject property - Adding MLS and tax comparables - Adjustments, pricing, net sheet, selecting pages, and viewing report - Edit and remove reports - Emailing, saving, and printing CMA - Customizing a personal CMA and setting it as the defaultiMapp - Interactive Taxand Mailing LabelsApril 27, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.In this class you will learn how to use the tax search features of MLXchange, access iMapp’s interactive maps, tax data, comparables, auto-valuations, and easily create mailing labels for your favorite area.- MLXchange tax search, using map and field searches, printing mailing labels - iMapp tax search, viewing parcel, GIS, MLS listings, zoom levels, street, aerial and flood zones- Measuring tool, pan and save map - Creating, viewing and downloading mailing labels - Illustrate the link to the tax appraiser website - Viewing and modifying the criteria for comparable properties - MLS and foreclosure searches


LWRC-191 SAR mini pics April DT_Layout 1 3/17/11 7:14 PM Page 1


40The number of furnished

new home models open daily for tour

17The number of experienced

home builders to choose from

3.5The average number of miles it will take you to

bike, walk, jog or drive from your new front door to world-class golf, fabulous dining,

shopping, entertainment and sports venues

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www.lakewoodranch.com | 941.907.6000

75

70

64

41

UNIVERSITY PKWY.

FRUITVILLE RD.

EXIT 213

EXIT 217

EXIT 220

BRADENTON

SARASOTA

INFORMATIONCENTER

LAKE CLUBINFORMATIONCENTER

SARASOTAPOLO CLUB

LORR

AINE

RD.

INFORMATIONCENTER

Directions: Take I75 to University exit 213, head east just past Lake Osprey Drive; University Information Center on right.


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e SAR launches new Making A Difference featureEditor’s Note: SAR’s Strategic Plan in 2011 calls for encouraging 1,000 or more association members to become involved in community volunteerism. This month, SR Magazine begins a new monthly feature page - Making A Difference - which will highlight our members’ contributions in the community. We’re looking for your feedback to keep the feature lively and informative. If you or someone you know (an SAR member) is involved in a charitable, community or civic-minded organization, or simply does individual acts of goodness or charity within the community, please let us know. Call or email Ray Porter at 328-1168 - email [email protected], and we could feature the story in a future issue of the magazine.

Charlotte Hedge: Charlotte Hedge, a Broker-Associate with Signature Sotheby’s Realty, dedicates herself to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Sarasota County where she has taught knitting each week to children for the past five years and has been a Board member, along with her husband Tom, since 1993.

Because of her efforts, the Women’s Council of Realtors® named Charlotte as its 2010 Humanitarian of the Year.

Charlotte’s passion for the Sarasota community is demonstrated through her commitment to the Boys & Girls Clubs.

“I believe children are important, to our future, to our community and I have hope and confidence that our work is shielding and actually guiding our children for brighter futures in a robust Sarasota, “said Charlotte.

A successful Realtor® since 1992, she also spent this last year raising money for “Amy’s Fund”, a fund for Amy Worth-Paul’s State presidency installation in 2013. Charlotte donates a hand knitted scarf from her “Charlotte’s Webs” collection each month to help raise monies for WCR. Why? Because “through our influence as successful business professionals, women will effect positive change in the profession and in the broader community … it is our vision,” said Charlotte.

In the past and present Charlotte has also served in numerous capacities for SPARCC, The Arts Council, The Sarasota Ballet, Asolo, and Habitat for Humanity.

Mary Smedley: A current member of the SAR Board of Directors and an active participant in the Community Outreach Committee, Mary Smedley has a personal passion for protecting our community’s unsung K-9 heroes of law enforcement.

Mary, a Realtor® with Prudential Palms Realty, has been working with the Sarasota County Sheriff ’s Department and Sergeant Troy Sasse, head of the K-9 Unit, Special Operations Bureau, on a special project.

“We’re trying to raise awareness, and funding, for the dogs that work to help protect us,” Mary explained. “These animals are in the line of fire - literally - for law enforcement and for the fire department. But providing basic protection for them is expensive.”

The K-9 units work with the bomb squad, the drug enforcement squad, the fire department and with regular law enforcement. They often are used in dangerous situations, or in difficult searches in harsh terrain.

The department needs funds for bullet-proof dog vests and cooling vests, which help protect the animals from the excessive heat of Florida summers. The bullet-proof vests can cost as much as $1,000 apiece, and the cooling vests about $200 apiece.

“With the current budget cuts hitting all levels of government, it’s up to us to help fund this very worthwhile equipment and protect our K-9 friends,” said Mary.

In addition, if there is extra donation money available, it will be set aside to help reimburse the K-9 unit officers, who must pay for any veterinary costs out of their own pockets. Anyone who has been to the vet recently knows how expensive that can be.

If you would like to help these SAR members on their volunteer efforts, or participate in these or other community organizations, visit the Friendship Volunteer Center web site - www.friendshipvolunteer.com, or www.sarasotarealtors.com/volunteer

t

Charlotte Hedge

Mary Smedley


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By John D. MayfieldRealtor® Magazine Online

“The PC is dead,” declared a recent article on technology trends, and one of the nails in its coffin could be the rise of “cloud computing.” But what, exactly, is this cloud, and why do so many companies have their heads in it these days?

The cloud is a way for businesses and individuals to store and share information on the Web via platforms operated by Google, Microsoft, and others. With cloud computing, individuals can more easily collaborate with colleagues inside and outside their office. Systems like Google Apps can reduce or even eliminate certain IT costs and streamline many of the functions for an office.

Because of the cloud’s convenience and accessibility, businesses are getting accustomed to working with it. But what are some of the ways in which you, the real estate pro, can use cloud computing? Here’s a look at some of the key advantages, available resources, mistakes to avoid, and security measures you should consider.

Why Cloud Computing?Here are the main advantages of

cloud computing for real estate:1. It’s easy: If you’ve uploaded a

photo to your Facebook account or attached a document to an e-mail, you’ve worked in the cloud. Cloud computing is nothing more than moving documents from your base computer to the Internet, where you can get them no matter where you are, provided you have access.

2. In many cases, it’s free: One of the best features of cloud computing is that in many instances, it costs little or no money. Google Docs, Microsoft Live (SkyDrive), Dropbox, and other sites allow consumers to create accounts and

store files up to a certain size for free.

3. You can share documents: Today, many people are involved in transactions. Appraisers, lenders, escrow agents, and others may need an important document in order to expedite the closing process. Having the ability to access the file from the Internet and then share it can help keep everything running smoothly.

4. You can customize it for your needs: Just as you set up your standard office file cabinet to work the way you work, your “file cabinet on the Internet” can also be customized to fit your needs. Create folders for clients, active listings, sold transactions, or any other category you need. It’s your system, so you can make it fit your business requirements.

5. It’s the future: As the Internet gets faster and the smartphone continues to be more commonplace, the information stored in the cloud will grow. In fact, some prognosticators expect cloud computing to double in popularity over the next few years. As consumers continue to get used to all of the conveniences mobile computing offers, they’ll come to expect the same from you.

Free Resources for Cloud Computing

There are many free resources if you’re considering cloud computing. To begin, check out the following Web sites that offer online storage:

Google Docs• Office Live (SkyDrive)• DropBox• Evernote•

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Paperless OfficeHere are five common mistakes

to avoid as you begin to experiment with and employ cloud computing.

1. Not having a back-up plan: If you’re going to make your office paperless, your first step should be to implement a good back-up plan. Make sure you have data backed up to at least three locations, one of those being off-site. You never know when a catastrophe could strike, and having all of your data in one location is a risk you don’t want to take. Consider using a service — such as Carbonite or Mozy — that will monitor your computer systems and back up the data in real time at offsite locations. Second, use a local hard drive to back up files regularly. Finally, your personal computer will have your data stored.

2. Thinking you have to scan everything: Don’t feel like you have to scan every single document. Instead, choose the files that you feel you’ll need to retrieve from the cloud.

3. Lacking consistency: Many people will begin a paperless office but not have a consistent system for where the data is filed, what method and format documents are stored in, and how other agents can access the information. Build consistency into the process to eliminate a lot of headaches and encourage your team to get on board.

4. Lacking training: Having a paperless office is great, but if no one knows how to access or use it, it won’t work. Make sure that you have adequate and ongoing training for your team members. There are many good screen-capture tools where you can record short how-to videos for your team to watch.

5. Having poor security measures: Storing data in the cloud is wonderful, but just like with your file cabinets at work, security measures need to be in place to keep the records confidential. Have secure passwords and require those passwords to be changed at regular intervals.

Learn to work paperless on the ‘Cloud’


rBy Cindi Jackson2011 WCR President

Remember when you decided to become a Realtor®? Do you remember why and the reasons you chose to go into the business of real estate? Was your decision to become a Realtor® because you wanted to be in control, own your own business and be independent?

Did you realize that you were becoming an entrepreneur? Did you even know what the word meant? Webster’s defines an entrepreneur as: 1. A person who organizes, operated and assumes the risk for a business venture and; 2. A risk taker who has the skills and initiative to establish a business. Does this describe you and your business?

What an exciting time to be in the business of real estate! You have many opportunities to grow your real estate business to whatever level you choose. Most importantly, you can determine your worth by the amount of time and energy that you put into your business. As members of the Women’s Council of Realtors® we are proud of our core values: power of relationships, professional credibility, diversity, participation, influence and success. Our members realize the importance of these core values as part of their everyday activities in their real estate business.

As the twelfth-largest professional organization for women and men in the nation, we represent successful Realtors® in all markets throughout the United States. Our members are sought out for their expertise. Are you ready to take your business to new heights? Join for our next business resource meeting and you will find that We Are Ready!

For membership information, contact Mary Hellhake, V. P. of Membership – 941-544-0763.

Upcoming WCR Business Resource Meetings

Friday, April 8, 11 a.m.University Park Golf & Country Club: “Recognizing and Avoiding Real Estate Fraud” - Speaker: Lt. Bill Lagan, Florida Dept. of Financial Services

Friday, May 24, 11 a.m.District 13 Conference, Laurel Oaks G&CCSpeaker: Robin McKeever, 2011 President,WCR Florida State Chapter

Friday, June 3, 11:30 a.m.Joint Meeting with SAR (Quarterly Membership Meeting), Troyer’s Dutch Heritage Restaurant

Friday, June 10, 11 a.m. - Joint Meeting with Manatee WCR, “Honoring Our Past Presidents” - Lakewood Ranch Polo Grill11 a.m.-12 noon Business Networking12 noon – 1 p.m. Business Resource Meeting

- For reservations contact Linda Witt at [email protected]

- For Business Resource Meeting information contact Leslie Lauritano at [email protected]

WCR members are ready for success!

Cindi Jackson President Exit Realty Signature Properties Cell: 941-400-6091 [email protected]

Marianne LeBar President-Elect Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-650-0337 [email protected]

2011 Line OfficersMary Hellhake Vice-President Membership Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-544-0763 [email protected]

Sharyl Smith Treasurer Bank of Commerce Cell: 941-374-06302 [email protected]

Carrie Starr Rummery Recording Secretary Starr Title Insurance Phone: 941-365-7827 [email protected]

Mary Mastro Corresponding Secretary Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Cell: 941-586-2402 [email protected]


International Real Estate

Join the Global Business CouncilThe SAR International Council has a new name - the

Global Business Council.The new Global Business Council is a membership-

based group. The fee for membership is $25 per year. This will entitle the member to attend all SAR Global Seminars (excluding the annual International Congress and CIPS courses) and netwoprking events free of charge during the year. All other attendees will pay a $10 fee to attend each event. An agent from another association has the option to join the Sarasota Association and become a member of the Council.

Membership in the Global Business Council is open to all members (including Affiliates) of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®. The application is posted on the SAR web site (www.sarasotarealtors.com) under the International tab at the top of the front page.

We encourage all agents to attend these educational seminars. There is an excellent chance that you will represent an international buyer in the future. To

communicate effectively with global buyers, it is important to know the proper etiquette and understand the different cultures to communicate in their way of doing business.

In addition to the recent International 101 course, we are planning an International 102 followup course which goes into more detailed information for the beginner and the experienced global agent. Networking, marketing and many other issues will be discussed in this informative seminar.

We have many seminars and events planned for the year which will assist you in your global business. Please join us for our seminars and networking events this year.

If you have any questions, please contact Kristin Triolo, Chair of the Global Business Council, at [email protected] or by telephone (941) 725-2486 or Catherine McCaskill at [email protected].

5th Annual International Real Estate Congressslated at Hyatt Regency Sarasota Sept. 14-15

The Sarasota Association of Realtors® Global Business Council presents the 5th Annual International Real Estate Congress on Sept. 14-15, 2011 at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota.

Sponsorships are now available. The deadline to participate is April 30, 2011.Gold Level Sponsorship ($2,500)

• Mass media coverage to Florida/Sarasota press outlets and also in the Sarasota Realtor® magazine

• Company president interview for a feature story in the Sarasota Realtor® magazine

• 2 complimentary tickets to the Congress

• Company’s half-page ad

featured in the program • Company logo featured on

marquee signage and program• 5-minute presentation at

Congress• Company acknowledged

and thanked during the opening ceremony and in printed materials

• One company marketing piece inserted in program bag

• Tabletop display space in foyer outside meeting roomSilver Level Sponsorship ($1,000)

• Mass media coverage to Florida/Sarasota press outlets and also in the Sarasota Realtor® magazine

• 2 complimentary tickets to the Congress

• Company acknowledged and thanked during the opening ceremony and in printed materials


• Tabletop display space in foyer outside meeting roomBronze Level Sponsorship ($500)

• Company acknowledged and thanked during the opening ceremony and in printed materials


For more information, contact Kristin Triolo, Chair of the Global Business Council, at [email protected] or at (941) 725-2486 or Catherine McCaskill at [email protected].


Mem

bers

hip

New

s Designated Realtors®

Biederman, Joseph: Joseph Biederman R.E. BrokerBrowning, James: Realty Executives MainstreamHynes, Richard: Richard M Hynes Real EstateSensebe, Gisselle: KSE Realty LLCVan Ness, William: W.Scott Van Ness R.E. BrokerWerman, Michael: NXT Generation Real Estate FLNew MembersBanks, Ronda: Mount Vernon Property Mgmt Inc.Banks, William: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchBorkowski, Karolina: Coldwell Banker Res R ECunha, Maralilian: Wagner RealtyDumont, Susan: Coldwell Banker Res R EEmrick, Johanna: Signature Sothebys Internat’lEmura, Marieste: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchEngel, Mia: Coldwell Banker Res R EFevrier, John: Listing Services DirectGiliberti, Catherine: Coldwell Banker Res R EHayes, Stephen: Neal Communities Realty Inc.Hitzemann, Gina Lee: Sandals Realty of SarasotaIngels, Stella: Florida Dream Team Realty ServicesJarvis, Carol: Sandals Realty of SarasotaKroenig, Nicole: Shirley International RealtyLeavis, Susan: Michael Saunders & CompanyLewis, Kelly: Andrews & Associates RealtyMartin, Marian: Allen Real Estate Services Inc.McNally, Patrick: Beachside Resorts Inc.McNally, Jennifer: Beachside Resorts Inc.Munn, Milan: RER InternationalPaige, Babette: Coldwell Banker Res R EParascandolo, Giuseppe: Coldwell Banker Res R ERomano, John: Coldwell Banker Res R ERoth, H. David: RE/MAX Alliance GroupSchatzle, Cindy: Coldwell Banker Res R ESeidel, Adam: American Prop Group of SarasotaShope, Raymond: Mount Vernon Property Mgmt Inc.Slade, Kimberlie: Sarasota Real Estate GroupSwanson, Charlie: Sunset RealtyThompson, Martha: RyntalWarren, Julie: Sandals Realty of SarasotaWestphal, Keith: Shirley International RealtyWilson, Virginia: Coldwell Banker Res R ENow With ...Bishock, Faith: Horizon Realty InternationalBoerner, Annemarie: Michael Saunders & CompanyBuice, John: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchBurns, William: Waterside Realty LLCCarlo, Greta: Capital Investment Realty SvcsChampney, Melody: EXIT Creative RealtyChazaud, Sandrine: Capital Real Estate EnterpriseClarke, Mary: Coldwell Banker Res R EConnaughton, J Maurice: KSE Realty LLCCook, Michael: Capital Real Estate EnterpriseCrisp, Candria: Signature Sothebys Internat’lCurtin, Maureen: Michael Saunders & CompanyDahlin, Carol: Mapp Realty & Investment CoDel Valle, Mike: Meadows Real Estate ServicesDeSantis, Gina: Bella Villino Realty Inc.Earley, Jeffery: Sarasota Premier PropertiesEvans, Penny: Coldwell Banker Commercial NRTFalconer, Karen: Nextage Lighthouse RealtyFauroat, Linette: Key RealtyFuerbeck, Erich: Charity & Weiss Int’l Realty

Hanf, Jeffrey: Coldwell Banker Res R EHolt, Anna: Prudential Palms RealtyHuff, Robert: Coldwell Banker Res R EHurlburt, Lance: Sandals Realty of SarasotaHutton, Timothy: Prudential Palms RealtyJacobson, Adriana: Indigo Group Real Estate LLCJohnston, Pamela: Bosshardt Realty Services LLCKirkpatrick, Yolanda: Sarasota Bay Luxury PropertiesLaRosa, Millicent: Atchley International RealtyLaRosa, Stacey: Atchley International RealtyLaver, Sean: Horizon Realty InternationalLewis, Kelly: Andrews & Associates RealtyMalkin, John: Sperry Van Ness CommercialMarschner, Richard: Sandals Realty of SarasotaMcDonald, Andrew: Signature Sothebys Internat’lPlatt, Elinor: Sandals Realty of SarasotaPotts, Krista: Keller Williams On The WaterRepp, Susan: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchSeverino, Stephen: Realty Executives MainstreamSokol, Robert: Sandals Realty of SarasotaStieglitz, Bob: Horizon Realty InternationalSullivan, Elizabeth: Realty Services Inc.Wadsworth, Valarie: Michael Saunders & CompanyNew AffiliatesAchieva Credit Union1852 Hillview Street #101Sarasota, FL 34239Phone Number: 800-593-2274Representative: Keith J. LouderbackSpecialty: At Achieva Credit Union, our Board of Directors is made up of Achieva members – all unpaid volunteers – who look out for the best interests of their fellow members. With no outside stockholders to pay, we can keep loan rates, savings rates and fees competitive. Local Credit Union with FHA, VA, Conventional and Portfolio Lending/Mortgage Products.Email: [email protected]

Artis Tree160 Pond Cypress Road Ste BVenice, FL 34292Phone Number: 941-488-8897Representative: Sara L. RobertsSpecialty: ArtisTree Landscape Maintenance & Design is a locally-owned, licensed and insured company serving Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, Lakewood Ranch and the Islands. It evolved from a modest four-person landscaping venture in 1990 into one of the leading landscaping operations in southwest Florida with a growing team and fleet. We specialize in Landscape Design & Installation, Commercial Landscape, Maintenance, Landscape Lighting, Tree Work and HardscapesEmail: [email protected]

Briton/Preiss Association250 Gorge Road. Apt 28-1Cliffside Park, NJ 07010Phone Number: 201-966-4419Representative: Marilyn PreissSpecialty: Measure for Measure, measuring properties and providing a scaled floor plan. We also take top quality photos of your properties.Email: [email protected]

The Association is pleased to welcome new members!


C.B.S. Roofing4575 Pike AvenueSarasota, FL 34233Phone Number: 941-302-0177Representative: Brent YoderSpecialty: CBS Roofing will not jeopardize quality, but we do offer competitive prices. As we all know with experience, there is a fine line between price and quality. However we can offer competitive prices because of the volume of business we do and the excellent relationships we have with our suppliers and manufacturers that allow us to pass our savings onto our customers. Our “no pressure” sales strategy has helped us achieve one of the best customer bases in the state of Florida. We give you a free estimate and present it to you in a professional manner. We do not ask for money down on any job and on most residential jobs, we do not ask for payment until the job is completedEmail: [email protected]

Custom Pro Renovations Inc.5755 N. Washington Blvd.Sarasota, FL 34243Phone Number: 941-360-2902Representative: Karen KerlinSpecialty: At Custom Pro Renovations we are designed so you can start your job with us and finish with us. There is no one in the middle for you to worry about. We offer: Granite, Marble - We fabricate & install, Cabinets “Do it yourself or we design & install”, Tile or Stone Walls & Floors, Complete Kitchen Remodels, Complete Bath Remodes, Fireplaces, Custom Applications. We are your One Stop Shopping.Email: [email protected]

Gulf Atlantic Mortgage5934 Palmer Blvd.Sarasota, FL 34232Phone Number: 941-739-6336Representative: Yvonne AroninSpecialty: Get the best mortgage loan for you. When you decide to buy a home or refinance a mortgage, it’s a big step. You can trust us to find the loan program that’s best for you. Our mortgage professionals give you the personal attention you deserve and treat you with the respect due a valued customer. We understand you’re making a commitment in buying a new home, refinancing a mortgage, or cashing out your home equity. So we make a commitment to you. We will help you qualify, apply and be approved for the right mortgage loan for you. Not anyone else!Email: [email protected]

Manasota Memorial Park/Funeral1221 53rd Avenue EastBradenton, FL 34203Phone Number: 941-955-2688Representative: David E. AltwiesSpecialty: Dignity Memorial providers offer exclusive benefits, including National Transferability of Prearranged Services, the Bereavement Travel Program, the 24-Hour Compassion Helpline® and access to an acclaimed Grief Management Library. As North America’s premier provider of funeral, cremation and cemetery services, the Dignity Memorial brand is your assurance of quality, value, caring service and exceptional customer satisfaction.Email: [email protected]

Neal Communities Inc.8210 Lakewood Ranch BlvdLakewood Ranch, FL 34202Phone Number: 941-328-1111Representative: Dana OlsonSpecialty: We build beautiful communities, superior homes & lasting customer relationships with integrity and commitment. When you choose to partner with Neal Communities to purchase a new home, you receive more than 40 years of experience and commitment to responsible land development.Email: [email protected]

Precision Title Services Inc.5104 N Lockwood Ridge Rd #106Sarasota, FL 34234Phone Number: 941-706-1909Representative: John J. TripodiSpecialty: A Full Service Title Company. We understand that each real estate transaction is unique and that your time and money are valuable. Therefore, we closely manage the entire process protecting the quality of your transaction and insuring your satisfaction every step of the way. Precision Title Services, Inc. has assembled the products and services needed to meet the needs of today’s evolving real estate market.Email: [email protected]

T.O.P. Home Services5077 Fruitville Road #332Sarasota, FL 34232Phone Number: 941-377-8054Representative: G. Edward BayerSpecialty: T.O.P. Home Services is ready to solve your home repair and remodeling needs quickly, professionally, and at reasonable rates. Handyman Services, Home Repairs, Remodeling, On-Site Project Management. No job is too small, “Honey do” lists are a specialty.Email: [email protected]

Trustco Bank1300 S. Tamiami TrailOsprey, FL 34229Phone Number: 941-918-9380Representative: Adam M. SundaySpecialty: The mission of Trustco Bank is to be the low cost provider of high quality services to our customers in the communities we serve and return to our owners an above average return on their investment. Trustco Bank is your Personal Banker, Business Banker and offers a variety of Mortgage products.Email: [email protected]

Winchester Home Inspections6723 Keystone DriveSarasota, FL 34231Phone Number: 941-350-8809Representative: Steven C. WinchesterSpecialty: Home Inspections Service, including Wind Mitigation and 4 Point Inspections. Steve’s 35+ year tenure in the residential and commercial building business, coupled with a Florida Certified Home Inspectors License and a Residential Contractor Licenses, clearly qualifies him as an expert in Home Inspections, and gives You…the Winchester Home Inspections customer, an obvious advantage. Realtor Association Incentives!Email: [email protected]


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50

100

150

200

250


Days on Market Single Family

Condo


0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

14.0

16.0

18.0


Months of Inventory Single Family

Condo

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200


New Listings Single Family

Condo

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

March 28

29

30

31 8 a.m. Power Marketing (SAR)

April 1 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace

4 9 a.m. Contracts Comparison 9 a.m. MLXchange Basic 1:30 p.m. MLXchange Entering & Updating Listings

5 8:30 a.m. GREEN Designation Core Course

6 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 8:30 a.m. GREEN Designation Core Course

7 8 a.m. Power Marketing (University Park CC)

8 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace

11 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. New Member Orientation & Code of Ethics

12

13 9 a.m. Tech Toolbox


15 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace-Off Site

18 9 a.m. MLXchange Basic 1:30 p.m. MLXchange Entering & Updating Listings

19 8:30 a.m. CID General Membership 9 a.m. iMAPP 1:30 p.m. Creating a CMA

20 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 12:00 p.m. RAJC Seminar: Making Next Year’s Taxes Easier



25

26 9 a.m. MLXchange Advanced 1:30 p.m. Design Web Page

27 9 a.m. Creating a CMA 11:30 a.m. Affiliate Lunch ‘n Learn 1:30 p.m. iMapp



APRIL 2011

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

My Florida Regional MLS Training The classes E & U (Entering & Updating), Tools, Design Web Pages, MLX Intro, MLX Advanced, iMAPP, Custom Reports and CMA are all My Florida Regional MLS training classes offered at no cost to MLS participants. All classes (except E & U) are HANDS-ON in the SAR Tech Center. Please register for all MLS classes at the MFRMLS website: http://mfrmls.com. Click on Education and Training.

EDUCATION & EVENTS CALENDAR

Great American Realtor® Days Tallahassee

The Xtra Pages - D

igital Version OnlySarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0

50

100

150

200

250


Days on Market Single Family

Condo


0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

14.0

16.0

18.0


Months of Inventory Single Family

Condo

0

200

400

600

800

1,000

1,200


New Listings Single Family

Condo

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS


$0 $20,000,000 $40,000,000 $60,000,000 $80,000,000 $100,000,000 $120,000,000 $140,000,000 $160,000,000 $180,000,000 $200,000,000


Sales Volume Single Family

Condo


0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

2007‐Q4 2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4

Single Family Sales ‐ By Quarter REO Short Arm's Length


0

100

200

300

400

500

2007‐Q4 2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4

Condo Sales ‐ By Quarter REO Short Arm's Length


$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

2008‐2ndQ 2008‐3rdQ 2008‐4thQ 2009‐1stQ 2009‐2ndQ 2009‐3rdQ 2009‐4thQ 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4

REO Short Arm's LengthSingle Family Median Sale Price


$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

$350,000

$400,000

$450,000

2008‐2ndQ 2008‐3rdQ 2008‐4thQ 2009‐1stQ 2009‐2ndQ 2009‐3rdQ 2009‐4thQ 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4

REO Short Arm's LengthCondo Median Sale Price

Fourth Quarter 2010 Report


0

100

200

300

400

500

600

2007‐Q4 2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4

REO Sales ‐ By Quarter Single FamilyCondo


050

100150200250300350400

2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4

Short Sales ‐ By QuarterSingle Family

Condo


0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

2008‐Q1 2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4

Arm's Length Sales ‐ By QuarterSingle FamilyCondo

Annual Sales ‐ 2000 to 2010Single Family Condo Total

9697

11267

10562


6,504

7,596

6,8416533

7036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042

6739

7603


4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

7,596

6,841

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

5,466

3,671 3,721

65337036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042 5820

6739

7603


4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

7,596

6,841

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

5,466

2,184 2,0962,564

3,1933,671 3,721

2,005 2,120

1,1941,556

2,137

65337036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042 5820

6739

7603


4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

7,596

6,841

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

5,466

2,184 2,0962,564

3,1933,671 3,721

2,005 2,120

1,1941,556

2,137

65337036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042 5820

6739

7603

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010


4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

7,596

6,841

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

5,466

2,184 2,0962,564

3,1933,671 3,721

2,005 2,120

1,1941,556

2,137

65337036

8167

9697

11267

10562

63586042 5820

6739

7603

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010


$132,300

$172,500$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$160,000 $163,000

$142,000

$145,000$173,000

$191,000

$225,000

$305,000$301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000

$163,000

Annual Median Sale Price ‐ 2000 to 2010 Condo Single Family

$132,300

$172,500$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$160,000 $163,000

$142,000

$145,000$173,000

$191,000

$225,000

$305,000$301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000

$163,000

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Annual Median Sale Price ‐ 2000 to 2010 Condo Single Family

sarasota realtor magazine - april 2011

Documents

base prices

new home

community association

specific community

new lease

exciting new chapter

new decorated models

divosta homes