sarasota realtor magazine november 2012

36
The Official Monthly Publication of the Sarasota Association of Realtors ® 2013 Dues Invoices Are Now Available and Due Dec. 15th - See Page 11 Why Ethics Matters Page 6 NOVEMBER 2012

Upload: realtor-association-of-sarasota-and-manatee

Post on 22-Mar-2016

217 views

Category:

Documents


3 download

DESCRIPTION

The Code of Ethics, and why it's so important.

TRANSCRIPT

The Official Monthly Publication of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®

2013 Dues Invoices Are Now Available and Due Dec. 15th - See Page 11

WhyEthics

MattersPage 6

NOVEMBER 2012

Commission incentive available on contracts accepted by DiVosta Homes between 1/01/12 and 12/31/12. In order for Realtor to eligible for 50% advance commissions, buyer must put down 10% (with the exception of FHA/VA and NOLA). NOLA/cash verification must be presented. Broker must sign the Advance Commission Request Form. Brokers are responsible for repaying all advance commissions for homes that do not close. This offer is subject to change or withdrawal without prior notice. Prices shown are estimated base prices, do not include lot premiums or options and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. Additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. ©2012 PulteGroup, Inc. All rights reserved. 7/2/12. CGC1505166

THE LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE. THE QUALITY YOU DESIRE.

It’s time for a fresh start in a place that has everything your clients want, right where they want to be. And with world-class amenities, custom designer options and quality, built solid block wall construction, at DiVosta your clients will discover everything they’ve been waiting for.

866-210-3134 | divosta.com

The Isles on Palmer Ranch SARASOTA

From the low $200s | 1,542 - 1,762 sq. ft.3 bedrooms, 2 baths Miles of walking and jogging trailsVillage Center with heated lagoon pool, fitness center, tennis, bocce ball, activity rooms and more

1907 Burgos Drive | Sarasota, FL 34238

IslandWalk at the West Villages NORTH PORT

From the high $100s | 1,392 - 2,611 sq. ft.2-4 bedrooms, 2-3.5 baths Lap pool and tennis courtsResort Center Now Open! Lagoon pool, activity and craft rooms, fitness center, library, bocce ball, basketball and more

13575 Salinas Street | Venice, FL 34293

50% Advance

REALTOR® Commissions

CGC1513647 *Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. **4% commission is earned and paid at closing. 4% commission is only available on select lots in Kenilworth Estates that close by 4/30/13. Please see a sales representative for a listing of speci�c lots. ++Square footage dimensions are approximate. Pictures, features, colors and sizes are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from homes as built. Please contact a sales representative for details.

Kenilworth Estates is west of the trail in Sarasota and just minutes from the bay! Here you will �nd the tranquility and elegance of tropical coastal living without giving up the conveniences of being in town.

• Immediate Move-In Ready Homes from the $600s*• 4 & 5 Bedrooms with Pool & Spa• Floor Plans from 3,173 to 4,363 sq. ft++• 2 & 3 Car Garages Available

For More Information,Call 866.475.3347

Visit HortonReadyNow.com

Fantastic Fall Savingson Brand New Homes

West of the Trail!

4% Real Estate Agent Co-Op!**++

The Barcelona II • 4 BR/2 BA/2 CG

KENILWORTH ESTATES1810 Kenilworth St.Sarasota, FL 34231

DRHorton.com/Sarasota • Facebook.com/DRHTampaSarasota

20

Fall.

.. in

Lov

e W

ith

Other D.R. Horton Communities near Kenilworth Estates: Oak Vistas • Red Hawk Reserve • University Groves Estates

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

SAR_Nov-Issue 10-16-12.pdf 1 10/16/2012 12:02:08 PM

Commission incentive available on contracts accepted by DiVosta Homes between 1/01/12 and 12/31/12. In order for Realtor to eligible for 50% advance commissions, buyer must put down 10% (with the exception of FHA/VA and NOLA). NOLA/cash verification must be presented. Broker must sign the Advance Commission Request Form. Brokers are responsible for repaying all advance commissions for homes that do not close. This offer is subject to change or withdrawal without prior notice. Prices shown are estimated base prices, do not include lot premiums or options and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. Additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. ©2012 PulteGroup, Inc. All rights reserved. 7/2/12. CGC1505166

THE LIFESTYLE YOU DESERVE. THE QUALITY YOU DESIRE.

It’s time for a fresh start in a place that has everything your clients want, right where they want to be. And with world-class amenities, custom designer options and quality, built solid block wall construction, at DiVosta your clients will discover everything they’ve been waiting for.

866-210-3134 | divosta.com

The Isles on Palmer Ranch SARASOTA

From the low $200s | 1,542 - 1,762 sq. ft.3 bedrooms, 2 baths Miles of walking and jogging trailsVillage Center with heated lagoon pool, fitness center, tennis, bocce ball, activity rooms and more

1907 Burgos Drive | Sarasota, FL 34238

IslandWalk at the West Villages NORTH PORT

From the high $100s | 1,392 - 2,611 sq. ft.2-4 bedrooms, 2-3.5 baths Lap pool and tennis courtsResort Center Now Open! Lagoon pool, activity and craft rooms, fitness center, library, bocce ball, basketball and more

13575 Salinas Street | Venice, FL 34293

50% Advance

REALTOR® Commissions

Sarasota Realtor® MagazineVolume 9, Issue 11

NOVEMBER 2012

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

2012 SAR OfficersPresident

Laura Benson Michael Saunders & Company

President-Elect Roger Piro

Town & Country RealtySecretary

Stafford Starcher RE/MAX Alliance Group

Treasurer Peter Crowley

RE/MAX Alliance GroupImmediate Past President

Michael Bruno Michael Saunders & Company

Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roberts

Mission StatementThe 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.2012 Copyright© by the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. V

olum

e 9

• Is

sue

11 •

NO

VEM

BER

201

2 C

onte

nts

6 Ethics Matters Next year, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the document

known as the Realtor® Code of Ethics. What does this Code

require of Realtors®, and why is it crucial to your success?

10 RPAC = Insurance Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield explains the importance of RPAC, and why all Realtors® should invest in this ‘business insurance’ for real estate professionals.

12 Appraisal Answers All property must be appraised fairly and equitably, and

Sarasota County Property Appraiser Bill Furst explains

why this is so important to our industry.

15 Strong Sales Continue Property sales in September 2012 in the Sarasota market were significantly higher than last year at this time, and inventory levels once again sunk to a new decade low.

18 Recovery or Realignment? CID President Brad Lindberg examines the current commercial real estate market, and provides an analysis of the true picture from the perspective of the CID.

In every issue10- Governmental Affairs

12- Property Appraiser

15- Sales and Listing Statistics

18- Commercial Investment Division

20- Education Programs

24- SAR New Headquarters

30- Membership

32- Calendar of Events/Education

Visit SAR on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

See a few of the photos this month on Page 24!

RiddellLaw Group

R L G

3400 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free, written information about our qualifications and experience.

Call 941-366-1300 For A FREE CONSULTATION

www.rlglawfirm.com

KNOW YOUR OPTIONSShort Sales Foreclosure Defense Real Estate Closings

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

4 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Installation and Holiday Luncheon slated Dec. 5th

SAR Officers and Directors for 2013 will be installed at the SAR 2012 Installation and Holiday Luncheon on Wednesday, Dec. 5th at Noon at Michael’s On East, 1212 East Ave. S., Sarasota. The annual SAR awards will also be presented.

Officers for 29013 will be: President - Roger Piro, Town & Country; President-Elect - Peter Crowley, RE/MAX Alliance Group; Treasurer - Stafford Starcher, RE/MAX Alliance Group; Secretary - Xena Vallone, Xena Vallone Realty; and Laura Benson, Michael Saunders & Company, Immediate Past President.

Directors for 2013 will be Steve Bailey, Coldwell Banker Residential; Michael Davenport, King Realty; Joe C. Hembree, Hembree & Associates; Debbie Judge, Michael Saunders & Company; Marianne LeBar, Michael Saunders & Company; Brad Lindberg, Sperry Van Ness Commercial; Margo MacKenzie, Wagner Realty; Renee Marquiss, Xena Vallone Realty; Bob Milhoan, Hembree & Associates; Christina Pitchford, Allen Real Estate Services; Carla Rayman, Coldwell Banker Residential; Drayton Saunders, Michael Saunders & Company; Bob Stanley, Coldwell Banker Residential; Kristin Triolo, Atchley International; and Amy Worth-Paul, RE/MAX Platinum Realty.

RiddellLaw Group

R L G

3400 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide, ask us to send you free, written information about our qualifications and experience.

Call 941-366-1300 For A FREE CONSULTATION

www.rlglawfirm.com

KNOW YOUR OPTIONSShort Sales Foreclosure Defense Real Estate Closings

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

Doug Prescott: SAR Affiliate of MonthDoug Prestcott of Cool

Today - Plumbing Today - Energy Today has been named SAR Affiliate of the Month for November 2012.

Doug and his wife Sherry moved to the Sarasota area from Albany, N.Y. in 2010 after vacationing on Siesta Key in 2009. They have three grown daughters and three grandchildren.

Doug noted he looks forward to putting his many years of expertise to work for you and your clients. Cool Today is offering a gift to new customers, so stop by soon at 6143 Clark Center Avenue!

An active affiliate member of SAR, Doug can be reached at 941-921-5581, or by email at [email protected]. The company web site is www.cooltoday.com

Doug Prescott

FSAR joins NAR in promoting ethical practices

Cove

r Sto

ry Ethics MattersFor 100 years, Realtors® have subscribed to one of

the oldest codes of ethics for any trade group in the United States. The Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) defines the manner in which Realtors® must conduct their business in both performance and service. It is considered by many to be the gold standard for defining ethical business practices.

In 1913, the Code was first written and instituted, following the professions of medicine, law, and engineering. Realtors® are, by definition, real estate professionals who have chosen to join the National Association and abide by its strict Code of Ethics.

Next year, in the centennial year of the Code, NAR and SAR have pledged even greater attention and celebration of the document and its importance.

What does the Code of Ethics mean to the public? It means that any Realtor® with whom the public works has voluntarily agreed to abide by a Code of Ethics, based on professionalism and protection of the public.The Code of Ethics is a detailed document that spells out the professional responsibilities of every Realtor®. The Code is also the written assurance of dealing with a professional who has the client’s best interest in mind.

The Code of Ethics consists of seventeen Articles and related Standards of Practice. It is not the most enthralling or entertaining document in your library of real estate materials. But it is certainly the most important.

Realtors® are subject to disciplinary action and sanctions if they violate the duties imposed by the Code of Ethics. Hearings and arbitration proceedings are held routinely at SAR in order to determine whether ethical standards have been violated, and to provide for discipline if required.

As a recent NAR letter spelled out, “The NAR was founded in 1908 by real estate practitioners determined to unite the real estate profession with the singular goal of establishing high ethical standards to protect buyers and sellers. Theirs was a vision of real estate as a profession, and of Realtors® as the guardians of the land.

“The fortitude and determination of Realtors® has helped enable us to persevere through two world wars, the Great Depression, and other difficult times. Over the years the Code of Ethics has been variously described to as the founders ‘dream’ or ‘vision’ and as a ‘golden thread’ uniting the Realtor® family in common purpose. Others have characterized the Code as a torch, illuminating their pathway to professionalism, and those who teach and enforce the Code as “keepers of the flame.

“Because the Code is a living, dynamic statement guiding Realtors® in their daily professional lives it must be continuously scrutinized and enhanced to ensure its continued relevance in an ever-changing real estate environment.

“Unquestionably, a vibrant, professional, ethical real estate community is essential to encouraging and protecting property ownership and ensuring wise stewardship of our nation’s land and resources. The Code’s Preamble tells Realtors® and the public they serve that ‘the interests of the nation and its citizens require the highest and best use of the land and the widest distribution of land ownership’ as well as ‘the creation of adequate housing, the building of functioning cities, the development of productive industries and farms, and the preservation of a healthful environment.’”

The Code of Ethics is central to the Realtor® organization – so essential, in fact, that the NAR has mandated that all Realtors® complete a 2.5-hour training every four years as a condition of membership.

The current 4-year Cycle (Cycle 3) ends Dec. 31, 2012. If you have not completed ethics training between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2012, your Realtor® membership and related services, including MLS, will be suspended until you are in compliance. (See P. 20 in this issue for

Continued on P. 8, See ETHICS

6 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

This month, the 2012 NAR Conference & Expo comes to Orlando. The event is a one-stop extravaganza with more than 100 education sessions and a 400-exhibitor trade show that will make you think about your real estate business in a whole new way.

One way to explore the expo is by checking out the four pavilions: the Realtor® Pavilion, the International Second Home & Resort Pavilion, the Commercial Block, and the Green Pavilion. Education mini-sessions scheduled in each pavilion will help you enhance your knowledge and skills. While you’re exploring, be sure to check in at the Wells Fargo booth for a chance to win a 2013 Chrysler 300C. And at the Chase Bank booth, you can to enter to win $1,000 in gift cards.

You can still register to attend by visiting www.realtor.org and clicking the Convention & Expo link from the front page. Orlando is a great location - just 90 minutes or so northeast from Sarasota - so why not take advantage of the proximity and give your real estate career an extra boost this year!

While you’re in Orlando at the NAR Conference & Expo Nov. 9-12, why not brush up on one of the most important documents in real estate—the Realtors® Code of Ethics?A Century of Pride and Professionalism: NAR’s Code of Ethics: Nov. 11, 2012; 9:30 a.m.–12 p.m. or 1–3:30 p.m.

Every four years, members of the NAR are required to complete a Code of Ethics training class. The deadline for the current four-year cycle is around the corner: Dec. 31, 2012.

The training enables you to identify principles in the Code’s Preamble—an aspirational statement about what the organization stands for—and to learn how the Code compares and contrasts with the precepts of general business ethics.

You’ll learn how to recognize potential Code violations and become familiar with NAR’s professional standards process—including the role of grievance committees, professional standards committees, and the association’s board of directors.

Visit Orlando! Getting your ethics requirement completed might never be so fun again!

The Orange County Convention Center in Orlando will be the site of the 2012 NAR Conference & Expo on Nov. 9-12.

Code of Ethics highlighted at NAR Conference & Expo

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine NOVEMBER 2012 7

details on how you can complete this obligation, if you haven’t done so).

SAR strongly recommends that ALL members check their record at NAR to ensure no interruption of services and allow you ample time to get your record updated or complete a course via one of the four options.

The 6 Most Challenging Code of Ethics ArticlesAccording to Realtor® Magazine ethics columnist Bruce

Aydt, these are the six most challenging articles in the NAR Code of Ethics.

Article 1: Fiduciary duty: To “protect and promote” the client’s interest is to focus on what’s best for the client you represent while being honest with all parties. Flipping attempts in short sales is one area in which listing agents must be watchful of sellers’ best interests.

Article 2: Disclosure of pertinent or material facts: Property condition disclosures are vital. Make sure property defects and adverse factors are disclosed to the buyer or tenant.

Article 3: Cooperation with other brokers: “Cooperation” is not about being polite and is not a synonym for “compensation.” Standard of Practice 3-10 defines cooperation as sharing information about listings and making listings available for showings.

Article 9: Written agreements: The basic idea of Article 9 is to get everything in writing. Sometimes buyers and sellers have different notions of what should be included or excluded from the sale or lease. Always make sure these inclusions and exclusions are written into the transaction documents so that the parties are not relying on flyers, brochures, disclosure statements, or MLS listing information.

Article 12: True picture: Always present a true picture in your advertising, marketing, and other representations. This mandate applies not just to traditional marketing but also to Facebook, Google+, Twitter, texts, and other social media. Check out Standard of Practice 12-5 for guidance on the right way to present your identity as a real estate professional in social media venues.

Article 16: Noninterference: Noninterference covers those difficult “solicitation” and “dealings” issues related to another Realtor®’s exclusively represented client. While there are exceptions, the Code’s key principle is not to deal directly with or solicit someone involved in an exclusive agreement with another Realtor®.

ETHICSFrom Page 6

Instructor Chuck Bonamer taught two Code of Ethics refresher classes to full houses at SAR in October.

8 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

RPAC is your business insurance!

TG

over

nmen

tal A

ffai

rsThe Realtors® Political Action

Committee (RPAC) is the nation’s largest, most successful and most bipartisan political action committee. Your voluntary investment is used to improve your bottom line through issue mobilization, political advocacy and by directly supporting candidates at the local, state and federal levels of government who champion the ideals and principles of Realtors®.

The purpose of Florida Realtors® PAC is:- To assist the legislative and political

efforts of Florida Realtors®.- To promote and strive for improvement

of government by encouraging and stimulating Realtors® and others to take a more active role in governmental affairs.

- To encourage Realtors® and others to understand the nature and action of their government and to support candidates for election to public office at the local, state and national levels who share the view of Realtors® on issues important to the real estate industry.

Only because of past RPAC investments have Realtors® been able to successfully fight off attacks on your livelihood. Your RPAC investment ensures continued success to fight off these attacks. RPAC is what stands between you and the constant threats to your business such as a sales tax on your commissions. The Realtor® Political Action Committee makes sure your voice is heard. Investing in RPAC is an investment in your business.

On a state and local level, RPAC has helped to: • Defeat Amendment 4 (in 2010)• Protect commercial commissions through the foreclosure process;• Prohibit cities and counties from charging individual real estate agents a business license fee; • Fight and win a battle against a 100% increase in the real estate transfer tax.• SAR has used RPAC contributions to support or oppose the following local issues:• Oppose Sarasota County Super Majority Amendment in 2007;• Support the Civic Covenant Charter Amendment in 2008;• Support efforts to continue the School Millage Tax in 2010; • Support Florida Realtors® efforts to fight Amendment 4 in 2010

So, what’s in it for you?

RPAC provides you with an opportunity to have a collective statewide and nationwide impact on the election of officials who will shape legislation that affects your ability to do business. Of every dollar you contribute, up to 70 cents stays in Florida to support state and local candidates and issues. The remaining 30 cents goes to the national RPAC for grassroots activities and supporting candidates running for office on the federal level.

When Realtor® members speak in one unified voice, it’s hard to ignore. That’s Realtor® leverage in the halls of Tallahassee and Washington, D.C. And, remember, you are not giving to the Republican Party or the Democratic Party - you are giving to the Realtor® Party! Your RPAC dollars support candidates who have Realtors® best interest in mind, no matter what their party affiliation.

Think of your RPAC contribution as an investment. The best investment you’ll ever make in your business and yourself. RPAC is your best insurance against poorly designed small business and real estate legislation. If you are not giving your fair share to RPAC, you’re not doing all you can to better your profession, your business and yourself.

You will soon receive your 2013 dues invoice, which contains a voluntary RPAC amount. Please don’t forget to invest in this all-important business insurance. You won’t regret it!

10 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

IMPORTANTDUESINFORMATION–PLEASEREADCAREFULLY2013DuesInvoicesAreNowAvailableandDueDec.15th

For the Who, What, When, Where, and Why’s regarding mandatory electronic online dues payments, please visit the SAR website at www.sarasotarealtors.com and click on the MEMBERS tab near the top of the page, FAQ’s, Dues and Accounts. 

  When and Where are dues invoices sent?  Individual dues invoices are available @  http://www.sarasotarealtors.com (under MY SAR ACCOUNT at top 

of the page), where they can be viewed, printed, and paid.  In addition, an email was sent to all members notifying when the invoices were produced and available for payment. 

What is included on this dues billing?  Annual dues:  Local, State, National, CID (if applicable), Global Business Council (if applicable) and voluntary 

RPAC.  Payment Methods:  ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS ONLY!  Two payment options: 

1.    Deduct directly from your checking account via: A.   Debit card (MC,V) – the easiest way to have the payment deducted from your checking account. 

(please note that if your debit card is simply an ATM card without a MasterCard or Visa symbol it will not work).  If you use a debit card with the MasterCard or Visa symbol, you will check “credit card” as payment type *(log‐in required). 

B.    Electronic check – use same information as on your check. 2.    Credit card (MasterCard, Visa, or American Express). 

Instruction

s for all payments Go to www.sarasotarealtors.com

Click on MY SAR ACCOUNT at top of page and log in Under My Services, click on “Pay/View Bill Online” Follow the payment process to confirmation of a successful transaction Online charges will appear on your bank and credit card statements as “Realtor Association/MLS

Chicago IL” To print a copy of your invoice, click on the invoice number

OR Come to the SAR offices and use our computer in the library which is programmed to open directly into the log‐in screen and has easy instructions located at the workstation for your use. 

Once payments are made online, they are updated to your account within 72 hours. We encourage you to go online to check the status of your account. 

 

  Due Dates, Termination of Services, and Refund Policy  Due: December 15, 2012; Past Due: January 15, 2013, 5:01 p.m.  $50 late fee assessment on open balances as of  January 15, 2013, 5:01 p.m.  Members with open balances as of  5:01 p.m. on January 15, 2013 will be subject to suspension of all Realtor® 

services.  Members with outstanding balances at  5:01 p.m. on February 15, 2013 will be terminated. Reinstatement 

will require payment in full of all amounts due at date of termination, plus a $150 SAR application fee to rejoin as a new member. 

For a member whose license is placed inactive prior to Jan. 1st and who has paid their invoice, the inactive member will receive a full refund of the payments made. 

For a member whose license is placed inactive on or after Jan. 1st and who has paid their invoice, all payments received are non‐refundable. 

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine NOVEMBER 2012 11

HPr

oper

ty A

ppra

iser How was my property

value determined?

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

By Bill Furst, GRI, CRS, CRBSarasota County Property Appraiser

“How did the property appraiser come up with that value on my property?!?” The short answer is, by following the legal requirements laid out in Article VII of the Florida Constitution and Title XIV of the Florida Statutes.

The goal of the property tax system in Florida is to ensure that all property is valued fairly and equitably. To accomplish that goal the property appraiser reassesses all property every year as of January 1. The factors used in deriving just value are spelled out for us in Section 193.011, Florida Statutes. Those factors cover sales, income, use, and characteristics of the property.

Sales information is gathered from Clerk of the Court records, listing and sale information from various databases, foreclosure records, and the responses we receive from the sales questionnaires we regularly mail to all new real property owners.

Highest and best use information can be found in judicial opinions, land use regulations and the building codes of and ordinances adopted by the County, the cities of Sarasota, Venice and North Port and the Town of Longboat Key, and in knowledge of the current use of the property based on research and site visits.

Income information is collected from income producing property owners or can be extrapolated from sales prices using typical rate-of return requirements if the owners will not share their income data.

Knowledge of characteristics, such as location, condition and additions or deletions, requires research and physical inspections. Section 193.023, Florida Statutes requires the property appraiser to physically inspect the property at least every 5 years, but we can visit any time we have reason to believe the characteristics of the property have changed. Typical occurrences that can trigger a site visit are:

• Permits for remodeling, renovation, or new construction.• Utility service changes.• Evidence of new improvements based on aerial imagery: pools,

outbuildings, etc.• Owner inquiries.• Unusual changes in sales prices in a neighborhood or for a type of

property, up or down.• Changes in infrastructure: new roads, schools, commercial

development.Our goal in visiting a property is not to change the record but

to verify it. If we do find changes that affect value we update the property records to reflect what is actually there.

The cooperation of property owners is essential in accumulating information on all of the eight factors in Section 193.011, Florida Statutes. If a landlord won’t share their rent roll information, we must estimate income. If the residential property owner won’t allow us to inspect their new pool, we must estimate value. Our statutory obligation is to assign fair value to all property in Sarasota County; to do that we need true knowledge of that property.

So, if you get a questionnaire from us asking for the details of your sale or a revenue verification request for your income producing property, or if your see one of our appraisers in your neighborhood or on your property verifying use and characteristics, remember that we’re doing our job of ensuring that the tax roll is fair and equitable to the benefit of all Sarasota County property owners.

“How did the property appraiser come up with that value on my property?!?” The short answer is, by following the legal requirements laid out in Article VII of the Florida Constitution and Title XIV of the Florida Statutes. The goal of the property tax system in Florida is to ensure that all property is valued fairly and equitably. To accomplish that goal the property appraiser reassesses all property every year as of January 1. The factors used in deriving just value are spelled out for us in Section 193.011, Florida Statutes. Those factors cover sales, income, use, and characteristics of the property. Sales information is gathered from Clerk of the Court records, listing and sale information from various databases, foreclosure records, and the responses we receive from the sales questionnaires we regularly mail to all new real property owners. Highest and best use information can be found in judicial opinions, land use regulations and the building codes of and ordinances adopted by the County, the cities of Sarasota, Venice and North Port and the Town of Longboat Key, and in knowledge of the current use of the property based on research and site visits. Income information is collected from income producing property owners or can be extrapolated from sales prices using typical rate-of return requirements if the owners will not share their income data. Knowledge of characteristics, such as location, condition and additions or deletions, requires research and physical inspections. Section 193.023, Florida Statutes requires the property appraiser to physically inspect the property at least every 5 years, but we can visit any time we have reason to believe the characteristics of the property have changed. Typical occurrences that can trigger a site visit are:

• Permits for remodeling, renovation, or new construction. • Utility service changes. • Evidence of new improvements based on aerial imagery: pools,

outbuildings, etc. • Owner inquiries. • Unusual changes in sales prices in a neighborhood or for a type of

property, up or down. • Changes in infrastructure: new roads, schools, commercial development.

Our goal in visiting a property is not to change the record but to verify it. If we do find changes that affect value we update the property records to reflect what is actually there. The cooperation of property owners is essential in accumulating information on all of the eight factors in Section 193.011, Florida Statutes. If a landlord won’t share their rent roll information, we must estimate income. If the residential property owner won’t allow us to inspect their new pool, we must estimate value. Our statutory obligation is to assign fair value to all property in Sarasota County; to do that we need true knowledge of that property. So, if you get a questionnaire from us asking for the details of your sale or a revenue verification request for your income producing property, or if your see one of our appraisers in your neighborhood or on your property verifying use and characteristics, remember that we’re doing our job of ensuring that the tax roll is fair and equitable to the benefit of all Sarasota County property owners.

Section 193.011, Florida Statutes: Factors to consider in deriving just valuation. – (1) The present cash value of the property, which is the amount a willing purchaser would pay a willing seller, exclusive of reasonable fees and costs of purchase, in cash or the immediate equivalent thereof in a transaction at arms-length; (2) The highest and best use to which the property can be expected to be put in the immediate future and the present use of the property, taking into consideration the legally permissible use of the property including any applicable judicial limitation, local or state land use regulation, or historic preservation ordinance, and any zoning changes, concurrency requirements and permits necessary to achieve the highest and best use; (3) The location of the property; (4) The quantity or size of the property; (5) The cost of the property and the present replacement value of any improvements thereon; (6) The condition of the property; (7) The income from the property; (8) The net proceeds of the sale of the property, as received by the seller, after deduction of all of the usual and reasonable fees and costs of the sale, including the costs and expenses of financing, and allowance for unconventional or atypical terms of financing arrangements. When the net proceeds of the sale of any property are utilized, directly or indirectly, in the de termination of just valuation of the realty of the sold parcel or any other parcel under the provisions of this section, the property appraiser, for the purposes of such net proceeds attributable to payments for household furnishings or other items of personal property.

NEED A SPEAKER ON VALUATION? BILL FURST WILL MEET WITH YOUR GROUP AND ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS. Call our office at 941.861.8200 or email [email protected] to set an appointment for more information on property valuation.

50% Advance REALTOR® Commissions

Commission incentive available on contracts accepted by Centex between 1/01/12 and 12/31/12. In order for Realtor to eligible for 50% advance commissions, buyer must put down 10% (with the exception of FHA/VA and NOLA). NOLA/cash verification must be presented. Broker must sign the Advance Commission Request Form. Brokers are responsible for repaying all advance commissions for homes that do not close. This offer is subject to change or withdrawal without prior notice. Prices shown are estimated base prices, do not include lot premiums or options and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. Additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. ©2012 PulteGroup, Inc. All rights reserved. 7/2/12. CBC057850.

Put yourself in a better place™

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

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

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

VENETIAN FALLS | VENICE FROM THE MID $100s•1,448-2,165sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomVillasand SingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,ResortPool, andFitnessCenter

RIVERWOOD | PORTCHARLOTTE FROM THE MID $100s•1,557-3,193sq.ft.

•2-4BedroomCarriageHomes andSingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,GolfCourse andBeachClub

CypRESS FALLS | NORTHPORTFROM THE MID $100s•1,701-1,911sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomSingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,ResistancePool, PuttingGreenandMore

12 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

50% Advance REALTOR® Commissions

Commission incentive available on contracts accepted by Centex between 1/01/12 and 12/31/12. In order for Realtor to eligible for 50% advance commissions, buyer must put down 10% (with the exception of FHA/VA and NOLA). NOLA/cash verification must be presented. Broker must sign the Advance Commission Request Form. Brokers are responsible for repaying all advance commissions for homes that do not close. This offer is subject to change or withdrawal without prior notice. Prices shown are estimated base prices, do not include lot premiums or options and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. Additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. ©2012 PulteGroup, Inc. All rights reserved. 7/2/12. CBC057850.

Put yourself in a better place™

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

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

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

VENETIAN FALLS | VENICE FROM THE MID $100s•1,448-2,165sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomVillasand SingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,ResortPool, andFitnessCenter

RIVERWOOD | PORTCHARLOTTE FROM THE MID $100s•1,557-3,193sq.ft.

•2-4BedroomCarriageHomes andSingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,GolfCourse andBeachClub

CypRESS FALLS | NORTHPORTFROM THE MID $100s•1,701-1,911sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomSingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,ResistancePool, PuttingGreenandMore

MThird Quarter Distressed Market Report

SAR continues to publish a full quarterly report on distressed property sales, complete with several pages of additional charts, on our web site (www.sarasotarealtors. com) and in the digital version of the monthly magazine (also posted on the front page of our web site, with a link e-mailed to SAR members the week prior to the magazine printing date).

For the third quarter of 2012, the percentage of distressed sales in the Sarasota market rose somewhat to 36.4 percent from the second quarter 2012 figure of 32.4 percent. Looking at the larger picture, in 2011 the third quarter saw distressed property sales at 38.8 percent. Two years ago - the third quarter of 2012 - the figure was 51 percent of all sales, easily the worst period of the market downturn.

The bottom line - foreclosures and short sales in the Sarasota market continue to have an impact on the overall market health, but the levels seem to have stabilized.

The disparity in prices between foreclosures and normal market sales is still striking, as it has been for several quarters. There are still clearly two distinct local real estate markets - one for distressed properties, and the other for non-distressed properties.

For the third quarter of 2012, the median sale price for a single family home in foreclosure was $104,000. For a typical short sale, the price was $123,500. For the normal market sale, the price was $227,500. In the second quarter, the numbers were very similar ($93,000, $130,000 and $235,250).

For condos, the bank-owned properties went for a median price of $80,000 in the third quarter. The short sales brought $75,000, while the traditional market transactions were at $235,000. These numbers were also close to the second quarter ($83,000, $89,000 and $240,000).

Distressed properties continue to represent both a negative and a positive in the current local market - a negative because they reflect the continuing difficult economic times for many families; a positive because they provide opportunities to

purchase properties at lower initial cost.Combined with the obvious benefits of living in Sarasota,

the lower prices in the market act as a magnet for families moving to the area, as well as investors.

According to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, which cited a RealtyTrac Inc. analysis, the housing markets in Sarasota and Manatee counties are in better shape today than four years ago.

“The two counties posted improved scores in three of five key categories analyzed by RealtyTrac Inc. to grade the housing health of more than 900 markets nationwide,” the article noted. “RealtyTrac found that 65 percent of local housing markets are worse off today than in 2008 -- the middle of the Great Recession and the start of the housing bubble’s dramatic leakage -- while 35 percent are doing better.

“Sarasota’s and Manatee’s negative marks came from lower average home sale prices and for higher unemployment rates, the result of an unexpected and prolonged economic slide ... but both counties also showed lower foreclosure inventories, fewer foreclosure filings and lower levels of distressed property sales.”

There is also a downward trend emerging in the percentage of distressed properties currently listed in the MLS. The current monthly percentage is 15.4 percent of listings as foreclosures or short sales. This is an improvement over the first of the year, when it stood at more than 17 percent of the market.

As this percentage decreases and the overall inventory remains at a decade low figure, median sales prices should start to increase, one strong sign of a recovering market.

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

0200400600800

100012001400160018002000

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2* 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2 2011‐Q3 2011‐Q4 2012‐Q1 2012‐Q2 2012‐Q3

Total Sales ‐ By Quarter REO Short Market

The bottom line - foreclosures and short sales continue to have an impact on the

overall market health.

14 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

MSarasota market cools slightly in SeptemberMembers of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® sold 648

properties in September 2012, up almost 14 percent from last September, when only 570 transactions were closed. The figure was down almost 21 percent from the 819 sales in August 2012, continuing the historic trends that normally show a sales lull in the early autumn.

The category totals were 500 single family homes and 148 condos sold, compared to last September when only 430 single family and 140 condos were sold. This summer was an exceptional one for local Realtors® who normally have a respite after the spring season. This year, traffic at open houses has been heavy and multiple offers on available properties have become the norm. Part of the reason for this has been the continuing decline in the inventory of available properties on the market.

“Our inventory is now down to 3,460 – the lowest level since 1998,” reported SAR President Laura Benson. “The downward trend in inventory started four years ago, when we had over 9,500 properties for sale. We have a great demand for homes and potential sellers should know it’s a great time to list their properties.”

The available inventory of homes on the market once again dropped to yet another decade low, about 1 percent below last month’s total of 3,504. Last year at this time, the inventory was at 4,430 properties for sale – more than 20 percent higher than the current total.

Pending sales (which represent properties that went under contract during the month) dropped somewhat in September 2012 to 844 from last month’s total of 953. But the figure was still higher than last September, when there were 723 pending sales reported. This year’s activity is 16 percent higher than last year at this time. Pending sales are a good indicator of future closings.

“There is a lot of good news out there in the Sarasota marketplace, and the real estate industry has returned to a much healthier place than we were four or five years ago,” said Benson. “For the agents who experienced the down times, this has become a great period of rebound for the market.”

The median sale price for single family homes in September 2012 was almost identical to August 2012 at $169,950, while condo prices surged to $175,400 from last month’s $149,000. Last year at this time, median prices were at $165,000 for single family homes and $140,000 for condos.

Examining the longer trend lines, the median price for single family homes for the past 12 months was at $170,000. For condos, the median for the past 12 months stood at $167,250. Last year at this time, the 12-month rolling median prices were at $157,500 for single family homes and $163,000 for condos. The numbers indicate a gradual upward price trend.

For the year-to-date median prices, encompassing the first nine months of 2012, the picture was even brighter - $174,000 for single family and $178,800 for condo. The figures were both higher than last year at this time, when they were at $156,100 for single family and $165,000 for condos (11 percent and 8 percent higher, respectively).

Across the nation, prices are continuing to strengthen, according to the CoreLogic Home Price Index (HPI). The index showed that home prices nationwide, including distressed sales, increased on a year-over-year basis by 4.6 percent last month. This change represents the biggest year-over-year increase since July 2006. The analysis showed that all but six states are experiencing price gains.

The months of inventory remained near 10-year lows. The September figures were 4.4 months of inventory for single family homes and 8.5 months for condos. Months of inventory represents the time it would take to deplete the current inventory at the current sales rate. Last September, there were 6.7 months of inventory for single family homes and 11.1 months of inventory for condos. At the worst point of our market in November 2008, there were 24 months of inventory for single family homes and 41.7 months for condos.

Currently, only 534 properties for sale in the MLS are listed as short sales or foreclosures, down about 6 percent from last month’s figure of 570 properties. This represents about 15.4 percent of available properties, down from last month’s figure of 16.3 percent and down from the start of the year when the figure represented 17 percent of the market.

“We have a great demand for homes and potential sellers should know it’s a

great time to list their properties.”- SAR President Laura Benson

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine NOVEMBER 2012 15

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - September 2012 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - September 2012

Statistics were compiled on properties listed in the MLS by members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® as of Oct. 10th, 2012,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 

2011  94.5  94.1  94.7  94.1  94.2  94.3  94.1  94.5  95.2  95.1  95.3  94.8 2012  95.4  94.2  94.6  94.7  95.1  95.2  94.2  95.3  95.2  ‐  ‐  ‐ 

 

Single Family  

#Active  #Sold  %Sold  AverageDOM 

Median Sale Prices 

Median Last 12 Months 

Months Inventory 

Pending Reported  %Pending  # New 

Listings # Off Market 

This Month  2,205  500  22.7  158  $169,950  $170,000  4.4  634  28.8  659  145 This 

Month Last Year 

2,869  430  14.9  168  $165,000  $157,500  6.7  547  19.0  665  176 

Last Month  2,221  587  26.4  163  $169,945  $169,000  3.8  725  32.6  649  155 

YTD  ‐  4,852 ‐  169  $174,000  ‐  ‐  6,605  ‐  5,798  ‐  

 

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12 Jul‐12 Aug‐12 Sep‐12

Single Family

CondoMedian Sale Price

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12 Jul‐12 Aug‐12 Sep‐12

Unit Sales Single Family

Condo

16 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - September 2012 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - September 2012

Median sales price is the middle value, where half of the homes sold for more, and half sold for less. Listings sold were closed transactions during the month. Pending sales are sales where an offer has been accepted during the month, but the sale has not yet closed. 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  AverageDOM 

Median Sale Prices 

Median Last 12 Months 

Months ofInventory 

Pending Reported  %Pending  # New 

Listings # Off 

Market This 

Month  1,255  148  11.8  191  $175,400  $167,250  8.5  210  16.7  257  122 This 

Month Last Year 

1,561  140  9.0  250  $140,000  $163,000  11.1  176  11.2  227  204 

Last Month  1,283  232  18.0  166  $149,000  $165,000  5.5  228  17.8  247  131 

YTD  ‐  1,957  ‐  195  $178,800  ‐  ‐  2,398  ‐  2,373  ‐  

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0100200300400500600700800900

Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12 Jul‐12 Aug‐12 Sep‐12

Pending Sales Single FamilyCondo

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

3,500

Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12 Jul‐12 Aug‐12 Sep‐12

InventorySingle FamilyCondo

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

2011  93.4  91.2  92.2  93.4  94.5  94.2  92.5  93.1  92.8  93.2  93.6  92.7 2012  93.1  93.5  94.2  94.3  93.8  93.8  94.6  94.1  94.2  ‐  ‐  ‐ 

 

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine NOVEMBER 2012 17

WCo

mm

erci

al In

vest

men

t Div

isio

n

Officers:President: Brad Lindberg, Sperry Van NessPresident-Elect: Linda Emery, Sperry Van NessVice-President: Tim Mapp, Mapp RealtySecretary: Dave Roth, RE/MAX AllianceTreasurer: Lori Hellstrom, Osprey Real Estate ServicesPast President: Anthony Homer, Ian Black Real Estate

Directors:Susan Goldstein: Michael Saunders & Company (1 year - 2012)Sarah Olesen: Michael Saunders & Company (1 year - 2012)Tony Veldkamp: Sperry Van Ness (2 years - 2013)Bob Milhoan: Hembree & Assoc. (2 years - 2013)Peter Skokos: Norton Hammersley (3 years - 2014)Kevin Robbins - Harry Robbins Associates (3 years - 2014)

2012 CID Officers & Directors

CID General Membership MeetingDate: Tuesday, Nov. 27th, 8:30 a.m.Please note date change due to holidayLocation: SAR Auditorium; Program: TBDCID Members Only

Commercial Marketplace Sessions- Friday, Nov. 2nd, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium- Friday, Nov. 9th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium- Friday, Nov. 16th, 9 a.m. – Manatee Association of Realtors®, 10920 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL- Friday, Nov. 30th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

CID slates meetings for November 2012

By Brad LindbergCID President

When the residential housing bubble burst in 2005, the commercial real estate bubble took another three years to follow suit. In 2008 it was evident that a speedy recovery wasn’t going to happen and the business community was in for a long, painful decline in occupancy rates and property values.

Sarasota had invested heavily in single family housing through the boom, building spec homes in every category. The housing construction industry was booming, and every contractor needed an office/warehouse to store their vehicles and supplies. Business owners wanted to own commercial property and enjoy the same appreciation in wealth that was being achieved by owning multiple residential properties.

As the population grew, there was a need for more offices, more retail locations, more restaurants, and more general service businesses for the influx of new residents to our community. We built a plethora of every type of commercial property to take advantage of the anticipated growth.

We obviously know the rest of the story and the disaster that followed. The real tragedy was the slow, painful death of so many who held on to their properties too long. Surely the banks would be patient and the market would turn around. That, too, didn’t happen and what once was a golden opportunity for investors turned into road kill for the vultures.

Today we are finally seeing the bottom. The unfortunate reality is that the bottom rolled us back to the late 1990’s prices. We lost 15 years of appreciation.

Those who came into the market recently should experience growth and wealth appreciation, but nowhere at the level that was achieved during the boom years.

Today’s commercial real estate opportunities are much different in category and size. What was once a need for condominiums has now transformed to an insatiable demand for apartment properties. High end fine dining restaurants have given way to family friendly establishments, offering a value proposition over ambiance.

The demand for smaller, more efficient office properties has left large space hard to fill as companies are reluctant to expand work forces and technology allows employees to work from home or smaller, remote locations. The industrial property demands have diminished with the move of manufacturing to other countries, leaving these large facilities to be sold at unprecedented low prices.

The good news and the light at the end of this long, dark tunnel is the need for retail space. Indicative of a pent-up demand for consumer goods, retail properties have rising lease rates and lower vacancies. These properties will churn and turn, but it is a refreshing trend we look forward to continue.

Although we still have a steep hill to climb, the commercial real estate community is cautiously optimistic.

The realignment of the demand for different types of properties should fuel a sustained recovery and a stronger economy.

Commercial real estate: Recovery or realignment?

18 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Vacancies in the office market sector remain high, dampened by sluggish growth in employment as well as companies’ more efficient use of office space, Reis Inc. reports.

Office space vacancies fell to 17.1 percent from 17.2 percent in the last quarter, according to Reis, which tracks 79 metro areas.

Companies added office space at a slow pace in the third quarter, and growth over the past year has been only a fraction ofwhat it was between 2008 and 2010.

“It’s probably going to take until the middle of this decade before we see more pronounced improvement,” Ryan Severino, an economist at Reis, told The Wall Street Journal.

Demand has cooled in many metros not only because of the sluggish job market, but also because tenants seem to be using space more efficiently, according to The Wall Street Journal. More firms are relying on digital storage and realize they don’t need as much office space anymore.

The best performing office markets are mostly centered in the technology sector. The areas that have seen the largest rent growths in the last year in the office sector are San Francisco (up 4.1 percent); New York (up 3.5 percent); San Jose, Calif. (up 2.3 percent); and Houston (up 2.2 percent) and Austin, Texas (up 2.1 percent).

Sluggish job market stalls growth in office sector?

Will commercial sector brighten in 2013?Will the commercial real estate market

show dramatic signs of recovery next year? It’s possible, according to an article in the Daily Real Estate News dated Oct. 19th.

“The commercial real estate outlook for 2013 is looking brighter, with modest gains in leasing, rents, and pricing forecasted in PwC US and the Urban Land Institute’s latest report, ‘Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2013’,” the article noted.

“The commercial market is moving forward ‘bit by bit,’ said Stephen Blank, ULI’s senior resident fellow for real estate finance. ‘Nothing indicates a quick turnaround for commercial real

estate, but it is improving. Those who are patient and willing to rethink their expectations and adapt to market realities are expected to come out ahead this year.’”

According to the report, recent job creation will likely increase absorption and push down vacancy rates in the office, industrial, and retail sectors. The apartment sector is forecast to continue to have strong demand, according to the survey.

“With the outlook for commercial real estate continuing to improve in 2013, investors are expected to allocate substantial sums of capital to the real estate asset class, according to our survey

respondents,” says Mitch Roschelle, U.S. real estate advisory practice leader with PwC. “As yield in bonds and other financial instruments tighten in a still-volatile market, commercial real estate’s income producing and total return attributes offer investors potentially attractive risk-adjusted returns.”

The five markets with the best commercial real estate outlook for 2013, according to the report, are:

1. San Francisco2. New York3. San Jose, Calif.4. Austin, Texas5. Houston

The Sarasota Association of Realtors® is doing our part in the local commercial real estate industry resurgence with the construction of a new headquarters facility to be completed in the spring of 2013. More photos are on Page 24.

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine NOVEMBER 2012 19

Educ

atio

n Pr

ogra

ms

The Code of Ethics is central to the Realtor® organization – so essential, in fact, that the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) has mandated that all Realtors® complete a 2.5-hour training every four years as a condition of membership.

The current 4-year Cycle ends Dec. 31, 2012. If you have not completed ethics training between Jan. 1, 2009 and Dec. 31, 2012, your Realtor® membership and related services, including MLS, will be suspended until you are in compliance.

If you are not sure when you last took the Code of Ethics, please call Catherine McCaskill at 941-328-1167.

If you need to complete the Code of Ethics, you have four training options:

Live classroom instructor (SAR members free) at SAR on the following dates (registration required):

- Monday, Dec. 10, 1-4 pm - Wednesday, Dec. 19, 9 am-Noon or 1-4 pm (3

hours CE) NAR Online class (free) visit http://www.realtor.

org/code-of-ethics/training/for-existing-members (short test required at end of course). NAR will notify SAR within ten days that you have completed the course.

Online class with CE (3 hours $15; or 4 hours $20) through SAR’s website (Education tab). Visit the SAR web site - www.sarasotarealtors.com - to view

the options and sign up. (short test required at end of course)

DVD: A high-quality video with professional actors is available for brokers or office managers to check out from SAR to hold training in their office, certifying attendance of agents who attend the training.

Please call SAR at 941-923-2315 if you have questions.

Time is running out for Code of Ethics training

Knowledge is power in real estate upper tierTitle: Certified Luxury Home Marketing SpecialistDates: March 19-20, 2013 at 8:30 a.m.Instructor: Laurie Moore-MooreCost: $550

Training for the Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist designation is designed to help sales professionals who currently work in the upper tier move to the next level, or to help those just beginning to target the luxury market jump-start their business.

Learn what wealthy buyers and sellers say are the “real secrets” to capturing their business and delivering outstanding service. This intensive two-day CLHMS training is the first step in earning the coveted CLHMS designation. Upon completion of the training you will become a Member of The Institute.

Members of the Institute are part of an exclusive, international network of active luxury agents and enjoy a host of valuable benefits and discounts.

Recognized as the mark of accomplishment in luxury markets around the world, the Certified Luxury Home

Marketing Specialist (CLHMS) designation assures affluent buyers and sellers that the agents who have earned it have the knowledge, experience, competence, and confidence they require.

Attend this valuable training & discover how to:

• Reach more affluent prospects

• Increase your average price

• List and sell more luxury homes

• Deliver outstanding service to affluent buyers and sellers

Laurie Moore-Moore

taylormorrison.com866.495.6006

REALTOR® Rewards makes it easy to earn $3,000 Sell a select showcase home at a Taylor Morrison community and you will be rewarded!

Ask a Sales Associate for more details.

MUST CLOSE BY 12/31/12

1

3

7

8

5

6

9

4

1

7

54

3

2

2

3

4

5

6

7

1

8

2

10

*

6

1 PALMA SOLA TRACE From the mid $100s

2 RIVER PLANTATION Coming Soon!

3 ESPLANADE AT LAKEWOOD RANCH From the low $200s

4 COUNTRY CLUB EAST AT LAKEWOOD RANCH From the $500s

5 ARBOR RESERVE Coming Soon!

6 ESPLANADE BY SIESTA KEY Coming Soon!

7 VERONA RESERVE From the high $100s

West Florida communities only. Limited time offer. Valid 10/1-12/31/12 (the “Term”). Incentive remains subject to change, extension or early termination in Seller’s discretion. Taylor Morrison’s $3,000 “Realtor Rewards” bonus paid at closing, and subject to full return without deduction to Seller, if transaction cancels or home does not close by 12/31/2012. Bonus varies by community. Community Association and other fees may be required. Prices, promotions, incentives, features, options, amenities, floor plans, elevations, designs, materials and dimensions are subject to change without notice. Square footage and dimensions are estimated and may vary in actual construction. Community improvements and recreational features and amenities described are based upon current devel-opment plans which are subject to change and which are under no obligation to be completed. Actual position of house on lot will be determined by the site plan and plot plan. Floor plans and elevations are artist’s conception and are not intended to show specific detailing. Floor plans are the property of Taylor Morrison, Inc. and its affiliates and are protected by U.S. copyright laws. Please see your Sales Associate and Cooperative Broker Agreement/Incentive Addendum for complete details and additional restrictions. This is not an offering in any state where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law.© October 2012 Taylor Morrison of Florida, Inc., FL GC#CBC1257822.

SELL A SELECT SHOWCASE HOME AND RECEIVE UP TO A

$3,000 BONUS 3% COMMISSIONPLUS

PAID AT CLOSING

20 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

taylormorrison.com866.495.6006

REALTOR® Rewards makes it easy to earn $3,000 Sell a select showcase home at a Taylor Morrison community and you will be rewarded!

Ask a Sales Associate for more details.

MUST CLOSE BY 12/31/12

1

3

7

8

5

6

9

4

1

7

54

3

2

2

3

4

5

6

7

1

8

2

10

*

6

1 PALMA SOLA TRACE From the mid $100s

2 RIVER PLANTATION Coming Soon!

3 ESPLANADE AT LAKEWOOD RANCH From the low $200s

4 COUNTRY CLUB EAST AT LAKEWOOD RANCH From the $500s

5 ARBOR RESERVE Coming Soon!

6 ESPLANADE BY SIESTA KEY Coming Soon!

7 VERONA RESERVE From the high $100s

West Florida communities only. Limited time offer. Valid 10/1-12/31/12 (the “Term”). Incentive remains subject to change, extension or early termination in Seller’s discretion. Taylor Morrison’s $3,000 “Realtor Rewards” bonus paid at closing, and subject to full return without deduction to Seller, if transaction cancels or home does not close by 12/31/2012. Bonus varies by community. Community Association and other fees may be required. Prices, promotions, incentives, features, options, amenities, floor plans, elevations, designs, materials and dimensions are subject to change without notice. Square footage and dimensions are estimated and may vary in actual construction. Community improvements and recreational features and amenities described are based upon current devel-opment plans which are subject to change and which are under no obligation to be completed. Actual position of house on lot will be determined by the site plan and plot plan. Floor plans and elevations are artist’s conception and are not intended to show specific detailing. Floor plans are the property of Taylor Morrison, Inc. and its affiliates and are protected by U.S. copyright laws. Please see your Sales Associate and Cooperative Broker Agreement/Incentive Addendum for complete details and additional restrictions. This is not an offering in any state where prohibited or otherwise restricted by law.© October 2012 Taylor Morrison of Florida, Inc., FL GC#CBC1257822.

SELL A SELECT SHOWCASE HOME AND RECEIVE UP TO A

$3,000 BONUS 3% COMMISSIONPLUS

PAID AT CLOSING

Title: New FR Contract: CRSP-12Date: Nov. 14, at 12:00 PMPresented by Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee and Sarasota County Bar AssociationInstructor: Julie Horstkamp, Esq.Cost: FREE to SAR members; $10 for others

Join us for another in a series of seminars sponsored by the Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee of SAR and the SCBA.

There is a new contract in town—the CRSP-12! It replaces the FAR-9. Come to this seminar to hear all the important changes that have been made to this Contract for Residential Sale and Purchase (CRSP). You will also learn about the new CRSP-12 Addenda, which incorporates three new addenda that used to be stand-alone and are no longer available as stand-alone documents.

Your instructor will be Julie Horstkamp, Esquire, Berlin

Patten. Julie is a the current chair of Realtor®-Attorney Joint Committee of Florida Realtors® and The Florida Bar Association. In addition, she actively participated in the revisions to this contract, and can explain the reasoning used to make the changes. Julie is a Board Certified Real Estate Attorney and works out of the Berlin Patten law office in Venice.

New format for GRI in 2013Florida Realtors® has made changes to the GRI program for

2013. Instead of offering the program in three courses, they have broken up the program into 2-day modules—easier on your work schedule and your pocketbook!

Each 2-day module will cost $130 and will have a one-hour exam with 50 questions. Salesman’s and Broker’s post-license education will still be available. The first module of the GRI 100 series, GRI 101, will carry 14 hours of CE and includes Core Law. So, for the first time, SAR members can renew their license with a high-quality 2-day program that also counts towards the GRI designation.

SAR is pleased to announce the dates for the GRI 100 Series: Standards of Practice - Jan. 21 & 22, 2013GRI 101- Topics:- Realtors®: Professionalism and the Law- Professional StandardsFair Housing and Diversity, Law14 hours of continuing education and 15 hours of salesman’s post-license educationCost: $130

GRI 102 - Topics:- Starting Your Business- Contact to Contracts- Business Planning- Goal Setting

11 hours of continuing education and 15 hours of salesman’s post-license educationCost: $130

GRI 103 - Topics:- Maximize your Profitability- Finance- Negotiating- Counseling- Law14 hours of continuing education and 15 hours of salesman’s post-license educationCost: $130

Register for all three modules for $349 (save $51).

CONGRATULATIONS! Dedication and hard work pay off!! We

congratulate our members who have successfully completed the Graduate, Realtor® Institute (GRI)!

GRADUATE, REALTOR® INSTITUTE (GRI)Dennis Kedzierski Rosebay International, Inc.Joyce Marie Steward Joyce Marie Steward, RE Broker

Title: Green Building – So What’s it Worth?Date: Nov. 27 at 6:30 PMCost $5 for members; $10 for others

Join the SAR Green Realtors® Alliance, the Myakka River Branch USGBC LEED for Homes Committee and the HBA Manatee-Sarasota Green Council to hear Sandra Adomatis, SRA of Adomatis Appraisal Service describe recent developments in the residential appraisal practice that actually assigns value to green features in homes. Ms. Adomatis will cover the following topics:

- Six elements of Green that are worth knowing. - Is the market seeing Green? - Legislation that may change the way we buy and sell houses. - Understanding “Residential Green, Energy Efficient

Addendum.”

New contract for residential sale and purchase explained

Green Building value explained:What’s it worth to me?

22 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

My Florida Regional MLS offers new coursesPre-registration is required for all MLXchange classes at www.mfrmls.com. All classes are hands-on in the SAR Technology Center (except for Entering and Updating). Registration is limited to 18. Please be sure that you will attend if you reserve a spot! If you need to cancel, please call MFRMLS at 800.686.7451 (not SAR).

MLXchange BasicNov. 5 or Nov. 19, 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- 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 the hotsheet configurations - Search Tax - Creating a professional CMA - Personalize user contact information

MLS Compliance 101Nov. 5 or Nov. 19, 1 to 2:30 p.m.Mandatory session for all new users.In this course you will learn about the My Florida Regional MLS Rules and Regulations, and the compliance procedures for accuracy of listing data, along with educational materials available on MFRMLSUniversity.com- Rules and Regulations- Profile Sheet Terms- iSmart Tool

Adding/Modifying Listings in MLXchangeNov. 5 or Nov. 19, 3 to 4:30 p.m.Mandatory class if you will be entering/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

Creating a Professional CMA (3 CE Credits!)Nov. 8, 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.

Scheduling & Task Management Nov. 8, 1 to 2 p.m.This class will teach you how to use MLS to manage time. Learn how to create Tasks and activityplans, set up appointments and communicate with your Clients.• Activity Plans• Tasks• Messages• Appointments• Home page gadget• Client Web Page – schedule & tasks

Listing ToolsNov. 8, 2:30 to 4 p.m.This class will introduce you to Member Benefits that will provide

you with valuable tools for your listings in MLS.• RealBiz 360- Virtual Tours• ShowingTime• Data-Coop• RE Technology

MLS System Settings & DefaultsNov. 12, 9 to 10:30 a.m.This class will teach you how to set up system setting in the MLS. Including, how to save reports as favorites, setting up your email defaults, search defaults and much more.

The Mobile Agent Nov. 12, 11 a.m. to NoonThis class will provide you with resources and member benefits that help you become the Agent on the Go! • DocBox to go• Mobile iMapp• Kurio• Real estate apps for the iPad• RBI mobile

Quick CMA ReportsNov. 12, 1 to 2:30 p.m.This class will teach you how to utilize different CMA reports that are available through the MLS system and through member benefits provided by My Florida Regional MLS. This course DOES NOT provide CE credit.

MLS HotsheetsNov. 12, 3 to 4 p.m.This class will teach you how to utilize the Hotsheets in MLS, including setting up your Hotsheet gadget on the home page, creating days back and custom hotsheets and more.

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine NOVEMBER 2012 23

SAR

New

Hea

dqua

rter

s

Visit SAR on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

Photos byJesse Sunday and

Halfacre Construction

New Era of Progress for SAR!

This was the view in late September of the site of the new SAR headquarters at the northwest corner of Cattlemen Road and Colonial Oaks Boulevard.

Another aerial view of the new SAR headquarters site as Halfacre Construction crews continued work on the building shell.

The new SAR headquarters at the northwest corner of Cattlemen Road and Colonial Oaks Boulevard should be completed by the early summer months of 2013.

24 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Visit SAR on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

Three SAR members graduate from Leadership AcademyFlorida Realtors®

recently honored the 15 Realtor® members of the state association’s Leadership Academy upon their graduation from the class, including three members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®.

The Leadership Academy was established in 2008 to identify emerging Realtor® leaders ready to get involved, make a difference and enhance their leadership skills. The goal of the Academy is to empower its participants to develop the skills needed to lead a committee, a Realtor® association or a community.

SAR is currently promoting the 2013 program through our weekly email blast and on the web site. Florida Realtors® is now accepting applications for the 2013 Leadership Academy.

The academy offers a unique opportunity to see how the Florida Realtors® association operates. Many of these same principles that guide the volunteer leadership and staff of this 115,000 member organization can be applied to how you run your business and make decisions that impact your every-day life. Graduates of the Florida Realtors® Leadership Academy will be equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to excel as a leader in the 21st century.

Ideal applicants will be those who have served on the local Realtor® level and/or who have potentially had some

experience at the state (Florida Realtors®) or national (NAR) levels of the Realtor® family. Those veteran leaders at Florida Realtors® or NAR with many years of leadership experience may be called upon by the academy during the year to share their expertise and therefore may find the information redundant.

Applications will be accepted online from through 11:59 PM on Dec. 31, 2012. Visit www.floridarealtors.org for details.

Applicants should make sure that they can devote 30 to 45 minutes to complete the entire application process. In addition to completing the questions, applicants should have a current photograph and resume to attach to the application.

“These individuals have gone above and beyond the call of duty this past year,” noted 2012 Leadership Academy Chairman Michael Bindman, Broker-Owner of Realty Executives Homes in Florida in St. Petersburg and 2013 Florida CRB President. “The Realtors®

who were a part of this year’s academy are talented and dedicated professionals who will make our industry proud.”

Members of the Leadership Academy participated in classroom activities, group and independent study sessions, team-building and goal-setting exercises, leadership techniques and communication skills enhancement.

They collectively worked on their class project designed to enhance the outreach efforts of the Vote Yes on Amendment 4 Campaign, working on a grassroots level to stress the importance of passing Florida’s Amendment 4 on the November ballot.

Florida Realtors® who graduated from the Leadership Academy in 2012 included: Anthony Homer, Christina Pitchford and Stafford Starcher of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®; Barry Grooms of the Manatee Association of Realtors®; and Cynthia Logan of the Punta Gorda-North Port-Port Charlotte Association of Realtors®.

Stafford Starcher Christina Pitchford Anthony Homer

Sales Associate Pre-License Course starts Jan. 8Do you know anyone who may be interested in pursuing a

career in real estate? Perhaps a family member, son or daughter, who wants to start a new career?

If so, the Sarasota School of Real Estate is a great place to start!A Sales Associate Pre-License course is slated for Jan. 8, 2013

through Feb. 9, 2013.Earlybird Tuition cost is $339 (includes manual, Florida Real

Estate Principles, Practices and Law, 35th Edition). Register at least 10 days in advance of class to receive the Earlybird price).

The Regular Tuition is $364 The class is held onTuesdays and Thursdays from 5 to 10 p.m.

AND Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. End of Course Exam is on the last day of the course. Each

class is limited to 20 students, and the instructor is Michael W. Davenport.

Classes are held in Conference Room A at the SAR facility, 3590 S. Tuttle Ave.

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine NOVEMBER 2012 25

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]

Tech Tip: Is it time to upgrade? Maybe!By Michael Antoniak Realtor® Magazine

Your next computing solution could be a tablet, desktop, or notebook. Your choice will likely involve a trade-off between mobility and heavy-duty computing power. This guide is deisgned to find out what will best meet your needs.

In previous guides, we’ve looked at smartphones and tablets. Here, the focus is primarily on more traditional desktop and portable computers.

First, consider what systems you’re currently using and where you would welcome gains in performance and productivity. What you add next should address how and where you work best, and which investment will most benefit your career.

As you shop the various types of computers, you’ll find systems designated for the consumer or home office and the professional or business user. Spec for spec, prices on consumer systems may be cheaper.

For you, though, a business system may be the smarter purchase, especially if you’re eyeing mobile hardware. Defining the differences worth the added expense can include a metal or a more durable case, spill-resistant keyboards, enhanced security features, expansion options, and extended warranties.

The release of Windows 8 in late October, plus launch of new iMacs, suggest it may be time to consider upgrading or replacing any computer purchased a few years ago. The latest options in mobile hardware can introduce such compelling, productive benefits; you may also want to expand your line-up with something more portable.

26 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Brok

er C

orne

rTo delegate, or not to delegate?By Scott NewmanRealtor® Magazine

I think Jay-Z put it best when he said, “I’m not a businessman; I’m a business, man.” He understands, as do all the top-producing real estate professionals out there, that in order to be a success in any professional endeavor you need to run your business like a business. That means controlling your empire from the top down in a well-defined and well-managed hierarchy.

Why is this important? Simple. In order to continue to grow your business and thus your earning potential, you need to make decisions on how your organization will function—which means making some tough decisions on what tasks to handle and what tasks to delegate or outsource.

I am going to break down some of the tasks and responsibilities that have many agents struggling to decide whether to delegate or outsource in an effort to make best use of time for the long-term health of your business.

Web siteWith so many of our buyers turning to the Internet

to search for properties, having a great Web site is no longer a luxury—it’s a must-have.

I constantly come across Web sites that are nothing more than a template thrown up on a domain, and that is a recipe for disaster. Those types of sites have absolutely no SEO value whatsoever, and are seen as cheap and unhelpful by consumers.

Instead, I strongly urge you to consider outsourcing the design, programming, and ongoing management of your Web site to a professional. Yes, it’s expensive, but at the end of the day a good Web site can help you grow your business exponentially faster. And the better your site, the better the ROI will be.

Keep in mind the level of technical expertise—not to mention patience—that’s required to effectively build your own quality site is well above the level of understanding most real estate professionals have when it comes to Web development. So bite the bullet and spend the money to have it done correctly. Also make sure you also account for money in your monthly budget to hire a Web manager who can help you update content and solve any problems that might arise with the site in a timely manner.

MarketingThink back to all those times you’ve sat in your living

room on a Sunday afternoon stuffing envelopes for

mailers or taking the time to design your own flyer.No offense, but the bottom line is there is someone

out there who can do a better job doing your marketing than you. I’m not saying that you shouldn’t have a hand in how your business reaches out to the general public, but the actual labor and design work involved in the marketing process should absolutely be something you consider outsourcing.

There are many companies that can not only design great marketing pieces for you but also physically make sure those pieces are delivered appropriately, whether it’s via mail, e-mail, or another Internet route.

Another advantage to outsourcing your marketing is that it allows you to create consistency. For example, I send a monthly e-mail blast with a video I do each month on the status of the real estate market in Chicago. This has become very popular among my sphere. Unfortunately, creating that video and e-mail is not an A-level task when showings, closings, and clients must come first. As a result, those e-mail blasts were not going out at the same time and date each month as planned; thus, it was not having maximum impact. By outsourcing that marketing task, I now know that on the 15th day of each month at 9 p.m., that e-mail blast will go out and it will be done perfectly, whether I’m busy or not.

BlogThe last one is the big one everyone is talking

about—your blog.Let me be clear: If you don’t believe in the power of

blogging enough to write your own blog, don’t do one. There is nothing worse than a blog with boring, canned content you bought from someone or posts that you syndicate from some other Web site. The general public, and more importantly, Google’s algorithm sees right through pilfered content, which provides you no SEO benefit whatsoever.

Blogging is about showcasing your personality and letting your clients see your passion and expertise. If you plan ahead, it should take no more than 15 to 20 minutes to write a quality blog piece. There is no excuse for not being able to fit that small amount of time into your schedule on a weekly basis.

Being a great REALTOR® means being the CEO of a business in an extremely dynamic and complex industry. You need to stay ahead of the curve and make sure you are constantly evaluating the best use of your time. By thoughtfully evaluating what tasks need your personal attention and which can be delegated or outsourced, you give yourself the maximum amount of free time to grow your business and reach your full potential.

- From REALTOR® Magazine

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine NOVEMBER 2012 27

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

Mary Hellhake President-Elect Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-544-0763 [email protected]

2012 Leadership TeamPeter Salefsky Vice-President Membership Michael Saunders & Company Cell: 941-724-5107 [email protected]

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

Sherri Spanos Recording Secretary Lakewood Ranch Communities Phone: 941-907-6000 [email protected]

Linda McConnell Corresponding Secretary FBC Mortgage LLC Phone: 941-504-0823 [email protected] Tuesday-Saturday 10:30AM- 5:30PM Monday by Appointment

1540 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 941.366.0941 BlackBirdHomeGallery.com

BB_ad34 FULL.indd 1 6/8/12 5:11:52 PM

WOW! What a year it has been for the Sarasota Chapter of the Women’s Council of Realtors®! We had an amazing Fashion Show on Sept. 19, because so many of YOU were there!

Special thanks to Tina Darling’s team at Innovative Agent Services for creating the most beautiful program book yet. Also, special thanks to Cutting Loose Salon and Spa for the professional hair and makeup - all of our models were gorgeous!

There are so many Women’s Council members, volunteers, and local supporting affiliates that deserve mentioning. I suggest you request your own program book by contacting [email protected] - you

never know when this list will come in handy!As professional Realtors® and Affiliates, our

members form lasting relationships through education, networking which builds and creates growth and value in their business, and in their personal success. The entire industry becomes advanced when these skills are shared. You are invited to become a member of this successful organization. Visit www.wcr.com or www.SarasotaWCR.com for more information.

Celebrating our 56th year of success, I am privileged to serve as your Chapter’s President. Thank you for your continued support!

Fashion Show highlights successful year!

At the WCR Fashion Show are (left to right) Elizabeth Reynolds, Tina Darling, Hylda Fenton, Kristina Benefield and Tina Seger, all of Innovative Agent Services.

28 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Tuesday-Saturday 10:30AM- 5:30PM Monday by Appointment1540 Main Street Sarasota, FL 34236 941.366.0941 BlackBirdHomeGallery.com

BB_ad34 FULL.indd 1 6/8/12 5:11:52 PM

Mem

bers

hip

New

s Designated Realtors®

Bernard, Carmen: RealEstateAuctions.comCoveney, Terence: Coldwell Banker Res R EKennelly, Kevin: Signature Realty AssociatesWalter, Cynthia: Justsouth Inc.

New MembersAtkins, Jennifer: Real Estate Boutique LLCBasi, Roman: Wagner RealtyBlomquist, Timothy: RE/MAX Alliance GroupCarney, Timothy: Sandals Realty of SarasotaCarroll, Stephen: Exit King RealtyCarroll, Susan: Exit King RealtyClyne, Roger: Coldwell Banker Res R ECollier, Wade: Premier Sotheby’s Intl. RealtyDalton, Rebecca: Exit King RealtyDellavecchia, Jamie: Horizon Realty InternationalDeSantis, Kristie: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchEhlert, Julia: RealEstateAuctions.comEvans, Justin: Realty Executives SolutionsFaivre, Jon: ELITE Properties LLCGirstl, Pavel: Viewpoint Realty InternationalGiuffre, Tracie: Coldwell Banker Res R EGonzalez, Rafael: Xena Vallone Realty Inc.Greco, Jon: Moynihan Realty Group Inc.Hallock, Kathryn: Exit King RealtyLavoy, Wilson: Coldwell Banker Res R ELawrence, Jeffrey: Michael Seery & Associates Inc.Martin, Anne Marie: RealtyOne FloridaMartin, Dorothy: Stringer Management Inc.Pekarek, Benjamin: All County Prop Mgmt ProsReilly, Maureen: Prudential Palms RealtyRiordan, Theresa: Coldwell Banker Res R ERocha, Maria: Keller Williams On The WaterRose, Elliot: Coldwell Banker Commercial NRTRosin, Sasha: Horizon Realty InternationalSinai, Tommy: Coldwell Banker Res R ESkarbek, Alicia: RER InternationalSmith, Charles: RealEstateAuctions.comSpencer, Therese: Real Estate Boutique LLCSpina, Daria: Michael Saunders & CompanyStoltzfus, C. Ivan: RealEstateAuctions.comStyers, James: Michael Saunders & CompanyToxey, Stacey: Exit King RealtyVidal, Argelia: Coldwell BankerWille, Else: Exit King RealtyWinfrey, Eileen: RER International

Now With ...Anzellini, Carmen: Coldwell BankerAnzellini, Vincenzo: Coldwell BankerCail, Tom: RE/MAX Alliance GroupCunningham, Gerald: Keller Williams On The WaterDangerfield, Ashley: Listing Services DirectduKor, Paul: Horizon Realty InternationalEash, Joey: Allison James Estates & HomesFoley, James: Exit King RealtyGarcia, Raul: SRQ International Realty LLC

Gibson, Holly: Coldwell Banker Res R EGirimont, Teresa: Neal Communities Realty IncGrande, Jason: RE/MAX Alliance GroupHolt, Anna: Market America Realty & InvestHuffine, Andree: Coldwell Banker Res R EHutson, Lorraine: Sandals Realty of SarasotaJacob, Arlette: Exit King RealtyJohnston, Pamela: Key RealtyKijner, Daniel: Fortune International RealtyKirkpatrick, Yolanda: Coldwell Banker Res R ELedford, K Scott: Sarasota Bay Real Estate P.A.Macey Huddelson, Robin: Rosebay International, Inc.Marrero, M Christina: SRQ International Realty LLCMcIver, Chris: Charity & Weiss Int’l RealtyMoore, Stephen: Wagner RealtyMurray, Dovie: Sarasota Bay Luxury PropertiesNichols, Adrian: J Wood RealtyPenzotti, Gina: ERA Waterside RealtyPeterson, John: Rosebay International, Inc.Sas, John: Ken Brand Lic R E BrokerSchlink, PeggieJo: Barry D Edwards & AssocTorok, Tamas: Signature Realty AssociatesWilkerson, George: Neal Communities Realty Inc.Wright, Judy: Michael Saunders & Company

New AffiliatesCharles H. Wilson Const. Co.8221 Blaikie CourtSarasota, FL 34240Phone Number: 941-957-1030Representative: Charlie H WilsonSpecialty: Charles H. Wilson Construction Company has been providing construction services to the Sarasota-Manatee area since 1984. Our projects over the years have been many and diverse, but we remain consistent to our founding principle of providing outstanding services within the concept that quality construction need not be cost-prohibitive or time-consuming. Our goal is to deliver a quality project that has been tailored to meet your needs, your schedule and your budget. We accomplish this through a Construction Management approach that utilizes my personal participation in every phase of your project. The result is a process that will provide a professional expertise to the design team during the planning stages and organizational structure and coordination during the construction activity. Our firm engages in a limited number of projects at one time, depending on their size, complexity and location. By organizing our operation in this manner, I am able to personally direct your project from start to finish and the costly offices and staffs that accompany large corporations are eliminated. We will meet your schedule and your budget without sacrificing quality.Email: [email protected]

The Association is pleased to welcome new members!

30 NOVEMBER 2012 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

MyForce5505 Keeler Oak StreetLithia State, FL 33447Phone Number: 813-335-0308Representative: Vince CardellaSpecialty: You’ll never walk alone, show a house alone, or visit REO markets alone when you have MyForce — the world’s first personal security service on a Smartphone, a mobile bodyguard that goes everywhere you do. MyForce combines the convenience of a Smartphone application with a live, bilingual 24/7 emergency monitoring, accessible at the touch of a button on any iPhone, Android or BlackBerry Smartphone. MyForce gives users confidence and security against threats while providing their colleagues and families with peace of mind. For more information about increasing safety for agents, or MyForce as a retention tool — for group plans and pricing, contact Vince Cardella at 813-335-0308 or [email protected] Otherwise, register today at http://www.myforce.com and use promo code MYFORCENOW to get $20 off your first annual subscription!Email: [email protected]

Ramada Waterfront Sarasota7150 N. Tamiami TrailSarasota, FL 34243Phone Number: 941-358-1000Representative: Sandi SpahnSpecialty: Minutes from the Beaches of Siesta Key, Lido Key and Longboat Key. Make your visit to Sarasota a rejuvenating experience at Ramada Sarasota hotel. Located off Route 41 on the Sarasota Bay waterfront, our hotel near Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is just minutes from beautiful white sand beaches. Enjoy spacious hotel rooms with modern style and thoughtful amenities to help you stay refreshed during your stay. Free Wi-Fi Internet access throughout our hotel keeps you connected, and our gym makes it easy to keep up your workout routine. Our Sarasota hotel also features guest laundry facilities, free parking with large-vehicle spaces and non-smoking and handicapped-accessible rooms. After a restful sleep, wake up with free continental breakfast or a morning swim in our outdoor pool.Email: [email protected]

Tropex Plants3220 Whitfield AvenueSarasota, FL 34243Phone Number: 941-753-5066Representative: Bonnie HasslerSpecialty: TROPEX is Florida’s #1 commercial interior plant leasing company. You’ve see our Award-Winning Designs in Country Clubs, Hotels & Resorts, Office Buildings, Professional Offices, Upscale Businesses, Condominiums, and Luxury Residences. Our coveted clients span the state from our headquarters in Sarasota including Tampa to Marco Island, Stuart to Miami and beyond. Since 1981, TROPEX has been a leader and innovator in the interior landscaping business. From award winning designs to the development of Greenscan Solutions, the data management technology that provides our customers with carefree service.Email: [email protected]

Trustco Bank1300 S. Tamiami TrailOsprey, FL 34229Phone Number: 941-918-9380Representative: Brandon GrupkaSpecialty: 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. These days, many people are rediscovering the value of taking a conservative approach with their money. At Trustco Bank, we have been doing just that since 1902. Through changing times, our commitment to careful financial management, high quality lending standards and following prudent investment practices has never wavered. Our focus has always been to provide our customers with community banking solutions that offer superior convenience, value and security. In these uncertain times, now may be the time to come home to a hometown bank with a history of financial strength. Full service bank that specializes in portfolio loans.Email: [email protected]

SAR welcomed 32 new members in October. The Association’s overall membership now stands at an even 3,600, with 300 Affiliate members included in that number.

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine NOVEMBER 2012 31

Sara

sota

Ass

ocia

tion

of R

ealt

ors® ,

Inc.

3590

S. T

uttle

Ave

.Sa

raso

ta, F

L 34

239

PRSR

T ST

DU

.S. P

OST

AG

EPA

IDM

AN

ASO

TA, F

LPE

RM

IT N

O. 4

51

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Oct. 29 10 a.m. CID Golf Tournament (Founders Club)

30 8 a.m. CRS 200

31 8 a.m. CRS 200

Nov. 1 8 a.m. Power Marketing (University Park CC) 9 a.m. Property Management Forum 4:30 p.m. Phone Bank

2 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace

5 8 a.m. International Real Estate Congress (Lido Beach Resort) 9 a.m. Basic MLXchange 1 p.m. Compliance 101 3 p.m. Adding and Modifying Listings

6 8 a.m. International Real Estate Congress (Lido Beach Resort) 8:30 a.m. CID Board of Directors

7 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters

8 8 a.m. Power Marketing (SAR) 9 a.m. Creating CMA 1 p.m. Scheduling/Tasks 2:30 p.m. Listing Tools

9 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace

12 9 a.m. New Member Orientation 9 a.m. MLS Settings 11 a.m. Mobile Agent 1 p.m. Code of Ethics 1 p.m. Quick CMAs 3 p.m. MLS Hotsheets

13 11:30 a.m. Smart Lunch

14 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 8:30 a.m. Board of Directors 12 p.m. RAJC Seminar: New FR CRSP Contract & Addenda

15 8 a.m. Power Marketing (SAR)

16 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace (offsite)

19 9 a.m. Code of Ethics 9 a.m. Basic MLXchange 1 p.m. Compliance 101 1 p.m. Code of Ethics 3 p.m. Adding and Modifying Listings

20

21 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters

22 SAR CLOSED for Thanksgiving Holiday

23 SAR CLOSED for Thanksgiving Holiday

26

27 8 a.m. CID General Membership 6:30 p.m. Green Building Seminar

28 8:30 a.m. Board of Directors

29 8 a.m. Power Marketing (SAR) 10 a.m. Photographer

30 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace

NOVEMBER 2012

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

My Florida Regional MLS Training The My Florida Regional MLS training classes are offered at no cost to MLS participants. All classes are HANDS-ON in the SAR Tech Center. Please register for all MLS classes at the MFRMLS website: http://mfrmls.com.

Click on ‘Education and Training.’

EDUCATION & EVENTS CALENDAR

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12 Jul‐12 Aug‐12 Sep‐12

New Listings Single FamilyCondo

The Xtra Pages - D

igital Version Only

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12 Jul‐12 Aug‐12 Sep‐12

Months of Inventory Single FamilyCondo

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

Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12 Jul‐12 Aug‐12 Sep‐12

Sales Volume Single Family

Condo

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12 Jul‐12 Aug‐12 Sep‐12

Days on Market Single Family

Condo

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

Sep‐11 Oct‐11 Nov‐11 Dec‐11 Jan‐12 Feb‐12 Mar‐12 Apr‐12 May‐12 Jun‐12 Jul‐12 Aug‐12 Sep‐12

New Listings Single FamilyCondo

Third Quarter 2012 Report

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2* 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2 2011‐Q3 2011‐Q4 2012‐Q1 2012‐Q2 2012‐Q3

Single Family Sales ‐ By Quarter REO Short Market

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2* 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2 2011‐Q3 2011‐Q4 2012‐Q1 2012‐Q2 2012‐Q3

Condo Sales ‐ By Quarter REO Short Market

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2 2011‐Q3 2011‐Q4 2012‐Q1 2012‐Q2 2012‐Q3

REO Short MarketSingle Family Median Sale Price

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2 2011‐Q3 2011‐Q4 2012‐Q1 2012‐Q2 2012‐Q3

REO Short MarketCondo Median Sale Price

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2* 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2 2011‐Q3 2011‐Q4 2012‐Q1 2012‐Q2 2012‐Q3

REO Sales ‐ By Quarter Single FamilyCondo

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2* 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2 2011‐Q3 2011‐Q4 2012‐Q1 2012‐Q2 2012‐Q3

Short Sales ‐ By Quarter Single Family

Condo

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

1400

2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2* 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2 2011‐Q3 2011‐Q4 2012‐Q1 2012‐Q2 2012‐Q3

Market Sales ‐ By Quarter Single FamilyCondo

$132,300

$172,500$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$160,000 $163,000 $155,925

$142,000

$145,000$173,000

$191,000

$225,000

$305,000$301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000

$163,000$156,800

Annual Median Sale Price ‐ 2000 to 2011 Single Family Condo

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

Annual Sales ‐ 2000 to 2011Single Family Condo Total

9697

11267

10562

Single Family Condo Total

6 504

7,596

6,8416533

7036

8167

63586739

76038224

4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

5,4665,938

3 671 3 721

6533 63586042 5820

,

2,184 2,0962,564

3,1933,671 3,721

2,005 2,120

1,1941,556

2,137 2,286

1,194

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011