Cathy has dedicated over 18 years to the soccer community in East County. beginning her volunteer journey when her own daughter & son played the sport. For the past 9 years, she has served as the board president for the 501c3 (non-profit) club, leading with unwavering commitment and passion.

Her extensive responsibilities include overseeing board meetings, organizing tournaments with volunteers and staff, and managing all communications. Cathy's driving mission is ensuring every child, regardless of financial circumstances, has the opportunity to play a club sport. 

She takes immense pride in helping young athletes not only develop their athletic skills but also grow into responsible, contributing citizens in their communities.

Learn more about the PSAR Good Neighbor Award and submit nominations HERE

Congratulations to PSAR REALTOR® Veronica Hosey, a PSAR Good Neighbor Award quarterly finalist! Her dedication to helping those in need through Multi Family Moguls has provided life-changing housing solutions for individuals and families displaced by recent natural disasters in San Diego.

As the founder of Multi Family Moguls, Veronica has taken a proactive approach to addressing homelessness by bridging the gap between temporary displacement and long-term stability. Her organization collaborates with key partners, including the San Diego Housing Commission, VASH, ADJOIN, Home Start, Interfaith, the American Red Cross, STOP, Youth for Justice, and the Jewish Foundation. These partnerships allow for a holistic approach, ensuring that vulnerable individuals not only receive immediate shelter but also have access to critical support services.

In 2024 alone, MULTI FAMILY MOGULS has successfully housed over 350 individuals. Beyond securing shelter, the organization provides referrals to credit repair agencies and financial assistance programs to help residents regain financial independence. By focusing on both housing and economic stability, Veronica’s work fosters long-term success for those facing hardship.

Her efforts exemplify the spirit of the PSAR Good Neighbor Award, which recognizes REALTORS® who go above and beyond in their communities. Veronica’s work reminds us of the power of real estate professionals to make a meaningful impact beyond transactions—helping to build stronger, more resilient communities.

Learn more about the PSAR Good Neighbor Award and submit nominations HERE

Congratulations to PSAR REALTOR® Terri Dillon, a quarterly finalist for the PSAR Good Neighbor Award!

Rescue Fenix is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer, all-breed rescue dedicated to helping animals in need. Driven by compassion, the organization rescues animals that are in danger, sick, abused, or neglected. Every rescued animal receives medical care and rehabilitation before being placed in a loving, permanent home. Rescue Fenix operates solely on donor support and does not receive government funding.

Terri is a passionate advocate for pet adoption and foster care, consistently opening her home to dogs in need. While the number of animals she has helped is immeasurable, her dedication to the cause is evident in her ongoing efforts within the community. In addition to her work with Rescue Fenix, she volunteers at various events and programs for other organizations whenever needed.

Support Terri’s mission by visiting Rescue Fenix, or reach out to her directly to learn how you can help by caring for one of the dogs in her care.

Visit Rescue Fenix A.C. https://www.rescuefenix.org/ to support Terri's advocacy. 

Good Neighbor Information and Nominations can be found HERE

CHULA VISTA, CA – Selling a home in certain EastLake III communities requires homeowners to pay a transfer fee to the EastLake Educational Foundation (EEF). This fee is outlined in the community’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) and supports local award-winning, high-achieving schools through technology and educational programs.

Key Points About the Transfer Fee

• Amount: The transfer fee is 0.1% of the home’s final sale price. For example, a $700,000 sale would include a $700 fee.
• Payment: The fee is typically deducted from the seller’s proceeds during the closing process.
• Disclosure: Sellers agree to the fee when they sign the CC&Rs upon purchasing the home. REALTORS® should ensure sellers are reminded of this requirement early in the transaction process.

Where Does the Fee Apply?

• EastLake Woods: Known for spacious homes and nearby parks.
• EastLake Vistas: Offers family-oriented living with community amenities.
• EastLake Trails: Features a variety of single-family homes with access to community pools and trails.
• Summit at EastLake: A gated community of condominiums and townhomes.

1. Verify the Requirement: Confirm the transfer fee applies by checking if the home is part of the EastLake III Community Association.
2. Educate Sellers Early: Discuss the fee at the start of the listing process.
3. Provide Resources: Share official documents and direct clients to the HOA and EEF for accurate information.
4. Prepare Buyers: Inform buyers how the fee supports local education and community amenities.

• EastLake III HOA & CC&Rs: Contact Walters Management for official documents. Walters Management
• EastLake Educational Foundation: Learn more about how the funds support local schools. EEF Website
• EEF FAQ Handout: Is attached for additional details.

EEF Frequently Asked Questions

The real estate industry thrives on communication, and reaching potential clients is crucial. But the digital age has brought with it a wave of unwanted calls and texts, leading to frustration and distrust. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has stepped in with new regulations to protect consumers, and these rules have significant implications for how real estate professionals connect with leads.  For detailed information from the FCC follow this link.

Understanding the Key Changes

• One-to-One Consent is Paramount: Forget blanket opt-ins! The new rules demand that consumers provide individual, specific consent to each business that intends to contact them via robocalls or "robotexts." This consent must be "logically and topically associated" with the website where they provided it. For example, someone signing up for home valuation on your website can't be assumed to consent to calls about mortgage offers from your affiliated lender.

• Lead Generation Under Scrutiny: Lead generation companies can no longer rely on broad consent obtained through third-party websites. They must ensure consumers explicitly consent to each business receiving their information.

• Existing Leads Need a Check-Up: Don't assume your current contact list is good to go! Leads obtained before January 27, 2025, may not meet the new consent standards. Review your database and re-obtain consent where necessary.

• Manual Outreach Remains Viable: While the new rules focus on automated communication, you can still make manual calls and send texts without prior consent. However, you must adhere to the Do-Not-Call Registry and avoid using pre-recorded or artificial voices.

• Legal Challenges on the Horizon: The one-to-one consent rule is facing legal challenges, and its future may be influenced by court decisions. Stay informed about any updates or changes to the rule.

Actionable Steps for Real Estate Professionals

1. Review and Revise Consent Forms: Ensure your website and other lead capture forms clearly state that the consumer is consenting to receive calls/texts specifically from your brokerage or agency.
2. Obtain Express Written Consent: Always get written consent (electronic is acceptable) before initiating robocalls or "robotexts."
3. Scrutinize Lead Generation Practices: Work only with lead generation companies that comply with the new FCC rules.
4. Stay Updated on Do-Not-Call Regulations: Regularly check the Do-Not-Call Registry and promptly remove any listed numbers.
5. Educate Your Team: Ensure all agents and staff understand the new rules and their implications.

Important Disclaimer:

This blog post is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The FCC regulations are complex and subject to change. While we strive for accuracy, it is crucial to consult with an attorney for professional guidance on how to ensure your business practices are fully compliant. Final decisions regarding your business practices should be made after seeking legal counsel.

The recent Southern California wildfires have prompted Executive Order N-7-25, which directly impacts real estate professionals working in fire-affected areas. This Order, effective until April 14, 2025, aims to protect property owners from unsolicited offers that fall below fair market value.

As a real estate professional, it is essential to understand the policy details to avoid unintentionally violating the Order and to guide your clients effectively.

Why You Should Read the Full DRE Notice:

• Compliance with New Regulations: Learn how the Order prohibits unsolicited offers in specific zip codes and the penalties for violations, including fines and possible imprisonment.
• Educate and Protect Clients: Understand how to support clients who may be vulnerable to predatory practices after the fires.
• Identify Risk Areas: Recognize actions that could inadvertently fall under prohibited practices.
• Access Resources: Discover tools and guidance to help your clients navigate their decisions responsibly.

The full notice provides critical information about the affected areas, definitions of unsolicited offers, and examples of practices deemed unlawful under the Order.

Stay informed to maintain professionalism and compliance. Click here to read the full notice and ensure you’re equipped to support your clients while adhering to the guidelines.

Read the full notice here.

In the aftermath of emergencies, the real estate industry in California faces unique challenges. Understanding the state's anti-price gouging laws is crucial whether you're a sales agent, broker, or property manager. These laws not only protect consumers during crises but also guide professionals in maintaining ethical standards.

Here's what you need to know: 

The Essence of Price Gouging in Real Estate
Price gouging occurs when prices for housing, rentals, or other essential services are significantly increased to exploit an emergency. For real estate professionals, this typically relates to the pricing of rentals, homes for sale, and emergency lodging. The goal is to prevent undue strain on those affected by disasters, ensuring access to housing remains fair and equitable.

California’s Stance on Price Gouging
California law, specifically Penal Code Section 396, restricts increasing the price of housing and other essential services by more than 10% following an emergency declaration. This applies to sales, rentals, and services across the board, ensuring that real estate professionals are aligned with legal and ethical pricing standards during critical times.

Timing and Application of the Law
These protections activate immediately upon an emergency declaration by federal, state, or local authorities and are initially set for 30 days. For real estate-related services, like reconstruction and cleanup, the period extends to 180 days. Importantly, officials can extend these timeframes to meet ongoing needs, affecting how properties are marketed and managed.

Staying Informed on Declarations
Real estate professionals should closely monitor emergency declarations to comply with legal requirements. This includes staying updated through the Governor's website and local government channels. Awareness of state and local declarations is key to ensuring your practices align with current regulations. The following locations are under price gouging protections.

Who and What Is Covered?
The statute broadly applies to all entities within the real estate sector, including individuals and companies involved in selling, renting, or managing properties. It covers a wide range of necessities, notably including rental housing, hotels, and motels, ensuring that the industry's response to emergencies is comprehensive and compliant.

Addressing Cost Increases and Violations
If your costs increase due to supplier price hikes, the law allows the cost to be factored into pricing, provided it can be justified. However, compliance with the statute is closely monitored, and violations can lead to severe penalties, including fines and criminal charges. Ensuring transparency and fairness in pricing is crucial to avoid legal repercussions.

Role of Real Estate Professionals in Compliance
As gatekeepers of housing and essential services, real estate professionals have a pivotal role in upholding these laws. This involves adhering to pricing regulations and advising clients and the community on their rights and protections. Your guidance can help navigate the complexities of emergencies, ensuring access to housing remains fair and stable.

Conclusion
For real estate professionals in California, understanding and complying with anti-price gouging laws is essential. These regulations ensure that during emergencies, the industry acts with integrity, maintaining fair pricing and access to housing. By staying informed and adhering to these laws, you play a vital role in supporting communities during their most vulnerable times, reinforcing the ethical standards that define the real estate profession.

This link provides useful guidance for identifying if a state of emergency affecting price gouging in rental housing is in effect. Simply locate your rental property's county on the list and note the code (a letter in parentheses) next to it. Then, refer to the explanations at the bottom of the page to understand which price gouging laws apply to your situation

Important Disclosure
Please note that the information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Real estate laws and regulations can be complex and subject to change. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, reliability, or applicability of the content to your specific situation.

As a real estate professional, it's essential to understand your actions' legal implications, especially in emergencies and price-gouging laws. Therefore, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified attorney or legal expert to obtain advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Doing so will ensure you navigate these challenges with the utmost compliance and integrity, safeguarding your professional practice and the communities you serve.

The recent wildfires in California have caused widespread devastation, displacing families and destroying thousands of homes. REALTORS® can help by supporting two impactful, REALTOR®-backed non-profits. The REALTORS® Relief Foundation provides assistance to the public, showcasing how REALTORS® care for their communities, while the C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund supports REALTORS® and their staff, reflecting the organization’s commitment to its members who have been directly impacted. Importantly, 100% of every donation goes directly to helping those in need.

REALTORS® Relief Foundation

The REALTORS® Relief Foundation (RRF) focuses on helping the public by providing housing-related assistance to families impacted by disasters. This fund demonstrates REALTORS®' compassion for the communities they serve.

• RRF delivers aid quickly, often before insurance or government assistance becomes available.
• Donations cover temporary housing, repairs, and mortgage payments for victims.
• 100% of contributions go directly to disaster relief, with administrative costs fully covered by NAR.

Donate to the REALTORS® Relief Foundation (to help the community)

C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund

The California Association of REALTORS® Disaster Relief Fund supports REALTORS®, their employees, and association staff who are personally affected by natural disasters. This fund highlights the organization's commitment to caring for its own members, providing direct assistance to help them recover and rebuild.

• The fund offers grants for temporary housing, mortgage payments, and essential repairs.
• It reflects a strong sense of solidarity within the REALTOR® family.

Donate to the C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund (to help REALTORS® )

Your Impact Matters

Both funds serve critical needs. The REALTORS® Relief Foundation helps the public recover from disasters, while the C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund ensures REALTORS® and their staff have support when they need it most. Thank you for your generosity in helping those who need it most. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.

California’s housing market remained a work in progress with fewer homes sales and lower home prices in San Diego County in November 2024, according to the latest home sales and price report from the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.).

The pace for home sales in San Diego decreased by 13.8% in November 2024 from October 2024, although year-over-year sales between November 2024 and November 2023 were 18.7% higher. November’s decrease was preceded by an increase by 10.5% in October 2024, compared to September 2024.  

Statewide, home sales in November 2024 experienced its largest annual increase since June 2021. California’s sales pace declined by 1.1% in November 2024, compared to October 2024.

However, home sales statewide saw a double-digit growth rate of 19.5% in November 2024, compared to November 2023.

Closed escrow sales of existing, single-family detached homes in California totaled a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 267,800 in November 2024, which was well below the pre-Covid norm of 400,000 units.

The strong year-over-year gain observed in November 2024 was largely due to low-base effects, as home sales in November 2023 dropped to their lowest level since late 2007. Year-to-date statewide home sales edged up 3.1 percent.

“Mortgage rates continue to remain elevated, leading to challenges for many buyers. However, home prices are growing at a moderate pace and housing supply is increasing, indicating some hope that the market will continue to improve next year,” said 2025 C.A.R. President Heather Ozur, a Palm Springs REALTOR®.

Home prices also dropped in November 2024. The average price for an existing, single-family detached home in San Diego was $975,000 in November 2024, a difference of 3.5% with October 2024’s median price of $1,010,000.

It was the first time in the past eight months the median monthly price for a San Diego County home was below $1 million.

A year ago, in November 2023, the median price for a San Diego home was $952,000, a 2.4% difference with November 2024.

Statewide, the median home sales price was 4% lower in November 2024, when the price was $852,880, compared to $888,740 in October 2024. A year ago, in November 2023, the statewide median price was $821,710, a difference of 3.8% compared to November 2024.

On a month-to-month basis, the statewide November 2024 median price had the largest October-to-November drop since 2008 after recording the biggest September-to-October increase in the prior month.

The statewide year-over-year gain was the 16th straight month of annual price increases. The September-to-October price gain was the largest in 45 years.

The sizable monthly decline in California home prices in November 2024 was due primarily to a change in the mix of sales, as home sales in the higher-price segments pulled back more sharply from the prior month than in the lower-price segments. Home sales in higher-priced market segments continued to have an effect on the overall price growth. 

While the impact on the statewide median price gain had moderated in recent months, a solid increase in high-end home sales in November 2024 was still a contributing factor for the rise in the California median sold price.        

November 2024 County Sales and Price Activity
(Regional and condo sales data not seasonally adjusted)

“Home prices are expected to moderate further in the next couple of months if they follow the seasonal trend, but should continue to grow in the first quarter of 2025 before the kick-off of the spring homebuying season,” said C.A.R. Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Jordan Levine. “With mortgage rates expected to moderate in 2025, housing sentiment will continue to improve throughout the next 12 months, and more consumers will get off the sidelines as they acclimate further to the new market environment.”

Other key points from C.A.R.’s November 2024 resale housing report include:

• At the regional level, home sales in Southern California increased 8.7% in November 2024 when compared to last year’s sales level.
  
  
• At the regional level, median home prices in Southern California experienced a 3.1% increase in November 2024, compared to November 2023.
  
  
• Home prices increased on a year-over-year basis in more than two-thirds of the counties in California, with November’s median sold prices rising from their year-ago levels in 38 of the 53 counties monitored by C.A.R.
  
  
• The statewide unsold inventory index, which measures the number of months needed to sell the supply of homes on the market at the current sales rate, increased in both month-over-month and year-over-year comparisons. The index was 3.3 months in November 2024, up from 3.1 months in October 2024 and up from 2.9 months in November 2023.

November 2024 County Unsold Inventory and Days on Market

• The unsold inventory index of available existing homes for sale in San Diego County was at 2.9 months in November 2024, compared to 2.8 months in October 2024, 3.2 months in September 2024, 2.8 months in August 2024, 2.6 months in July 2024, 2.7 months in June 2024 and 2.5 months in November 2023. The index measures the number of months needed to sell the supply of homes on the market at the current sales rate.
  
  
• With market activity remaining slow during the holiday season and mortgage rates likely to stay elevated, housing supply could inch up further at the start of 2025.
  
  
• The median number of days it took to sell a California single-family home was 26 days in November 2024, up from 25 days in October 2024 and21 days in November 2023
  
  
• In San Diego, the median number of days it took to sell an existing, single-family home was 20 days in November 2024, compared to 20 days in October 2024, 18 days in September 2024, 17 days in August 2024 and 14 days in September 2023. For previous months in 2024, the figures were 16 days in July, 14 days in June and 12 days in May, April and March. The median represents the time when half the homes sell above it and half below it.
  
  
• The 30-year, fixed-mortgage interest rate averaged 6.81 percent in November 2024, down from 7.44 percent in November 2023, according to C.A.R.’s calculations based on Freddie Mac’s weekly mortgage survey data.