PSAR Members Advocate for Homeownership in Washington, D.C.

Posted by Communications on Jun 9, 2025 9:57:21 AM

Members in DCPSAR proudly sent a strong delegation to Washington, D.C. for the 2025 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings. Representing over 3,500 members, PSAR had two official NAR Directors-Nikki Coppa and Max Zaker-on hand to vote, deliberate, and advocate on behalf of REALTORS® nationwide.

Joining them were PSAR CEO Richard D’Ascoli, Bob Olivieri (Key Contact for Congressmember Juan Vargas), Minnie Rzeslawski (Key Contact for Congressmember Sara Jacobs), 2025 President Yvonne Cromer, and 2025 President-Elect Claudia Zaker. Together, they met with legislators and their staff to advocate for federal action on the most pressing issues affecting housing and real estate professionals.

2025 Legislative Priorities:
The PSAR team spoke directly to members of Congress about these four key issues:

  • Housing Affordability and Supply - Urging support for bills like the More Homes on the Market Act and the Housing Supply and Affordability Act to increase inventory and affordability.
  • Independent Contractor Status - Advocating for H.R. 3495 to protect REALTORS®’ ability to operate as independent contractors.
  • Insurance Access and Affordability - Supporting legislation like H.R. 1105 to reduce insurance costs through mitigation incentives and tax credits.
  • The Future of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac - Calling for responsible reform that preserves access to the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with a government backstop.

(Read more: A summary of the 2025 Legislative Priorities is attached.)

NAR Board of Directors Meeting Highlights:
NAR Directors passed a number of key policy changes, including:

  • Revised Code of Ethics Standard 10-5: Clarified language prohibiting harassment based on protected classes. This update underscores the REALTOR® commitment to professionalism and inclusion.
  • Policy Statement 29: Updated to help local and state associations fairly enforce the Code of Ethics.
  • Repeal of “No Commingling” MLS Rule: The optional rule requiring separation of MLS and non-MLS listings was removed due to declining relevance.
  • Balanced Budget Approved: A $270.8 million budget for 2026 was adopted with no dues increase. Most of the consumer ad campaign funds will be redirected to core operations, helping maintain financial stability during ongoing legal settlements.
  • Strategic Direction: NAR CEO Nykia Wright outlined nine new initiatives based on extensive member feedback, including modernized education, relationship management, and business tools.

Other Updates:

  • Distinguished Service Award Winners: James P. Cormier and Brooke S. Hunt were honored for decades of outstanding service.
  • Magel Award Winner: Anne Marie DeCatsye was recognized for excellence as a REALTOR® association executive.
  • REALTORS® Relief Foundation raised over $41,000 during the meetings to support disaster victims.
PSAR is proud to be your voice in Washington and remains committed to protecting private property rights, homeownership, and REALTOR® interests at the federal level.

Topics: Education, Technology, Paragon

Good Neighbor: Kenny Patrick – A Voice for the Community

Posted by Communications on Jun 3, 2025 9:08:43 AM

Kenny PatrickKenny Patrick has spent most of their life in San Diego and can't imagine living and thriving anywhere else. Driven by a deep-rooted sense of community, Kenny engages in various ways to give back. Connection to community, paired with a commitment to service, has earned Kenny the right to be known as a standout Good Neighbor Award finalist for the first quarter of 2025. Kenny’s involvement knows few bounds and stretches across organizations and neighborhoods, always striving to make life better for others.

When the Youth Assistance Coalition was launched (YACSD.org is an organization supporting homeless youth in San Diego), Kenny was among the first to step in. Through volunteering, donating personally, and procuring outside donations, Kenny helped extend vital services to an underserved and vulnerable population. In the iconic Normal Heights neighborhood (where Kenny lives), you'll find Kenny being of service as a board member on the Normal Heights Community Planning Group, working to ensure that local voices are represented. This commitment evolved into the role of Chairperson of the (not yet open) Normal Heights Community Garden. You'll often find Kenny walking door-to-door, sharing important community information with residents who can’t always attend meetings. Kenny is also a board member with a preschool called Includ(Ed) - serving non-neurotypical and neurotypical children. Growing IncludEdSD.org into a self-sustaining preschool is one of the most rewarding and challenging things Kenny will ever do.

Kenny Patrick is more than a neighbor - you'll experience Kenny as a connector, an advocate, and a steady presence in civic spaces that shape the future of San Diego communities. Employing thoughtful local leadership skills ensures that diverse perspectives are placed squarely in front of elected San Diego officials. Vulnerable community members of San Diego will always have a voice because of Kenny and many others with similar passions for civic equity. By modeling inclusive, proactive involvement, Kenny reminds us that being a good neighbor means showing up, speaking out, and helping everyone feel like they belong.

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

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

Good Neighbor: Amy Saflar - A leader of Community and Heritage

Posted by Communications on Jun 2, 2025 11:16:09 AM

The Alpine Woman’s Club stands as a cornerstone of Alpine's community spirit, dedicated to fostering social, civic, educational, and cultural advancement. At its heart beats the Historic Town Hall, a cherished symbol of heritage and unity, meticulously preserved through the tireless efforts of volunteers like Amy Saflar.

Good Neighbor Amy SaflarSince 2012, Amy Saflar has been at the forefront of the Alpine Woman’s Club's mission, serving as Grant Administrator and Secretary with unwavering dedication. Her pivotal role has not only expanded the club’s membership and fundraising prowess but has also raised over $140,000 in vital funds. Amy’s commitment extends far beyond administrative duties; she actively participates in fundraisers, monthly activities, and chairs luncheons, all while spearheading initiatives that have significantly bolstered the club's impact in the community.

Amy’s influence transcends financial contributions; she embodies the spirit of community through her generosity and hands-on support. From providing cash donations to supplying food for events and donating household goods, Amy's contributions have ensured the success of numerous endeavors, including the Annual High Tea and Attic Treasures Sale.

Amy Saflar7Central to Amy's impact is her proficiency in securing crucial funding through grant writing initiatives. Her strategic approach has facilitated essential maintenance of the Historic Town Hall and enabled necessary upgrades to ensure accessibility and aesthetic appeal for all visitors.

Beyond her organizational prowess, Amy's inclusive leadership has fostered a culture of engagement within the club, encouraging diversity and community involvement. Her efforts have strengthened the bonds among members and preserved the Historic Town Hall as a vital hub for community gatherings and celebrations.

Amy Saflar's steadfast commitment to the Alpine Woman’s Club and the preservation of the Historic Town Hall exemplifies the power of individual initiative in enhancing community life. Her contributions ensure that Alpine remains a place where heritage thrives and community spirit flourishes.

Amy Saflar and the Alpine Woman's Club

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

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

Good Neighbor: Doreen Smith – Champion for Senior Dogs at Frosted Faces Foundation

Posted by Communications on May 29, 2025 8:59:07 AM

Doreen Smith

 

Doreen Smith has made it her mission to ensure that senior dogs are not forgotten. As a dedicated volunteer for Frosted Faces Foundation (FFF), a nonprofit organization that provides loving homes and comprehensive veterinary care for aging pets, Doreen’s compassion has become a lifeline for many dogs in need. Her ongoing commitment has earned her a well-deserved place as one of the first-quarter Good Neighbor Award finalists.

Frosted Faces Foundation relies on community support to carry out its mission, and Doreen’s involvement touches nearly every part of the organization. She regularly volunteers her time atDoreen Smith 4 events and open houses, fosters and adopts senior dogs - five so far - and contributes both funds and supplies to help meet the foundation’s needs. Doreen also uses her voice to spread awareness, promoting FFF’s cause on social media, sponsoring their local chamber membership, and encouraging others to get involved. Thanks to her efforts, more volunteers have stepped forward, and more people in the community now understand the critical need to support senior pets.

Doreen Smith 5Doreen’s dedication to Frosted Faces Foundation has had a lasting impact on both the organization and the dogs it serves. Her generosity, advocacy, and hands-on support exemplify what it means to be a good neighbor. Through her work, Doreen has helped ensure that many senior dogs find comfort, care, and companionship in their golden years, showing that it’s never too late for a second chance at love.

 

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

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

DOM is DAM. What else don't you know about Days Active in MLS?

Posted by Communications on May 23, 2025 4:30:00 PM

 Days on Market (DOM) is now Days Active in MLS (DAM) 

 CRMLS is continually evolving, which occasionally means we rethink the names and terms we use to better reflect the reality of what they represent. As such, we have retitled two common CRMLS statistics to more accurately describe what the numbers represent.   

Effective June 3, 2025, the following terms have changed:

  • Days on Market (DOM) is now Days Active in MLS (DAM)
  • Cumulative Days on Market (CDOM) is now Cumulative Days Active in MLS (CDAM)

The calculation method for these terms will stay the same, so the way DOM was calculated previously is the same way DAM is calculated now. You are not required to take any action; this change has been made in the backend of the MLS. If you view a listing in CRMLS, you will see the new terminology reflected.

If you have any questions, please contact the PSAR staff.  We're here to help! 

Here’s a quick overview of how DAM is handled in CRMLS and how we understand it works in SDMLS.

CRMLS

  • DAM Reset: When a property is relisted, the DAM resets to zero.
  • CDAM Reset: CDAM resets to zero only if the property has been off the market for 90 consecutive days or if there is a change in ownership.
  • Immediate Relisting: Agents can relist a property immediately after canceling or withdrawing it.
  • Display: Both DAM and CDAM are shown in CRMLS. This includes listings input through SDMLS, even though SDMLS itself does not calculate CDAM.

SDMLS (Based on SDMLS public resources)

  • DOM/CDOM Reset: If a listing is canceled or withdrawn, it may not be reentered as a new listing by the same brokerage for 30 days.
  • Relisting Rule: No relisting within 30 days.
  • Display: Only DOM appears to be shown. There’s no evidence that SDMLS calculates or displays CDOM.


Third-Party Real Estate Portals
Zillow, Realtor.com, and other portals generally show the DOM value reported by the MLS. They do not appear to show CDOM. However, they do display a detailed listing history that shows when properties were listed, withdrawn, or canceled. This means potential buyers can still see how long a property has been on and off the market, even if the DOM resets.

Key Takeaway for REALTORS®
Be prepared to explain listing history to your clients. While DOM may reset in some systems, public-facing sites may still show previous activity. CDOM is visible to agents in CRMLS, even for SDMLS listings, which can help you give better context to your buyers and sellers.


DAM/CDAM vs DOM/CDOM

 


Topics: Education, Technology, Paragon

Here is the Board Slate of Nominees for 2026/2027

Posted by PSAR Communication on May 23, 2025 10:00:00 AM

blogbanner_PSAR_Election_Slate_2026
The Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® Nominating Committee and the Board of Directors respectfully submit the following slate for the 2026/2027 Officers and Directors Annual Election. Elections will begin electronically on June 20th and end on June 27th at 5 p.m..

President-Elect
Jim O'Donnell

Secretary / Treasurer
Michael Dullea

Directors (Vote for 5 Two-Year Seats)
Alma Coogan
Monica Greenwood
Jaimie Kurtz Prowse
Jim Long
Mike Shenkman
Abraham Vargas
___________________________________________

Elections will begin on the morning of June 20th and end on June 27th at 5 p.m.

 

Topics: Leadership

Congratulations to 2024 Good Neighbor Award winner: Jexsi Grey

Posted by Communications on May 16, 2025 4:26:35 PM

Good Neighbor Jexsi GreyAfter serving in the U.S. Air Force in a role focused on nuclear weapons, Jexsi Grey faced a difficult return to civilian life, which led to two years of homelessness, living in hotel rooms and his car. This period of adversity deeply sensitized him to the struggles faced by unhoused individuals. With support from local nonprofits, Jexsi regained stability, sparking a profound commitment to give back to his community. Today, he stands as a dedicated housing advocate and collaborator within regional and statewide organizations, focusing on housing equity, homelessness solutions, and tenant empowerment.

Good Neighbor Jexsi Grey HumbleAs a Board Member and Community Collaborator at Humble Design, Jexsi provides strategic direction and governance oversight. His efforts include board recruitment, member onboarding, performance evaluations, and aligning national and local strategies. He actively engages in fundraising and expanding community partnerships to bolster program sustainability. Additionally, in his role as Landlord Liaison for the San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative (Townspeople), Jexsi leads initiatives to secure shared housing opportunities by cultivating relationships with landlords and property owners. He facilitates tenant move-ins, matches roommates, resolves landlord-tenant issues, and provides education on fair housing and rental best practices. Jexsi maintains a comprehensive database of available units to streamline placement and reduce housing barriers for vulnerable populations.

jexsi Grey homelessnessJexsi's volunteer work with Humble Design San Diego has been transformative, converting empty spaces into fully furnished, personalized homes for those transitioning out of homelessness. His advisory board membership, informed by his personal experience, ensures each home restores dignity and promotes emotional well-being. His contributions have significantly contributed to the program's success, evidenced by a remarkable 98% housing retention rate. His role in the Shared Housing Palooza campaign, which aimed to house 75 individuals through shared housing solutions, was pivotal. Through strategic engagement and advocacy, Jexsi helped surpass expectations, with 69 people securing housing—a 92% achievement of the campaign's goal. His dedication to humanizing the experience of homelessness and forging partnerships has strengthened San Diego's capacity to provide sustainable housing solutions, showcasing the impact of compassionate advocacy and innovative thinking.
jexsi Grey Panel-1

 

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

Return Your Ballot by TOMORROW, April 8th – Your Vote Matters

Posted by PSAR Government Affairs on Apr 7, 2025 10:19:49 AM

A special election is underway in San Diego County Supervisor District 1. The outcome will decide the tie-breaking vote on the County Board of Supervisors— a board that makes decisions on critical issues that impact homeownership and the real estate industry.

Issues at stake include:

-Stopping a proposed real estate transfer tax—a tax on selling property that would make homeownership more expensive

-Rent control and rental housing policies

-New taxes on home building, including the Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) tax

-Land use decisions and General Plan amendments

-Funding for housing programs

 

PSAR has endorsed John McCann for County Supervisor. 

John McCann understands the impact these policies have on homeowners, property rights, and real estate professionals. He is committed to opposing harmful taxes like the proposed transfer tax and standing up for homeownership in San Diego County.

Protect your business. Protect homeownership. Return your ballot by tomorrow, April 8th.

NAR_CA_McCann_DFLT2_Dem_GB1

If you are registered to vote in County Supervisorial District 1, you should have already received your ballot in the mail.  Below are your options for voting:

Click Here for a list of Ballot Drop Box Locations

Click Here for a list of Vote Center Locations

Every vote counts, please vote! 

Pacific_Southwest_Association_of_REALTORS-2025-JPG-color (3)

 
 

Topics: Government Affairs

2026 PSAR/CAR Board of Directors annual nominations process has begun!

Posted by PSAR Communication on Apr 4, 2025 9:00:00 AM

PSAR Board of Directors Nominating Period
PSAR Board of Directors & CAR Director 2026 / 2027 Nominations

What is the ideal profile of an Officer or Director?

  • An experienced agent or broker manager who will represent PSAR's members.
  • Has specific skills that will help our organization be more relevant in today's marketplace
  • A desire to “give back” to the REALTOR® community 
  • Has the ability to guide others in developing their leadership capabilities
  • A community volunteer who inspires others to contribute their time as well
  • A strong belief in PSAR and the willingness to contribute to its greater success

As a PSAR director, you will have the opportunity to work with influential and highly capable industry and community leaders. Board members are the face of the organization and are industry leaders as well.  Our Board members expand their network, grow in professional stature, and influence initiatives that empower REALTORS®.  Join an elite team of real estate leaders and be a difference-maker in your Association.

Becoming an Officer or Director.

PSAR's Nominating Committee is seeking nominees for:

  • President-Elect
  • Secretary/Treasurer
  • Director (There are 5 Director positions available)

    Deadline for Submission of Nomination: April 30th (5 PM). Send the nomination forms to ceo@psar.org

 

______________________________________________________________

 

Are you interested in becoming a Director of the California Association of REALTORS® representing PSAR in 2026?

  • Are you active in the Real Estate industry?
  • Are you a successful agent, manager, or Broker/Owner?
  • Are you active in residential resale, commercial sales, or property management?
  • Have you served at least one year on a PSAR committee?

    This is an opportunity to leverage your knowledge and experience to make a difference!

    Deadline for Submission of nomination: April 30th (5 PM). Send the nomination forms to ceo@psar.org

 

Topics: Leadership

Cathy Gabrielson: A League of Her Own Through Service & Compassion

Posted by Communications on Mar 12, 2025 10:00:00 AM

Cathy GabrielsonCathy 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

Topics: Announcements, Leadership