The El Cajon City Council is once again attempting an action that is detrimental to ratepayers and potential buyers trying to qualify for home loans in El Cajon.

In February of this year, the El Cajon City Council attempted to add sewer charges to homeowners’ semi-annual property tax bills.

This might seem like an innocuous proposal. In reality, adding any fee to property taxes because higher property taxes always result in lower borrowing ability.

Adding sewer charges to property taxes translates to a loss in buying power for homebuyers. It means future homebuyers will need more money to qualify for a mortgage. It means lower housing values, including lost equity because a higher property tax bill can shrink a homebuyer’s available pool of money for purchasing a home. PSAR has always supported alternate methods of collecting fees for public services instead of inclusion with parcel taxes.

Back in February, PSAR members joined numerous seniors and other community members in testifying at the El Cajon City Council meeting. As a result, a majority of the council members voted “no” on the proposal to add sewer charges to homeowners’ property tax bills.

Now, the El Cajon City Council has scheduled a public hearing to discuss the same harmful proposal . The meeting is scheduled for 3 p.m., Tuesday, July 14. The meeting will be held online via live video streaming.

Some residents became aware of the July 14 public hearing only after receiving a city notice of a sewer rate change and the shift to property taxes effective July 1.

PSAR members also learned that the city was adding the May and June 2020 billing, in addition to the July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021 fiscal year sewer bills, to the property tax bills. This means a a much higher tax bill will be due this Fall.

In a recent meeting, the PSAR Government Affairs Committee voted unanimously to oppose the El Cajon sewer tax proposal. The Committee is encouraging PSAR members and property owners to voice their concerns about this pending action.

All PSAR members and El Cajon property owners are encouraged to send an e-mail to the City of El Cajon stating your opposition. In your e-mail, refer to the “Sewer Billing System Change to the Property Tax Roll.” Protest emails must be sent prior to 2 p.m. on July 14. Any written objection or protest must include your name, Assessor Parcel Number (APN), sewer service address and a statement of your opposition to the placement of sewer charges on the property tax bill. Protest emails can be sent to City Clerk Angela Cortez at cityclerk@cityofelcajon.us or City Manager Graham Mitchell at gmitchell@cityofelcajon.us.  We also urge El Cajon residents and property owners to reach out to their councilmembers and the Mayor to express your thoughts on this matter. 

Councilmember Bob McClellan- bmcclellan@cityofelcajon.us     

Councilmember Steve Goble- sgoble@cityofelcajon.us  

Councilmember Gary Kendrick- gkendrick@cityofelcajon.us   

Councilmember Phil Ortiz- portiz@cityofelcajon.us          

Mayor Bill Wells- bwells@cityofelcajon.us   

There are many factors related to the El Cajon sewer tax proposal of which residents should be concerned. Seniors and individuals on a fixed income will be hit by a large bill at the end of the year. Who will ratepayers contact if there is an error on their sewer bill if those fees are added to their annual tax payments? Any small savings realized from billing through the property tax roll is more than offset by incorrect bills and the expense of correcting them. The city is going to defer income from sewer ratepayers until the end of the year. How is that money financed? Isn’t it better for the city to collect this money upfront rather than waiting to year’s to bill? What additional cost will result from this approach?

In a noteworthy oversight, a member of the City Council suggested that the city t offer property owners the ability to pay a bi-monthly sewer bill, but there was no mention of that suggestion in the city notice.

In 2019, El Cajon approved higher sewer rates for the next five years. A typical customer paying $48.31 each month for sewer services will see their bill increase to $55.09 in 2020, $61.22 in 2021, $69.70 in 2022, $77.35 in 2023 and $88.76 in 2024.

The city’s 17,000 residential customers haven’t seen a rate increase since 2011. Before then, the last adjustment to sewer rates in El Cajon was in 1999. Wastewater in El Cajon is piped to San Diego’s Point Loma treatment plant where it is treated and then released into the ocean.

Ratepayers—voters-- deserve to know why this proposal has resurfaced and to receive answers to related questions and issues that it generates. Stand up and be counted at the City Council hearing on Tuesday, July 14, at 3:00 pm.

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Our Mission is to empower our members to flourish while being accountable to each other
our clients and our community.

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth & development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County. This program is only open to REALTORS® and PSAR Affiliate Members. There is no cost for attending this program.

I

Congratulations to a group of PSAR members who recently completed the Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) Institute.

The CIPS Institute, from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), provides REALTORS® with knowledge, tools and a worldwide network helping in serving international clients.

The recent CIPS graduates include: 

Jackie Beltran

David Cardenas

Edith Cortez-Hernandez

Robert Cromer

Michael Dullea

Deborah Ferrari

Araceli Gonzalez

Nicolas Iniguez

Trinidelita Lao

Steven Lewis

Elva Luna

Angela Nugent

Dante Pamintuan

Diana Phan

Myrna Reyes

Patricia Ruesga

Yolanda Rosario

Maria Elena Sexsion

Rhiza Trinidad

Mary Beth Viruete

Ditas Yamane

These new CIPS graduates gained the knowledge needed to present investment information to international clients in their currency and area. They are now eligible to apply for NAR's CIPS Designation.  Once NAR accepts their applications, NAR will recognize them as expert resources in the international real estate market. They will have access to the information, research, network and tools to globalize their business. They now understand the financial, legal and cultural differences for real estate transactions in various countries.

CIPS graduates receive a variety of benefits, including a listing in the “Find a CIPS” online directory, customizable print postcards, customizable web banner ads and customizable press release. Technology tools include a CIPS app that provides translation, area and currency conversion, time zone calculation and international holidays, along with a CIPS resource browser toolbar. They also will receive a “Global Perspectives” print newsletter, access to webinars and networking opportunities, including access to CIPS member-only online communities and invitations to exclusive events at NAR meetings.

The CIPS class was an intensive program of study focusing on critical aspects of trans-national transactions, including currency and exchange rate issues, cross-cultural relationships, regional market conditions, investment performance, tax issues and more. Four-hour classes were held at various times June 15-19 and June 23-26.

The first class included an overview of the international real estate business environment, including capital flow, currencies, government regulations and culture. Topics included international brokerage, networking, marketing and selling.

Other classes featured the tools needed to present investment information to international clients. Students learned how to measure investment performance, prepare financial projections and understand the effects of taxes and exchange rates on investment.

Classes focused on real estate in Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Americas. Topics included the European Union and its impact on international real estate, as well as selling practices. Another class emphasized the cultural influences and economic trends in Japan and Asia. Another class included practical information on working with clients from the Caribbean and North, Central and South America, along with historical and cultural influences.

The instructor was Furhad Waquad, a NAR director since 2004. Furhad also is a past president of the Michigan Association of REALTORS®, a past NAR Regional Vice President and leader in NAR international leadership positions, including as a member of the NAR International Faculty. He has been recognized as Michigan’s REALTOR® of the Year and Michigan’s REALTOR® Active in Politics. 

Furhad is actively involved in REALTOR® organizations across the country. He is serving as NAR Federal Political Coordinator to U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and 2019-2020 NAR REALTOR Party Trustee for Campaign Services. He previously served as the 2013 Chairman of the National Association of REALTORS’® Global Business Alliances Committee and the 2009 NAR President’s Liaison to International Operations.

Several PSAR members who are now CIPS graduates are actively involved with the PSAR Global Real Estate Council (GREC). Many PSAR members who are interested in cross-border opportunities and who want to network with other international real estate practitioners are involved with GREC.

PSAR’s GREC is dedicated to assist the needs of PSAR members who desire to expand their international outreach and help international capital investment clients make informed transactions with effective counsel across multiple jurisdictions. The vision of the Council is to provide and facilitate educational opportunities to enable PSAR members to expand their practice and organize global-themed events.

GREC can provide you with a platform to connect with individuals internationally. GREC offers PSAR members the opportunity to learn and expand their niche market in real estate internationally.

Formed in 2013, PSAR’s GREC has hosted several educational events in recent years designed to assist PSAR members in helping international capital investment clients to make informed transactions with effective counsel across multiple jurisdictions. The training sessions have focused on cultural customs and diversity, as well as panel discussions and forums with international partners.

Fair housing is more than a list of dos and don’ts, rights and penalties and mandatory continuing education. As stewards of the right to own, use and transfer private property, fair housing protects our livelihood and business as REALTORS® and depends on a free, open market that embraces equal opportunity.

Fair housing is not an option, it is the law. The Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination based on race, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and familial status (protected classes). Californians are further protected from discrimination on the basis of age, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, sexual identification, AIDS/HIV, medical condition, political activities and affiliation, military or veteran status, and/or being domestic violence survivors.

What are some common unlawful acts of discrimination? They include:

• Refusing to sell a property because of a person’s protected class.
• Restricting loans or targeting higher cost loans to people based on their protected class or the neighborhood where the home is located.
• Falsely denying that housing is available for inspection, sale, or rental.
• Failing to provide reasonable accommodations to a person with a disability.

Fair housing exists in a community when individuals of similar income have the same range of housing choices regardless of race or color, ancestry or national origin, religion, gender, disability, marital or familial status, sexual orientation, or source of income.

The Fair Housing Acts covers most housing. In very limited circumstances, the Act exempts owner-occupied buildings with no more than four units, single-family houses sold or rented by the owner without the use of an agent, and housing operated by religious organizations and private clubs that limit occupancy to members.

REALTORS® recognize the significance of the Fair Housing Act and reconfirm their commitment to upholding fair housing law as well as their commitment to offering equal professional service to all in their search for real property.

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has a “Fair Housing Action Plan” that uses the abbreviation “ACT,” which stands for (A)ccountability, (C)ulture Change and (T)raining. It ensures that America’s 1.4 million REALTORS® are doing everything possible to protect housing rights in America. NAR recommends printing a copy of the “REALTOR® Fair Housing Declaration” and posting it in your office. It can be found here,www.nar.realtor/fair-housing/fair-housing-program/fair-housing-declaration.

The Fair Housing Declaration says:

   I agree to:

• Provide equal professional service without regard to the race, color, religion, gender (sex), disability (handicap), familial status, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity of any prospective client, customer, or of the residents of any community.
• Keep informed about fair housing law and practices, improving my clients’ and customers’ opportunities and my business.
• Develop advertising that indicates that everyone is welcome and no one is excluded;, expanding my client’s and customer’s opportunities to see, buy, or lease property.
• Inform my clients and customers about their rights and responsibilities under the fair housing laws by providing brochures and other information.
• Document my efforts to provide professional service, which will assist me in becoming a more responsive and successful REALTOR®.
• Refuse to tolerate non-compliance.
• Learn about those who are different from me, and celebrate those differences.
• Take a positive approach to fair housing practices and aspire to follow the spirit as well as the letter of the law.
• Develop and implement fair housing practices for my firm to carry out the spirit of this declaration.

Where and when is Fair Housing discrimination occurring? According to CSA San Diego County, recent examples include:

• A nationwide mortgage lender had systematically charged higher interest rates to Hispanic and African-American borrowers.
• In Virginia Beach, landlords refused to rent to families with three or more children.
• In Connecticut a landlord refused to grant a tenant reasonable accommodation for her assistance dog which helped her with her cerebral palsy, seizure disorder, and depression.

In addition, a three-year investigation by Newsday, a New York newspaper, uncovered widespread evidence of unequal treatment by real estate agents on Long Island, New York. In one of the most concentrated investigations of discrimination by real estate agents in the half century since enactment of America’s landmark fair housing law, Newsday found evidence of widespread separate and unequal treatment of minority potential homebuyers and minority communities on Long Island.

The three-year probe strongly indicates that house hunting in one of the nation’s most segregated suburbs poses substantial risks of discrimination, with black buyers chancing disadvantages almost half the time they enlist brokers. The investigation, published Nov. 17, 2019, involved 25 undercover testers and 93 real estate agents who provided a total of 5,763 listings, as well as 240 hours of secretly-recorded meetings. Unequal treatment was directed toward Asians (19 percent), Hispanics (39 percent), Blacks (49 percent)

Additionally, the investigation reveals that Long Island’s dominant residential brokering firms help solidify racial separations. They frequently directed white customers toward areas with the highest white representations and minority buyers to more integrated neighborhoods. They also avoided business in communities with overwhelmingly minority populations. Fair housing laws bar agents from directing whites to one community and equally qualified blacks, Hispanics or Asians to other places, a practice known as steering.

The newspaper said, “Fair housing standards generally bar agents from talking about the backgrounds of people who live in neighborhoods as a form of verbal racial or ethnic steering. The standards also require agents to provide equal guidance to customers about areas in which they may want to live.

“Agents and brokers bear the responsibility for applying fair housing standards as they act as licensed gatekeepers to housing choices. Industry representatives have contended that proper training is the best way to ensure agents uphold fair housing laws, arguing against more aggressive enforcement through fines, license suspensions or revocations.

“Ultimately, fair housing violations are determined by the courts or enforcement agencies. Authorities may choose to file charges based on egregious conduct in a single case. More generally, they bring legal action after subjecting an agent to several paired tests to establish a pattern and to reduce the likelihood that an agent’s choices were either a fluke or soundly guided by the market at the time.”

The Urban Institute, a nonprofit group, conducted a nationwide study sponsored by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in 2010. That study involved more than 8,000 tests found real estate agents engaged less frequently than in the past in more explicit forms of discrimination, such as not showing available houses to minority buyers. However, the study also showed that agents placed minority buyers in more integrated neighborhoods at a higher rate than white buyers.

“The issue of discrimination is very subtle,” said Claudia Aranda, a director of field operations for the Urban Institute. “In the absence of treatment that’s more overt, in the absence of particular discriminatory comments, individual home seekers will never have potentially any reason to suspect discrimination.”

For more details about the Newsday study, visit https://projects.newsday.com/long-island/real-estate-agents-investigation.

In order to prevent the appearance of discrimination, CSA San Diego County recommends the following:

• Train all your staff consistently on local, state and federal regulations.
• Standardize your engagement practices.
• Always post the Fair Housing logo prominently on your property.
• Distribute materials and information equally to all interested parties.
• Standardize the process of maintaining wait or interest lists.
• Brief staff daily as to the availability of units.
• Don’t show different units to different prospective applicants.
• Don’t show unclean units to prospective applicants.

PSAR will present a webinar on “Fair Housing Laws and Regulations” from 10 to 11 a.m., Wednesday, July 1. Presenter will be Monica Lopez of CSA San Diego County, a nonprofit that advocates for fair housing and in meditating tenant-landlord issues. CSA services include fair housing counseling, dispute mediation, educational fair housing seminars and rental practice discrimination audits. CSA also is involved with immigrant rights, hate-crime prevention, human trafficking and voter education. The webinar will be presented over the Zoom online meeting platform. Registration information is available at www.psar.org. Zoom membership is not required to participate in the webinar.

Perhaps the greatest impact of the Covid-19 measures is on open houses. Going forward, instead of group open-house gatherings, expect fewer open houses with smaller numbers, as well as private home showings, featuring social distancing and plenty of disinfectant, masks and hand sanitizers available at the entryway.

The adaptability and ingenuity of realtors have come into play and a better and simpler way to conduct an open house has been developed--  a virtual open house using a laptop or cell phone. 

“Covid has changed the way real estate is being bought and sold all over the world. It has created a lot of uncertainty as agents are unsure of what the new norms will be,” said PSAR REALTOR® member Anthony Manzon. “No longer can we have public open houses with hundreds of people in attendance. Gone are the days of aggressively pricing properties and getting every single person into the house to create bidding wars.”

Indeed, as the pandemic has spread across the country, many home sellers, spooked by an unsure economic future and/or the thought of buyers potentially leaving virus deposits throughout their homes, have taken their properties off the market.

“The more agents hosting virtual open houses means the practice will become standard in our profession, which is good for everybody,” said Manzon. “All agents will benefit as more buyers and sellers become comfortable and confident with high-level virtual open houses. We can show the public this is how we can transact in today’s market in a safe way.”

Manzon, who prefers using a laptop for his virtual open houses, has created a Facebook page, called “Realtors of the Virtual World,” that offers training and success stories about virtual open houses and other virtual industry tools.

According to Manzon, agents who become proficient at hosting a virtual open house will attract new clients, demonstrate how to be proactive and solution-based and will keep buyers and sellers and agents safe, thus reducing the spread of the virus.

“Be sure to have some sort of lead capture, provide more information than what the MLS provides and remember that with every virtual open house agents are interviewing for their next client,” Manzon said.

Clearly, the rapid migration to digital technologies driven by the pandemic will continue during the nation’s economic recovery and beyond. REALTORS® will need to keep pace. After the lockdowns end, this time will be remembered for the rapid deployment of digital access to services across nearly every business sector.

Recently, Rich D’Ascoli, CEO of PSAR, facilitated an online discussion about virtual open houses with several REALTORS®. Here is a sampling of their comments: 

• “In my opinion, virtual open houses are the wave of the future,” said Amber Tannehill. “The ability to show a client a home virtually will assist us in identifying the buyers who are serious and ready to make an offer. As we adapt to what appears to be a new normal, we will certainly have some obstacles to overcome, but I find that buyers and sellers are understanding and appreciative as we make these adjustments." 

• “Open houses are still happening, but with virtual open houses, we’re just filtering the effort through a different process,” said Jason Lopez.

• “Because of the restrictions, traditional open houses may be a thing of the past. But, in some ways, virtual open houses are a better way to get the word out,” said Denisse Roldan Newell. “It’s becoming more important to become tech-savvy, and it’s not that difficult. It’s how we embrace change.” 

• “If you aren't willing to adapt as the market changes, then you will quickly learn what it’s like to be irrelevant,” said Sarah Heck. “Virtual open houses and new safety protocols are now the standard of care for our industry.” 

• “Virtual open houses are the wave of the future and, as REALTORS®, we need to learn it because it’s an important listing tool. Otherwise, we might lose the listing,” said Jacklyn Lamkin Dougan. “We need to be fearless and embrace change and be willing to do whatever it takes.”

• “It might take a few practice runs, but I think clients are very understanding and excited about virtual open houses as a new technology,” said Patty Nesbitt. “It’s better than watching the news. We need to bring happiness and normalcy to people’s lives.”

• “I’m excited about virtual open houses because it will be one of the great real estate game-changers that comes out of the pandemic environment,” said Elaine Boyd. “Virtual open houses are a win for all sides. The sellers love having fewer people wandering through their homes. Great for agents, too. We can do as many or as few VOHs as we like. Even if you do just one, you can post it on YouTube, then anyone can “walk” through the home any time. The 3D imaging is key for getting a true sense of walking through the home. It’s the wave of the future, just amazing. The Virtual Open House is so more than a bridge for these strange days of Covid-19. It is a new style of open house that benefits us all and it is here to stay.” 

Here are some general tips on hosting a virtual live open house.

To prepare for the virtual open house, first, select a time and date as you would for any open house. Allow 30-45 minutes to tour the property and answer questions from participants. 

Next, select an online meeting platform, such as Zoom, Google Meet or others.  Decide on a “private” open house private with a select group or streaming it to a platform like Facebook to be promoted widely. 

The following live web conferencing services are currently allowed on CRMLS Paragon: BlueJeans, bluejeans.com; Facebook Live, facebook.com; GoToMeeting, gotomeeting.com; GoToWebinar, gotowebinar.com; Google Hangouts,  hangouts.google.com; Google Meet, meet.google.com; Join.me, join.me; Livestream, livestream.com; Periscope, periscope.com; Skype, skype.com; Microsoft Teams, teams.microsoft.com; Webex, webex.com; Whereby, whereby.com; YouTube Live, youtube.com; Zoho, zoho.com; Zoom, zoom.us.

Facebook is popular because it allows you to create an event from your Facebook business page. Under the “Events” tab create a new public event to share.

To drive traffic to your virtual open house, include the link in a shared event via Facebook and other social media platforms. Also email your client list and agents who will bring interested buyers.

On the event day, prepare the house as you would for a typical open house.  Make sure it’s clean, presentable and properly lit.

If the home has a fast WiFi Connection and you feel confident with mobile technology, live streaming from the property is an option.

Another method is to prepare content like Matterport, video clips, and other multimedia in advance and review the content live from a home office.

Start the tour by opening your Facebook app on your smartphone, go to your business page, open-up the event you’ve previously created. Go to the “Say Something” option, click the “Live Video” option and then click “Start Live Video.” You’re on: “Hello, Facebook friends, thanks for tuning in to this live virtual open house.” The recording can then be posted on your Facebook timeline. And, don’t forget to follow-up with your viewers.

When using a smartphone, keep it in a horizontal position, not vertical, so participants see a wider view of the home as you’re touring. Put yourself on the other side of the camera and imagine how the audience is viewing the screen. Slowly move the smartphone and try not to shake it. There are gimbals available online for less than $100 that help to stabilize live video.

During the tour, think of your ideal buyer. Anticipate the questions they might ask and discuss the features they would find interesting. Some agents respond live to questions by looking at specific points of interest in a home.

About Robert  |  Photos of Robert and Colleagues  |  Services  |  Share thoughts about Robert

The Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® (PSAR) has lost a dear friend, Past President, CAR Region 30 Vice Chair, and current board member. It’s with much grief and sadness to report that Robert Calloway has passed away at the tender age of 54. He was found at his home on Tuesday, May 5. The cause of death was determined to be heart disease.

The theme for Robert’s year as 2019 PSAR President was “Salute to Service.” He said in a February 2019 PSAR blog post, “I have learned that nothing is more refreshing than to serve and giveback, and by getting involved. It’s your attitude that is most important. There’s something very authentic in participating with the desire to help others: Nothing to prove; nothing to lose.

“PSAR’s mission is to empower our members. Our mission statement states: `We empower our members to flourish while being accountable to each other, our clients and our community.’ Our members are self-empowered to take control of their own destiny and careers.

“I encourage everyone to get involved by volunteering and serving in their community. Don’t just show-up, volunteer. Find your passions, utilize your strengths, be a participant, not just an observer, and you will get more out of life. You will develop your skills, advance your career and the experience will be rewarding to you both personally and professionally. While no one is capable of doing everything, everyone is capable of doing something.” 

Following the conclusion of his term, Robert said in a January 2020 PSAR blog post, “Thanks to all of you who participated and were dedicated to this theme. It was a year when our members definitely stepped up and served our Association by committing themselves to service and to our mission of Empowering Our Members.”

According to Richard D’Ascoli, CEO, PSAR, the entire San Diego-area real estate industry has lost a true leader.

“I can honestly say that the overarching theme in Robert’s life was his commitment to service,” said D’Ascoli. “He lived a life of continuous and unrelenting service. In the Navy, he served our country, he retired and served the disabled veteran community by promoting VA benefits to those in need,  Then, he began serving his real estate profession as president of our association. At the same time, he was serving the faith community at his church. His life will be remembered as an example of service. We will miss him greatly.”

During his 2019 term as PSAR President, there were many highlights. Here are a few:

• 190 training classes, 23 unique events and 600 marketing sessions
• Expanded membership by 10 percent
• Expanded services by opening a third PSAR Service Center in Clairemont Mesa, 4340 Genesee Ave., Suite 203, San Diego, called the Central San Diego Service Center
• Launched a new weekly property marketing pitch meeting, called “City Pitch,” held at 9 a.m., every Tuesday morning, at the PSAR Central San Diego Service Center
• Expanded access to more technology and listing data by joining the California Regional Multiple Listing Service
•Added Glide 2.0 and SavvyCard as new member benefits
• Awarded $13,500 to four local nonprofits, including South Bay Community Services, Unity 4 Orphans, Meals on Wheels and San Ysidro Health Center, as a result of fundraising at two PSAR events, including the PSAR 2019 Realtor Games, held in June, and the PSAR 2019 Zombie Run-Walk, held in October
• Published a new Local Area Disclosures (LAD) publication covering San Diego County in partnership with the North San Diego County Association of REALTORS® (NSDCAR), the new LAD contains disclosure information relating to properties in the San Diego region
• Recognized at the El Cajon City Council for a grant that created a website featuring resources and information to assist homeless people in the East County;
• Assisted the City of San Diego in writing  the “Companion Unit Handbook,” a  helpful 38-page guide to help homeowners better navigate the process of constructing on their property a companion unit, also known as granny flats or accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
• Provided input to the La Mesa City Council, City of Chula Vista and San Diego County Board of Supervisors about ADUs in support of property owners and as a way to address the region’s housing supply and affordability crisis
• Promoted the CRMLS/Mexico MLS data-share as a presenter at the AMPI (Asociacion Mexicana de Profesionales Inmobiliarios) national convention (AMPI is Mexico’s counterpart to the National Association of REALTORS®)
•Solidified relationships with Baja Associations through meetings in Los Cabos and La Paz

Robert was especially proud of the recognition given for his efforts to help veterans with homeownership. In 2018, Robert was invited by Ernest J. Dronenburg, Jr., San Diego County Assessor-Recorder-Clerk, to serve as an advisor to the Assessor’s Office on providing property tax relief to disabled veterans.

Under Robert’s leadership, a number of homeownership initiatives were introduced that helped disabled military veterans achieve homeownership, stay in their homes and save money on their property taxes. As a result, the Assessor’s Office has assisted more than 10,000 local disabled veterans since 2018.   

Robert’s efforts to help veterans resulted in PSAR and the Assessor’s Office receiving a Golden Watchdog Award from the San Diego County Taxpayers Association. In addition, the California Board of Equalization (BOE), a state agency, also recognized Robert for his efforts to help veterans.

“Robert Calloway led a life of service,” said Dronenburg. “Starting in the Navy and ending as a super professional in the real estate industry serving as the 2019 President of the Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors. He played an important role helping over 10,000 veterans in San Diego County as my advisor on tax breaks for disabled veterans. While he was recognized by the State of California for his leadership helping veterans and as the PSAR President, he will most be remembered as a joyful industry leader that made San Diego a better place to live.”  

Robert also enjoyed serving at Bayview Church in San Diego as a leader within the deacon ministry and a facilitator in Studies In Christian Living (SICL) Bible Study classes. According to Sherman Metcalf, Chairman of the Deacon Board at the church, Robert was an active member of Bayview for 14 years.

“Robert Calloway was a devoted Christian and servant of the Lord,” said Metcalf. “Within the first year of membership at Bayview, Robert joined the Hospitality Ministry and had continued to serve faithfully in this capacity until his passing. In December 2014, Robert was ordained as a Deacon at Bayview where he dedicated his life to supporting the Senior Pastor who ministers to the congregation and community. Robert spent much of his time serving the church elders as well as a fellow Deacon who fell to a life-changing disability. Robert was the type of person whose presence enhanced whichever ministry he was a part of. He will be sorely missed.”

Robert Daniel Calloway III was born on Dec. 12, 1965 in Atlanta, Georgia.  He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 19. “I enjoyed traveling and the Navy sounded appealing,” he said. “But, I never expected to travel that much.”

His Naval career included 13 deployments on six different ships. One of his most memorable experiences was watching his ship sink an abandoned Italian destroyer. “We towed his ship to an area near the international boundary with Libya,” recalled Calloway. “Our purpose was to show our military might to Muammar Gadaffi. It was very exciting to watch the ship blow up. Muammar stayed pretty quiet after that.”

Calloway served in the Navy for 26 years, from June 1985 to June 2011, retiring as a Senior Chief Navy Counselor. He worked in human resources and counseling in 20 of his 26 years.

Robert met President George W. Bush aboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln. It was on May 1, 2003, when the President declared “Mission Accomplished” regarding the end of major combat operations in Iraq in a nationally televised address.

“The President was very friendly and grateful and thanked us for our service,” said Robert. “He was interested in our opinion and was a good listener about what we had to share. It was impressive to watch him land on the flight deck co-piloting the jet.”

Robert started selling real estate in 2008, while still in the Navy. He joined PSAR at the start of his real estate career and was elected to the PSAR board of directors in 2014.

Prior to serving as PSAR president, Robert served as the founding president of the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP), San Diego chapter. The chapter was launched in July 2013 and he served as its president until October 2015. He also served for three years as VAREP’s Southern California State Director, overseeing the six chapters stretching from San Diego to Los Angeles. Headquartered in Corona, Calif., VAREP has more than 20,000 members nationwide, and more 60 chapters around the country, states its mission as to increase sustainable home ownership, financial-literacy education and economic opportunity for the active-duty and veteran communities.

“Robert was an earth angel,” said Andre Hobbs, a San Diego REALTOR®, close friend and VAREP member. Hobbs helped Robert establish the San Diego VAREP chapter in 2013. Today, Hobbs serves on the VAREP national board of directors as a member of the organization’s Affordable Housing Committee.

“What I mean by earth angel is someone who is born in human form and is beautiful and humble and shares with the world, generously and tirelessly, love, light and kindness of their hearts,” said Hobbs.

Robert is survived by a daughter Danielle Calloway of Cincinnati, Ohio, and two stepsons, Ernest Turner of Fife, Wash., Shalom Richards of Graham, Wash.

Robert also is survived by four sisters and a brother. The sisters include: Alicia Wimbish (Carl) of Ellenwood, Georgia; Valerie Seaborn (Kenneth) of Monroe, Georgia; Yolanda Williams (James) of Lithonia, Georgia; Darlene Williams (Boris) of Conyers, Georgia; brother Roderick Calloway (Carolyn) of Ellenwood, Georgia.
Robert was preceded in death by his father Robert D. Calloway Jr, mother Alicia “Yvonne” Calloway and a sister, Cheryl Williams.

Robert also is survived by seven grandchildren, as well as a longtime friend, Elizabeth Taylor of San Diego.

In one of his final written statements to PSAR members, Robert provided some positive encouragement during the coronavirus pandemic. Robert was one of several PSAR past presidents who was quoted in a PSAR blog post. Robert’s comment revealed his loving heart and concern for others. Here was Robert’s comment: “We will get through this tough time as we have done in the past. Continue to work with your past clients and update them on what’s happening in the real estate market. Also, please remain safe during the shelter in place, there is no amount of money that can replace you or a loved one.”

Due to the coronavirus restrictions, the Celebration of Life memorial service honoring Robert will be held at a later date. Once finalized, details will be shared with all PSAR members.  

For more photos of Robert and his PSAR Colleagues Click Here

Congratulations to the more than 345 PSAR REALTORs® who have been honored with a PSAR 2020 Real Estate Achievement and Leadership (R.E.A.L.) award!

Award recipients were informed earlier this week about the honor. The PSAR R.E.A.L. awards program recognizes some of San Diego County's top producing agents who achieved excellence in sales production and industry leadership.

The 2020 PSAR R.E.A.L. Awards Committee members include:

Yvonne Cromer Chair
Reshia Guarnotta
Carey Guthrie
Laurie MacDonald
Amber Tannehill
Lupe Soto
Tony Santiago,
Paul Trudel-Payne
James Usrey
Robert Cromer

PSAR staff members assisting the committee include Rich D’Ascoli, Kevin McElroy and Sally Valdez.

An awards dinner where recipients of the inaugural R.E.A.L. awards was scheduled, but later cancelled due to event restrictions imposed as a result of Covid-19.  This was, of course, a disappointment, but the health and safety of all was the primary concern of PSAR leadership.

The names of the R.E.A.L. award recipients are listed in a full-page ad to be published in the San Diego Union-Tribune newspaper. The ad can be viewed by clicking this pdf (Kevin, insert the pdf address here).  Again, congratulations to all of our winners!

Awards are based on either sales volume dollars or units sold, including listings or sales units entered into the MLS, and closed in 2019. Both individuals and teams are eligible. Top 1%, over 31 sides and $26,130,000 in volume, Top 3%, over 19 sides and $13,667,755 in volume, Top 5%, over 14 sides and $9,920,000 in volume, Top 10%, over 9 sides and $6,134,179 in volume.

Past leaders can teach us a great deal about handling adversity. Historians say that lessons learned by past leaders during tough times are often ignored or forgotten because people often view their current circumstances as different from those faced by people historically.

The truth is that for all that has changed throughout history, human nature remains remarkably the same . There are principles of individuals’ behavior that are constant over time,  especially when facing hardship. It’s also true that well-timed motivational words of encouragement and inspiration can lift morale during such times of crisis.

In spirit, we reached out to past PSAR presidents  from as long as 15 years ago for their “we-will-get-through-this-pandemic-together” thoughts.

So if you will take a few minutes and find a comfortable spot to read the following quotes, you may find that the words from these past leaders will resonate in this time of crisis and encourage you to believe that we will all not only make it through, we  will have gained something from the experience.

-- Robert Calloway (2019) 
“We will get through this tough time as we have done in the past. Continue to work with your past clients and update them on what’s happening in the real estate market. Also, please remain safe during the shelter in place, as there is no amount of money that can replace you or a loved one.”

-- Jan Farley (2018)
“We lived through the crisis of 2008. In every crisis and hardship, there is something good that comes out of it either by what we learn, or how we change the process, to make us better, smarter and stronger. That will absolutely be the case this time, too.”

-- Sarah Heck (2017)
“This too shall pass. This may be the catalyst for us as agents to find new ways to add value to our clients. Take this time to fine tune your processes, touch base with your sphere and practice self care. It can be easy to get swallowed up in the fear that comes from the valleys of a real estate career. Instead, focus on the peaks and how we are going to climb to the next one. I challenge you to look at this time as an opportunity to review and improve the foundation of your business so that you can grow stronger through today’s challenges.”

-- Anthony Andaya (2016)
“During uncertain times like these, some of the best things you can do are double down on your efforts to build relationships when folks are most receptive; triple down on your active listening and avoid sharing general opinions; quadruple down on your compassion and empathy for those you are speaking with. We are all in this together and together is the only way we will get through times like these. If you're going to quit on anything during these difficult times, then quit being lazy, quit making excuses, and quit waiting for the right time. Remember consistency is key in all you do especially in these trying times.” 

-- Carey Guthrie (2015)
“I think it’s a terrific time for REALTORS® to shine. I manage about 200 agents and I immediately ordered gloves, booties and masks for agents. During this crisis, I see a variety of things happening. My advice: don’t fall out of a regular routine; play by the rules, be safe and keep your clients safe; what you do now will contribute to success now and referrals down the road; provide the correct forms and the latest information daily to whoever needs it; keep a positive attitude for all.”

-- Bob Olivieri (2014)
“Just like past challenges we have experienced in PSAR’s 92-year history, we will get through this. Not only will we survive, our industry is in a position to thrive when this is over. Those of us who continue to work and keep in close contact with our friends, clients and prospects will reap the tremendous benefits that will come when we reach the slowdown of this pandemic.”

-- Peter Mendiola (2012)
“Your response to the current crisis is very important. How you react to any adversity and your attitude towards it will dictate your level of success for the days, weeks, and even years ahead. Many people will see the situation we are in, as completely doom and gloom, with a tone that the world is ending. I believe this is a fantastic opportunity for real estate professionals everywhere to stick to the basics, reach-out to as many people as possible and ask people how they’re doing. I’m extremely fortunate to be surrounded by very smart, optimistic people.
This is an incredible opportunity for all of us to lay the groundwork for an incredible increase in our production now and especially when the crisis is over. Having a positive attitude will give you a head-start and get you further ahead than many people who are unfortunately in a fearful place, and who are putting their heads in the sand.  It’s times like this that reshape our industry for the best and should remind everyone of the importance of being a professional well-informed Realtor. Stay positive and be a positive influence in peoples’ lives. Pick up your phone and start making phone calls!”  

-- Nikki Coppa (2011)
“I have no doubt that REALTORS® can make it through this pandemic and come out stronger than before. Every transaction a REALTOR® goes through has crazy twists and turns and it is our job to figure out how to help our clients navigate each one. Although a pandemic is a new twist, every day I watch the resilient adapt, move forward and close sales. When stay-at-home orders are lifted, `home’ will have a deeper meaning for most. The agents that push themselves out of their comfort zones now and reach out to their friends, family, clients and neighbors repeatedly will likely enjoy substantial benefits once we are all on the streets again.”

-- Pat Russiano (2009)
“During my real estate career which spans nearly three decades, I’ve helped buyers and sellers navigate many up-and-down markets and trying times. Statistics label the ups-and-downs, but every market’s challenges must be met and can be met with continued belief in yourself and surrounding yourself with professional mentors and peers. This particular period in history, like all others, has very unique issues that require our problem-solving skills. When times seem toughest, it is not the time to withdraw. Engage with your industry leaders and you will realize there are resources and answers if you look and ask. It is just as important to engage and help where your talents can be used the most. The actual delivery of our services is requiring the most thought, the most care, the most caution. But we can do this. We are learning a lot and I’m certain the lessons learned will make us stronger for it. Focus on the problem to get your bearings. Then focus on the solution on how we can keep helping the families that we’ve always found ways to help using the safety protocols in all ways that this particular market requires.”

-- Barbara Brown Hahn (2008)
“Hang in there! Tough times teach you so much, lessons you’ll use throughout your careers. And they give you great stories to tell! Keep your sense of humor.”

 -- Susan Olivier (2007)
“I know that we are all going through a tough time now. But we will make it through. Keep your eyes on what you do have, such as your own wellbeing, your family and friends, your fur babies, all you've accomplished. Take time to reflect on all the positives in your life and before you know it, this will pass.”

-- Mark Scott (2006)
“Now is a time that you can show your value by implementing best practice safety measures while still going to work every day. The great recession required a level of professionalism that until then was unprecedented in our lifetime. This is no different. Reach out to your friends, family and sphere of influence and you can come out of this stronger than when this pandemic started. Stay safe and go to work.”

-- Suzanne Yavorsky (2005)  
“Tie a knot on the end of the rope and hang on for the ride as this too will pass. The sun will shine again and keep the faith.”

-- Isabel Hall (2002)
“I love real estate agents, because they are first and foremost optimists. That optimism in this time is essential. Through this challenge, make the most of your optimism. This situation is not going to last for years and years; it’s going to last for several months. And when those months have passed, the recovery will be amazing to watch. Meanwhile, exercise daily for endorphins, make the most of this time with your families, and stay safe so you can enjoy the incredible recovery.”

PSAR Plans to protest proposal to hike property taxes with sewer bill.

The El Cajon City Council is attempting to add sewer charges to homeowners’ semi-annual property tax bills. The City Council is scheduled to discuss this proposal at their next meeting, located at 200 Civic Center Way, El Cajon, 92020, on Tuesday, March 10 at 3:00 pm.

PSAR encourages you to advise your El Cajon clients who own property (residential, commercial, industrial) to send a protest letter to the El Cajon City Clerk before 2:00 pm Tuesday, March 10, in protest of adding sewer charges to their property tax bills.

This may seem at first to be an innocent action by elected officials. However, in reality, adding sewer charges to property taxes would have a far-reaching impact to individual homebuyers and for the city of El Cajon overall.

If these additions are approved, future homebuyers would need more money to qualify for a mortgage. The reason is because higher property taxes always result in lower borrowing ability. Another negative effect would be lower housing values, including lost equity, because a higher property tax bill will shrink a homebuyer’s available pool of money available to purchase a home. 

The bottom line is that anytime a property tax bill increases,  the higher amount  adversely affects the local real estate industry. Adding sewer charges to property taxes will reduce the buying power of homebuyers. 

Here are some numbers to consider: 

For a typical $400,000 home, purchased with 20 percent down and an 80 percent, 30-year mortgage loan at 5.5 percent, the monthly mortgage payment is approximately $1,817, insurance is $67 (based on $800/year) and property taxes are $367 (based on 1.1 percent of assessed value) for a total monthly payment of $2,251. However, if a sewer charge of $45 (based on property taxes of $540/year) were to be added, the total monthly mortgage payment for the same home would increase from $2,251 to $2,296. Sewer charges are calculated based on water use at each property. 

Furthermore, with a 40 percent minimum qualifying income, the homebuyer would need an annual income of $68,880 instead of $67,530 without the sewer bill added to their property taxes. That translates to a 2 percent higher income needed to qualify for the same loan. A homebuyer’s purchasing power is reduced by $8,000 when  an increased average sewer charge is added to the property tax bill. 

There are many issues and questions with which residents should be concerned. Seniors and individuals on a fixed income will be hit by a large bill at the end of the year. What considerations have been made for these individuals? Who will ratepayers go to when there is an error on the sewer bill if those charges are added to the annual tax payment? Although billing through the tax roll may be slightly less expensive each month, an incorrect bill can be much more impactful. The city intends to defer income from sewer ratepayers until the end of the year. How is that money financed? Isn’t it better for the city to collect this money upfront rather than waiting until the end of the year to bill? How much will this cost taxpayers?

This is not the first time the El Cajon City Council has attempted this action. In July 2013, a proposal to add sewer charges to property tax bills was flushed down the proverbial toilet. Municipalities are attracted to pass-through wastewater sewer costs coupled with property taxes because it saves the city time and money in mailing and administrative processing costs. It also allows for an easier way for cities to earmark construction costs for necessary sewer line repairs. In El Cajon, the city maintains nearly 200 miles of underground pipeline, with the majority of piping constructed before 1965. Many lines date back to the 1920’s. 

Last year, El Cajon approved higher sewer rates over the next five years. A typical customer paying $48.31 each month for sewer services will see his or her bill increase to $55.09 in 2020, $61.22 in 2021, $69.70 in 2022, $77.35 in 2023 and $88.76 in 2024. The city’s 17,000 residential customers haven’t seen a rate increase since 2011. Before then, the last adjustment to sewer rates in El Cajon was in 1999. Wastewater in El Cajon is piped to San Diego’s Point Loma treatment plant where it is treated and then released into the ocean.

The El Cajon City Council meeting on Tuesday, March 10 will begin at 3:00 p.m. at El Cajon City Hall, 200 Civic Center Way, El Cajon. The city council meeting is open to the public. PSAR members are encouraged to attend. Oral objections and/or protests may be made at the public hearing.

You are also encouraged to send an e-mail to the City of El Cajon stating your opposition. In your e-mail, refer to the “Sewer Billing System Change to the Property Tax Roll.” Protest emails must be sent prior to 2:00 p.m. on March 10. Any written objection or protest must include your name, Assessor Parcel Number (APN), sewer service address and a statement indicating your opposition to the placement of the sewer charges on the property tax bill. Protest emails can be sent to the City Clerk Angela Cortez at cityclerk@cityofelcajon.us,  or the City Manager Graham Mitchell at gmitchell@cityofelcajon.us.

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January’s home sales were down by 19% from December 2019.

San Diego County’s housing market started this year with a 14.6 percent increase in existing home sales for January 2020, compared to January 2019, according to recent statistics from the California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.). However, January’s home sales were down by 19 percent from December 2019.

The median sales price of an existing single-family home in San Diego County in January 2020 was $660,000, a slight $5,000 increase from the $655,000 figure for December 2019. In January 2019, the median sales price in San Diego was $610,000, a decline of 8.2 percent from January 2020.

Statewide, in January, mortgage interest rates, which were at near or record lows, continued to sustain California home sales, while statewide home prices pulled back from one of the highest levels recorded last year.

Closed escrow sales of existing, single-family detached homes in California totaled a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 395,550 in January 2020, down 0.7 percent from the 398,370 level in December 2019 and up 10.3 percent from January 2019, when 358,540 homes sold. January was the second straight month for sales below the 400,000 benchmark.

January 2020’s statewide median home price was $575,160, down 6.5 percent from December 2019’s price of $614,880, and up 7.1 percent from January 2019’s price of $536,830.

January’s median price drop, the largest in the last seven years, was largely due to a change in the mix of sales with lower-priced properties making up a bigger share of the market, coupled with a seasonal slowdown. January marked the fourth straight month that the median price registered year over year growth of 6 percent or higher. 

January 2020 County Sales and Price Activity
(Regional and condo sales data not seasonally adjusted)

“The strong sales momentum that we saw in the second half of last year carried over into the new year, thanks to favorable homebuying conditions,” said 2020 C.A.R. President Jeanne Radsick, a second-generation REALTOR® from Bakersfield, Calif. “And while home sales were up double-digits from a year ago, it’s important to remember that current sales are being compared to a market that one year ago was at its lowest level in 10 years as economic uncertainties clouded the market outlook while the government shutdown delayed escrow closings.”

“With interest rates on a declining trend again due to concerns about the impact of the coronavirus, motivated buyers will have an opportunity to stretch their purchasing power in the housing market,” said C.A.R. Senior Vice President and Chief Economist Leslie Appleton-Young. “The economic outlook, however, is less clear than a month ago before the outbreak of the disease, and we should expect market uncertainties to continue to linger on for the short term.”

With prices rising faster in recent months as housing inventory continued to shrink, consumer optimism rose both month-over-month and year-over-year based on those who believe it is a good time to sell a home. According to a monthly Google poll conducted by C.A.R. in January, 62 percent said it is a good time to sell, up from 56 percent a month ago, and up from 50 percent a year ago.

The same motivating factors, however, may have curbed the optimism for homebuying as only 23 percent of the consumers who responded  to the poll believe that now is a good time to buy a home, slightly less than last year (25 percent), when interest rates were 84 basis points higher.

Other key points from the January 2020 resale housing report include:

-- The available supply of homes for sale in the state inched up slightly after reaching an 80-month record low in December but declined on a year-over-year basis for the seventh consecutive month.

-- Housing inventory continued to dwindle, with active listings declining 26.9 percent in January following a 25.9 percent dip in December.  The January drop was the largest since April 2013.

-- The median number of days it took to sell a California single-family home devreased from a year ago, to 38 days in January 2019 to 31 days in January 2020. That compares to 28 days in December 2019, 25 days in November 2019, 24 days in October 2019, 24 days in September 2019, 23 days in August 2019 and 21 days in July 2019.

-- In San Diego County, the median number of days an existing, single-family home remained unsold on the market was 23 days in January 2020, which compares to 20 days in December 2019 and 28 days in January 2019. In other months, the number-of-days figure was 17 days in November 2019, 18 days in October 2019, 18 days in September 2019, 17 days in August 2019, 15 days in July 2019, 13 days in June 2019, 14 days in May 2019, 17 days in April 2019, 19 days in March 2019 and 22 days in February 2019.

-- The sizable drop in active listings, together with the surge in sales, resulted in a decline in Unsold Inventory Index (UII) to 3.4 months from 4.6 months a year ago. On a month-to-month basis, supply climbed 1.6 percent from the prior month but was lower than the average December-to-January increase of 2.8 percent, based on data going back to 2008. 

The 30-year, fixed-mortgage interest rate averaged 3.62 percent in January, down from 4.46 percent in January 2019, according to Freddie Mac. The five-year, adjustable mortgage interest rate was an average of 3.33 percent, compared to 3.91 percent in January 2019.

In other recent real estate and economic news, according to news reports:

-- After a slow start to the year, San Diego County home prices finished 2019 on a high note. Prices in the San Diego metropolitan area jumped more than any other West Coast market in December, according to the S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Indices. San Diego metro’s price gain was 4.7 percent, ahead of the national average of 3.8 percent. America’s Finest City ranked fourth in the 20-city index for annual price gains, its highest showing since November 2017.

-- San Diego County’s median home price opened the year at $585,000, up slightly from the previous month. Home prices in January were up 7.9 percent annually, said CoreLogic. The median was down from the peak reached in November 2019 of $594,909. The same factors that have pushed up national and local home prices the past few months, including a shrinking number of homes for sale, low interest rates and job demand, are expected to continue to put upward pressure on prices.

-- San Diego County's housing inventory plummeted 34 percent year-over-year in January, marking the third most precipitous decline in the U.S., according to a new Realtor.com report. San Diego's drop was exceeded only by San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara (37.3 percent) and Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale (35.4 percent). Nationally, housing inventory declined 13.6 percent from January 2019, the steepest year-over-year decrease in more than four years. It pushed the supply of “for sale” homes in the U.S. to its lowest level since Realtor.com began tracking the data in 2012.

January 2020 County Unsold Inventory and Days on Market
(Regional and condo sales data not seasonally adjusted)

-- San Diego County was the fourth least affordable housing market in the U.S. last year, according to a First American Financial Corp. survey that concluded the least affordable markets were along the California coast. The survey found San Jose was the nation's least affordable market when comparing median income to sales price. San Jose’s median household income of $128,570 was sufficient to purchase an $806,600 home, but the median price for a single-family home in the city was over $1.03 million in 2019. San Francisco was the second least affordable with a median household income of $114,763 and a median priced home of $945,547. San Diego’s median household income of $81,274 in 2019 was sufficient to purchase a $509,883 home, but the median price of a single-family home in the county was $564,813.

-- 90 percent of Americans are satisfied with the way things are going in their personal life, reflecting a new high in Gallup's four-decade trend. The latest figure bests the previous high of 88 percent recorded in 2003.These results are from Gallup's Mood of the Nation poll, conducted in January, which also recorded a 20-year high in Americans’ confidence in the U.S. economy. The percentage of Americans who report being satisfied with their personal life close to the 86 percent who said in December that they were very or fairly happy.

-- U.S. employers added 225,000 jobs in January, a higher number than expected. The unemployment rate ticked up slightly, at 3.6 percent. Wages increased 3.1 percent from the previous year; wages have grown at an average pace of 3 percent for the last 18 months. Also, the “labor-force participation rate,” meaning the percentage of Americans seeking employment, also increased.

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The PSAR family recently lost another former PSAR president. Jeri Norman Vanderpool, who served as PSAR president in 1994, passed away February 4, 2020, roughly one month before her 91st birthday. She died peacefully from natural causes at home, in her favorite chair, surrounded by family members. Jeri, a lifelong resident of Chula Vista, had been a PSAR member since 1975.

Jeri was born on March 18, 1929, in San Diego. Her parents were Chet and Idell Norman. She attended F Street Elementary School in Chula Vista and graduated as valedictorian of Sweetwater High School, class of 1946. As a young person, she enjoyed water skiing on the Colorado River.

She attended San Diego State College and worked at Southwestern College when it first opened in 1961. She worked as an office manager for Chula Vista surgeon Dr. George Cave and later joined Mascot Realty in Bonita. Following that, she earned her broker’s license and founded Vanderpool Properties, which offered real estate sales and property management services. She operated Vanderpool Properties for more than 40 years.  

Jeri was active in real estate sales until age 90, when she turned over the business to a granddaughter, Meggan Copeland.

Family members remember Jeri as a fiercely independent single parent and a hard worker who enjoyed helping people with their real estate needs. She was a leader in the community, involved in the Girl Scouts, Republican Party and school activities, overseeing the PTA, Halloween Carnival and other special events. Active in the Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce, she was also an active participant in Toastmasters International. Jeri held a private pilot's license as well.

PSAR staff members remember Jeri for her humor, sultry voice and intelligence. She was fun, funny and very smart.

She is survived by a sister, Pat Greaser, a son, Richard Vanderpool, a daughter, Susan Giamanco and three grandchildren, David Vanderpool, Chelsea English and Meggan Copeland, as well as three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in passing by her son, Tom Vanderpool.

A Celebration of Life service for Jeri Vanderpool will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, February, 29, at Norman Park Center, located at 270 “F” St., Chula Vista. RSVPs are not required. All are invited to attend.

The Norman Park Center, a community facility, is named after Jeri’s father, Chet Norman, who was the City of Chula Vista’s first Park Supervisor. The facility opened in 1963 as the Norman Park Center for Senior Citizens. Chet Norman passed away in the mid-1970s.

Everyone at PSAR extends their sympathies and condolences.