Knowledge of Living Trusts and Wills increases agent value!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jul 29, 2025 8:00:00 AM

Trusts and Wills

Help your clients protect their largest investment!

Join this one-hour seminar designed for real estate professionals who want to better guide clients through estate-related decisions. Gain a working understanding of how estate planning impacts property ownership, sales, transfers, and family dynamics. Discover how to enhance your service by identifying potential issues and referring clients to the most suitable resources.

Topics include:

  • Wills, Trusts, and Key Documents: What every homeowner should have—and how to spot when they don’t.
  • Protecting the Home: How estate planning helps clients secure their most valuable asset.
  • Planning for the Unexpected: Understand how incapacity or sudden life events can affect real estate.
  • Avoiding Probate: Tips to help your clients prevent delays and added costs.
  • Title and Ownership: Why the way a property is titled matters—and how it can impact future transactions.
  • Reducing Risk of Disputes: Help clients avoid common family conflicts over property.

Speaker attorney Dawn Allenby has been in practice for over 20 years, specializing in smart estate planning to keep families out of court and out of conflict.

Wednesday, August 20th
11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
PSAR El Cajon Office
Lunch will be provided
 

Dawn Allenby 2

Speaker:
Dawn Allenby is an experienced estate planning and asset protection attorney in San Diego. She specializes in creating comprehensive estate plans and asset protection strategies for individuals, families, and businesses. With nearly two decades of legal experience, Allenby helps clients prepare estate planning documents such as living trusts, wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. She also serves as a consultant for real estate companies and is actively involved in educating groups on estate planning. Ms. Allenby holds a Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law. She is a member of prestigious legal associations, including the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.

 

Lunch provided by event class sponsor:

Class Sponsor: Michael Fossler w/ Mutual of Omaha Mortage

________________________________________________________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

Topics: Education

How The RPA Protects You and Your Clients

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jul 10, 2025 1:00:00 PM

Understanding the Residential Listing Agreement (RLA)

The Residential Purchase Agreement spans 17 pages, with 9 accompanying pages forming the traditional bundle - a significant amount of information to manage. As the market evolves, it’s essential to understand the meaning of each provision and communicate it clearly to clients.

Practice changes implemented since August 17, 2024, have reshaped key standards. Staying current is critical to protecting clients and maintaining professional credibility.

This fast-paced course covers the entire RPA contract and bundled forms, offering practical insights into each paragraph. Gain the confidence to navigate transactions effectively and reduce risk.

Wednesday, July 23rd
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Live at the PSAR Chula Vista Office


Questions?  Contact education@psar.org or call (619) 421-7811. 

 

Nikki Coppa

About the Speaker:

Broker Nikki Coppa, C.A.R. Treasurer (2026 - 2027), Vice-Chair of the C.A.R. Standard Forms Advisory Committee, brings her depth of knowledge and expertise to bear in this class. As a C.A.R. and N.A.R. Director, she has a broad-based understanding of the industry's regulations and best practices.

Testimonials from Nikki's Past Classes

Nikki does a fantastic job at a great pace and is very easy to understand. I will go every time she has a class as she makes it engaging enough where even though the content is dry as toast i can still stay awake. - Mayra Swanson

Nikki has a thorough understanding of all forms, both new and existing. Her knowledge enables her to provide a concise and comprehensive explanation of what we need to do to comply with CAR and other legal requirements. Thanks Nikki for sharing your time with us. - Joe Garzanelli


Class Sponsored by:

Michelle Hickin from

Live Smart Escrow
_________________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

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.

Topics: Education

From Curb Appeal To Clicks: How To Sell the Full Story Of A Home

Posted by Communications on Jul 10, 2025 9:00:00 AM

How To Sell the Full Story Of A Home

In the real estate marketplace, enabling a listing to stand apart from others is a marketing must! Today’s buyers aren’t just looking for a home - they are buying into a lifestyle with a vision of what their next chapter could look like.

Find out how to energize real estate listings in San Diego from top experts in photography, drone videography, and social media marketing. Attendees will be empowered to market not only the property, but also the lifestyle that truly defines it.

A light lunch will be provided at both sessions.

Tuesday, July 29th
11:30 - 1:00
PSAR El Cajon
 
Wednesday, July 30th
11:30 - 1:00 
PSAR Chula Vista

This workshop brings together four experts who deliver practical tools for describing the story behind and the promise of a listing to prospective homebuyers.

2-Jul-03-2025-08-28-36-1333-PM
Elizabeth Ireland of Elizabeth Ireland Photography will share how strong listing photos can tell a home’s story and create an emotional pull for buyers.


 

 

3-Jul-03-2025-08-28-37-8101-PM

 

Karen Buelterman from Bridge To Your Front Door will highlight how drone and neighborhood videos can showcase the lifestyle surrounding a property.

 

 

 

1-Jul-03-2025-08-28-37-8400-PM

 

Amanda Renzi from Renzi Social Co will show how to turn visual content into real visibility through social media and digital platforms.

 

 

 

4-3

 

Bess Ouahidi from Yellow Rose Home Staging will share visual storytelling for real estate and transform properties into spaces that buyers can emotionally connect with.

 

 

Topics: Education

ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Wealth Mastery

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jul 2, 2025 4:16:18 PM

blogbanner_250715_ADU_Wealth Mastery

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are transforming California real estate, offering REALTORS® new ways to help clients unlock income, increase property value, and tap into hidden equity. Whether it’s a converted garage, backyard cottage, or basement suite, ADUs give buyers and investors exactly what they want: flexibility, rental potential, and long-term value.

Join this live webinar and master one of the fastest-growing trends in housing.

Discover how top agents are winning listings and closing deals with ADU insight.

  • Understanding the different types of ADUs.
  • How each impacts value and cash flow.
  • How traditional valuations (comps) fall short
  • Know the rent, not just the range
  • How AB1033 turns ADUs into marketable assets

If your next client asks about ADUs, be the REALTOR® who has the answers 

Tuesday, July 15th
10:00 am - 11:30 am
ZOOM WEBINAR

 

James harnsberger
Meet the Speaker: James Harnsberger, EA, CP, FNTPI

James Harnsberger is a seasoned tax strategist, real estate consultant, and Managing Director of SMIB Management, Inc., where he leads the integration of advanced tax planning and strategic consulting for business owners, real estate investors, and digital asset clients. As an Enrolled Agent (EA), Certified Paralegal (CP), and Fellow of the National Tax Practice Institute (FNTPI), James brings over 25 years of experience designing proactive solutions that maximize profitability, reduce tax exposure, and create sustainable financial growth.

 

 

Topics: Education

New Benefit - RealReports - 'Carfax for homes'

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jul 2, 2025 3:15:00 PM

RealReports: AI-powered 'Carfax for homes'

'RealReports' is now a PSAR Member Benefit available in REcore (CRMLS dashboard), RealReports is the "Carfax for homes", an AI-powered tool that delivers in-depth property data, analyzes documents, generates leads, and helps agents make faster, smarter decisions.

Get full access to RealReports at no cost ($120/year value). Instantly pull property insights, answer client questions, and gain a competitive edge using AI-powered tools.

What You Get:

  • Unlimited Snapshot-tier reports
  • 33% off Buyer & Seller reports
  • AI features: doc/photo analysis, client collaboration
  • Auto reports when you list a property
  • Agent-branded reports

How to Activate

  • Log in to REcenterhub
  • Click the red “+” icon and add RealReports (or follow this 26 sec. video)
  • Click the star to pin it, then launch  

RealReports Education Hub
(Helpful Links / FAQ / Past Webinars / Instructional Videos)


PSAR now provides RealReports as a member benefit because it empowers agents with fast, reliable property insights that help them succeed in today’s market. The tool gives agents an edge through accurate data and AI-powered support.

 

 

Topics: Announcements

Escrow Closure Efficiency - Avoid Compensation Delays!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jun 30, 2025 12:36:42 PM

blogbanner_20250722_Get Your Escrow in On Time-1

The Best Strategies for Ensuring Rapid Real Estate Compensation Payments!

Taking the right steps in the escrow process will protect compensation income and create delighted clients, thereby enhancing professional credibility. 

What You’ll Learn:

  • How to protect income and improve cash flow
  • Steps to guarantee that compensation is processed without delays
  • How smooth compensation handling improves client satisfaction
  • Tools and practices top producers use 

 

Tuesday, July 22nd
1:00 - 3:00
Live at PSAR Chula Vista Service Center

 

Lupe SotoGet to know the speaker: 

Lupe Soto, a distinguished figure in real estate, has garnered numerous accolades, including being named Realtor of the Year twice, Manager of the Year three times, and earning the Board Instructor Award and Service Award. Recognized by CAR as a leading Latina businesswoman, she also dedicates time to volunteering.

Academic Credentials: M.S., Science of Education, University of Southern California, B.A., University of Southern California, Magna Cum Laude Professional Contributions: Vice Chair, C.A.R. Standard Forms Advisory Committee, Member, Consumer Protection, Membership, Multiple Listing Service, and Educational Services Committees, Regional Representative for Education, Residential Education Sub-Committee.

______________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower Realtors.

Since 1928, the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® has played a significant role in shaping the history, growth, and development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

Topics: Education

How to be Fair in Fair housing w/ Mike Shenkman

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jun 19, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Fair Housing For all

Advocate for fair housing for all!

REALTORS® are expected to uphold equity in all professional interactions and apply strong ethical principles when it comes to Fair Housing. This means providing equal service to all clients and avoiding actions that may unfairly limit access to housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.

This session will cover the legal and ethical responsibilities under Fair Housing laws and offer practical tips to help you recognize and prevent discriminatory practices in sales, rentals, mortgage lending, and housing-related services.

Class instructor Mike Shenkman will cover:  

  • Fair Housing basics 
  • Best Fair Housing practices for building stronger relationships 
  • Dealing with buyers, sellers, and the community

A high level of professionalism and ethical conduct benefits everyone!

Wednesday, July 9th
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Live via 
zoom-png-logo-download-transparent-202

THIS CLASS IS FREE OF CHARGE

 

Testimonials from Mike's Past Classes:
 
"This was the first time I heard this speaker. He was very knowledgeable on the subject and provided valuable insights on how agents can improve in the future. As a broker, I appreciated hearing these suggestions. It was an excellent learning tool, and I valued his teaching style, which kept us informed throughout the entire class." - Mayra Swanson, Chula Vista Broker
 
"Mike is a very engaging and informative personality who makes the class interesting." - Gio Alegrado, San Diego Agent
   

Michael Shenkman (1)About the Instructor:

A Southern California native, Mike Shenkman boasts a distinguished career spanning over two decades in the real estate industry. His extensive experience includes roles in training, development, and management in some of Southern California's leading real estate firms. Beyond his expertise in sales and management, Mike's background encompasses affordable housing, community development, property management, redevelopment, and mortgage finance.

Mike is actively involved in the San Diego real estate community and frequently instructs agents at various career stages. He co-hosted the “First Home California” podcast for the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) in 2023, serves as a transportation policy liaison for the California chapter of the American Planning Association (APACA), and has contributed to real estate legislative policy for both the city & county of San Diego and the state of California. His professional designations include Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), Short Sale & Foreclosure Resource (SFR), Property Management Certification (PMC), Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS), and Military Relocation Professional (MRP).

 

Topics: Education

Open the Door to Homeownership: Attend the Community Home Buyer Fair 2025

Posted by Communications on Jun 17, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250621_HomeBuying Expo

 

The Community Home Buyer Fair 2025 is a FREE event for the public focused on empowering first-time buyers with the knowledge, tools, and support to navigate today’s housing market.

In this singular event, attendees can obtain the knowledge to:

  • Understand the Home Buying Process
  • Discover Grants and Assistance Programs
  • Build Financial Literacy for Homeownership

Whether potential buyers are just beginning to explore options or ready to make a move, this fair is the perfect place to connect with real estate professionals, lenders, and community resources, all in one location.

REALTORS® are encouraged to invite clients and prospects to take part in this educational experience.

Saturday, June 21st
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
875 Hotel Cir S, San Diego, CA 92108

Open to the General Public (FREE*)
*REALTORS® Pay $20 |
REALTORS® will receive training kits

Light snacks will be served at the event.

For more information, contact education@psar.org.

 
AREAA San Diego BMO Bank CHASE Bank Equal Housing Opportunity
Citi Bank FARMERS Insurance First American Title Fiscal Dynamic West LLC
Foregfront Escrow Habitat for Humanity HomeGuard Incorporated i2i Mortgage
Homeowner Prep LISC San Diego Mr Maintenance VAREP San Diego
World Financial Group WELLS FARGO urban League San Diego County website_PSAR New Logo-medium-withPSAR

______________________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

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.

Topics: Education, Global Real Estate Council

Contract Education, know your C.A.R. Forms

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jun 16, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Contract Education, know your C.A.R. Forms

Contract Education– Know your C.A.R. contract forms!

Staying updated on forms isn't just good practice - it's essential to business success. This class will instill confidence in attendees when using the most current versions in their transactions.

The June 2025 forms release includes over 95 forms that have been added, changed, or retired. The good news is that 52 of the “changes” do not require new learning. Join us for a fast-paced jaunt as we review the 11 new forms and the 32 substantively revised forms. The Big 3 – RLA, BRBC, and RPA all have been updated, so it is important to learn these changes so you are properly prepared to write your next contract!

Why This Review Matters:   
Knowledge of the latest business forms iterations is a requirement for effective transactions. 

 

Tuesday, July 8th
10:00 - 11:30
Live at the PSAR El Cajon Service Center
  This class is offered FREE of Charge!
 
 

Testimonials from Nikki's Past Classes

"Nikki does such a thorough job i love taking her class. She is the best facilitator for this, she really shines in the class"

"Thank you for providing the platform for someone like Nikki Coppa to share her knowledge with us. We are better because of it. Keeping the REALTOR bar high."

"Nikki Coppa is absolutely THE BEST. We're SO SO SO SO lucky to have her do this for us PSAR members."

"Nikki was great and easy to understand"

NikkicoppaSideView2024-socialMediaColor

About the Speaker: 

Broker Nikki Coppa, C.A.R. Treasurer (2026 - 2027), Vice-Chair of the C.A.R. Standard Forms Advisory Committee, brings her depth of knowledge and expertise to bear in this class. As a C.A.R. and N.A.R. Director, she has a broad-based understanding of the industry's regulations and best practices.

 

__________________________

The information provided in this training session is intended for educational purposes only. The Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® (PSAR) does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information presented. The instructors are not providing legal advice, and attendees should consult their brokers, attorneys, or the California Association of REALTORS® Legal Hotline for legal guidance. PSAR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this session. Attendance at this session does not create a broker-client relationship.

Topics: Education

REALTOR® Tax Essentials: Maximize Deductions and Avoid Common Tax Errors

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jun 2, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250624_ Tech Lunch and Learn Tax-2

For REALTORS®, mastering tax and business strategies isn’t just smart - it’s core to long-term success. Mike White (PSAR Technology Committee Chair), together with guest speaker Vidal Espinosa, MBA from Invictus Advisors, shares actionable insights that will enable real estate professionals to optimize their financial status and plan with confidence.

Session attendees will leave with this knowledge set:

  • Understanding REALTOR® specific deductions
  • Mastering expense trackers
  • Avoiding common REALTOR® tax pitfalls
  • Optimizing business structure
  • Planning for the future
Wednesday, June 25th
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

This is a live zoom Logo class

 

Get to know the guest speaker:

Vidal “The Shark CFO” Espinosa is a powerhouse in cross-border finance and tax strategy, known for helping entrepreneurs scale with precision. As founder of Invictus Advisors, he leads a bi-national firm empowering U.S. and Latin American businesses to grow profitably and stay IRS-proof. With over 25 years of experience and a background from KPMG and Loyola, Vidal is the go-to CFO for smart, aggressive financial planning. He’s also the voice behind the podcast Lunch with The Shark and Happy Hour with The Shark, where money meets bold strategy.

 __________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

Topics: Education