Action Required: New Referral Fee Process

Posted by Communications on Dec 3, 2025 8:31:41 AM
As real estate professionals, we know that consumer trust is the foundation of every successful transaction. Ensuring that clients understand exactly how their real estate professionals are compensated is central to protecting their interests and reinforcing that trust.
NEW REFERRAL FEE PROCESS

What is Changing?

 

C.A.R. has finalized revisions to standard forms to provide a standardized method for disclosing both the receipt and payment of referral fees. Because several forms were already undergoing revisions, this was the ideal time to incorporate these important modifications.

Agents should prepare for changes in the following documents:

  • BRBC and RLA Forms: These forms will now include specific references to referral fees.
  • New Disclosure Mechanics: The updates are designed to make it easier for REALTORS® to make appropriate disclosures, ensuring consumers are fully aware of all sources of compensation.

Why You Need to Attend the Training

When clients understand whether and how referral fees are involved, they are empowered to make informed decisions and ask the right questions. As an agent, your ability to explain these forms clearly is essential to your professionalism.

To ensure you are fully informed and prepared for when these forms go live, C.A.R. is offering a suite of educational resources and town halls. These sessions will focus on the practical application of the forms so you can continue to serve your clients with the highest level of transparency.

 

Upcoming Town Hall Schedule

We strongly encourage you to register for one of the following sessions to review these changes and receive additional guidance:

 

Resources

Forms Preview: Click here for the forms release with this week’s revisions.  (C.A.R. log-in required) 

By staying ahead of these changes, we demonstrate that transparency and consumer trust remain at the core of our mission. We look forward to seeing you at an upcoming town hall.

Topics: Education, Announcements, Brokers/Managers, Industry

YPN Year-End Holiday Bowl: Strike One for Fun!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Nov 25, 2025 4:00:00 PM

YPN Year End Holiday Party

The holidays are here! And YPN is wrapping up 2025 with a Holiday bowling party. Bring one new, unwrapped toy, and you’re in. That’s the admission to an afternoon of bowling, bites, laughter, and holiday cheer.

Whether your year was packed with wins, challenges, or new adventures, this is your moment to unwind and celebrate with the YPN team.

  • Festive Bowling Fun: No skills needed, just holiday spirit and a willingness to have fun!
  • Enjoy seasonal treats: Have some lite bites and soft drinks while reconnecting with fellow REALTORS® and affiliates
  • Give Back: Your toy donation will bring joy to a local child during the holidays.
  • Lanes and Shoes are included!

Strike this off your list and RSVP NOW!

Friday, December 12
3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Lucky Strike
Lucky Strike Bowling Alley
Bring one new, unwrapped toy

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

2025 Annual Sponsors

Knight Termite & Pest Control

RanchoTed

Marina Vista Escrow

Renz Social Co3

_____________________________________________________________

Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors YPN

 

Topics: Announcements, YPN, Industry

Maximizing Social Media for Prospecting: Turn Likes Into Clients

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Nov 25, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Maximizing Social Media for Prospecting: Turn Likes Into Clients

Social media is one of the fastest, most cost-effective ways for REALTORS® to build a prospect pipeline. The agents winning in today’s market can convert post responses into viable prospects.

Join Tech Chair, Mike White, and Media expert Amanda Renzi. Amanda will impart the fastest methods for REALTORS® to attract potential clients using social media as a lead generator. This class shows you how to turn Stories, Reels, and targeted ads into solid inquiries that result in securing appointments.

Here are the tools you will acquire in this class:

  • Simple lead-funnel strategy using Stories, Reels, and ads to move followers from watching to contacting you.
  • A repeatable content plan you can use every week to stay consistent and visible.
  • How to measure results and adjust strategy accordingly
  • An edge over competitors by using social media with targeted intent instead of randomly posting

Use every social media platform feature to your advantage after attending this class!


Wednesday, December 3rd
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

This is a live zoom Logo class

__________________________________________

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, CRMLS, Technology

Mastering the Residential Listing Agreement (RLA): for better Listings, Client Protection and Trust Building

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Nov 11, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Mastering the Residential Listing Agreement (RLA): for better Listings, Client Protection and Trust Building

 

 
A successful listing starts with an agent who knows contracts inside and out. Join Nikki Coppa for the "Residential Listing Agreement (RLA)", a class for new and experienced REALTORS® alike. 
 
What's in it for you?
 
  • Master the RLA: Line-by-line instruction will prepare you to explain every detail to clients.
  • Competitive edge: Insider tips on effective use of the RLA will give you an edge in client negotiations.
  • Minimize risks: Understanding the intricacies of this contract will protect you and your clients.
  • Enhance professional profile: Display in-depth knowledge that builds client trust and secures more listings.
  • Adapt to all client types: Learn how to tailor your approach to both first-time sellers and experienced property owners.
  • Network with peers: Share experiences with, and learn from, fellow REALTORS® during the brown bag lunch break.


Monday, November 24th
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
PSAR Chula Vista 

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


Nikki Coppa

About the Speaker:

Broker Nikki Coppa, The 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 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"

__________________________________________

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, Industry

Mastering the Offer: How to create, present and negotiate like a Pro

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 31, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_251110_Presenting and Reviewing Offers with Mike Shenkman


A well-prepared offer isn’t just about the price – it’s also about the structure. Agents have lost deals not because of the amount of the offers, but because the offers were poorly structured and presented.

Mike will address these common offer issues:

  • Confusing contingencies - Explain inspection, loan, and appraisal timelines so your clients stay informed and calm.
  • Presentation pitfalls - Avoid credibility erosion with messy or incomplete offer packages.
  • Counter-offer chaos -  How to manage multiple counter-offers, line-item changes, and decision authority with ease.
  • Unrealistic expectations -  Sharpening awareness of current market conditions and valuation shifts to help set accurate expectations for both buyers and sellers.

This is a class for creating an effective offer playbook!

Monday, November 10th
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
PSAR Chula Vista Office

Class Testimonials:
 
"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

About the speaker:

Mike Shenkman Photo

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).

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

 

Topics: Education

AB 1033: Unlocking ADU Ownership

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 20, 2025 1:32:20 PM

blogbanner_251105_AB 1033 Unlocking ADU Ownership

California’s new AB 1033 opened the door for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to be sold separately as condominiums - a major shift that could reshape property ownership in San Diego.

Join Gary Geiler, Assistant Director of Development Services at the City of San Diego, and Rafael Perez from the Casita Coalition for an in-depth discussion on how AB 1033 is being implemented in San Diego.

This session will explain what the law allows, who can participate, and what REALTORS® and homeowners should consider before engaging.

  • How the City of San Diego is putting AB 1033 into action
  • What types of properties are best suited for separate ADU sales
  • Current participation rates and key takeaways from other California cities
  • Common issues to avoid and how to get started
  • What to know about mortgages and financing under AB 1033

Whether you’re advising investors, helping clients maximize property value, or exploring ADU development opportunities, navigate this fast-evolving space.


Wednesday, November 5th
11:00 am  - 12:00 pm
PSAR Clairemont Office
4340 Genesee Ave, Suite 203, San Diego, CA 92117

Meet the Speakers:

Gary GeilerGary Geiler is responsible for the Land Development Review and Building Construction and Safety Divisions. Land Development Review staff perform ministerial and discretionary reviews and inspections for compliance with the Land Development Code, Community Plans and General Plan; as well as other City, State and Federal regulations.

Building Construction and Safety staff review ministerial projects and perform inspections for compliance with City and State building codes and standards. Mr. Geiler also serves as Department liaison to the Office of the Mayor and the City Council.

 

Rafael PerezCasita Board Past President Rafael Perez is a noteworthy leader in the Real Estate space. He has worked as a lender, educator, and Realtor. He is Adjunct Faculty at Cuyamaca College and Mesa College where he teaches in the Real Estate Department. He is driven by creating opportunities in real estate for people at all levels of the housing market. He is passionate about placing families in homes with “value-add” opportunities.

Rafael was recognized by the National Association of REALTORS® as a Fair Housing Champion in 2022. Rafael served as a Commissioner for the City of San Diego for over 9 years, on the Citizens’ Equal Opportunity Commission, serves on the San Diego Regional Airport Authority Board and serves as Past Board President for the Sherman Heights Community Center. He has also been recognized as a two-time PSAR REALTOR® of the Year in 2017 and 2019.

 

Topics: Education

2026 PSAR Installation Dinner

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 8, 2025 2:00:00 AM

PSAR 2026 Installation Dinner

Friday  ♠  November 7th  ♠  2025
The Prado, Balboa Park
1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

Cocktail Reception 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Dinner 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Network with industry influencers, Board of Directors, Committee Chairs,
Vice Chairs, Members, CAR, and NAR Directors.

Masquerade ~ Cocktail Attire
(Bring a mask!)

Seating is Limited

          Tickets          

Early Bird Tickets are $135/Person  ♠  $1,080/Table (8 top)
After October 31st, Ticket Prices are $150/Person  ♠  $1,200/Table (8 top)

Tickets include a three-course plated dinner with a choice of entree:
Lemon Chicken Breast / Grilled Salmon / Wine Braised Beef Short Ribs
Event Flyer 

Sponsorship opportunities and VIP Tables are available! ~ Click Here

For event questions or to purchase a Sponsorship Package or VIP Tables, please
email: sally@psar.org or call: 619-749-2497

Current Sponsors

Title Sponsor

All in Lending

Master Sponsor

Angel Ai

VIP Tables

Realty of America               PSAR YPN           CRMLS

shopping SD houses             Guild Mortgage

Sponsors

Valerie Gardner Insurance                Insight Photos Logo                Michael Cabradilla DJ

        _______________________________________________

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, and development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

Topics: Events, Leadership

Mastering the Residential Purchase Agreement: Important Updates!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 7, 2025 2:00:00 PM

Mastering the Residential Purchase Agreement: Important Updates!


The Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA) is the backbone of every California real estate transaction. Yet at 17 pages plus 9 supplemental forms, it can easily overwhelm both agents and clients. Mistakes in the execution of this core transaction form will not only create confusion but will delay closings and potentially open the door to Realtor and client liability.

Expert educator Mike Shenkman breaks down the June 2025 RPA updates and shows you how to:

  • Correctly interpret the new provisions
  • Clearly communicate the agreement’s terms to clients
  • Avoid common errors that derail transactions 

Wednesday, October 29th
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
PSAR Clairemont Office

4340 Genesee Ave, Suite 203, San Diego, CA 92117

Class Testimonials:
 
"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

About the speaker:

Mike Shenkman Photo

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).

 

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

_________________________________________

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

PSAR Free Shredding and Electronic Recycle Event

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 24, 2025 1:45:00 PM

Tell your clients To Bring their Shredding & ELECTRONIC Recycling to PSAR for FREE!

FREE Shredding and Electronic Recycling Event

Get rid of those old electronics and
Shred those documents

Wednesday, October 22nd

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

FREE and open to PSAR members and their clients

Bring your shredding and electronic recycling to:
PSAR El Cajon Parking Lot
1150 Broadway, El Cajon, CA 92021

 This will be Drive-up and Drop-off protocol
Please stay in the car until your vehicle is called up to the drop-off area.

ACCEPTED SHREDDING - 10 FILE/LEDGER BOXES MAXIMUM
(per company or business)*

All Paper • File Folders • Hanging Files • Checkbooks • Magazines • Notepads • Envelopes

*For larger shredding needs, ProShred will offer a discount rate at the Convoy location on the event day.
Arrangements must be made in advance. There will be no exceptions at the event.


ACCEPTED ELECTRONICS

TVs & Monitors  |  Desktop computers   |  Laptops  |  Servers  |  All In One Computers  |  Tablets  |  Smartphones  |  Routers & Switches  |  Cameras  |  Printers & Scanners  |  Video Gaming Consoless  |  CDs & Floppy Disks  |  keyboards & Mice  |  Telephones  |  Stereo Systems  |  Cables & Plugs  |  Hard Drives

We WILL NOT accept fluorescent light bulbs, large appliances like washing machines or stoves, or other hazardous waste such as paint and liquids at this event.

Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS 

ProShred Security San Diego                            dream-electronics-recycling

Thank you to our October Shredding Sponsors
(They will be handing out treats and info as you pass by)

Farmers Insurance Bob Hillard

Bob Hillard

Aftermath Exterminating Inc

Marcco Flood Restoration

Morrison Plus Property Inspections

Rancho Ted Hard Money Lending


Alliance Escrow

The Carver Barrett Financial Team

_____________________

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

Real Estate Fraud Uncovered: Protecting Your License & Clients (Insights from FBI-DRE-DA)

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 24, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Real Estate Fraud Uncovered

“In June 2025, a San Diego resident was sentenced to prison for forging and recording false real estate documents - one to block a foreclosure and another to steal ownership of a home.”


This case illustrates how bold and damaging fraud schemes have become, and why REALTORS®, appraisers, and title professionals need to be constantly on their guard. PSAR’s Real Estate Fraud Awareness Class features experts from the FBI, DRE, and the San Diego DA’s Office who will instruct REALTORS® in how to recognize, prevent, and report fraud.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Spot and stop fraud before it impacts a real estate transaction
  • Avoid compliance mistakes that can trigger DRE investigations
  • Understand legal exposure and how to protect your license


A Q&A session with representatives from all three agencies will follow the presentation.

Thursday, October 16th
9:00  - 11:00 
PSAR Chula Vista Office
Panel of experts

San Diego District Attorney
  John Dunn
  Deputy District Attorney
  Real Estate Fraud Unit
  San Diego County District Attorney’s Office
Department of Justice
  Alex Murray
  Senior Financial Investigator 
  Elder Justice Task Force (EJTF)
  San Diego FBI Office
California Department of Real Estate
  Jesse Hafen 
  DRE Special Investigator 
  Department of Real Estate
 

Topics: Education, Announcements, Market Information, Industry