Kevin McElroy

Recent Posts

Newly revised C.A.R. Forms

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 7, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Forms Update with Mike Shenkman

Staying updated on form changes isn't just good practice—it's essential to your business. This refresher will have attendees leaving confident in using the most current versions in their transactions.

The NAR settlement agreement and determinations by the Department of Justice have driven changes in how REALTORS® conduct their business and the language utilized in their business forms. REALTORS® need to take the initiative to get updated on the forms that underpin real estate transactions! 

Why This Review Matters:  The latest information will be imparted about key real estate business forms recently revised and now available in zipForms and other platforms.


Thursday, March 20th
1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
PSAR South Office
 
 This class is offered 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

"Mike is straight to the point, keeps it moving, keeps it interesting, time does go by quickly and yet I feel as though I learned and reinforced my understanding of the new rules. GREAT TEACHER."

 

Mike Shenkman PhotoAbout 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).

__________________________

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

Knowledge of Living Trusts and Wills elevates an agent's value!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Feb 28, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Understand Living Trusts and Wills

REALTORS® who understand probate and estate planning are positioned to help clients protect their assets and avoid lengthy legal processes. Knowledge of living trusts and wills further strengthens a REALTOR®’s credibility and value.

Attend the Probate Sales and Living Trusts class to learn about probate, living trusts, and wills. Acquiring the legal strategies will help clients safeguard their assets and streamline estate planning.

What information/insights will be delivered?

  • Common pitfalls in estate planning and living trusts
  • Understanding of the roles of trustees and signing authority 
  • The probate process and how proper planning can help avoid it
  • Benefits of trusts over a simple will
  • Common and unforeseen pitfalls that can sabotage estate planning

Speaker Dawn Allenby is an expert in estate planning and asset protection.

Monday, March 17th
11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
PSAR South Office
Light snacks will be served
 

Dawn Allenby

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.

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

ZipForms Workflows That Wow: Steps to Organized Transactions

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Feb 21, 2025 9:00:00 AM

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Looking to streamline transactions and enhance efficiency? Whether you're a seasoned zipForms user or just getting started, this live online training is designed to help you work smarter and deliver top-tier service to your clients.

In just one hour, gain essential skills to simplify  workflow, manage contracts confidently, and maximize the tools available through zipForms. 

Key class takeaways:

  • Go Paperless & Simplify Signatures – Utilize zipForm's eSignature capabilities for seamless transactions.
  • Create & Share Forms with Ease – Customize professional forms and securely collaborate with clients and agents.
  • Save Time & Stay Organized – Set up reusable templates and automate transaction reminders.
  • Expert Guidance – Receive direct answers to your zipForm questions from Ed Charboneau.

This training session is offered FREE to our REALTOR® members!

March 13th, Thursday
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Live via Zoom
zoom Logo



Ed_10_24_19_SquareMeet the Speaker: 
Edward Charboneau is the REALTOR® Training and Transaction Manager at the California Association of REALTORS® and has been for the last 6 years. Ed is involved in zipForm® Plus product support, outreach, and education for REALTORS®. Ed is also running the Inspector Certification Program for C.A.R. Ed has been working in Real Estate for 15 years and has done everything from Website development for brokerages to real estate appraisals.

_______________________________________________________________

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: Education

Skyslope Free for PSAR - CRMLS Subscribers

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Feb 21, 2025 8:23:35 AM

SkySlope Forms
Your time is valuable. That’s why CRMLS is offering SkySlope Forms to all users at no cost starting February 25. This powerful tool streamlines the transaction process, saving you time while ensuring compliance.

Why SkySlope Forms?

  • No Cost for CRMLS Users: Enjoy access to SkySlope Forms without paying a dime.
  • Direct MLS Integration: Automatically populate contract details, reducing manual entry and errors.
  • Access to C.A.R. Forms: Active REALTORS® can use the full library of California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) forms directly within the platform.
  • Customizable Templates: Save even more time with user-built templates tailored to common transactions.
  • Mobile App Access: Manage your forms on the go, keeping you ready to serve clients anytime, anywhere.
Need E-Signature Capabilities?
While SkySlope Forms comes with numerous no-cost benefits, you can enhance your experience with e-signature options
  • DigiSign Integration: Add e-signature capabilities for just $64.99/year after a free 14-day trial. Seamlessly integrated into SkySlope Forms, it makes signing documents quick and easy.
  • DocuSign Compatibility: Use your existing DocuSign account. Please note that documents sent for e-signature with DocuSign must be managed separately.

See It in Action
Want to learn how SkySlope Forms can make your workflow more efficient? Sign up for an upcoming webinar designed for CRMLS users and watch a full demonstration.

Upcoming Webinars

  Event Date Start Time End Time Registration Link
Skyslope Forms for BRBC 3/7/2025 11:30 AM 12:00 PM Register Now
Skyslope Forms for BRBC 3/13/2025 11:30 AM 12:00 PM Register Now
Skyslope Forms for BRBC 3/26/2025 11:30 AM 12:00 PM Register Now


With no cost to you and a host of time-saving features, SkySlope Forms is a valuable tool to streamline your transactions and enhance client service. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to work smarter.

For more background on Skyslope forms, check out this link.

Topics: Announcements

Meet and Greet  For Chula Vista Councilmember Cesar Fernandez

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Feb 13, 2025 10:52:17 AM

Meet and Greet Fundraiser For Chula Vista Councilmember Cesar Fernandez

Connect with newly elected Chula Vista Councilmember Cesar Fernandez!

Councilmember Cesar Fernandez, a longtime educator and community advocate, will share his vision for Chula Vista’s future. This is your chance to engage in meaningful discussions about the city’s priorities and learn how you can be a part of positive change.

Donations are not required to attend, but contributions will be requested to cover the council member's campaign debt.

Enjoy light refreshments as you connect with fellow residents and local leaders. 

Shape the future of Chula Vista together!
February 24th, Monday
4 PM to 5 PM
PSAR South Service Center
A minimum recommended contribution of $50 can be made during the event.  
 
 For more information, send inquiries to support@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: Announcements, Leadership, Government Affairs

YPN Salsa Dancing Afternoon

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Feb 5, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250220_ Salsa Dancing Instruction  YPN

Prepare to spice up your moves and enjoy an incredible afternoon of rhythm and fun! Join Your Professional Network (YPN) for an exciting Salsa Dancing Workshop that will leave you dancing with confidence and style. Tacos and sides are offered to inspire your dancing moves.

Workshop Highlights:

  • Learn fundamental salsa dance techniques
  • Professional instruction for all skill levels
  • Great opportunity to meet new people
 
Thursday, February 20th
4 PM to 7 PM
Cost: $15 (food included)

 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

Land more listings by using CRS Power Prospecting and RPR Searches

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 30, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Discover how to get more listings by using CRS Power Prospecting and RPR Searches

Mike White (PSAR Technology Committee Head) and guest speaker Rickey Currey, CRMLS Systems Expert, will explain how to unlock the power of CRS Prospecting and RPR Searches!
You will leave this session able to harness these game-changing tools for use with everything from listing presentations to investment analysis, serving clients more effectively.

Why join this class?
  • Streamline your property search process
  • Identify promising opportunities before your competitors
  • Make informed decisions backed by robust market data
  • Create more compelling listing presentations

 

Wednesday, February 26th
11:30 AM to 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, and development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County. Workshops are open to all REALTORS® and Affiliated Members. This event is free of charge.

Topics: Education

Short Sales and Foreclosures

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 24, 2025 12:39:31 PM

Short Sales and Foreclosures

Mike Shenkman will explain how to navigate short sales and foreclosures in the current real estate market environment. Knowledge of short sales and foreclosures enables real estate agents to confidently assist distressed homeowners and interested buyers. These unique transactions require specialized knowledge and skills to successfully guide clients from contract to close.

                   Become a go-to agent for short sale and foreclosure transactions!

This two-part class delivers these essentials:

  • The fundamentals of short sales and the critical role of real estate agents
  • Key considerations and strategies for successful short sale transactions
  • Current market trends in short sales and foreclosures
  • Best practices for representing both buyers and sellers

Why attend?  You will leave these sessions with: 

  • Practical strategies for handling distressed properties
  • Current market insights and trends
  • Expert guidance from a recognized industry leader

Part 1
February 21 | 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM
PSAR Clairemont Office
Part 2
February 24 | 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM
PSAR South Office
Cost: This class is offered at no charge 
 
 
Class Sponsor
VAREP San Diego Chapter
 
 
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).

______________________________________

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

Housing Providers Forum

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 22, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_241016_Property Management Update

Property managers, join a panel of industry experts who will deliver updates on the 2025 new real estate laws.

Members who belong to PSAR, SCRHA, or NARPM are invited to share experiences, put forth issues, and seek solutions together. New property management laws will also be discussed. 

Monday, February 10th
12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Live in the South County Office

The class sponsor will provide light snacks
 

Meet the panel of experts:

Mark Scott - Broker, Past President of PSAR & CA Chapter of NARPM

Eric Sutton - Warwick & Sutton Properties

Peter Carlseen - Broker, Praecelsus Property Management

 

Event Sponsor:
Marcco flood restoration

Marco Calderon
_____________________________________________________

This forum is for the benefit of PSAR housing providers, members of the Southern California Rental Housing Association, and members of the National Association of Residential Property Managers.  We respect differences in opinions on any subject matter.

Out of respect to our guest speakers and other participants, we reserve the right to remove anyone from the meeting who is determined to be disruptive.

________________________________________Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MANAGERS              Southern California Rental Housing Association

SDCRHA Provides a Robust Library of PM Forms Designed for the San Diego Area

Local Rental Forms

 

 

Topics: Education

broker breakfast With the California DRE Feb 11th

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 21, 2025 9:00:00 AM

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Veronica Kilpatrick Pic2

 

With Veronica Kilpatrick 
San Diego Enforcement District Manager
(Great San Diego Area, Greater Los Angeles Area)
California Department of Real Estate
Veronica Kilpatrick has served as the San Diego Enforcement District Manager and Southern Government, Public Interest, and Law Enforcement Liaison at the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) since April 2012. With over 18 years of experience at the Department, Veronica brings extensive expertise in real estate regulation and public service. Prior to her role at the DRE, she practiced real estate and holds a real estate salesperson license, currently in government service status. Veronica earned a BA in Political Science from UCLA and a Master’s in Public Administration with a focus on Public Policy from USC.
Also updates from the Winter C.A.R. Business meetings.$10 to Register
(Limited to Brokers and Office Managers doing business in San Diego County)
 
Riverwalk_Secondary_Stamp_AquaticBlue_LWR2
Tuesday, February 11th
Breakfast and networking begin at 9:00 am
The forum will run from 9:30 am to 11:00 am
at River Walk Golf Club
1150 Fashion Valley Rd, San Diego
Submit agenda topic requests, to ceo@psar.org.

Future Broker Breakfast Dates

May 8th | 9:00 am to 11:30  am | PSAR South Office | Register
 
October 1st | 9:00 am - 11:30 am | PSAR East Office | Register
 

Topics: Education, Brokers/Managers, Leadership