Kevin McElroy

Recent Posts

Pizza with a Side of Property: Your Italian Home Awaits you!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 11, 2025 10:00:00 AM

Pizza with a Side of Property: Your Italian Home Awaits

Discover the secrets to investing in Italian property - the purchase can be as low as €1 euro!

Dreaming of owning a home in Italy—or helping others do the same? Find out how at the Global Real Estate Council (GREC) event Pizza with a Side of Property, where real estate meets Italian charm (and yes, there will be pizza and ice cream too!)

Featured speaker, Trish Nunez, will guide REALTORS® through the exciting opportunity of buying property in Italy, including towns offering homes for as little as 1 euro. 

webimage_250425_GREC_one_euro

What You’ll Learn:

  • The legal and financial steps to buying property in Italy
  • How the €1 property program works (and what’s required)
  • Tips for identifying viable investments and avoiding common pitfalls

Whether searching for a vacation home, a long-term investment, or simply chasing la dolce vita, this session will equip attendees with the knowledge to invest in Italy confidently.

 

 

Enjoy pizza and ice cream while networking with fellow REALTORS®!

Register now - Ciao! 

Thursday, April 24th
11:00 am to 1:00 pm
PSAR South Service Center
880 Canarios Court, Chula Vista 91910
Pizza catering from:
Giant Pizza King

 

Meet the speaker:

Trish NunezTrish Nunez is a dedicated and experienced REALTOR® who has been active in the real estate industry since 2004. At PSAR, she is a well-respected member known for her professionalism, strong referral-based business, and commitment to excellence. Based in Ocean Beach, San Diego, she has owned and operated Mission Real Estate Inc. since 2010, serving clients with expertise in listings, property management, and international real estate. As a certified international property specialist and multilingual agent, Trish brings valuable global connections and cultural insight to the PSAR community. Her work reflects a deep commitment to both her clients and her local community.

 

ANNUAL SPONSORS:PM_LOGO_LOGO HORIZONTAL image (2)__________________________________
 
 For questions, please contact Victor Herrera at 619-271-5897 / email victor@psar.org.
 
Brought to you by: 
 Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS Global Council

 

Topics: Education, Global Real Estate Council, Market Information, Industry

Backcountry property Fire Hardening & Sales Transaction Tips

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

Defensible Space and Fire Hardening

Backcountry real estate transactions present unique challenges around fire safety regulations, insurance, and sales disclosures.

Learn the latest fire hardening tips and important county regulations from experts. This class gives you the tools and up-to-date information needed to support buyers and sellers in high fire-risk areas.

Essential Information covered in this session:

  • The latest Zone Zero regulations and how they affect listings
  • AB 38 requirements and how to navigate the FHDS form
  • Critical insurance updates for fire-prone properties
  • How DIC policies work with the CA Fair Plan
  • Brief updates from the City of Santee that impact local sales

Featured Speakers:
🔥 Fire Chief Bernard Molloy, Murrieta Fire and Rescue
🔥 Fire Marshal Ken King, Heartland Fire and Rescue
📄 Chuck Piro, Consultant, MyNHD

Stay cool under fire - learn from the experts!

Tuesday, April 22
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
PSAR El Cajon Service Center

Meet the speakers:

 

1-Apr-11-2025-04-09-56-8865-PM

Chuck Piro
Consultant, MyNHD

Chuck Piro has over 25 years of experience in the Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD) industry, known for his engaging presentations and deep industry knowledge. Starting his career at LGS Reports, he later led sales at Professional Hazard Disclosure and Disclosure Source, achieving significant revenue growth. Chuck has presented to thousands of real estate professionals across California, focusing on risk management, disclosure requirements, and recent regulations such as Home Hardening and Defensible Space. He is widely respected for his clarity, integrity, and insight.

 

3-4

 Fire Chief Bernard Molloy
Fire Chief, Murrieta Fire and Rescue

Chief Bernie Molloy has 25 years of fire service experience and currently serves as Fire Chief of Murrieta Fire & Rescue. He holds a master’s degree in emergency services management, is a credentialed Chief Fire Officer, and a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program. His expertise includes EMS, fire operations, and community risk reduction. Chief Molloy has held leadership roles in the San Diego and Riverside County Fire Chiefs Associations and currently serves as President-elect of Cal Chiefs and 2nd Vice President for Cal Cities.

 

2-Apr-11-2025-04-09-57-0862-PM

 Fire Marshall Ken King
Fire Marshall, Heartland Fire and Rescue

Ken King brings over 25 years of public service experience in Code Enforcement, Law Enforcement, and Fire Prevention. He is an ICC-certified Fire Marshal and Building Official, having served in key roles with the Riverside County Office of the Fire Marshal, including Deputy Fire Marshal. He has worked on high-profile events like the Coachella Music Festival and has expertise in pyrotechnics and fireworks. Ken also served 11 years as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff in San Bernardino County and has presented fire prevention classes at national conferences.

 

Snacks provided by class sponsor:

Danielle Wolter from Morrison Property Inspections

_______________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

 

Topics: Education

Unwind & Recharge: YPN’s Yoga & Wine Night

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 7, 2025 10:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250417_ Yoga and Wine YPN

Take a break from a busy schedule and join an evening of relaxation, mindfulness, and connection at YPN’s Yoga & Wine Retreat!  Whether a seasoned yogi or a complete beginner, this event is the perfect way to refresh mind and body while enjoying great company.

What to Expect:

  • A rejuvenating yoga session suitable for all levels
  • Mindful moments with affirmations, meditation, and mindset tips
  • A chance to relax and socialize with fellow attendees
  • Wine and lite bites included! 

What to Expect:

To fully enjoy the experience, please bring a yoga mat, towel, and comfortable clothing.

Limited Spots Available!

This event is open to all ages and yoga levels, but only 35 spots are available, so be sure to secure a spot soon! 

Thursday, April 17th
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
PSAR Clairemont Office
Cost: $10
 

 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

What Every San Diego REALTOR® should Know About Supplemental Taxes

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 1, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250416_ Supplemental Taxation Class Mike Shenkman (1)

Answer your clients’ most pressing questions on taxation with confidence!

Do you know how supplemental taxes impact your clients after a property sale? Knowledge of this financially impactful subject enables a REALTOR® stand out.

Join Mike Shenkman for an exclusive supplemental tax class and gain the know-how to confidently counsel clients!

What You’ll Learn:

  • The history of property taxation at the federal and state levels 

  • The basics of supplemental taxes and their importance

  •  The key features of  Proposition 13 and Proposition 19

  • Tax change triggers like ownership transfer and new home construction.

  • Supplemental taxation, its use as an application, and client talking points

Register today!

Wednesday, April 16th
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
 

 

Important Note: REALTORS® are not tax advisors. Avoid giving specific tax guidance and always recommend clients consult a qualified tax professional. Supplemental tax bills can be confusing, and it’s best to refer clients to experts for advice.

Get the knowledge you need to answer questions confidently—without becoming the source of tax advice.

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."

 

About the Instructor:

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).

 


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

Get More Leads, Close More Deals—Learn from the Experts!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 28, 2025 4:58:55 PM

blogbanner_041725_Lead Generating Agents (3)

Top REALTORS® Reveal Their Lead Generation Secrets!

Curious how San Diego’s top-performing agents generate and convert so many leads? This PSAR exclusive event features David Fletes, Sarah Heck, and Melissa Sofia, all highly successful REALTORS® who will divulge their winning tactics.  PSAR 2026 President-Elect Claudia Zake will facilitate the upcoming session, bringing her leadership and insight to the discussion.

Get answers to game-changing questions like:

  • What are the must-know lead generation strategies for today’s market?
  • How to qualify and follow up with leads more effectively?
  • What habits separate top agents from the also-rans?

Seats will fill up fast, so register now!

Thursday, April 17th
12:00 to 3:00 
PSAR Clairemont Office
Lunch will be served thanks to:
Morrison Plus Property Inspections (Danielle Wolter) & Planet Home Lending (Sean Simon)

Meet the Panel

Melissa SofiaMelissa Sofia is a powerhouse real estate broker, proud Filipino American, and founder of The Avenue Home Collective in San Diego. Her team consistently ranks in Realtrends’ Top 1.5% in the U.S., selling over $250 million in homes annually. Recently named San Diego's Real Producers Broker of the Year, Melissa is a dynamic speaker at national conferences such as Inman Connect and FUBCON. She is also an advocate for the AAPI community, serving as the 2022 President of the Asian Real Estate Association of America San Diego and AREAA National Policy Committee Chair for 2026. As a dedicated mother of four, Melissa inspires others by proving that success in real estate and family life is limitless.

 

Sarah Heck

Sarah Heck is a seasoned REALTOR® with more than 20 years of experience in the San Diego County real estate market. She is a former Chair of Your Professionals Network (YPN) and a Past President of PSAR. Sarah is known for her integrity, market knowledge, and commitment to client success. She specializes in guiding clients through changing market conditions while delivering service tailored to their goals. Active in the community, she supports housing advocacy and homelessness prevention efforts. Her dedication to professionalism and transparency has earned her a loyal base of clients and consistent referrals.

 

David FletesDavid Fletes is a top-performing REALTOR® with over 17 years of experience in the San Diego real estate market. Since earning his license in 2007, he has consistently ranked in the top 1% of REALTORS® in the region. As founder of the David Fletes Team, he is known for delivering exceptional service and creating a “wow” experience for clients. David is a creative marketer who consistently develops new strategies to generate business and stay ahead in a competitive market. He currently serves as Chair of PSAR’s South Government Affairs Committee and is a C.A.R. Key Contact for Assemblymember David Alvarez. A frequent speaker at industry events, David is recognized for his commitment to excellence and leadership in the real estate community.

EVENT SPONSORS

Morrison Plus Property Inspections
Danielle Wolter
Planet Home Lending - Sean Simon
Sean Simon

_____________________________________________

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

Dream Homes to Reality: Guiding Clients with Homebuyers Program

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 26, 2025 1:42:41 PM

From Dream Homes to Reality: Guide Clients with Homebuyers Program

 

Whether you're a seasoned agent or just starting out, this class is a gateway to helping clients achieve their goals.

What’s included in this session:

  • Insights on San Diego’s housing programs like the H.O.P.E. grant, offering up to $40,000+ for qualifying buyers like teachers.

  • Key tips for identifying potential property issues, from structural concerns to safety hazards.

  • Expert guidance on how to make inspections a seamless part of the home-buying journey. 

Tuesday, April 15th
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
PSAR Chula Vista Service Center
 

Get to know the speaker:
Hector CastilloHector Castillo is the home Program Manager for the Urban League of San Diego County, a Non-Profit Organization in the USA, since 1907.  The Urban League has been in San Diego since 1953.  The Urban League of San Diego County is one of more than 90 affiliates of the National Urban League nationwide. 

The Urban League is a HUD Home Counseling and First Time Buyer Educational Services Provider.  Hector has been in the non-profit arena, in various positions for more than 20 years. Hector has been a home loan officer for more than 25 years specializing in Down Payment Assistance / First Time Buyer Programs, International Financing, and multiple home loan programs.
 

Urban League San Diego County

_______________________________________________

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

Enable more Home Buyers with CalHFA’s Down Payment Assistance Programs

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

CalHFA

Help first-time home buyers realize their dream!

Working with first-time buyers who need down payment solutions? Multiple affordable housing program options can be leveraged. 

Natasha Dowdy, Program Analyst at CalHFA, will provide guidance and information on  how to make homeownership more accessible.

Key Topics:

  • MyHome Assistance Program: Deferred junior loans for down payments and closing costs on FHA and Conventional Loans.
  • CalPLUS Access Program: A first mortgage paired with mandatory down payment and closing cost assistance for buyers with limited upfront funds.
  • New Program Benefits: Lower rates and more options.
 
Thursday, April 10th
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Live Zoom Webinar
Questions?  Contact education@psar.org or call (619) 421-7811. 

CalHFA


For over 45 years, the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) has been a trusted partner in supporting low- and moderate-income homebuyers and renters. As a self-supported state agency, CalHFA provides financing and programs focused on increasing equity and access to affordable housing.

 

photo_smallMeet the speaker:
 
An advocate for making dreams of affordable homeownership a reality for California residents. Natasha Dowdy is the Lender Training Program Analyst for the California Housing Finance Agency. With over 15 years of experience in the mortgage lending industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Her passion for the field drives her commitment to educating others and bridging the gap to homeownership. Natasha’s work not only helps prospective homeowners navigate the complexities of the lending process but also ensures that they have the tools and information needed to achieve their dream of owning a home. 

 

Class sponsored by:
Lief Tolleson US Bank Home Mortgage
__________________________________________

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

Rocking the Rental Housing Industry! Southern California Rental Housing Expo 2025

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

blogbanner_250423_Shredding Event

The SCRH EXPO 2025 showcases the latest trends, technologies, and insights shaping the rental housing market.  This dynamic event offers the following to help you stay competitive in property management and rental housing.

Expert-Led Educational Sessions
Networking
Exhibitor displays featuring tools and resources 
A chance to win multiple prizes!

 
Thursday, May 8th
8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Town & Country Hotel
 

Special $ 15.00 Discount for PSAR Members!

Use promo code PSAR@EXPO for $15.00 off your registration.

PROFESSIONAL PANEL

1-Mar-19-2025-09-09-48-3053-PM

State of the Apartment Industry
Joshua Ohl, CoStar Group

2-Mar-19-2025-09-09-48-2878-PM

Legislative Update
Molly Kirkland, SCRHA

4-2

Shopping and Improving Your Properties
Lindsay Martinez, Tourus

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Shopping and Improving Your Properties
Ronald Harrington, 29th Street Living

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

5-2

Leveraging AI in Property Management
Kent Langley


Contact Information: Website: www.socalrha.org | Phone: 858.278.8070

______________________________________

PSAR's Mission is to empower Real Estate Professionals.

Topics: Education, Events, Industry

How will Mexican tariffs impact home prices in San Diego? Grab some free tacos and find out!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 18, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250401_Market Forcast - Jordan Levine  (1)-1

Don’t be fooled this April 1st - join your real estate colleagues for TACOS and a clear breakdown of the local housing market by Jordan Levine.

 

 

 Tuesday, April 1st
11:00 AM - Tacos
11:30 AM to 1:30 PM - Jordan
  
Jordan Levine
The speaker:
Jordan Levine is the Vice President & Chief Economist at the California Association of REALTORS®. He leads C.A.R.’s housing market research and policy analysis. A strong advocate for homeownership and equity, Jordan is a trusted voice for REALTORS®, policymakers, and the media. Originally from East County San Diego, he holds an Economics degree from UCSB and a Master’s in International Economics from the University of Sussex. 

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 Mar 18, 2025 12:00:00 AM

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

blogbanner_250423_shredding_recycling

Get rid of those old electronics and shred those documents

Wednesday | April 23rd, 2025

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

FREE and open to PSAR members and their clients

Bring your shredding and electronic recycling to:
PSAR South Center Parking Lot
880 Canarios Court, Chula Vista 91910

 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.

Spread the word with these links:

Shredding and Electronic Recycle Event Flyer              Shredding and Recycle Event Social Image


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.

 

Thank you to our April Shredding Sponsors

 ProShred Security San Diego                Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS                dream-electronics-recycling      

 

Farmers Insurance Bob Hillard

Bob Hillard

Red Ink2
Stephanie Nogalez

Marcco flood restorationMarco Calderon

Morrison InspectionsDanielle Wolter
Patriot Home Loans
Raul de la Vega
Old Republic Logo

Mona Cimental

Aftermath ExterminatingRaymundo Gill

 

_____________________

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