Kevin McElroy

Recent Posts

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
Lunch 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

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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, you can 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 Leslie Boone.

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

Recording from March 13th, 2025 Zoom Class

About the speaker:

Leslie BooneLeslie Boone
Throughout Leslie's professional career, she has worked in most areas of the Real Estate industry, including Real Estate, Escrow, and Mortgage Lending. In 2004, she became a Corporate Trainer for the title companies, and I knew she had found her true passion. She has been teaching software and device functionality to Real Estate agents for over 10 years. She is excited to be now working for the California Association of REALTORS® as a zipForm Trainer.

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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

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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

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).

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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

Expand your Real Estate Business to the International level with omni

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 15, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Global Council business international

This new tool makes it easier than ever to initiate business abroad.

 
Thursday, February 27th
12 PM to 2 PM
PSAR South Service Center
 
Free for PSAR Members! Plus, lunch will be provided.

Step into the international business world with Omni MLS & The Global Council. This exclusive presentation delivers the keys to unlocking endless possibilities beyond the borders of the United States. Get the tools you need to go global!

  • Extensive overview of Omni MLS
  • How to search for properties located beyond the United States
  • How to post properties for sale that you own outside of the United States
  • Have your question(s) ready for a spirited Q&A session after the presentation

Ross BuckIntroducing Ross Buck, an accomplished executive with a passion for bringing transparency to the real estate industry. With an impressive track record spanning over 30 years in both the United States and Mexico, Ross has gained invaluable experience working with renowned Fortune 500 companies. Notably, he has also served as the president of AMPI Rosarito, a testament to his exceptional expertise and leadership in the field. Currently, Ross holds the esteemed position of General Director at OMNI MLS, where his primary objective is to foster connections between the real estate industries in the US and the rest of the world.

 

Logo_GREC-2              OMNI MLS              PSAR LOGO FOR FACEBOOK________________________________________________

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: Announcements, Events

2025 CRMLS Rules & Policy Changes effective January 13th

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 6, 2025 1:00:00 PM

Know the CRMLS Rules

CRMLS Rules & Policy Changes Effective January 13, 2025

To keep participants informed and compliant, CRMLS has announced several rule updates and policy changes that will take effect on January 13, 2025. Below is a summary of the rules and the updates, explained in plain language.


Rule 7.15 - Restrictions on Sharing Commission Information

What the rule says:
Listing Brokers cannot use the MLS to state or imply the amount of commission they are willing to share with a Buyer Broker. This includes fields, documents, or media uploaded to the MLS. Additionally, Sellers cannot use the MLS to offer specific compensation amounts to Buyer Brokers.

What's new:

  • A new sentence was added, requiring any mention of seller concessions (such as financial incentives for buyers) to be placed in the Public Remarks/Property Description field.
  • These concessions can be shared as long as they are not tied to paying a Buyer Broker or buyer representative.

Key takeaway:

  • Sellers and Listing Brokers can include seller concessions in the Public Remarks, but these cannot specify or be conditioned upon compensating a Buyer Broker.

Rule 10.2(e) - Reporting Sales for Comparable Purposes

What the rule says:
Brokers can report sales information for properties that wouldn’t normally qualify for MLS input, as long as:

  • The property is located within the MLS service area.
  • The reporting broker was involved in the transaction (representing either the buyer or the seller).
  • Authorization from the party they represented is obtained, and supporting documentation is available if requested.

What's new:

  • A new sentence requires brokers to submit this sales information to the MLS within 30 days of closing escrow.

Key takeaway:

  • Sales data for properties used for comparable purposes must be reported promptly—within 30 days of the close of escrow.

Policy Changes to Citation Rules

CRMLS has revised the fines and penalties for certain violations. Here’s what has changed:

  1. Rule 11.5(e) - Branded Media

    • Old fine: $100
    • New fine: $250
    • This rule prohibits branded media (media containing names, logos, or contact information) in MLS listings.
  2. Rule 12.5 - Misuse of Public Remarks

    • Violations, where agent or broker contact information appears in the Public Remarks field, will no longer receive a warning.
    • Fine: $250 for the first offense.
    • This rule ensures the Public Remarks field is used only for property descriptions, not for advertising agent or broker contact details.

Key takeaway:

  • Be mindful when uploading media or filling out the Public Remarks field. Fines for violations have increased, and warnings are no longer issued for including agent contact information.

Why These Changes Matter

These updates are designed to improve the transparency and accuracy of the MLS, ensuring fair practices for all participants. Adhering to these rules helps maintain professionalism, fosters trust, and reduces misunderstandings in real estate transactions.

If you have questions about these changes or need further clarification, reach out to CRMLS or your association for guidance. Stay informed and compliant to avoid unnecessary fines and disruptions to your business.


Remember: The updated rules take effect on January 13, 2025. Make any necessary adjustments to your practices to stay compliant.

You can print his page here

You may also review the complete CRMLS Rules & Policies here.

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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

New Laws:  Gov Hutchinson Live!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Dec 23, 2024 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250128_CAR Legal Update Gov Hutchinson

The Real Estate Rulebook is Being Rewritten. Are You Ready?

2025 brings a wave of new legislation impacting California REALTORS®.  Don't fall behind! Gov Hutchinson, C.A.R. legal expert, will guide you through the critical changes to keep you in the know so you can be the trusted expert to your clients.

Join your peers for this essential legal briefing and future-proof your business.

Tuesday | January 28th, 2025
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Live in the South Service Center
880 Canarios Ct, Chula Vista, CA 91910

Lock in your seat now!
Chick-fil-A boxed lunch will be provided (must register)
 
  
 
 
 
Gov HutchinsonGov. Hutchinson Vice President and Assistant General Counsel of the California Association of REALTORS® is a leading expert in California real estate law. As head of Member Legal Services for the California Association of REALTORS®, he oversees the "Hotline," which provides legal guidance and training to Realtors® across the state. Gov's deep understanding of the law combined with his engaging teaching style make his classes invaluable for REALTORS® at all levels.
  


Event Sponsors: 

     Fidelity Home Waranty with Debi Levenson           Glenn Warren with Rate Lending

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PSAR's Mission is to empower Real Estate Professionals

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

Topics: Education

FREE Professional Headshots All Year! EXCLUSIVE For PSAR MEMBERS

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Dec 1, 2024 11:15:00 PM

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PSAR will help you put your best "face" forward!

REALTORS® know how important it is to project a polished, professional image. A great headshot can make a huge impact on your online presence, in your marketing materials, and overall branding. Don't overlook this key component of your real estate market profile!

Insight Photos, brought to you by PSAR, will create professional, brand-enhancing headshot photos for you-- at no charge!  Take advantage of this great offer to create a winning first impression.

The FREE headshots are held once a month at PSAR Offices*
(Photo sessions run from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM no appointment necessary.)

Date Location
January 10, 2025 PSAR South Office
February 14, 2025 PSAR Central Office
March 11, 2025 PSAR East Office
April 11, 2025 PSAR South Office
May 9, 2025 PSAR Central Office
June 10, 2025 PSAR East Office
July 11, 2025 PSAR South Office
August 8, 2025 PSAR Central Office
September 9, 2025 PSAR East Office
October 10, 2025 PSAR South Office
November 14, 2025 PSAR Central Office
December 2, 2025 PSAR East Office

*Live Code of Ethics Classes at PSAR will be hosted from 8:30 am-12 pm the day of shooting. Ethics training is required for all REALTORS® every three years.  Members are welcome to attend FREE Ethics training before getting a headshot! 

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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, Announcements, PSAR Benefits

Network with industry leaders and learn how to become one yourself!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Nov 22, 2024 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_011525_Cocktails and Committees B

Make valuable connections, develop your leadership skills, and position yourself for success in 2025. Join leaders in San Diego real estate for the 5th annual Cocktails & Committees event!

Here’s why you should attend:

  • Meet Committee Chairs & Members: Find out the purpose and goals of each PSAR committee to see which one aligns with your interests and expertise.

  • Expand Your Network: Interact with industry professionals and REALTORS® from across San Diego County.

  • Grow Personally and Professionally: Gain recognition for achievements and enhance your leadership skills while volunteering to contribute to your community.

  • Explore New Business Opportunities: Lay the groundwork for success in 2025 by building meaningful connections that can translate into new business.

Empowering Committees & Councils

PSAR, one of San Diego’s largest REALTOR® trade organizations with over 4,000 members, offers a variety of committees and councils that drive progress and innovation in the industry. These include:

  • Affiliate Committee
  • Education and Technology Committees
  • Finance Committee
  • Government Affairs
  • Global Real Estate Council
  • Your Professional Network (YPN)

Whether you’re passionate about giving back to the community, influencing policy, or keeping current on industry trends, PSAR has a committee that fits you!

5th Annual Cocktails and Committees
Wednesday, January 15th

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM

at buffalo widlwings Buffalo Wild Wings
1640 CAMINO DEL RIO N SUITE 1376, SAN DIEGO, CA 92108

This event is open to all REALTORS® regardless of association affiliation. Experience PSAR’s welcoming and transparent culture in a casual, social setting while enjoying complimentary appetizers and happy-hour drink specials.
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VIEW SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Get in early to get all the marketing benefits

TITLE SPONSOR

Hawthore & Albatross LLC
Hawthorn & Albatross LLC

Event Sponsors

         Morrison Plus Logo              OakwoodLogo19

     

Topics: Industry