Kevin McElroy

Recent Posts

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

________________________________________________________________________________________________

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 are held at the PSAR office from 8:30 am-12 pm the day of the photo shoot. Ethics training is required for all REALTORS® every three years.  Members are welcome to attend FREE Ethics training before getting their photos taken! 

_______________________________________

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

Aligning your communications with client personality traits!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Nov 13, 2024 9:00:00 AM

Aligning your communications with client personality traits!

Strengthen client bonds, foster loyalty, and generate referrals through positive interactions

Have you ever wondered why some client interactions flow seamlessly while others feel like an uphill battle? The answer may lie in understanding personality types and adapting your approach accordingly.

Here's what you'll gain from this transformative session:

  • Discover Your Communication Style: Use the DISC Model to identify and leverage your communication strengths with different personalities.
  • Master Client-Centric Interactions: Tailor your communication to each client, reducing friction and building trust.
  • Stand Out: Offer a unique client experience and connect with diverse personalities for a competitive edge.

Don't miss this chance to elevate your real estate practice through the power of personality-based communication. Happy customers send referrals!

Limited seating available!
Tuesday, December 10th
10:00 - 12:00
PSAR East Meeting Room
1150 Broadway, El Cajon, CA 92021

Free to attend ($99 value)

Angel Tucker

 

Speaker: Angel Tucker

Expert personality profiler, best-selling author, and motivational speaker!
Angel is a dynamic speaker with nearly 3 decades of experience. Through her easy-to-use ideas, Angel has empowered hundreds and thousands of people to have better communication and connections. With Angel, sessions are fun, engaging, and life-changing.
 
 

Class sponsored by:

Alliance Escrow Inc.                     Beach Moving Co. 

 
 
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, Announcements

Mastering the Residential Listing Agreement (RLA)

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 31, 2024 12:00:00 AM

Understanding the Residential Listing Agreement (RLA)

A REALTORS® business success and professional standing require current C.A.R. Forms knowledge!

This November, 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.
  • Stand out from the competition: Insider tips on how and when to use the RLA effectively will give you an edge in client negotiations.
  • Minimize legal risks: Understanding of the intricacies of this contract will protect you and your clients.
  • Enhance your professional profile: Leverage in-depth knowledge to build client trust and secure 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.
 
Stay on top of current industry standards and best practices. These classes are FREE!
 
November 13th | Wednesday
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
PSAR South Office

November 20 | Wednesday
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
PSAR East Office

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"

 

Class sponsored by:
emailbanner_ Eric GillmanLight Snacks will be provided.

__________________________________________

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

NAR Ethics Certification Required to Maintain Services

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 18, 2024 9:00:00 AM

Code of Ethics

Attention REALTORS®!

NAR requires all REALTORS® to re-certify their Code of Ethics every three years. If you received notice that you have not completed your certification for the current cycle, you must take action immediately to avoid disruption to your business.

What's at stake?
Loss of access to essential tools includes Zipforms, the Legal Hotline, and other valuable resources.

Suspension of association membership: This can significantly impact your ability to conduct real estate business.

Take Action Now:  Take the FREE C.A.R. Ethics class that counts towards your renewal:

Below is a list of In-Person Ethics Class Dates and locations at PSAR or CLICK HERE - For the free online anytime class.

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Code of Ethics class held at PSAR Offices in 2025

Date Location Time Registration
January 10, 2025 PSAR South Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
February 14, 1025 PSAR Central Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
March 11, 2025 PSAR East Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
April 11, 2025 PSAR South Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
May 9, 2005 PSAR Central Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
June 10, 2025 PSAR East Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
July 11, 2025 PSAR South Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
August 8, 2025 PSAR Central Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
September 9, 2025 PSAR East Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
October 10, 2025 PSAR South Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
November 14, 2025 PSAR Central Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register
December 2, 2025 PSAR East Office 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM Register

_________________________________________________________________

For assistance or to confirm your certification status, contact us today. Email education@psar.org and the PSAR staff will assist you.

Want more information about the NAR Ethics Traning Requirements? Click here.

If you have completed the ethics requirement via another method, such as NAR online or PSAR live sessions, please email proof of completion to education@psar.org. You must include your name, NRDS ID#, and date completed.

Eligibility Note: Neither age nor honorary membership provides an exemption from COE certification. Periodic training and certification is a National Association of Realtors requirement for all active members.  Only REALTOR® Emeritus members are exempt.

Topics: Education

Reverse engineering success: break down goals to create daily actions

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 15, 2024 9:00:00 AM
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Energized actions yield dynamic results!

Whether you’re a real estate veteran or just getting your feet wet in the business, this class will teach agents how to reverse engineer your success process. Then, turn small, consistent actions into a powerful momentum engine that will drive your real estate business growth.

The steps to success covered in this class:

  • The importance of consistent tracking
  • How to implement the "Greatness Tracker" in daily operations
  • Strategies for achieving each category's weekly targets
  • The concept of "Green Time" and its significance
  • Balancing multiple interaction activities (face-to-face meetings,. phone calls, etc.)
  • The role of networking and relationship-building
  • Importance of follow-up and gratitude expressions (e.g., thank you cards)
  • Converting leads into deals: strategies and best practices
  • The impact of consistent small actions on overall business growth

 

Use the lens of this class to analyze your business growth methods and how to improve them!

Tuesday, October 22nd
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
PSAR South Center

 

Meet the Speaker:

RaulRaul de la Vega boasts a career spanning finance, real estate, and public service. Currently serving as Branch Manager at Patriot Home Loans, he oversees operations, marketing, staff management, and lending practices. His early career highlights include a "Rookie of the Year" award at the Network Financial, showcasing his dedication.

Raul also served as Deputy Sheriff and Correctional Officer with integrity and community commitment. He received his Bachelor's in Business Administration from National University.  Raul is dynamic and knowledgeable, with insights across a broad spectrum of topics.

_____________________

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

Grow Your Business with CRMLS Classes

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 7, 2024 7:00:00 AM

Grow Your Business with CRMLS Classes
CRMLS has put together classrooms on Zoom to help teach some of the free tools our members have access to as part of PSAR. These are small class sizes that are scheduled for PSAR Members. Becoming proficient with these tools can help you build your business.

April 7th | 1:00 PM

Register

Paragon: Searching 101

Navigating through a database of listings can be overwhelming. This course runs through CRMLS Paragon’s search features, how to quickly find relevant listings, and printing/emailing results to your clients. Mastering Paragon’s search techniques takes you from search to sale in no time.

April 21st | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Down Payment Resource

Connect your clients to the down payment assistance they need. Learn how to use Down Payment Resource (DPR) to scan over 2,000 home ownership programs from housing finance agency partners to find the right down payment assistance programs for your clients.

Topics include:
  • Accessing Down Payment Resource 
  • How clients can use Down Payment Resource 
  • An overview of Down Payment Resource Connect
    …and more.

April 28th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Paragon: Agent Essentials

Master the foundational skills to succeed in real estate with this comprehensive course. Whether you’re just beginning your career, restarting it, or you’re looking to expand your expertise in CRMLS Paragon, this course has what you need.

Topics include:

  • The CRMLS Paragon landing page
  • Search techniques
  • Setting up your email signature, agent photos, and messages
  • Printing and emailing listings

May 5th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

 REImagine Home AI

REimagineHome AI is a new and powerful artificial intelligence tool for customizing listing photos – helping you sell not just a property, but a client’s vision.

From virtual staging to room clearing to landscaping and exteriors, REimagineHome helps create photos to your client’s style preferences and offer them unique value that only you can provide.

Topics include:

  • An Overview of REimagineHome AI
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  • Top Benefits for Agents

May 19th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Paragon: Collaboration Center

Connect with your clients through CRMLS Paragon’s Collaboration Center, a mobile-friendly website you can customize with your personal branding. The Collaboration Center has no third-party vendors or agents – just you and your contacts.

Topics include:

  • Setting up automatic notifications and invites for your clients
  • Customizing your Preferences and About Me pages
  • Using Paragon Connect on the go
  • Viewing your contacts’ saved searches, comments, and Favorite and Rejected properties
    …and more.

May 27th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

 Realtors Property Resource®

REALTORS Property Resource® (RPR) makes it easy to impress your clients by offering comprehensive data, powerful analytics, and dynamic reports that cover 160 million properties.

Topics include:

  • School reports
  • Historic data
  • Geographic details (such as flood and heat maps)
  • …and more.

June 2nd | 1:00 PM

Register

 

 

 Paragon: Intro to CRS Tax

The MLS Tax Suite powered by CRS Data, or “CRS Tax” for short, is your source for accurate tax and public record data. In this introductory course, learn how to easily find information about properties in California, including their sales history, tax details, mortgage information, and more.

Topics include:

  • Setting up your profile and branding
  • Creating basic, map, and default searches
  • Searching for and farming foreclosure information
  • Generating CMAs with just a few clicks

June 16th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

 

 Homes Pro App

 The Homes Pro app (formerly Homesnap), powered by Homes.com, offers tools for client collaboration, lead capture, and building your business.

Topics include:

  • Getting started with your Homes Pro account
  • Accessing your Homes Pro account on desktop and mobile
  • How to search for listings 
  • Using collaboration tools with your clients and other agents 
  • …and more.

June 30th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

 

 Paragon: Managing Listings

Creating top-quality listings in CRMLS Paragon is crucial to your success. Accurate and engaging listings not only increase your chance of making sales, but also help you avoid common violations. This course covers basic and advanced techniques for entering, updating, and managing listings, as well as improves your understanding of the MLS Rules and Policies. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, this course can benefit you.

Topics include:

  • Using CRS Tax data to autofill and maintain listings
  • Creating an Open House
  • Registered Listings
  • Coming Soon listings
  • Reverse Prospecting: see searches where your listing(s) appeared
  • Compliance best practices and insight

Register for CRMLS Webinars Here

________________________________________________

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