Kevin McElroy

Recent Posts

New Benefit - RealReports - 'Carfax for homes'

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jul 2, 2025 3:15:00 PM

RealReports: AI-powered 'Carfax for homes'

'RealReports' is now a PSAR Member Benefit available in REcore (CRMLS dashboard), RealReports is the "Carfax for homes", an AI-powered tool that delivers in-depth property data, analyzes documents, generates leads, and helps agents make faster, smarter decisions.

Get full access to RealReports at no cost ($120/year value). Instantly pull property insights, answer client questions, and gain a competitive edge using AI-powered tools.

What You Get:

  • Unlimited Snapshot-tier reports
  • 33% off Buyer & Seller reports
  • AI features: doc/photo analysis, client collaboration
  • Auto reports when you list a property
  • Agent-branded reports

How to Activate

  • Log in to REcenterhub
  • Click the red “+” icon and add RealReports (or follow this 26 sec. video)
  • Click the star to pin it, then launch  

RealReports Education Hub
(Helpful Links / FAQ / Past Webinars / Instructional Videos)


PSAR now provides RealReports as a member benefit because it empowers agents with fast, reliable property insights that help them succeed in today’s market. The tool gives agents an edge through accurate data and AI-powered support.

 

 

Topics: Announcements

How to be Fair in Fair housing w/ Mike Shenkman

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jun 19, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Fair Housing For all

Advocate for fair housing for all!

REALTORS® are expected to uphold equity in all professional interactions and apply strong ethical principles when it comes to Fair Housing. This means providing equal service to all clients and avoiding actions that may unfairly limit access to housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.

This session will cover the legal and ethical responsibilities under Fair Housing laws and offer practical tips to help you recognize and prevent discriminatory practices in sales, rentals, mortgage lending, and housing-related services.

Class instructor Mike Shenkman will cover:  

  • Fair Housing basics 
  • Best Fair Housing practices for building stronger relationships 
  • Dealing with buyers, sellers, and the community

A high level of professionalism and ethical conduct benefits everyone!

Wednesday, July 9th
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Live via 
zoom-png-logo-download-transparent-202

THIS CLASS IS 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
   

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).

 

Topics: Education

REALTOR® Tax Essentials: Maximize Deductions and Avoid Common Tax Errors

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jun 2, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250624_ Tech Lunch and Learn Tax-2

For REALTORS®, mastering tax and business strategies isn’t just smart - it’s core to long-term success. Mike White (PSAR Technology Committee Chair), together with guest speaker Vidal Espinosa, MBA from Invictus Advisors, shares actionable insights that will enable real estate professionals to optimize their financial status and plan with confidence.

Session attendees will leave with this knowledge set:

  • Understanding REALTOR® specific deductions
  • Mastering expense trackers
  • Avoiding common REALTOR® tax pitfalls
  • Optimizing business structure
  • Planning for the future
Wednesday, June 25th
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

This is a live zoom Logo class

 

Get to know the guest speaker:

Vidal “The Shark CFO” Espinosa is a powerhouse in cross-border finance and tax strategy, known for helping entrepreneurs scale with precision. As founder of Invictus Advisors, he leads a bi-national firm empowering U.S. and Latin American businesses to grow profitably and stay IRS-proof. With over 25 years of experience and a background from KPMG and Loyola, Vidal is the go-to CFO for smart, aggressive financial planning. He’s also the voice behind the podcast Lunch with The Shark and Happy Hour with The Shark, where money meets bold strategy.

 __________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

Topics: Education

Master the Residential Listing Agreement (RLA): The Key to Listing Success

Posted by Kevin McElroy on May 20, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250528RLA (Residential Listing Agreement) with Mike Shenkman

The Residential Listing Agreement (RLA) is the backbone of every seller-side transaction. Yet many REALTORS® face costly mistakes simply because they don’t fully understand the form. This class will break down the RLA line by line, giving REALTORS® the tools to explain, enforce, and leverage the contract with confidence.

Why attend the class?

  • Master the RLA
    Avoid errors that lead to disputes. Gain a full understanding of what it means, how to explain it, and how to apply it effectively
  •  Stand Out in Listings
    Leverage contract expertise as a competitive advantage during listing presentations and negotiations
  •  Build Client Trust
    Demonstrating fluency in the RLA reinforces a reputation for professionalism and reliability—key traits that earn client confidence and referrals

Have a good time while learning with PSAR

Wednesday, May 28th
9:00 - 11:00
Live in the PSAR Clairemont Office
4340 Genesee Ave. #203, San Diego, CA 92117

 

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 PhotoA 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

Stake out a Corner and Support Red Shoe Day

Posted by Kevin McElroy on May 16, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_Red Shoe Day

Join the PSAR Red Shoe Day Team. Leverage the morning commute on May 20th, 2026, to help provide a home for a family in crisis.

When a child is hospitalized, their parents shouldn't have to worry about where they’ll sleep or how they’ll eat. By joining your colleagues at a Red Shoe Day intersection, you aren't just collecting change; you’re ensuring San Diego families are with their children at the Ronald McDonald House.

Last year, our members' contributions and collections put us in the top 20 teams city-wide. Let’s show San Diego that nobody outworks or outgives a REALTOR®, and have an even better turnout this year!

This year, on May 20th, from 7:00–9:30 AM, the PSAR teams will be at the corners of:

  • Telegraph Canyon and Crest Drive

  • H Street and Otay Lakes Road.

  • Eastlake Parkway and Otay Lakes Road

Get involved:

  • Volunteer on the street: Join the team and help collect at the corners. Reach out to Merrie Espina at merrie.espina@gmail.com or Jaymee Torres at jaymeet@marinavistaescrow.com to join.
  • Donate from your desk: Donate online any time;  your donation directly funds meals, lodging, and resources for families in their darkest moments. Link to Donate.
  • Donate at PSAR offices: Each PSAR office is a collection site. List of Locations


 Red Shoe Day with Merrie Espina 

Ronald MacDonald Red Shoe Day

Red Shoe Day Tea,
Red Shoe Day Ronald MacDonald Red Shoe Day Team Ronald MacDonald Red Shoe Day

Follow the PSAR's Red Shoe Day to see who is registering and donating!

Ronald McDonald Charites

The Cause: Keeping Families Close
When a child is hospitalized, their loved ones become their strongest support system and ally in healing. Unfortunately, many families can't afford lodging near the hospital during this difficult time. Ronald McDonald House provides a "home away from home" so families can stay close to their sick children without enduring financial strain.

 

Topics: Announcements, Events

Become an Ethics Advocate - Training Class hosted by C.a.r.

Posted by Kevin McElroy on May 9, 2025 5:06:00 PM

Learn how to support REALTORS® involved in ethics complaints and strengthen professionalism in the industry. This training prepares you to serve as an Ethics Advocate (EA) - a volunteer role similar to a non-lawyer representative in the disciplinary process.

As an EA, you will:

  • Help members draft ethics complaints or responses
  • Prepare parties for their hearing by organizing forms and evidence
  • Represent members at hearings by making opening/closing statements and examining witnesses
  • Guide members through each step of the process with professionalism and care

There is no cost for members to request an EA, and no legal background is required to serve. You’ll receive special training and be part of a select group helping to uphold the Code of Ethics.

This is a great opportunity for REALTORS® interested in leadership, governance, or simply giving back to the industry by helping fellow members navigate the ethics process.

Ethics Advocate Training – Wednesday, June 11 from 9:30am-12:00pm.
For volunteers who are interested in becoming ethics advocates.

Code of Ethics Training for PS Volunteers – Thursday, June 12 from 9:30am-12:30pm.
This session is recommended but not mandatory for additional Code of Ethics training for volunteers. 

Topics: Education

REALTOR® GAMES VII !

Posted by Kevin McElroy on May 7, 2025 5:00:00 PM

blogbanner_250620_Realtor Games

REALTOR® Games VII
Friday, June 20th
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
NTC Park at Liberty Station
2455 Cushing Rd, San Diego, CA 92106

Get in the Games - REALTOR® Games VII is back - bigger, bolder, and better than ever! Whether you're competing for glory, cheering from the sidelines, or supporting the event as a sponsor, this high-energy event is your chance to get competitive, get involved, and give back.

Get ready to rally your squad to aim for the ultimate prize-- the REALTOR® Games Trophy-- and more importantly, the opportunity to support two great local causes!

Proceeds from this year's REALTOR® Games will be donated to:

Townspeople       &      HOST

__________________________________

This year’s event lineup:

Sack Race • Jenga • Tower Challenge • Football Toss • Cornhole • Challenge Puzzle • The Ultimate Relay (Championship Round)

Bring your A-game and take note: This is a rain-or-shine event!

Team check-in is on June 20th at 10:00 am
Opening ceremonies begin at 11:00 am

First event starts at 12:00 pm sharp!
(Liberty Station NTC Park - 2455 Cushing Rd, San Diego, CA 92106)

Lunch will be offered by Mr. Birria  Mr Birria
________________________

Team Sign-Ups are now Closed!

 

Form Your Squad:

  • Teams consist of 5 players, plus 1 alternate

  • Teams must be co-ed (five that play must have a minimum of 2 men or 2 women)

  • 3 out of 5 team members AND the alternate must be REALTORS®

  • Entry Fee: $250 per team (only $50 per person!),
    Includes: lunch + a limited-edition event T-shirt for all players

Note: Team Captains will receive an informative email once they register and pay.

What to bring:
  • Bring Your Own Cooler (BYOC), power snacks, favorite beverages, and water :)
  • Team members and sponsors will receive lunch vouchers. For everyone else, lunch will be available for purchase.
  • Each team will have a 10' x 10' reserved space--- bring a pop-up for shade
  • Sunscreen, coolers,  chairs, hats, athletic shoes (games are played on a grass field)

___________________________

Become a REALTOR® GAMES SPONSOR

Affiliate Members—want high-profile visibility and a chance to support great local nonprofits?

  • Secure your spot on Sponsor Row (right by the action!)
  • Bring your 10' x 10' tent, signage, and swag, coolers
  • You’ll get shout-outs and exposure throughout the day
  • Plenty of time between games to interact with players and visitors
  • Limited spots available. First paid = reserved

_____________________________

 All are Welcome!

Support your friends and coworkers from the sidelines! PLEASE RSVP as a Spectator if you plan to attend as a fan! (Spectators will have an opportunity to purchase lunch from Mr. Birria)

______________________________

 

 

Sponsors: 

New Venture Escrow

Pest Patrol-1                         Choice Home Warranty

Morrison Property Inspections                            Real Producers Magazine

Insight Photos Logo                       California Preferred Escrow

 

Renzi Social Co.                  West Ivy Home Inspections

MCcarthy Transffer and Storage        Culichi Snacks

Old Republic Home Protection                 C2 Fnancial

 

YPN Annual PSAR YPN Sponsors: 

  All in Lending       Knight Termite & Pest control       Marina Vista Escrow      RanchoTed

 

Check out the FUN we had in 2022

                                    Special participation:
PSAR Logo              NSDCAR ypn logo transparent

 

Topics: YPN, Events

SPRING HOUSING MARKET UPDATE from STEVEN THOMAS

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 25, 2025 3:00:00 PM

blogbanner_250513_Market Update with Steven Thomas

San Diego Spring Housing Update from Steven Thomas: What will the Market bring?

Spring has arrived for the San Diego housing market.  Steven Thomas, Chief Economist of Reports on Housing, analyzes local real estate's recent history and upcoming trends.

What to expect in this Always-popular session:

  • Winter Recap: A clear picture of how inventory, demand, and market speed played out this past winter.
  • Spring 2025 Forecast: How the current spring market is shaping up and what it means for buyers and sellers.
  • Home Values Outlook: Where prices are headed and what to expect in terms of appreciation and potential shifts.
  • Interest Rate Predictions: When will rates drop - and will the change be enough to reignite buyer demand?
  • Buyer vs. Seller Power: Will buyers finally gain leverage in today’s market, or will low inventory keep sellers in control?

Track the trends and implement successful tactics!

Tuesday, May 13th
11:00 - 12:00 
Live at PSAR South Service Center
880 Canarios Ct, Chula Vista, CA 91910

Lunch sponsored by:

Phana Par GroupPhana Par Morrison Plus Property Inspections

Danielle Wolter

Fidelity National Home Warranty-pngDebi Levenson

 

Steven Thomas

 

Get to know Steven Thomas

Leveraging his expertise in Quantitative Economics and Decision Sciences, and his extensive background as a REALTOR®, broker, and executive of a multi-office real estate franchise, Steven Thomas delivers a comprehensive report that encapsulates the status of the current and future real estate market.

 

Steven has been quoted by:

Steven Thomas reports on news feeds

Topics: Education, Announcements, Events, Market Information, Industry

Turn Data Into Deals: RPR® Market Tools with Jason Lopez

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 25, 2025 10:00:00 AM

Track the Market with RPR® Market Trends

Jason Lopez explains how to maximize the use of RPR® tools to better understand and explain market trends. In this session, attendees will discover how to:

  • Track key market metrics – View new, active, pending, and sold listings, along with median prices and months of inventory.

  • Customize your updates – Access recent market changes in selected areas directly from the RPR® Home Page.

  • Create client-ready reports – Share Market Activity Reports via email, text, or social media to keep clients updated

  • Apply insights in real life – Use local market trends to set expectations and build trust with buyers and sellers.

Start making smarter, data-driven decisions today! 

Wednesday, May 7th
1:00 to 3:00 
 Live via Zoom
zoom-png-logo-download-transparent-201
 
 
Jason_Lopez_230 _x_300.

Speaker: Jason Lopez

Jason Lopez is a second-generation real estate professional and licensed broker in California and Washington. Jason has one goal: To serve his clients and agents at the highest level possible so they can meet their goals. Over the past three decades, Jason has built two independent real estate companies, each of which attained a national footprint. Jason is proud to serve his industry and was the 2023 President of the Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS®, and is a Director with the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.). In 2024, Jason will serve as Vice Chair of the Broker Idea Exchange Forum at C.A.R.

Jason is also a real estate business coach, helping top agents and agent teams around the country grow their business. He changes the playing field with his real estate coaching programs designed to drive better business performance and significantly increase profitability.

 __________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

Topics: Education

Juneteenth Celebration

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 23, 2025 10:00:00 AM

Event Info  |  Registration Sponsorship  |  Photos From Past EventsJuneteenth 2026

Honoring Progress, Inspiring Change - celebrate Juneteenth through education, leadership, and community partnerships.

 FOOD ~ SPEAKERS ~ DANCERS ~ EDUCATION ~ MUSIC ~ COMRADERY

Collaborating with valued community partners, PSAR proudly joins forces with local organizations that share the same dedication to diversity and inclusion. Together, we will amplify our message to promote the significance of Juneteenth and advocate for unity against racism and injustice in all its forms.

Food ~ Afrocentric Dancers ~ Vendors

The first 50 to register receive an event gift bag, with a commemorative t-shirt.

Friday, June 19th, 2026
11:30 am - 1:30 pm
PSAR El Cajon

Once you are in the portal ' events' to find the Juneteenth event

REGISTER EARLY AND SAVE!!

Early bird registration for $25/Ticket until June 12th!
Early bird table registration $200/Table (8 seats) until June 12th!
 
After June 12th - registration is $30, and $30 at the door
 
Event Flyer
Download flyer
 
Event Sponsors:
 
Gold Sponsor

RanchoTed


Sam Calvano Home Loans
   _________________________
 

Sponsorship opportunities available

Platinum Sponsors – $2,000

  • Company logo featured on all event marketing materials and promotional flyers

  • Opportunity to display two (2) company pull-up banners within the event venue

  • A dedicated table at the registration area for promotional materials and engagement

  • Two (2) complimentary tickets to the event

Gold Sponsor – $500

  • Company logo featured on all event marketing materials and promotional flyers

  • Opportunity to display two (2) company pull-up banners within the event venue

  • Two (2) complimentary tickets to the event

Silver Sponsor - $300

  • Company logo featured on event marketing materials and promotional flyers

  • One (1) complimentary ticket to the event


For sponsorships, kindly email
sally@psar.org to reserve your spot.

 _________________________
 

Photos from previous Juneteenth Celebrations


_______________________________________________________________

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