Kevin McElroy

Recent Posts

Leverage the BRBC for Success

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 10, 2024 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_240813_BRBC Mike_Shenkman

Michael Shenkman instructs on the Buyer Representation and Broker Compensation Agreement post-settlement. Learn how to use the BRBC to ensure professional, transparent transactions.

BRBC class content highlights:

  • What is the BRBC and why it matters
  • Overview of the agreement, key clauses, and how it formalizes the buyer-broker relationship.
  • Compensation models (fixed fees, commission, etc.) and legal transparency in transactions
  • Practical application and benefits
  • Real-life transaction examples, advantages to buyers and brokers, and addressing buyer concerns

Monday, October 21st
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Cost: This class is offered at no 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).

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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

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.

October 7th | 1:00 PM

Register

Paragon: Managing Listings

Whether you’re a new agent or old pro, listing in CRMLS Paragon is critical to your professional success. Learn basic and advanced tips for listing input, modification, and maintenance, plus improve your knowledge of the CRMLS Rules & Policies.

Topics include:

  • Using CRS Tax autofill to enter and maintain listings
  • Creating an Open House
  • How to enter Registered Listings
  • Coming Soon listings
  • Reverse Prospecting: see searches where your listing appeared
  • Best compliance practices and insights
    …and more.

October 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.

October 28th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Paragon: Quick Tips

Speed and efficiency can sometimes be the difference between a sale and a missed opportunity, so be sure you’re using Matrix to its full potential.

Topics include:

  • Keyword searching strategies
  • Date-specific searches
  • Geographic searching with Maps
  • Customizing your Matrix homepage for efficiency
    …and more.

November 4th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Homes Pro App

The Homes Pro app (formerly Homesnap), powered by Homes.com, is a high-traffic search site for potential buyers that 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.

November 18th | 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.

November 25th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Glide Offers

Simplify your real estate transactions. Glide enables you to create, manage, track, negotiate, and sign all transaction documents while conveniently syncing key dates to your calendar. 

Topics include:
  • The offer-making process for buyer and listing agents
  • An overview of Glide’s disclosure forms workflow
  • How to use no-cost eSignatures with Glide Signatures
     …and more.

Register for CRMLS Webinars 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

FALL HOUSING MARKET UPDATE WITH STEVEN THOMAS

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 19, 2024 9:00:00 AM

Steven Thomas Fall Housing Update

This market update will equip REALTORS® with the knowledge and insights needed to navigate the real estate market of 2025. Steven Thomas explores the key factors that will shape the industry in the coming year. Armed with the information from this update, REALTORS® will be prepared to engage with clients, make informed decisions, and capitalize on 2025 real estate market opportunities.

Steven Thomas answers these key questions:

  • When will demand and closed sales finally rise?
  • Will rates remain below 7%? Could they fall below 6%?
  • Will the Fed cut rates in 2025? If so, how many times?
  • What will happen to values next year?
  • Will it be a buyer's market soon? Is it a good time to buy now? 


Sign up for this crystal ball look into real estate 2025!

Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Live in person at PSAR South Service Center
880 Canarios Ct, Chula Vista, CA 91910

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

FREE* Accredited Buyer's Representative. (ABR®) Course

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 6, 2024 4:00:00 PM

Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®) Designation Course

SHOWCASE YOUR VALUE TO CLIENTS

What You’ll Learn in the ABR® Course:

Buyer Representation Agreements and Buyer Counseling Sessions
● Learn how to create a buyer representation agreement, conduct a successful buyer consultation, and communicate your value to clients. 

Navigate Each Step of the Buyer Side Transaction Process
● Understand every piece of the transaction puzzle, including the search-showing-selection process, offers and negotiations, appraisals, and closing on the property.

Communicating Your Value as A Buyer's Representative
● This course covers how you can promote yourself in the buyer’s market as a buyer’s rep and grow your business using ABR® designee member benefits.

Two ways to get this FREE* Class but time will run out!  The No-Cost Offer Ends 12/31

Live Virtual | Instructor-Led (no cost)
**Please register for only one class**

September 24–25, 2024 with Socar Chatmon-Thomas
October 1–2, 2024 with Sabrina Brown
October 15–16, 2024 with Shane Mask
October 28–29, 2024 with Melanie McLane
November 13–14, 2024 with Brandon Johnson
November 18–19, 2024 with Marion Napoleon
December 3–4, 2024 with Greg Glosson
December 18–19, 2024 with Peter West

Online | Self-Pace
(no cost)

FIND ABR FREE CLASSES REGISTER

 

How to Earn Your Accredited Buyer’s
Representative (ABR®) Designation

ABR Class how To

Learn More

The ABR® Designation FAQs

*Must be a NAR Member to enroll for Free

 

Topics: Education

Meet the Candidates Event: Your Chance to Engage with Local Leaders!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 2, 2024 8:00:00 AM

Meet the candidates and elected officials

Mix and mingle with elected decision-makers!  Join leadership from PSAR and the Women's Council of REALTORS for an engaging "Meet the Candidates" event featuring local candidates for the upcoming November election and other current elected officials.  

Event Highlights:

  • Gain valuable insight into the policies that will shape our region’s future.
  • Create new important relationships.
  • Network with fellow REALTORS® and real estate professionals.
  • Enjoy a catered taco bar by Tacos Don Jorge, with a variety of accompaniments and refreshing Agua frescas.
  • Live music and stunning views of San Diego Bay.

PSAR members pay only $25 per ticket (PSAR covers the remaining ticket price). PSAR Members Only use the $10 Discount code 'PSAR2024' at checkout. Cocktails are available at a non-hosted bar.

Tuesday, October 1st
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Safe Harbor Sunroad Marina
955 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

Reminder: Limited street parking or pre-purchase convenient on-site lot parking is available for only $10.00.

In Attendance:

  • Matt Gunderson - U.S. Representative 49th District
  • Larry Turner - Candidate for San Diego Mayor
  • Andrew Hayes - Candidate for State Assembly 75th District
  • Colin Parent - Candidate for State Assembly 79th District
  • John Franklin - Mayor of Vista
  • James Browne - Candidate for State Assembly
  • Darshana Patel - Candidate for State Assembly 76th District
  • Genevieve Suzuki - Candidate for La Mesa City Council
  • Jordan Marks - San Diego County Assessor/Recorder
     
     

For more information, send inquiries to support@psar.org or call 619-421-7811

____________________________________________

PSAR's Mission is to empower Real Estate Professionals.

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

Topics: Announcements, Leadership, Government Affairs

Enhance Your Personal Safety: Join Us for Safety Training

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Aug 22, 2024 10:00:00 AM
REALTOR Safety Class - REALTOR Safety Month

In honor of REALTOR® Safety Month, PSAR and retired lieutenant Jim Bolwerk from the San Diego County Sheriff's Department will join Specialist Angela Gaines of the Chula Vista Police Relations & Policing Unit to present essential personal safety practices. They will address common mistakes real estate professionals make and share practical techniques to protect yourself and avoid compromising situations. This invaluable knowledge can benefit both you and your loved ones.

Key class takeaways:

  • Master situational awareness
  • Tactics for safely working in unfamiliar environments, including open houses
  • Developing a mental action plan
  • Understanding time and distance advantages
  • Do’s and Don'ts of personal safety

Don’t be caught off guard—attend this crucial class!


Thursday, September 5th

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 
Live in the South County Office

Meet the speakers: 

Angela and Jim

Jim Bolwerk has over 30 years of experience in law enforcement. A former Lieutenant with the San Diego County Sheriff's Office, Jim managed patrol substations, and specialized investigative units, and served as a Department Spokesperson. His deep understanding of safety protocols, coupled with his experience in high-pressure situations, makes him an authority on personal safety and risk management.

Jim has spent the past eight years as a Licensed REALTOR®  successfully navigating the complexities of residential and commercial transactions. His combined expertise in law enforcement and real estate positions him perfectly to provide REALTORS®  with practical, actionable safety strategies that are tailored to the unique challenges of the profession.

 

Angela Gaines is a seasoned Police Community Relations Specialist with over 18 years of dedicated service at the Chula Vista Police Department. In her role within the Community Relations Unit, Angela has been instrumental in fostering strong ties between law enforcement and the community, promoting trust, and enhancing public safety. With a background in psychology from San Diego State University, she brings a deep understanding of human behavior to her work, enabling her to effectively address community concerns and develop outreach programs. Angela is also a published author, further demonstrating her commitment to communication and education within her field.

_____________________

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

How the RPA protects you & your clients

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Aug 20, 2024 4:00:00 AM

How the RPA protects you & your clients

A REALTORS® business and professional standing require updated C.A.R. Forms know-how.

To properly represent clients’ interests and protect themselves, REALTORS® must be aware of current practices and their associated business documents. Noted C.A.R. Forms expert Nikki Coppa will conduct an in-depth class covering the ins and outs of the Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA). 
 
PSAR SOUTH CENTER
(880 Canarios Court, Chula Vista, CA 91910)
August 28th | Wednesday
12:00 PM to 5:00 PM

Leave with confidence based on an understanding of the latest RPA language and the laws and rules governing the form's use. REALTORS® will be armed with the information needed to promote the best interests of their clients while protecting themselves and their businesses.

Don't delay in learning about the latest version of the RPA -- and the class is FREE!

Questions?  Contact education@psar.org or call (619) 421-7811. 

Lunch provided by class sponsor:

Eric Gillman & Gabi Peltier from Sharp Retention

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"

__________________________________________

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

YPN Annual Cornhole  Tournament - Baggin N' Braggin

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Aug 1, 2024 12:00:00 PM
YPN Annual Cornhole  Tournament - Baggin N' Braggin

Come and join us for PSAR YPN's Annual Cornhole Tournament! Get ready for friendly competition, flowing drinks, and great company!

Join us for the PSAR YPN Annual Cornhole Tournament on Tuesday, August 20th at BNS Brewing and Distillery in Santee, CA. Whether you're a fierce competitor or a spectator, this action-packed event promises an electrifying atmosphere, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and camaraderie like no other. Don't miss out on unforgettable memories and thrilling moments!

Register and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience at the Cornhole Tournament!

All the fun happens on...
Tuesday, August 20th
4:00 pm - 5:15 pm: Registration (and ability to purchase Mulligans)
5:30 pm: Let the Games Begin
Purchase your game ticket today!

TEAM ENTRY: $50

TEAM ENTRY WITH YOUR BRANDED BOARD: $75
(Have a branded board?  Bring it for marketing at the event and in photos) 

SINGLE PLAYER THAT NEEDS A TEAMMATE: $25
(We will pair you up to make a team at the tournament)

Mulligans are $6 for 1 or $15 for 3
(one mulligan per team per game)

A taco truck will be available with GREAT FOOD!

BNS Brewing & Distilling Co.

BNS Brewing and Distillery
10960 Wheatlands Ave, Santee, CA 92071 

THANK YOU TO OUR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Marina Vista Escrow

RanchoTed

All in Lending

Knight-Termite

 

Topics: YPN, Events

Tech Tips with Karina at the Central Pitch Sessions

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jul 29, 2024 9:00:00 AM

Tech Tips with Karina

Sharpen your tech skills on RPR, Canva, AI, Facebook/Instagram Reels, & ChatGPT with top REALTORS® in a series of short focused classes following the Central San Diego Pitch Sessions, located at 4340 Genesee Ave. #203 San Diego, CA 92117.  The Central Pitch is every Tuesday starting at 10:00 am. Tech Tips will be every other Tuesday following the pitches.

🏠 COME TO THE CENTRAL PITCH AND GET EXTRA TECH TIPS WITH KARINA

 

August 13: Unleash the Power of RPR AI Scripts & Canva Templates
Get hands-on with RPR scripts that'll make your listings pop!
Create eye-catching visuals with Canva templates that'll stop scrollers in their tracks!
Register Here

LineBreak_ Tech Tips with Karina


August 27: Craft Your Unique Brand Identity with Canva
Build a brand that stands out in the crowded real estate market.
Master the art of creating scroll-stopping graphics and Facebook/Instagram Reels.
Register Here

LineBreak_ Tech Tips with Karina

September 10: Harness the Magic of ChatGPT for Real Estate 
Discover AI prompts that'll revolutionize your client communication.
Learn how to generate compelling property descriptions in seconds.
Register Here

 

💡 Why You Can't Afford to Miss These:

  • Learn from the Best: Our expert, Karina, will guide you through each tech tool with patience and expertise.
  • Hands-on Experience: Bring your devices and leave with new skills you can apply immediately!
  • Double the Value: Enhance your tech skills while observing top-notch pitching techniques.

Don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers! These classes are your ticket to becoming a tech-savvy real estate powerhouse.

See you in class, future real estate tech guru! 🎓

_______________________________________

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

Secure More Listings by Using CRS Power Prospecting & RPR Searches

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jul 25, 2024 9:00:00 AM

Secure More Listings by Using CRS Power Prospecting & RPR Searches

Leverage RPR and CRS Data to boost effectiveness as a REALTOR®. Expert presenters Mike White (PSAR Technology Committee Head) and Rickey Currie (CRMLS Systems Expert) will guide participants through the features and practical applications of these powerful resources. Whether Realtors are prospecting, preparing listing presentations, conducting site selections, or performing investment analysis, these tools elevate the results of these actions.

Wednesday | July 31st
11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
This is a live zoom Logo class

RPR - Your Secret Weapon

  • Search on- and off-market properties from a database of over 55 million listings
  • Access lifestyle and behavior data for targeted marketing
  • Utilize investment analysis tools for informed decision-making
  • Master site selection tools for commercial real estate

CRS Data - Make Informed Property Decisions

  • Access comprehensive public tax records
  • Analyze sales and mortgage histories
  • Leverage area demographics for market insights
  • Conduct in-depth property analysis

__________________________________________

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, CRMLS, Technology