Kevin McElroy

Recent Posts

Navigating the Industry Changes and Beyond: Gov Hutchinson Live!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 9, 2024 12:00:00 AM

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NEW LAWS, IMPACTS and STRATEGIES FOR 2024: What Realtors® Need to Know

Entering the new year, the real estate industry is gearing up for important changes in laws and regulations. The Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors (PSAR) wants Realtors® to be informed of these changes so they are able to adjust business practices accordingly. To that end, PSAR has scheduled a legal update event featuring a presentation by Gov Hutchinson, who serves as the Assistant General Counsel/Vice President of the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.).

Gov Hutchinson will cover a range of key topics, from navigating new regulations to understanding the impacts of those regulations on Realtor® business transactions 

Keep current and able to comply with the latest legal requirements to serve clients better and safeguard their interests while navigating the changing real estate industry landscape.

Tuesday | January 23rd, 2024
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Live in the East Service Center
1150 Broadway, El Cajon, CA 92021

Register today and prepare for success in 2024.

  PSAR Member           Non PSAR Member  
     Members: $10                                        Non-Members:$20  

Gov Hutchinson Gov Hutchinson

With a membership dating back to 1985, Gov Hutchinson has been an invaluable asset to the California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.). As the overseer of the Member Legal Services Program in Los Angeles, he is dedicated to providing expert guidance to Realtors® through the "Hotline," offering advice on various aspects of real estate law. Moreover, his role extends beyond consultation, as he plays a vital part in training and supervising other attorneys who handle inquiries on the "Hotline."

Gov's impressive educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree in History from Princeton University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania. This combination of academic achievement and extensive experience in the field makes him an exceptional resource for Realtors® seeking legal assistance.

 

Lunch Provided by our Class Sponsor: 

Sean Simon

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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

Unlocking AI's Potential in Real Estate: An Introductory Briefing

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 4, 2023 9:00:00 AM

Unlocking AI's Potential in Real Estate: An Introductory BriefingArtificial intelligence is transforming industries, and real estate is no exception. Future-proof your Real Estate business with AI!

AI is a hot topic.  But what is it? What does it do? AI properly applied can elevate the business services you offer and your level of client communications. PSAR is offering its members an insightful, one-hour introduction to generative AI, including direction on utilizing it cost-free!

Join Mathew D'Ascoli as he introduces the business uses of Artificial intelligence.

In this session, you can expect some dynamic discussions that will help you cultivate a better understanding of, and appreciation for, AI's wide-ranging application within the real estate industry. Your presenter will cover the essential knowledge needed to tap into AI's capabilities to gather insights, enhance client interactions, and streamline your operations

Register now to unlock the power of AI to help drive your business success!

Wednesday | October 25th, 2023
11:00 A.M to 12:00 P.M
Stick around for Q&A afterward


Live in the South County Office
880 Canarios Ct., #100 Chula Vista, CA 91910

Register Here

Matt D'AscoliMeet the Expert: Mathew D'Ascoli is a results-driven leader with a proven track record in innovation, strategic alignment, and market responsiveness. He brings a unique blend of educational insight and business acumen to any endeavor. Notably, Matt led groundbreaking initiatives at Dell Technologies, where he orchestrated product launches, designed targeted sales strategies, and fostered strategic partnerships with industry leaders. Matt's deep-seated skills in consulting have been pivotal in guiding clients to embrace generative AI tools, a move that has initiated systemic, forward- thinking change within their organizations.

Simplexity

Simplexity's mission is to demystify Artificial Intelligence (AI) and empower organizations to harness its potential. AI should be shaped by diverse perspectives and used ethically to solve real human problems.

Topics: Education

Fraud Prevention Update - DA Summer Stephan & Asst. Chief Victor Barr

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 29, 2023 9:00:00 AM

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The PSAR Government Affairs Committee invites you to an address by DA Summer Stephan in which she will detail recent trends in Real Estate fraud in San Diego County. This is a unique opportunity to gain knowledge to help you and your clients avoid falling victim to fraud.

In today's real estate marketplace, awareness is key to protecting both professionals and their clients from the threat of fraud. Be a step ahead of real estate fraud and help ensure a safer, more secure real estate environment for all. Featured speakers are Summer Stephan, San Diego County District Attorney, and Victor Barr, Assistant Chief of Economic Crimes.  They will share their singular expertise and unique insights. 

Join us in the fight against real estate fraud and be part of the solution!

Friday | October 20th, 2023
2:00 P.M. to 3:30 P.M
Live in the South County Office
880 Canarios Ct., #100 Chula Vista, CA 91910

Register Here

REAL ESTATE FRAUD AS IT RELATES TO:

  • Local Real Estate fraud schemes - uncovering Real Estate scams in San Diego

  • Recognizing red flags - know how to identify keys to suspected fraudulent activity

  • From complaint to prosecution - the full legal process of fraud cases 

  • Proactive protection - best practices for Real Estate professionals and consumers

  • Assisting authorities - what can you do to protect consumers and assist the DA's office

 

Meet our guest speakers

DA Summer Stephan

District Attorney Summer Stephan is a national leader devoted to protecting children, seeking justice, and fighting exploitation. In 2018, she was elected the DA of San Diego County’s second-largest prosecutor's office and re-elected in 2022.

A career prosecutor, DA Stephan has tried over 100 major cases, pioneered the Sex Crimes and Human Trafficking Division, and expanded victim services as DA. Nationally she holds leadership roles focused on human trafficking, school safety, and innovative reforms. Among her numerous honors, in 2022 she was named one of the top 5 prosecutors in America for her integrity, community relations, and responsible innovations. With deep expertise and tireless advocacy, DA Stephan embodies ethical prosecution in service of justice.

 

Victor Barr Victor Barr has been an attorney for 32 years.  He began his legal career in general civil litigation here in San Diego in 1991. He joined the San Diego City Attorney’s Office as a prosecutor in 1999.  In 2006 he was hired as a Deputy District Attorney at the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office.  He performed a variety of assignments in that capacity. In 2013 he joined the Economic Crimes Division which includes several units including Complex Theft, Cyber Crime, Real Estate Fraud, Consumer Protection and Environmental Protection.  He served as the Assistant Chief of the Economic Crimes Division for several years before ascending to his current position as Chief of the Economic Crimes Division for the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office.

 

 

Topics: Education, Market Information, Industry

Maximize Returns and Reduce Tax Liabilities

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 13, 2023 9:00:00 AM

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Knowledge of tax benefits, and the efficient expense-tracking practices that validate your deductions, are essential for maximizing your returns while minimizing payments. 

Seats are limited, so be sure to register soon!
Wednesday, September 27th
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
zoom Logo

Register here

Real estate professionals face unique tax challenges due to the nature of the industry. Understanding the tax benefits available and implementing efficient expense-tracking methods can maximize returns and reduce tax liabilities. 

Join Mike White (PSAR Technology Chair) and Tax Preparation Specialist Amanda Bettencourt as they discuss the following:

  • The latest tax deductions for Real Estate professionals
  • Accurately tracking mileage for real estate-related travel
  • Recordkeeping with software to organize expenses
  • Using escrow and title fees to offset tax liability
  • How the new tax law affects REALTORS®
  • How to leverage taxes for your benefit

Stay compliant and effectively use tax benefits to help sustain your business success. Make tax time stress-free and financially fruitful.

Amanda Bettencourt


Meet the Speaker: 
Amanda Bettencourt is a tax preparation specialist who joined her family's accounting practice in 2006. Leveraging her background in counseling psychology, Amanda has a keen ability to guide clients through financial stressors.

She stays up-to-date annually on the latest tax laws and regulations as a California Tax Education Council (CTEC) certified tax preparer. Amanda also holds deep expertise in small business incorporation filings and compliance.

After earning her Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from National University in 2006, Amanda obtained a Bachelor's in Gerontology from San Diego State in 2004.

With nearly 15 years of tax preparation experience under her belt, Amanda offers both the technical skills and interpersonal tact needed to optimize financial outcomes for clients. She specializes in minimizing liability through maximizing deductions for real estate investors and small business owners.

Amanda finds great fulfillment in empowering clients to overcome the complexities of taxes and make smart financial moves. Outside of tax season, she enjoys giving back by volunteering as a youth mentor.

Email education@psar.org Or Call: 619-421-7811 for more information


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

Use zipForm® more efficiently! Receive In-PERSON Instruction

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 11, 2023 8:00:00 AM

You use zipForm® every day, but do you take advantage of all the features
that can make your transaction life easier?

Use zipForm® more efficiently! Receive Hands-on Instruction
  This hands-on class is a must for agents who are new to zipForm® as well as those with experience. Don't pass up this unique opportunity!

Be sure to bring your laptop!   Learn how to create templates and increase your proficiency by using the advanced tips you will learn in this class.

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Thursday, September 28th
10:30 am - 11:30 am

Live in the South County Office
880 Canarios Ct., #100 Chula Vista, CA 91910
Register Here

By harnessing the power of zipForm®, you can shift your focus from tedious paperwork to delivering exceptional sales and services for your clients. Say goodbye to administrative headaches and hello to seamless transactions that give you more time to excel at selling, finding listings, and closing deals. Don't miss out on transforming zipForm® Plus into your ultimate real estate productivity tool!

Instructor Jan Farley will cover the following features and techniques:

  1. Be Efficient - Unlock the full potential of zipForm® Plus to complete contracts and manage transactions better.
  2. Eliminate Mistakes - Practice on the updated interface and new tools designed to save time and avoid errors.
  3. Discover the power of zipForm® Plus - Transform zipForm Plus into your ultimate real estate productivity tool and excel in your transactions.
  4. Learn the new forms editor - Navigate with ease.
  5. And much more! We’ll include an extended Q&A for your specific scenarios.
Jan Farley - zipForm Trainer

Instructor:

Jan Farley 
Broker & CAR Director                                     
ZipForm and Glide Certified Trainer
Professional Standards Committee Member
Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors
2018 President Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors

 

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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 & development of the Real Estate industry in San Diego County.

Topics: Education

NAR Green Designation at NO COST + 16 Hours CE credit

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jun 29, 2023 8:30:00 AM

What a Deal! Free Education Credit and a NAR Green Designation
NAR Green Designation at NO COST + 16 Hours CE credit

This is a two-day class so be sure to attend on the first day to get 16 hours of CE Credit.

Gain a competitive advantage and learn how to become your client's go-to resource for
buying or selling a more efficient, money-saving, healthy home.

Register HereThis is a two-day, in-person Class at our PSAR East Location

July 18 - 19 Classes

Day 1     Day 2

Green Designation Training Flyer

Course Fee: WAIVED with the generous support from SDG&E

To earn the NAR Green Designation, you must attend both days of training.

Help Your Clients Buy or Sell a Green Home

  • Recent studies show that 94% of home buyers rate energy efficiency as an important part of their home-buying decision. Are you prepared to address their questions about green features and improvements?
  • Join us for a two-day training to learn green real estate concepts, principles, practices, and benefits in a way that makes sense to you and your clients. Stand out from the crowd by earning the only green designation for real estate agents conferred by the National Association of REALTORS®.

Expand Your Knowledge—And Your Client Base

Strengthen your knowledge of green real estate and help your clients:

  • Find and transform a fixer-upper into a more comfortable home with lower utility and maintenance costs
  • Make the right upgrades before selling to boost their home’s value
  • Navigate the cash rebates, incentives, green certifications, and green financing necessary to achieve their goals
  • You’ll also learn how to market green and grow your business to attract new customers.

Demand for Green Homes Is Growing

Green real estate is not a fad, but a fundamental change in the market. Nearly 40% of home buyers consider high-efficiency heating and cooling to be “very important,” and two-thirds of state governments have implemented green building policies. Furthermore, a 2012 study found that green-certified homes—with labels such as ENERGY STAR® or GreenPoint Rated—sold for up to 9% more than homes without a green label. 

People have different motivations for going green. Some want to reduce their impact on the environment; others want to save money, reduce waste or create a healthier home for their children. Our training will provide you with the education to support your clients’ green endeavors no matter their objective.

Earning NAR's Green Designation

Continuing Education Units approved by the Department of Real Estate

Upon completion of the two-day required courses and successfully passing each exam with 75%, you will receive 16 Continuing Education Units approved by the Department of Real Estate.

Prerequisites

Must be a licensed Realtor in the State of California in order to receive DRE Credit for attending these courses

To earn the NAR Green Designation, you must attend both days of training.

Register Here

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Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS

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This program is administered by SDG&E through a contract awarded to Franklin Energy. Customers who choose to participate in this program are not obligated to purchase any additional services offered by the contractor. Programs may be modified or terminated without prior notice and are provided to qualified customers on a first-come, first-served basis until program funds are no longer available. Eligibility requirements may apply.

Topics: Education, YPN

The impact of local Tenant Ordinances on Owners & Managers

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jun 7, 2023 3:44:18 PM

A review of  the San Diego and Chula Vista Tenant Ordinances, including their rules, regulations, and to whom they apply.

Discussion Leaders:

Peter Carlseen

Peter Carlseen

REALTOR®, Chula Vista Housing and Homelessness Advisory Commission

Mark Scott

Mark Scott

REALTOR®, Past President for
CA Chapter of NARPM

If you are a housing provider, you will want to attend this informative overview and speaker discussion centering on the Chula Vista and San Diego City Tenant Ordinances. Speakers will review the new ordinances, other requirements and regulations, and discuss their implications.

Tuesday | June 20th
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
PSAR South County Office
(880 Canarios Ct. #100 Chula Vista, CA 91910)

IMS Registration   Eventbrite Registration
Free for PSAR and San Diego NARPM Members (use the IMS Registration)
For registration assistance, please call us at 619-421-7811.
$20 attendance fee for Non-Members

Discussion Topics:

  • Applicability of the new ordinances
  • New noticing requirements
  • New requirements for termination of tenancy
  • Administrative regulations

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The information provided during this program does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials being provided are for general informational purposes only.  Information may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. We may provide links to other third-party websites.  Such links are only for the convenience of the reader or user.  PSAR and its members do not recommend or endorse the contents of third-party sites.

Attendees should contact their attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter.  No attendee should act or refrain from acting on the basis of information provided here without first seeking legal advice from counsel in the relevant jurisdiction.  Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation.  Use of, and access to, the information provided or any of the links or resources shared do not create an attorney-client relationship.

The views expressed during the program are those of the individual speakers writing in their individual capacities only – not those of their respective employers, the PSAR, or the committee/task force as a whole.  All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this program is hereby expressly disclaimed.  The content in this program is provided "as is;" no representations are made that the content is error-free.

Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY MANAGERS              

Discover the latest information on the Tenant Ordinances in San Diego and Chula Vista, including their rules, regulations, and how they apply.

Topics: Education

Understand the Probate Process and Represent Buyers or Sellers Effectively

Posted by Kevin McElroy on May 24, 2023 8:15:00 AM

Probate Class

This Probate Certification course provides a thorough exploration for real estate agents and investors seeking to successfully assist homeowners in probate transactions.

This class is normally $125 / PSAR is offering it at $79

Friday | May 26th
9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
via Zoom

REGISTRATION CLOSED AT 11:30am on May 24th

Here is a video introduction for the class from the instructor:

This certification provides a comprehensive overview of the probate process for real estate professionals seeking to represent sellers or buyers in probate transactions, as well as investors looking to purchase probate properties. 

Each of the 5 chapters in this course focuses on a specific probate-related topic. The material is presented from the real estate professional's point of view but with the experience and knowledge of seasoned probate attorney and State Bar Certified Specialist, Paul Horn.

Course topics:

• The Purpose of Probate • Which necessary legal documents are used in probate
• 9 exceptions to Probate • Factors affecting homeowner's tax obligations
• Inventory and Appraisal • Estate taxes, Capital gain, and California property taxes
• Orders for probate and letters • Parent-Child/Grandparent-grandchild transfer exclusion
• Different ways of holding title • Change in Ownership Statement – Death of a real property owner
• The sale of real property in probate • How homeowners' choices determine whether a probate is needed
• Full authority vs. limited authority • Various marketing techniques to assist with probate prospecting

In general, a Probate occurs when a homeowner dies without a trust and by default leaves a home to an heir. This means (in many cases) that an estate attorney or representative may need to help family members sell the property. Of course, these scenarios can vary widely which is where this course becomes valuable. For example, the first chapter examines when a Probate sale should occur.

As you progress through the course, you will discover why certain probate cases take longer (full authority vs. limited authority). This understanding will help you maximize your commission in a probate listing as well as guide you through the probate purchase process.

Upon completing the final exam for the course, you will be eligible to receive a certification from C.A.R. as a Probate Property Specialist.

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Refund and Exchange Policy:

Need to reschedule?
You may transfer to a future LearnMyWay® session without penalty at any time up to two (2) days prior to your course. We allow one reschedule per course. If you provide C.A.R. Education with less than a two-day notice or fail to attend, you will be liable for the entire course fee.

Second and subsequent reschedules will result in a $15.00 processing fee per reschedule. All rescheduling requests must be sent to education@car.org and include the order number associated with the purchase of the course. 

Cancellation and refund policy
You may cancel a course without penalty at any time up to two (2) days prior to your course. Those who book within two (2) days are not eligible for cancellation or refunds. To cancel, please send an email to education@car.org and identify the name of the course and include the order number associated with the purchase of the course. Refunds will be issued in the same form of payment that was made.

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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

tips and tricks on how to make more contacts in a short amount of time.

Posted by Kevin McElroy on May 19, 2023 8:06:00 AM

tips and tricks

Tuesday | May 30th
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m
PSAR South Service Center
880 Canarios Ct., Chula Vista, CA 91910

     Register Here     

Sandwiches and Drinks will be provided

Sharpen your saw and ride through the ups and downs in this market with the following topics: 
  • Tracking your outbound activity is more critical than ever.
  • Don't reinvent the wheel this is a contact sport whoever makes more contact wins.
  • Greatness Tracker can change your business by always knowing what actions you have not taken within a week.
  • Back to Basics and a lot of it.
  • Are you slow? This is what you need to change your business in 90 days.


About the speaker:

Raul De La VegaRaul De Le Vega

After graduating from High School in 1995, Raul De Le Vega decided to Join the U.S. Navy. He was on active duty from Jan 1996 – 2003. He served aboard the USS Kitty Hawk, USS Constellation, & the Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light Four Nine “The Red Scorpions” as his final active duty station. After separating from Active Duty Service, he got into Law Enforcement and in 2006 left the San Diego County Sheriffs Dept. for a career in the Mortgage Industry. He has been in the Mortgage industry since 2006 and has been a top producer ever since. NMLS Lic. #325441

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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

DAREOKE FOR CHARITY with YPN

Posted by Kevin McElroy on May 2, 2023 9:30:00 AM

DARE-oke for Charity Event

Don't miss out on the fun!

FOOD, DRINKS, NETWORKING, and of course SINGING
🎶 COME AND DAR-E-OKE  🎶

It's ALL for Charity!

Join your Real Estate Community (both Agents and Affiliates) to support a great cause!

We encourage you to come dressed up as your favorite ROCKSTAR or BAND. Rumor has it that there will be prizes for participation.

PLEASE RSVP NOW SO WE CAN GET A HEADCOUNT 

Thursday | May 18th
6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
RSVP NOW!

Eventbrite Registration 

at

McGregor's Bar and Grill
10475 San Diego Mission Road, San Diego, CA, 92108

2022 Dareoke Pictures

SEE ALL THE PICTURES FROM LAST YEAR - DON'T MISS IT THIS YEAR

Here are the rules:

You will be encouraged to DARE someone to sing a song of your choice for $30 or pick your own song and sing for $30. If you choose not to sing when you have been DARED, you can opt-out for $30*.

*A person need only opt-out one time.

(Cash payments are preferred to limit fees for electronic payments.)

Proceeds are going to our charities, Home Start and Humble Design. Both charities encourage and support home ownership in our communities.

Humble Designs
Humble Design
: Changing lives and communities by custom designing and fully furnishing home interiors for individuals, families, and veterans emerging from homelessness. We couldn’t do what we do without our incredible workforce of volunteers and donations. Join us, and be a part of what makes Humble so amazing.

 

Home Start
Home-Start
Your funds will help provide the security deposits, titrated rental assistance, bus transportation passes, gas cards, and grocery or department store gift cards expenses not covered by government funding to help the youth stay housed, make ends meet, travel to work or school, have fresh food, etc. Ultimately you will help them break free from the cycles of homelessness, abuse, poverty, and neglect.

For 50 years, Home Start staff have served on the front lines in the battle to protect vulnerable children from abuse by strengthening families and their communities. To effectively prevent and treat child abuse, they address conditions that put children in risky or abusive situations such as homelessness, hunger, poverty, unsafe neighborhoods, lack of safe/affordable housing, & unemployment. They also focus on individual self-sufficiency and emotional needs to break the cycle of families remaining in poverty or abusive situations.

In any given year, the families, youth, and children Home Start serves are on the brink of crisis or just recovering from extremely challenging circumstances. The added stressors caused by the impact of COVID-19, including the housing crisis, increased domestic violence, and inflation, has been particularly devastating for the low-income families in their care.

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Thank You to our 2023 Annual Sponsors!

Wild Wild Pest ControlKatie Thompson

Rancho Ted Real Estate lending

Rancho Ted

Morrison Plus Property Inspections

Danielle Wolter

Marina Vista Escrow 2023

Jaymee Torres

The Laver Group Crosscountry Mortgage

Dan Laver

Gillz Building Services Inc

Ray Gill

Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors YPN

 

 

Topics: YPN, Events