Beyond San Diego: Retire and Live Abroad – Panama

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 17, 2026 9:00:00 AM

Retire and Live Abroad in Panama

Panama is a top choice for retirees because of its tax-friendly environment for foreign income. Clients are already exploring options, and they need a professional REALTOR® to guide them. Gain the specific knowledge and industry contacts required to manage these leads and close deals abroad, over snacks, and with guest speaker Dr. John Payne King

Why Attend?

  • Get direct access to modern projects that you can share with your clients
  • Understand the specific appeal of new developments in Panama to eco-conscious San Diego buyers
  • Gain insights into the Panama Pensionado program and how it saves your clients thousands on living costs
  • Review market analysis on high-growth areas to share with your investor database
Thursday, April 30th
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
PSAR Chula Vista
880 Canarios Court, Chula Vista 91910

Enjoy complimentary empanadas and drinks

Meet our speaker:

Jose Payne King (1)

Dr. Jose Payne King is a highly accomplished real estate broker with a career spanning over 30 years. A graduate with distinction from REALTOR® University and an alumnus of Southern Illinois University, he holds prestigious designations including Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) and Certified Real Estate Investment Associate. 
 
Beyond his local expertise in San Diego, Jose serves as a vital link in international real estate, notably serving as the NAR Global Ambassador to Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. Fluent in both English and Spanish, he acts as a liaison to foreign real estate associations, fostering ethical business practices and cross-border investment opportunities. Jose is passionate about mentoring others and empowering his clients through an experience he describes as "enlightening and encouraging." Whether navigating complex commercial deals or advocating for veteran housing, he remains dedicated to expanding the horizons of the real estate profession through education, community outreach, and global collaboration.
 __________________________________
 
 For questions, please contact Victor Herrera at 619-271-5897 / email victor@psar.org.
 
Brought to you by: 
 Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS Global Council

Topics: Education, Global Real Estate Council, Market Information, Industry

Grow Your Business with CRMLS Classes

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 1, 2026 9:00:00 AM

PSAR Exclusive CRMLS Classes
CRMLS has set up Zoom classrooms to teach some of the free tools our members have access to as part of PSAR. These are small classes scheduled for PSAR Members. Becoming proficient with these tools can help you build your business.

April 13th | 1:00 PM

Register

Work Smarter and Faster with Expert Paragon Shortcuts 

April 20th | 1:00 PM

Register

Outshine Other Agents Using Deep Property Analytics 

April 27th | 1:00 PM

Register

Build Winning CMA Presentations in Minutes 

May 4th | 1:00 PM

Register

Sell the Vision and Close Properties Using AI Staging

May 18th | 1:00 PM

Register

Learn CRS Tax's More Sophisticated Capabilities

Paragon: CRS Tax Advanced

Duration: 1 hour

Teaching Style: Instructor-Led Lecture or Web Conference

Description: For those who are already familiar with the basics of CRS Tax and want to learn its more sophisticated capabilities. Discover how to uncover detailed information to gain a competitive advantage.

May 26th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Command Authority Using Live Housing Data Graphs 

InfoSparks Market Statistics

Duration: 1 hour

Teaching Style: Web Conference Only

Description: InfoSparks’s accessible market statistics translates local geographical information and housing variables into easy-to-understand graphs and charts. This class covers how to use InfoSparks within all CRMLS MLS systems. 

June 1st | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Eliminate Fines and Optimize Your San Diego Listings 

Paragon: Managing Listings

Duration: 1.5 hours

Teaching Style: Instructor-Led Lecture or Web Conference

Description: 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 improving your understanding of the MLS Rules and Policies. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, this course can benefit you.

June 15th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Boost Your Real Estate Network via Instant Digital Sharing 

SavvyCard: Personalized, Digital Business Cards 

Duration: 30 minutes

Teaching Style: Web Conference Only

Description: Strengthen your online presence with SavvyCard’s online marketing. With personalized “SavvyCards” for you and your properties, you can generate leads and expand your network with the push of a button.

June 29th | 1:00 PM

Register

 

Expand your expertise in CRMLS Paragon

Paragon: Agent Essentials

Duration: 1 hour

Teaching Style: Instructor-Led Lecture or Web Conference

Description: 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.

Find More 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

Differentiate yourself! An ABR® designation matters

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 25, 2026 4:30:00 PM

Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR®) Designation Course

 Due to low registration, this course has been postponed. 

In today’s competitive real estate market, clearly articulating your value to buyers is more important than ever. If you're looking for a way to stand out and refine your expertise, earning your Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation is one of the smartest strategic moves you can make. 

For a deeply discounted $175 (typically $310 with an exam), you gain the skills to secure your commission.

Benefits of Becoming an ABR®

  • Boost Your Brand Authority: The ABR® logo signals expertise, builds trust through proven experience, and gives access to customizable marketing tools
  • Valuable real estate education: Lead effective buyer consultations, secure agreements faster, negotiate stronger offers that elevate your skills and knowledge in the eyes of home buyers.

  • Ongoing specialized information:  Access to members-only publications, marketing tools, and resources that keep you knowledgeable on the issues and trends facing home buyers.

  • Tap Into Referral Opportunities: Nationwide directory of ABR® agents for valuable referrals. Networking and referral opportunities

  • Turn a small investment into a massive career ROI Join PSAR for the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation course. 

Due to low registration, this course has been postponed. To join the waitlist for future dates, please call (619) 421-7811 or email education@psar.org.

This is a TWO-DAY Class (Must attend both complete days for credit)

April 20th to 21st, Monday and Tuesday
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
PSAR Chula Vista Office
 
 $175 for PSAR Members | $200+fees for Non-Members
(ABR 200+page Instruction Book Included)
 

Lunch Add-on: For an additional $15/day ($30 total), enjoy a fresh lunch from Urbane Cafe (Salad or Sandwich). We will call you to confirm your choice for each day, or bring your own lunch (We have a refrigerator and a microwave).

Questions Email: education@psar.org or Call: (619) 421-7811

The Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) Designation Course is more than just the first step towards earning your designation, as it aims to provide you with valuable insights and information to make you a better real estate professional. 

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


Personal Instructor

webpage_Board_Members_Mike_ShenkmanMike Shenkman
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 is a professor and lecturer at UCSD and USD. 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).

The ABR® Designation Course Description and Outline

 

Topics: Education

Reclaim the Garage!  Invite Your Clients to PSAR’s Free Recycling Event - You’re Invited Too.

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 11, 2026 9:00:00 AM

Everyone Bring your Shredding & ELECTRONIC Recycling to PSAR for FREE!

FREE Shredding and Electronic Recycling Event

 Electronics and sensitive files piling up in your garage?  Don’t risk identity theft or fines for tossing them in the trash.  Bring them to PSAR’s Free Recycling Event! ♻️ 

This is your easiest win of the month. Instead of a generic check-in, offer your clients a high-value service for $0.  When you solve their "how do I get rid of this?" problem, you aren't just a REALTOR®, you're their most resourceful partner.

What’s in it for you and your clients?

  • Total Identity Protection: Professional shredding for those old tax returns and bank statements.
  • Eco-Friendly Disposal: A safe home for the "tech graveyard" (old laptops, monitors, and tangled cables).
  • Zero Cost: Professional shredding and e-recycling services usually cost a fortune. You're giving it to them for free.

The Details You Need

Just drive up, drop off, and go!  Stay in your car until the drop-off point and let the pros take care of the heavy lifting. 

Thursday, April 23rd
11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
FREE and open to PSAR members and their clients
Bring your shredding and electronic recycling to:
PSAR Chula Vista Parking Lot

ACCEPTED SHREDDING - 10 FILE/LEDGER BOXES MAXIMUM
(per company or business)

All Paper • File Folders • Hanging Files • Checkbooks • Magazines • Notepads • Envelopes

For larger shredding needs, ProShred will offer a discount rate at the Convoy location on the event day.
Arrangements must be made in advance. There will be no exceptions at the event. 


ACCEPTED ELECTRONICS

 TVs & Monitors  |  Desktop computers   |  Laptops  |  Servers  |  All In One Computers  |  Tablets  |  Smartphones  |  Radio & VCRs | Routers & Switches  |  Cameras  |  Printers & Scanners  |  Video Gaming Consoles |  CDs & Floppy Disks  |  keyboards & Mice  |  Telephones  |  Stereo Systems  |  Cables & Plugs  |  Hard Drives | Small appliances | Anything with cable or plug

We WILL NOT accept fluorescent light bulbs, large appliances like washing machines or stoves, or other hazardous waste such as paint and liquids at this event. Batteries will not be accepted. 

Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS 

ProShred Security San Diego                            dream-electronics-recycling

Thank you to our Spring Shredding Sponsors
(They will be handing out treats and info as you pass by)

Farmers Insurance Bob Hillard

Bob Hillard

Aftermath Exterminating Inc

Marcco Flood Restoration

Morrison Plus Property Inspections

RanchoTed

 

Old Republic Home Protection

 

Marina Vista Escrow

 


Photo by Elsa

 

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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

Drop the Mic: YPN Presents Hip Hop Bingo!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 2, 2026 9:00:00 AM

Drop the Mic: YPN Presents Hip Hop Bingo!

Get your playlist ready! PSAR’s Your Professionals Network (YPN) is shaking up the traditional game night. We’re heading to Novo Brazil for an evening of Hip Hop Bingo, where the numbers are replaced by the beats you love.

Whether you're a '90s boom head or a fan of modern chart-toppers, this is the networking event of the season. Come for the vibes, stay for the prizes, and connect with the industry's finest.

Every registration includes: one round of drinks, light appetizers, and 2 Hip Hop Bingo cards.

Thursday, March 19th
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Novo Brazil
Novo Brazil Restaurant and Brewery Mission Valley
1640 Camino del Río N, suite 341, San Diego, CA 92108
 
ONLINE SALES HAVE ENDED, BUT TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR
 
PSAR Members: $25 | Non-PSAR Members: $30
   

How it works:  A live DJ will be spinning hip-hop tunes throughout the night. Each bingo square on your sheet corresponds to a song title. Mark your card when you hear the DJ play a title on your card, and get ready to win fantastic bingo prizes!


 

Thank you to our Event SponsorPoint Mortgage 

Thank you to YPN Annual Sponsors

     

  ______________________________________

 

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


YPN Color

 

Topics: Education, YPN

San Diego District 2 Candidate Forum - Covering Housing Policy to Property Rights

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Feb 25, 2026 9:00:00 AM

Candidate Forum for D2 City Council

 

The PSAR Government Affairs Committee is hosting a candidate forum for San Diego District 2 City Council candidates.

Decisions made at City Hall directly impact the local real estate market and the clients served by real estate professionals. This forum provides a chance to meet the candidates vying to represent District 2. Attendees will hear their specific plans regarding the city budget and the ongoing homeless crisis.

Candidates will also address critical industry issues, including rent control and point of sale mandates. Understanding where each candidate stands helps REALTOR®s protect their business and effectively advise clients.

Make sure your REALTOR® voice is heard by those seeking office. This event is FREE!

Tuesday, March 10th
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
PSAR Clairemont Office
 
                  

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PSAR's Mission is to empower Real Estate Professionals

 

Topics: Announcements, Events, Government Affairs

Expand Your Portfolio into Mexico and Beyond with OMNI MLS

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 27, 2026 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_260217_ GREC OMNI


Your Global Toolkit - OMNI MLS

 
Bring a laptop and prepare to work through the platform in real time. Gain a massive advantage by learning to navigate the international market in this hands-on workshop.
 
Learn the specific tools needed to go global and capture international commissions: 
  • Search and Find: Gain an extensive overview of Omni MLS to locate properties south of the border.
  • List and Sell: Master the process to post properties for sale located outside the United States.
  • Expert Access: Have your questions ready for a spirited Q&A session with industry leader Ross Buck.
  • Active Networking: Build a referral bridge between San Diego and international markets over a taco lunch.
 Tuesday, February 17th
12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
PSAR Chula Vista Service Center
 
Free for PSAR Members!  Enjoy tacos with peers
 Tacos
 
Class sponsored by:
Talos Pest Control

Get to know our speaker:

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

 

Topics: Announcements, Events

New Laws: Gov Hutchinson, C.A.R. Assistant General Counsel

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 9, 2026 10:00:00 AM

Gov Hutchinson_Legal Update

REALTOR® success depends on industry knowledge. For local agents, that includes understanding the real estate legal changes in 2026 and incorporating them into your business practice accordingly.

Gov Hutchinson, Assistant General Counsel for the California Association of REALTORS®, will review the new legislation and explain the impacts it will have on your transactions.

Topics include disclosure requirements for AI-generated marketing images and best practices for executing mandatory written buyer representation agreements - helping protect both commissions and clients.

Ensure your business aligns with the latest state laws and professional standards.

Thursday, January 22nd
11:30 AM to 1:30 PM
PSAR Chula Vista

Lunch provided by class sponsor Don Anderson of Insight Photos

insightphotos logo

 
Gov HutchinsonSpeaker:
Gov. 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.
  
 

________________________________________________________________________________________________

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

PSAR Committee and Cocktails Happy Hour brought to you by ypn

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 5, 2026 9:00:00 AM

Committee and Cocktails Happy Hour brought to you by YPN

Pack your bags, call a cab, and head to the ultimate networking and professional growth event for REALTORS® - the YPN 2026 Kick-off party / PSAR Committee and Cocktails Happy Hour. This is not just a social event; it’s a boarding pass to leadership, connection, and impact within PSAR. Visit each of the committees while you work the room to find the culture that best fits you and where you will land to make 2026 your most engaged year yet.

Attendees / Travelers will receive 2 complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres!

  • Check-In and Get Cleared for Takeoff: Upon arrival, receive your official event "Passport" ready for stamping.

  • Touch Down at each Committee: At each committee table, receive a quick briefing on the 2026 impact and goals. Get your Passport stamped at every stop.

  • Claim Your Baggage (Prizes): A fully stamped Passport earns you an entry to win one of the various fabulous door prizes.

Be ready to travel across the committee's continent. Please RSVP.

January 14th, Wednesday
3 PM to 6 PM at


(Click 'events' once you log in)
 
 
 
south bay community services Entry is free; however, a donation of $15 - $20 at the door towards the event charity: South Bay Community Services (SBCS) would be appreciated and go a long way.

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 HERE
Get in early to get all the marketing benefits

Thank you to our Sponsors:

Forefront Escrow PROProperty Inspection and Services Triple Threat Termite
Choice Home Warranty CraftedHomes_YPN-Black

 

Renzi social co.
  Mac Printing Logo  

 

Topics: Announcements, YPN, Industry

Action Required: New Referral Fee Process

Posted by Communications on Dec 3, 2025 8:31:41 AM
As real estate professionals, we know that consumer trust is the foundation of every successful transaction. Ensuring that clients understand exactly how their real estate professionals are compensated is central to protecting their interests and reinforcing that trust.
NEW REFERRAL FEE PROCESS

What is Changing?

C.A.R. has finalized revisions to standard forms to provide a standardized method for disclosing both the receipt and payment of referral fees. Because several forms were already undergoing revisions, this was the ideal time to incorporate these important modifications.

Agents should prepare for changes in the following documents:

  • BRBC and RLA Forms: These forms will now include specific references to referral fees.
  • New Disclosure Mechanics: The updates are designed to make it easier for REALTORS® to make appropriate disclosures, ensuring consumers are fully aware of all sources of compensation.

Why You Need to Attend the Training

When clients understand whether and how referral fees are involved, they are empowered to make informed decisions and ask the right questions. As an agent, your ability to explain these forms clearly is essential to your professionalism.

To ensure you are fully informed and prepared for when these forms go live, C.A.R. is offering a suite of educational resources and town halls. These sessions will focus on the practical application of the forms so you can continue to serve your clients with the highest level of transparency.

 

Upcoming Town Hall Schedule

It is strongly encourage you register for one of the following sessions to review these changes and receive additional guidance:

  • Thursday, Dec. 4: 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Register here
  • Thursday, Dec. 11: 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Register here
  • Tuesday, Dec. 16: 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. | Register here

 

Resources

Forms Preview: Click here for the forms release with this week’s revisions.  (C.A.R. log-in required) 

By staying ahead of these changes, we demonstrate that transparency and consumer trust remain at the core of our mission. We look forward to seeing you at an upcoming town hall.

Topics: Education, Announcements, Brokers/Managers, Industry