Keep Families Close - Red Shoe Day 2025!

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

blogbanner_Red Shoe Day

Every Sick Child Deserves Their Family by Their Side. 

PSAR Teams Up for Red Shoe Day 2025 -  May 21st!

Support the annual Red Shoe Day fundraiser benefiting San Diego's Ronald McDonald House.  PSAR’s Team has been in the top 5 for contribution amounts in the past several years, thanks to your support.  Let’s do it again!

Say hello to our team on May 21st, from 7:00–9:30 AM!  PSAR volunteers will take to two major intersections to collect donations and spread hope.

  • Telegraph Canyon Road / Otay Lakes Road
  • H Street / Otay Lakes Road
You can also donate directly to the PSAR Team.  Your donation will help purchase life necessities for families—temporary lodging, meals, and daytime resources—so they can focus solely on being together and helping their children. Click here to donate.

When a child is hospitalized, their family’s love can be just as vital as medicine. That’s why PSAR is proud to support Red Shoe Day 2025, raising funds for San Diego’s Ronald McDonald House—a place that keeps families close during their darkest moments.

Help us bring comfort, care, and togetherness to families when they need it most.

PSAR Team:  Jaymee Torres (this year’s team leader), Adulfo Moreno, Derrek Cardinale, Ed Hurtado, Amanda Lozano, Maureena Hahn-Garcia, Michelle Pritch, Alysa Flores, Josh McClelland, Jamie Mora, Candace Thrower, Jay Norris, Elsa Flores, Lucy Navas, Victor Herrera, Alicia Pedroza, Qian Chen, Diana Cortes, Jhoana Alvarado, Astryd Gonzalez, Edna Mitchell, Caroline Magdaleno

For the volunteers, you may contact your team leader, Jaymee Torres, at jaymeet@marinavistaescrow.com for instructions. 



See pictures from the past HERE

Red Shoe Day with Merrie Espina

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: 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 2024 Eventblogbanner_250619_  Juneteenth (1)

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.

Thursday, June 19th
11:30 am - 1:30 pm
PSAR Chula Vista Office
 

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

REGISTER EARLY AND SAVE!!

Early bird registration for $20 until June 13th!
After advanced registration is $25, and $25 at the door
 
Event Sponsors:
 
logo-morrison-plus
Danielle Wolter
 
 
Peggy Elliot
Keller Williams
Realty
 
Sam_Calvano_Home_Loans
Sam Calvano
 
Cal Pac Logo WhiteSara Forgnone 
 
RATE Lending
Glen Warren
 
 
RanchoTed-NEW
 
Ted Przybylek
 
 
Foundation Escrow
Cindy Peters
 
 
Maven Precision Nutrition
DeRahn T. Johnson
 
 
Hommati
Billy Blaylock
 
 
Old Republic Home Protection
 
Mona Cimental
 _________________________

Sponsorship opportunities available:

Premier Sponsors – $1,000 - $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

Supporting Sponsor – $250

  • 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 the 2024 Juneteenth Celebration 


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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

Industry experts will 'ensure' you know about Homeowner Insurance!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 22, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Home Owner Insurance Update

Can Your Clients Still Buy or Sell If They Can’t Get Insurance?

Insurance availability is threatening deals all across California. Homes are falling out of escrow. Buyers are walking. Sellers are stuck.

 PSAR’s Government Affairs Committee has scheduled a high-impact panel discussion on the ongoing insurance crisis and its effect on real estate transactions. Out of this session will come the knowledge needed to guide clients past roadblocks and on to closed deals—even in high-risk areas!

This session will answer questions like:

  • What to know about defensible space?
  • How state legislators plan to address the growing insurance crisis?
  • What happens when a buyer can’t get insurance?
  • How do rising premiums impact loan approvals?
  • What solutions are available when insurance is denied?

Get the answers you need from the following experts:

  • Sharon Smith, California Department of Insurance
  • Robert Johnson, CAL FIRE
  • Maureen Moran, Maureen Moran Insurance & Real Estate
  • Steve Hovland, Allstate Insurance
  • Chris Jonsmyr, Office of Assemblymember David Alvarez, California State Assembly,  Committee on Insurance

Register now to attend this session covering one of the hottest topics in real estate!

Wednesday | May 21st
12:00 pm: Lunch
1:00 pm to 3:00 pm: Forum
PSAR El Cajon Service Center
1150 Broadway, El Cajon, CA 92021

Panda Express Logo-1😁 Event & Lunch Sponsors

       Fidelity National Home Warranty               Rancho Ted with Name

liveSmart Escrow         Aftermath Exterminating Inc   
           

Topics: Education, Announcements

Backcountry property Fire Hardening & Sales Transaction Tips

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 11, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Defensible Space and Fire Hardening

Backcountry real estate transactions present unique challenges around fire safety regulations, insurance, and sales disclosures.

Learn the latest fire hardening tips and important county regulations from experts. This class gives you the tools and up-to-date information needed to support buyers and sellers in high fire-risk areas.

Essential Information covered in this session:

  • The latest Zone Zero regulations and how they affect listings
  • AB 38 requirements and how to navigate the FHDS form
  • Critical insurance updates for fire-prone properties
  • How DIC policies work with the CA Fair Plan
  • Brief updates from the City of Santee that impact local sales

Featured Speakers:
🔥 Fire Chief Bernard Molloy, Murrieta Fire and Rescue
🔥 Fire Marshal Ken King, Heartland Fire and Rescue
📄 Chuck Piro, Consultant, MyNHD

Stay cool under fire - learn from the experts!

Tuesday, April 22
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
ZOOM WEBINAR

Meet the speakers:

 

1-Apr-11-2025-04-09-56-8865-PM

Chuck Piro
Consultant, MyNHD

Chuck Piro has over 25 years of experience in the Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD) industry, known for his engaging presentations and deep industry knowledge. Starting his career at LGS Reports, he later led sales at Professional Hazard Disclosure and Disclosure Source, achieving significant revenue growth. Chuck has presented to thousands of real estate professionals across California, focusing on risk management, disclosure requirements, and recent regulations such as Home Hardening and Defensible Space. He is widely respected for his clarity, integrity, and insight.

 

3-4

 Fire Chief Bernard Molloy
Fire Chief, Murrieta Fire and Rescue

Chief Bernie Molloy has 25 years of fire service experience and currently serves as Fire Chief of Murrieta Fire & Rescue. He holds a master’s degree in emergency services management, is a credentialed Chief Fire Officer, and a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program. His expertise includes EMS, fire operations, and community risk reduction. Chief Molloy has held leadership roles in the San Diego and Riverside County Fire Chiefs Associations and currently serves as President-elect of Cal Chiefs and 2nd Vice President for Cal Cities.

 

2-Apr-11-2025-04-09-57-0862-PM

 Fire Marshall Ken King
Fire Marshall, Heartland Fire and Rescue

Ken King brings over 25 years of public service experience in Code Enforcement, Law Enforcement, and Fire Prevention. He is an ICC-certified Fire Marshal and Building Official, having served in key roles with the Riverside County Office of the Fire Marshal, including Deputy Fire Marshal. He has worked on high-profile events like the Coachella Music Festival and has expertise in pyrotechnics and fireworks. Ken also served 11 years as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff in San Bernardino County and has presented fire prevention classes at national conferences.

 

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PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

 

Topics: Education

Unwind & Recharge: YPN’s Yoga & Wine Night

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 7, 2025 10:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250417_ Yoga and Wine YPN

Take a break from a busy schedule and join an evening of relaxation, mindfulness, and connection at YPN’s Yoga & Wine Retreat!  Whether a seasoned yogi or a complete beginner, this event is the perfect way to refresh mind and body while enjoying great company.

What to Expect:

  • A rejuvenating yoga session suitable for all levels
  • Mindful moments with affirmations, meditation, and mindset tips
  • A chance to relax and socialize with fellow attendees
  • Wine and lite bites included! 

What to Expect:

To fully enjoy the experience, please bring a yoga mat, towel, and comfortable clothing.

Limited Spots Available!

This event is open to all ages and yoga levels, but only 35 spots are available, so be sure to secure a spot soon! 

Thursday, April 17th
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
PSAR Clairemont Office
Cost: $10
 

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

2025 Annual Sponsors

Knight Termite & Pest Control

RanchoTed

Marina Vista Escrow

Renz Social Co3

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Pacific Southwest Association of Realtors YPN

 

Topics: Announcements, YPN, Industry

What Every San Diego REALTOR® should Know About Supplemental Taxes

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 1, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250416_ Supplemental Taxation Class Mike Shenkman (1)

Answer your clients’ most pressing questions on taxation with confidence!

Do you know how supplemental taxes impact your clients after a property sale? Knowledge of this financially impactful subject enables a REALTOR® stand out.

Join Mike Shenkman for an exclusive supplemental tax class and gain the know-how to confidently counsel clients!

What You’ll Learn:

  • The history of property taxation at the federal and state levels 

  • The basics of supplemental taxes and their importance

  •  The key features of  Proposition 13 and Proposition 19

  • Tax change triggers like ownership transfer and new home construction.

  • Supplemental taxation, its use as an application, and client talking points

Register today!

Wednesday, April 16th
10:00 am to 12:00 pm
 

 

Important Note: REALTORS® are not tax advisors. Avoid giving specific tax guidance and always recommend clients consult a qualified tax professional. Supplemental tax bills can be confusing, and it’s best to refer clients to experts for advice.

Get the knowledge you need to answer questions confidently—without becoming the source of tax advice.

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 Photo

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).

 


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