Enable more Home Buyers with CalHFA’s Down Payment Assistance Programs

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 24, 2025 9:00:00 AM

CalHFA

Help first-time home buyers realize their dream!

Working with first-time buyers who need down payment solutions? Multiple affordable housing program options can be leveraged. 

Natasha Dowdy, Program Analyst at CalHFA, will provide guidance and information on  how to make homeownership more accessible.

Key Topics:

  • MyHome Assistance Program: Deferred junior loans for down payments and closing costs on FHA and Conventional Loans.
  • CalPLUS Access Program: A first mortgage paired with mandatory down payment and closing cost assistance for buyers with limited upfront funds.
  • New Program Benefits: Lower rates and more options.
 
Thursday, April 10th
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Live Zoom Webinar
Questions?  Contact education@psar.org or call (619) 421-7811. 

CalHFA


For over 45 years, the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) has been a trusted partner in supporting low- and moderate-income homebuyers and renters. As a self-supported state agency, CalHFA provides financing and programs focused on increasing equity and access to affordable housing.

 

photo_smallMeet the speaker:
 
An advocate for making dreams of affordable homeownership a reality for California residents. Natasha Dowdy is the Lender Training Program Analyst for the California Housing Finance Agency. With over 15 years of experience in the mortgage lending industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Her passion for the field drives her commitment to educating others and bridging the gap to homeownership. Natasha’s work not only helps prospective homeowners navigate the complexities of the lending process but also ensures that they have the tools and information needed to achieve their dream of owning a home. 

 

Class sponsored by:
Lief Tolleson US Bank Home Mortgage
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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

Rocking the Rental Housing Industry! Southern California Rental Housing Expo 2025

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 21, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250423_Shredding Event

The SCRH EXPO 2025 showcases the latest trends, technologies, and insights shaping the rental housing market.  This dynamic event offers the following to help you stay competitive in property management and rental housing.

Expert-Led Educational Sessions
Networking
Exhibitor displays featuring tools and resources 
A chance to win multiple prizes!

 
Thursday, May 8th
8:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Town & Country Hotel
 

Special $ 15.00 Discount for PSAR Members!

Use promo code PSAR@EXPO for $15.00 off your registration.

PROFESSIONAL PANEL

1-Mar-19-2025-09-09-48-3053-PM

State of the Apartment Industry
Joshua Ohl, CoStar Group

2-Mar-19-2025-09-09-48-2878-PM

Legislative Update
Molly Kirkland, SCRHA

4-2

Shopping and Improving Your Properties
Lindsay Martinez, Tourus

blogbanner_250423_Shredding  (1)

Shopping and Improving Your Properties
Ronald Harrington, 29th Street Living

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

5-2

Leveraging AI in Property Management
Kent Langley


Contact Information: Website: www.socalrha.org | Phone: 858.278.8070

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PSAR's Mission is to empower Real Estate Professionals.

Topics: Education, Events, Industry

How will Mexican tariffs impact home prices in San Diego? Grab some free tacos and find out!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 18, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250401_Market Forcast - Jordan Levine  (1)-1

Don’t be fooled this April 1st - join your real estate colleagues for TACOS and a clear breakdown of the local housing market by Jordan Levine.

 

 

 Tuesday, April 1st
11:00 AM - Tacos
11:30 AM to 1:30 PM - Jordan
  
Jordan Levine
The speaker:
Jordan Levine is the Vice President & Chief Economist at the California Association of REALTORS®. He leads C.A.R.’s housing market research and policy analysis. A strong advocate for homeownership and equity, Jordan is a trusted voice for REALTORS®, policymakers, and the media. Originally from East County San Diego, he holds an Economics degree from UCSB and a Master’s in International Economics from the University of Sussex. 

Questions?  Contact education@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: Education

YPN's Hip Hop Bingo at Novo Brazil

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 12, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Hip Hop Bingo YPN Event

Be ready to bounce to the beat at Novo Brazil Brewery in Mission Valley as PSAR's YPN presents the ultimate Hip Hop Bingo experience you will definitely want to enjoy!

Feel the energy as a range of tracks from the Beastie Boys to Usher pump out of the speakers while you mark those bingo cards and share the vibe with fellow music lovers. Come thirsty for craft brews, hungry for victory, and ready to shout "BINGO!" as your favorite hip-hop anthems take you on a journey from the '80s to today's chart-toppers!

Thursday, March 20th
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Novo Brazil
Novo Brazil Restaurant and Brewery Mission Valley
1640 Camino Del Rio N suite 341, San Diego, CA 92108
  Registration Fee of $35   
     
ONLINE TICKET SALES HAVE ENDED
TICKETS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR

Admission with 4 bingo boards and 1 drink ticket. Dinner will be provided.

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!

  ______________________________________

 

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

Event Sponsor

Cornerstone First Mortgage

 

2025 Annual Sponsors

Marina Vista Escrow

 

RanchoTed

 

Knight-Termite

 

Renzi Social



YPN Color

 

Topics: Education, YPN

ZipForms Workflows That Wow: Steps to Organized Transactions

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Feb 21, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_230928_zipforms-1

Looking to streamline transactions and enhance efficiency? Whether you're a seasoned zipForms user or just getting started, this live online training is designed to help you work smarter and deliver top-tier service to your clients.

In just one hour, you can gain essential skills to simplify workflow, manage contracts confidently, and maximize the tools available through zipForms. 

Key class takeaways:

  • Go Paperless & Simplify Signatures – Utilize zipForm's eSignature capabilities for seamless transactions.
  • Create & Share Forms with Ease – Customize professional forms and securely collaborate with clients and agents.
  • Save Time & Stay Organized – Set up reusable templates and automate transaction reminders.
  • Expert Guidance – Receive direct answers to your zipForm questions from Leslie Boone.

This training session is offered FREE to our REALTOR® members!

Recording from March 13th, 2025 Zoom Class

About the speaker:

Leslie BooneLeslie Boone
Throughout Leslie's professional career, she has worked in most areas of the Real Estate industry, including Real Estate, Escrow, and Mortgage Lending. In 2004, she became a Corporate Trainer for the title companies, and I knew she had found her true passion. She has been teaching software and device functionality to Real Estate agents for over 10 years. She is excited to be now working for the California Association of REALTORS® as a zipForm Trainer.

_______________________________________________________________

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

Skyslope Free for PSAR - CRMLS Subscribers

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Feb 21, 2025 8:23:35 AM

SkySlope Forms
Your time is valuable. That’s why CRMLS is offering SkySlope Forms to all users at no cost starting February 25. This powerful tool streamlines the transaction process, saving you time while ensuring compliance.

Why SkySlope Forms?

  • No Cost for CRMLS Users: Enjoy access to SkySlope Forms without paying a dime.
  • Direct MLS Integration: Automatically populate contract details, reducing manual entry and errors.
  • Access to C.A.R. Forms: Active REALTORS® can use the full library of California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) forms directly within the platform.
  • Customizable Templates: Save even more time with user-built templates tailored to common transactions.
  • Mobile App Access: Manage your forms on the go, keeping you ready to serve clients anytime, anywhere.
Need E-Signature Capabilities?
While SkySlope Forms comes with numerous no-cost benefits, you can enhance your experience with e-signature options
  • DigiSign Integration: Add e-signature capabilities for just $64.99/year after a free 14-day trial. Seamlessly integrated into SkySlope Forms, it makes signing documents quick and easy.
  • DocuSign Compatibility: Use your existing DocuSign account. Please note that documents sent for e-signature with DocuSign must be managed separately.

See It in Action
Want to learn how SkySlope Forms can make your workflow more efficient? Sign up for an upcoming webinar designed for CRMLS users and watch a full demonstration.

Upcoming Webinars

  Event Date Start Time End Time Registration Link
Skyslope Forms for BRBC 3/7/2025 11:30 AM 12:00 PM Register Now
Skyslope Forms for BRBC 3/13/2025 11:30 AM 12:00 PM Register Now
Skyslope Forms for BRBC 3/26/2025 11:30 AM 12:00 PM Register Now


With no cost to you and a host of time-saving features, SkySlope Forms is a valuable tool to streamline your transactions and enhance client service. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to work smarter.

For more background on Skyslope forms, check out this link.

Topics: Announcements

Meet and Greet  For Chula Vista Councilmember Cesar Fernandez

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Feb 13, 2025 10:52:17 AM

Meet and Greet Fundraiser For Chula Vista Councilmember Cesar Fernandez

Connect with newly elected Chula Vista Councilmember Cesar Fernandez!

Councilmember Cesar Fernandez, a longtime educator and community advocate, will share his vision for Chula Vista’s future. This is your chance to engage in meaningful discussions about the city’s priorities and learn how you can be a part of positive change.

Donations are not required to attend, but contributions will be requested to cover the council member's campaign debt.

Enjoy light refreshments as you connect with fellow residents and local leaders. 

Shape the future of Chula Vista together!
February 24th, Monday
4 PM to 5 PM
PSAR South Service Center
A minimum recommended contribution of $50 can be made during the event.  
 
 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

Apply for the 2025 PSAR Leadership Academy!

Posted by Communications on Jan 24, 2025 4:20:47 PM

PSAR 2025 Leadership Academy

The PSAR Leadership Academy offers a transformative opportunity for REALTORS® seeking to elevate their leadership skills and make a lasting impact. This program develops leaders from all backgrounds, equipping participants with the tools to grow personally, professionally, and civically.

What You’ll Gain
  • Leadership Growth: Cultivate your ability to lead with integrity, service, and commitment.

  • Community Engagement: Learn the importance of real estate advocacy to protect the private property rights of your clients.

  • Association Impact: Gain a deeper appreciation of the value of REALTOR® membership at the local, state, and national levels.

  • Future-Focused Learning: Acquire knowledge that will equip you to impact the growth, direction, and priorities of the REALTOR® organization going forward.

Program Content & Session Dates

Attendance Policy: To graduate from the PSAR Leadership Academy you must attend all sessions. A single absence will result in forfeiting your spot in, and graduation from,  the program.

NOTE: Applications are accepted through February 14.

       Apply Here       


Key Dates (to be confirmed)

  • January 15: Announce at Committees and Cocktails Event

  • February 14: Application Deadline

  • February 18 - 20: Candidate Interviews

  • February 26: Final Selection Announced


Program Highlights (session topics subject to change)

  • March 11: 5 pm - 7 pm: Hosted Ice Breaker Evening Reception. Offsite Restaurant 

  • March 12: 10 am - 1 pm: Orientation & Kick-Off. (Hosted Lunch, Clairemont Office)

  • April 9: 10 am - 1 pm:  Governance & Academy Service Project (Hosted Lunch, Clairemont Office)

  • April 29:  May 1: Attend Legislative Day in Sacramento (Flight, Hotel, & Some Meals hosted by PSAR)

  • May 23: 8:30 am - 10:30 am: Attend PSAR's Board of Directors Meeting (Hosted Lunch Chula Vista)
  • June 11: 10 am  - 1 pm: Consistency & Commitment to Service (Hosted Lunch Clairemont, Office)

  • August 13: 10 am - 1 pm: Closing & Strategic Leadership (Hosted Lunch, Clairemont Office)

  • November 7: 5 pm - 10 pm: Graduation at Installation Dinner Event, Ticketed Event (Prado)


Why Apply?

  • Learn the art and science of effective leadership

  • Engage with PSAR leadership on multiple levels

  • Become a key representative of PSAR at industry events.

  • Network with current influential leaders

  • Contribute to the success of  a meaningful community service project


Apply Here:

       Apply Here       

Questions?
Contact: Yvonne Cromer, PSAR 2025 President at  psarpresident@gmail.com

Topics: Education, Leadership

Short Sales and Foreclosures

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 24, 2025 12:39:31 PM

Short Sales and Foreclosures

Mike Shenkman will explain how to navigate short sales and foreclosures in the current real estate market environment. Knowledge of short sales and foreclosures enables real estate agents to confidently assist distressed homeowners and interested buyers. These unique transactions require specialized knowledge and skills to successfully guide clients from contract to close.

                   Become a go-to agent for short sale and foreclosure transactions!

This two-part class delivers these essentials:

  • The fundamentals of short sales and the critical role of real estate agents
  • Key considerations and strategies for successful short sale transactions
  • Current market trends in short sales and foreclosures
  • Best practices for representing both buyers and sellers

Why attend?  You will leave these sessions with: 

  • Practical strategies for handling distressed properties
  • Current market insights and trends
  • Expert guidance from a recognized industry leader

Part 1
February 21 | 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM
PSAR Clairemont Office
Part 2
February 24 | 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM
PSAR South Office
Cost: This class is offered at no charge 
 
 
Class Sponsor
VAREP San Diego Chapter
 
 
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).

______________________________________

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

Expand your Real Estate Business to the International level with omni

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 15, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Global Council business international

This new tool makes it easier than ever to initiate business abroad.

 
Thursday, February 27th
12 PM to 2 PM
PSAR South Service Center
 
Free for PSAR Members! Plus, lunch will be provided.

Step into the international business world with Omni MLS & The Global Council. This exclusive presentation delivers the keys to unlocking endless possibilities beyond the borders of the United States. Get the tools you need to go global!

  • Extensive overview of Omni MLS
  • How to search for properties located beyond the United States
  • How to post properties for sale that you own outside of the United States
  • Have your question(s) ready for a spirited Q&A session after the presentation

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

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: Announcements, Events