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

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.
  
 

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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

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

Maximizing Social Media for Prospecting: Turn Likes Into Clients

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Nov 25, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Maximizing Social Media for Prospecting: Turn Likes Into Clients

Social media is one of the fastest, most cost-effective ways for REALTORS® to build a prospect pipeline. The agents winning in today’s market can convert post responses into viable prospects.

Join Tech Chair, Mike White, and Media expert Amanda Renzi. Amanda will impart the fastest methods for REALTORS® to attract potential clients using social media as a lead generator. This class shows you how to turn Stories, Reels, and targeted ads into solid inquiries that result in securing appointments.

Here are the tools you will acquire in this class:

  • Simple lead-funnel strategy using Stories, Reels, and ads to move followers from watching to contacting you.
  • A repeatable content plan you can use every week to stay consistent and visible.
  • How to measure results and adjust strategy accordingly
  • An edge over competitors by using social media with targeted intent instead of randomly posting

Use every social media platform feature to your advantage after attending this class!


Wednesday, December 3rd
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

This is a live zoom Logo class

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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, CRMLS, Technology

Mastering the Residential Listing Agreement (RLA): for better Listings, Client Protection and Trust Building

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

Mastering the Residential Listing Agreement (RLA): for better Listings, Client Protection and Trust Building

 

 
A successful listing starts with an agent who knows contracts inside and out. Join Nikki Coppa for the "Residential Listing Agreement (RLA)", a class for new and experienced REALTORS® alike. 
 
What's in it for you?
 
  • Master the RLA: Line-by-line instruction will prepare you to explain every detail to clients.
  • Competitive edge: Insider tips on effective use of the RLA will give you an edge in client negotiations.
  • Minimize risks: Understanding the intricacies of this contract will protect you and your clients.
  • Enhance professional profile: Display in-depth knowledge that builds client trust and secures more listings.
  • Adapt to all client types: Learn how to tailor your approach to both first-time sellers and experienced property owners.
  • Network with peers: Share experiences with, and learn from, fellow REALTORS® during the brown bag lunch break.


Monday, November 24th
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
PSAR Chula Vista 

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


Nikki Coppa

About the Speaker:

Broker Nikki Coppa, The Vice-Chair of the C.A.R. Standard Forms Advisory Committee, brings her depth of knowledge and expertise to bear in this class. As a C.A.R. and N.A.R. Director, she has a broad-based understanding of the industry's regulations and best practices.

 

Testimonials from Nikki's Past Classes

"Nikki does such a thorough job i love taking her class. She is the best facilitator for this, she really shines in the class"

"Thank you for providing the platform for someone like Nikki Coppa to share her knowledge with us. We are better because of it. Keeping the REALTOR bar high."

"Nikki Coppa is absolutely THE BEST. We're SO SO SO SO lucky to have her do this for us PSAR members."

"Nikki was great and easy to understand"

__________________________________________

PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

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

Topics: Education, Industry

AB 1033: Unlocking ADU Ownership

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 20, 2025 1:32:20 PM

blogbanner_251105_AB 1033 Unlocking ADU Ownership

California’s new AB 1033 opened the door for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to be sold separately as condominiums - a major shift that could reshape property ownership in San Diego.

Join Gary Geiler, Assistant Director of Development Services at the City of San Diego, and Rafael Perez from the Casita Coalition for an in-depth discussion on how AB 1033 is being implemented in San Diego.

This session will explain what the law allows, who can participate, and what REALTORS® and homeowners should consider before engaging.

  • How the City of San Diego is putting AB 1033 into action
  • What types of properties are best suited for separate ADU sales
  • Current participation rates and key takeaways from other California cities
  • Common issues to avoid and how to get started
  • What to know about mortgages and financing under AB 1033

Whether you’re advising investors, helping clients maximize property value, or exploring ADU development opportunities, navigate this fast-evolving space.


Wednesday, November 5th
11:00 am  - 12:00 pm
PSAR Clairemont Office
4340 Genesee Ave, Suite 203, San Diego, CA 92117

Meet the Speakers:

Gary GeilerGary Geiler is responsible for the Land Development Review and Building Construction and Safety Divisions. Land Development Review staff perform ministerial and discretionary reviews and inspections for compliance with the Land Development Code, Community Plans and General Plan; as well as other City, State and Federal regulations.

Building Construction and Safety staff review ministerial projects and perform inspections for compliance with City and State building codes and standards. Mr. Geiler also serves as Department liaison to the Office of the Mayor and the City Council.

 

Rafael PerezCasita Board Past President Rafael Perez is a noteworthy leader in the Real Estate space. He has worked as a lender, educator, and Realtor. He is Adjunct Faculty at Cuyamaca College and Mesa College where he teaches in the Real Estate Department. He is driven by creating opportunities in real estate for people at all levels of the housing market. He is passionate about placing families in homes with “value-add” opportunities.

Rafael was recognized by the National Association of REALTORS® as a Fair Housing Champion in 2022. Rafael served as a Commissioner for the City of San Diego for over 9 years, on the Citizens’ Equal Opportunity Commission, serves on the San Diego Regional Airport Authority Board and serves as Past Board President for the Sherman Heights Community Center. He has also been recognized as a two-time PSAR REALTOR® of the Year in 2017 and 2019.

 

Topics: Education

Mastering the Residential Purchase Agreement: Important Updates!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Oct 7, 2025 2:00:00 PM

Mastering the Residential Purchase Agreement: Important Updates!


The Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA) is the backbone of every California real estate transaction. Yet at 17 pages plus 9 supplemental forms, it can easily overwhelm both agents and clients. Mistakes in the execution of this core transaction form will not only create confusion but will delay closings and potentially open the door to Realtor and client liability.

Expert educator Mike Shenkman breaks down the June 2025 RPA updates and shows you how to:

  • Correctly interpret the new provisions
  • Clearly communicate the agreement’s terms to clients
  • Avoid common errors that derail transactions 

Wednesday, October 29th
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
PSAR Clairemont Office

4340 Genesee Ave, Suite 203, San Diego, CA 92117

Class Testimonials:
 
"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

About the speaker:

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).

 

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

Real Estate Fraud Uncovered: Protecting Your License & Clients (Insights from FBI-DRE-DA)

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

Real Estate Fraud Uncovered

“In June 2025, a San Diego resident was sentenced to prison for forging and recording false real estate documents - one to block a foreclosure and another to steal ownership of a home.”


This case illustrates how bold and damaging fraud schemes have become, and why REALTORS®, appraisers, and title professionals need to be constantly on their guard. PSAR’s Real Estate Fraud Awareness Class features experts from the FBI, DRE, and the San Diego DA’s Office who will instruct REALTORS® in how to recognize, prevent, and report fraud.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Spot and stop fraud before it impacts a real estate transaction
  • Avoid compliance mistakes that can trigger DRE investigations
  • Understand legal exposure and how to protect your license


A Q&A session with representatives from all three agencies will follow the presentation.

Thursday, October 16th
9:00  - 11:00 
PSAR Chula Vista Office
Panel of experts

San Diego District Attorney
  John Dunn
  Deputy District Attorney
  Real Estate Fraud Unit
  San Diego County District Attorney’s Office
Department of Justice
  Alex Murray
  Senior Financial Investigator 
  Elder Justice Task Force (EJTF)
  San Diego FBI Office
California Department of Real Estate
  Jesse Hafen 
  DRE Special Investigator 
  Department of Real Estate
 

Topics: Education, Announcements, Market Information, Industry

Selling in a Fire Zone: Know the New FHDS

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 23, 2025 4:00:58 PM

Selling in a Fire Zone: Know the New FHDS

Wildfire risk in California is no longer a seasonal occurrence, but a year-round reality.

For REALTORS® selling homes in high-risk fire zones, a series of disclosure rules, inspection requirements, and client anxieties must be addressed. Mistakes can cost clients money, delay transactions, and even result in liabilities for all parties.

While you enjoy lunch on us, learn the following:

  • The obligations under AB 38 - what’s changed and what hasn’t.
  • Updates on California’s Fire Hazard Disclosure Statement (FHDS) 
  • How to prep clients on defensible space inspections
  • How to leverage the Cal Fire website for listing preparation and buyer research
  • The ins and outs of Natural Hazard Disclosures (NHDs) in fire zones

If you’re selling homes in California’s high-fire-risk zones, you can’t afford to wing it on fire disclosures. 

Wednesday, October 15th
11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
PSAR El Cajon
Lunch will be served

Get to know the speakers:

Brandi McLaughlin is a Forestry Technician with Cal Fire’s San Diego Unit who brings frontline expertise in wildfire prevention and defensible space practices across San Diego County.

Don Sharp, 'Mr NHD',  has been a Regional Account Manager of a non-disclosure company for nearly 20 years, guiding REALTORS® through natural hazard disclosures to protect clients and close transactions effectively.

Lunch provided by our class sponsor:

Fidelity Home Waranty with Debi Levenson

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PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

 

Topics: Education