Open the Door to Homeownership: Attend the Community Home Buyer Fair 2025

Posted by Communications on Jun 17, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250621_HomeBuying Expo

 

The Community Home Buyer Fair 2025 is a FREE event for the public focused on empowering first-time buyers with the knowledge, tools, and support to navigate today’s housing market.

In this singular event, attendees can obtain the knowledge to:

  • Understand the Home Buying Process
  • Discover Grants and Assistance Programs
  • Build Financial Literacy for Homeownership

Whether potential buyers are just beginning to explore options or ready to make a move, this fair is the perfect place to connect with real estate professionals, lenders, and community resources, all in one location.

REALTORS® are encouraged to invite clients and prospects to take part in this educational experience.

Saturday, June 21st
10:00 am - 4:00 pm
875 Hotel Cir S, San Diego, CA 92108

Open to the General Public (FREE*)
*REALTORS® Pay $20 |
REALTORS® will receive training kits

Light snacks will be served at the event.

For more information, contact education@psar.org.

 
AREAA San Diego BMO Bank CHASE Bank Equal Housing Opportunity
Citi Bank FARMERS Insurance First American Title Fiscal Dynamic West LLC
Foregfront Escrow Habitat for Humanity HomeGuard Incorporated i2i Mortgage
Homeowner Prep LISC San Diego Mr Maintenance VAREP San Diego
World Financial Group WELLS FARGO urban League San Diego County website_PSAR New Logo-medium-withPSAR

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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, Global Real Estate Council

Contract Education, know your C.A.R. Forms

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

Contract Education, know your C.A.R. Forms

Contract Education– Know your C.A.R. contract forms!

Staying updated on forms isn't just good practice - it's essential to business success. This class will instill confidence in attendees when using the most current versions in their transactions.

The June 2025 forms release includes over 95 forms that have been added, changed, or retired. The good news is that 52 of the “changes” do not require new learning. Join us for a fast-paced jaunt as we review the 11 new forms and the 32 substantively revised forms. The Big 3 – RLA, BRBC, and RPA all have been updated, so it is important to learn these changes so you are properly prepared to write your next contract!

Why This Review Matters:   
Knowledge of the latest business forms iterations is a requirement for effective transactions. 

 

Tuesday, July 8th
10:00 - 11:30
Live at the PSAR El Cajon Service Center
  This class is offered FREE of Charge!
 
 

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"

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About the Speaker: 

Broker Nikki Coppa, C.A.R. Treasurer (2026 - 2027), 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.

 

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The information provided in this training session is intended for educational purposes only. The Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® (PSAR) does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information presented. The instructors are not providing legal advice, and attendees should consult their brokers, attorneys, or the California Association of REALTORS® Legal Hotline for legal guidance. PSAR is not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this session. Attendance at this session does not create a broker-client relationship.

Topics: Education

REALTOR® Tax Essentials: Maximize Deductions and Avoid Common Tax Errors

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jun 2, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250624_ Tech Lunch and Learn Tax-2

For REALTORS®, mastering tax and business strategies isn’t just smart - it’s core to long-term success. Mike White (PSAR Technology Committee Chair), together with guest speaker Vidal Espinosa, MBA from Invictus Advisors, shares actionable insights that will enable real estate professionals to optimize their financial status and plan with confidence.

Session attendees will leave with this knowledge set:

  • Understanding REALTOR® specific deductions
  • Mastering expense trackers
  • Avoiding common REALTOR® tax pitfalls
  • Optimizing business structure
  • Planning for the future
Wednesday, June 25th
11:30 am - 1:00 pm

This is a live zoom Logo class

 

Get to know the guest speaker:

Vidal “The Shark CFO” Espinosa is a powerhouse in cross-border finance and tax strategy, known for helping entrepreneurs scale with precision. As founder of Invictus Advisors, he leads a bi-national firm empowering U.S. and Latin American businesses to grow profitably and stay IRS-proof. With over 25 years of experience and a background from KPMG and Loyola, Vidal is the go-to CFO for smart, aggressive financial planning. He’s also the voice behind the podcast Lunch with The Shark and Happy Hour with The Shark, where money meets bold strategy.

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PSAR's mission is to empower real estate professionals.

Topics: Education

Master the Residential Listing Agreement (RLA): The Key to Listing Success

Posted by Kevin McElroy on May 20, 2025 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_250528RLA (Residential Listing Agreement) with Mike Shenkman

The Residential Listing Agreement (RLA) is the backbone of every seller-side transaction. Yet many REALTORS® face costly mistakes simply because they don’t fully understand the form. This class will break down the RLA line by line, giving REALTORS® the tools to explain, enforce, and leverage the contract with confidence.

Why attend the class?

  • Master the RLA
    Avoid errors that lead to disputes. Gain a full understanding of what it means, how to explain it, and how to apply it effectively
  •  Stand Out in Listings
    Leverage contract expertise as a competitive advantage during listing presentations and negotiations
  •  Build Client Trust
    Demonstrating fluency in the RLA reinforces a reputation for professionalism and reliability—key traits that earn client confidence and referrals

Have a good time while learning with PSAR

Wednesday, May 28th
9:00 - 11:00
Live in the PSAR Clairemont Office
4340 Genesee Ave. #203, San Diego, CA 92117

 

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 PhotoA 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).

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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

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

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
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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.

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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
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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.
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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