Invest/Retire in Paradise: Expert Insights on Buying Property Abroad

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 13, 2025 9:00:00 AM

Retiring Abroad GREC Event

Retire or Invest in Paradise: Expert Insights on Buying Property Abroad

Thinking about investing and/or retiring in a dream destination? Seasoned real estate brokers Abraham Vargas and Raquel Fernandez are conducting an exclusive session on navigating retirement and property investment in Mexico, Spain, Barbados, and Brazil!

Discover insider strategies to help clients - and yourself - make informed decisions about international real estate. Learn about legal considerations, lifestyle perks, and hidden gems in these breathtaking locations. Whether you or your client are seeking a beachfront villa in Mexico, a charming home in Spain, a tropical escape in Barbados, or vibrant city life in Brazil, this event will equip you with the expertise to be a trusted expert in international retirement planning.

Key takeaways include:

  • Guiding clients through the decision-making process of retiring abroad
  • Identifying the perfect retirement location based on individual financial resources and preferences
  • How to create revenue streams and help clients realize a fulfilling global retirement
Thursday, March 27th
11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Register Here
Global Council Paella Lunch
PAELLA WILL BE SERVED
 
 For questions, please contact Victor Herrera at 619-271-5897 or email victor@psar.org.
 

Meet the Speakers:

Abraham VargasAbraham Vargas is a seasoned real estate broker and business executive with over 18 years of experience spanning residential properties, land development, construction, and financing. As president of his real estate group and managing director at a professional services firm, he specializes in business operations, administration, planning, and management. He also serves as an advisor for an investment company, overseeing portfolio strategies for Latin America. Throughout his career, he has collaborated, creating joint ventures across various industries by coordinating teams of specialists. Originally from Mexico City, Abraham earned a Business degree with honors in the top 1% of his class, completed an Executive Management Program, and holds a California Real Estate Broker license. His professional philosophy emphasizes expertise, honesty, and service—values he developed during a two-year Christian mission in Mexico at age 19.

 

Raquel FernandezRaquel Fernandez brings a diverse background to her real estate career, prioritizing client interests through attentive listening and dependable service. Born in Spain with a computer programming degree and banking experience, she moved to the US in 1996, working in airline customer service before entering real estate in 2003. Her experiences include mortgage processing, condo conversion projects, and land development. After relocating to San Diego in 2011, she became a regional radio expert on real estate and achieved top agent status in 2018 for list price accuracy and sales speed. With over 17 years of experience, she joined a prestigious Coronado firm in 2019 as their only Spanish-speaking agent, bringing her expertise to luxury beachfront properties and vacation rentals.

 


Brought to you by: 
 Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS Global Council

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

FALL HOUSING MARKET UPDATE WITH STEVEN THOMAS

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 19, 2024 9:00:00 AM

Steven Thomas Fall Housing Update

This market update will equip REALTORS® with the knowledge and insights needed to navigate the real estate market of 2025. Steven Thomas explores the key factors that will shape the industry in the coming year. Armed with the information from this update, REALTORS® will be prepared to engage with clients, make informed decisions, and capitalize on 2025 real estate market opportunities.

Steven Thomas answers these key questions:

  • When will demand and closed sales finally rise?
  • Will rates remain below 7%? Could they fall below 6%?
  • Will the Fed cut rates in 2025? If so, how many times?
  • What will happen to values next year?
  • Will it be a buyer's market soon? Is it a good time to buy now? 


Sign up for this crystal ball look into real estate 2025!

Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Live in person at PSAR South Service Center
880 Canarios Ct, Chula Vista, CA 91910

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

Successfully Selling HUD Homes - Here is How!

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Apr 9, 2024 4:19:11 PM


Successfully Selling HUD Homes: HERE'S HOW!
Successfully Selling HUD Homes - Here is How!

Unlock unique inventory, serve more clients effectively, and maximize the investment value of HUD Homes transaction opportunities.

Being well-versed in U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) policies and procedures gives savvy real estate professionals a competitive edge and the ability to effectively guide clients through this specialized property purchase experience.


 - CLASS POSTPONED - 


Unfortunately, this class is being POSTPONED with the future date TBD. Sorry for the inconvenience to those who were interested. We will let you know when the new date and time are known.

Wednesday | April 24th, 2024

11:30 AM to 1:00 PM

PSAR South Service Center
880 Canarios Ct, Chula Vista, CA 91910

 

Instructor: Lani Sylvas, REALTOR®, and Local Listing Broker

This training session is tailored to equip brokers and agents with the skills needed to effectively market and sell HUD-owned properties in California. 

Attendees' key takeaways are: 

  • Know the eligibility requirements of HUD home purchase
  • Learn the ins and outs of HUD home registration
  • Efficiently navigate the HUD listing site and identify prime opportunities
  • Learn the innovative techniques of How to market, advertise, and show HUD homes
  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of the HUD home sales contract
  • Understand the HUD priority bidding system, positioning you to secure favorable deals and maximize your chances of success.

 

Topics: Education, Brokers/Managers, Market Information

Fair Housing Event

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Mar 6, 2024 12:03:31 PM

C.A.R. Communications. Leading the way.

Fair Housing Day

C.A.R.’s Third Annual Fair Housing Day

Next month's free C.A.R. member event provides a single day of education to
help members learn more about California’s expansive and continuously
changing fair housing laws.


Immediately following Fair Housing Day, attendees can take part in the
HAF Casino Night Fundraiser that goes toward our Pathway To Homeownership
Closing Cost Assistance Grant Program.

 

Casino Night


sign up for Fair Housing Daysign up for the fundraiser

We hope you can join us on April 16 in Ontario, CA for these critical conversations
on making the dream of homeownership possible for all Californians. Click here
to register for this free event, the paid optional keynote lunch and
the HAF Casino Night Fundraiser.

past attendees

 Fair Housing Day

C.A.R. logo

_______________________________________

CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® • 525 S. Virgil Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020
Copyright © 2024, All rights reserved.

 

Topics: Events, Market Information

Fraud Prevention Update - DA Summer Stephan & Asst. Chief Victor Barr

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Sep 29, 2023 9:00:00 AM

blogbanner_20231020_Fraud_Report

The PSAR Government Affairs Committee invites you to an address by DA Summer Stephan in which she will detail recent trends in Real Estate fraud in San Diego County. This is a unique opportunity to gain knowledge to help you and your clients avoid falling victim to fraud.

In today's real estate marketplace, awareness is key to protecting both professionals and their clients from the threat of fraud. Be a step ahead of real estate fraud and help ensure a safer, more secure real estate environment for all. Featured speakers are Summer Stephan, San Diego County District Attorney, and Victor Barr, Assistant Chief of Economic Crimes.  They will share their singular expertise and unique insights. 

Join us in the fight against real estate fraud and be part of the solution!

Friday | October 20th, 2023
2:00 P.M. to 3:30 P.M
Live in the South County Office
880 Canarios Ct., #100 Chula Vista, CA 91910

Register Here

REAL ESTATE FRAUD AS IT RELATES TO:

  • Local Real Estate fraud schemes - uncovering Real Estate scams in San Diego

  • Recognizing red flags - know how to identify keys to suspected fraudulent activity

  • From complaint to prosecution - the full legal process of fraud cases 

  • Proactive protection - best practices for Real Estate professionals and consumers

  • Assisting authorities - what can you do to protect consumers and assist the DA's office

 

Meet our guest speakers

DA Summer Stephan

District Attorney Summer Stephan is a national leader devoted to protecting children, seeking justice, and fighting exploitation. In 2018, she was elected the DA of San Diego County’s second-largest prosecutor's office and re-elected in 2022.

A career prosecutor, DA Stephan has tried over 100 major cases, pioneered the Sex Crimes and Human Trafficking Division, and expanded victim services as DA. Nationally she holds leadership roles focused on human trafficking, school safety, and innovative reforms. Among her numerous honors, in 2022 she was named one of the top 5 prosecutors in America for her integrity, community relations, and responsible innovations. With deep expertise and tireless advocacy, DA Stephan embodies ethical prosecution in service of justice.

 

Victor Barr Victor Barr has been an attorney for 32 years.  He began his legal career in general civil litigation here in San Diego in 1991. He joined the San Diego City Attorney’s Office as a prosecutor in 1999.  In 2006 he was hired as a Deputy District Attorney at the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office.  He performed a variety of assignments in that capacity. In 2013 he joined the Economic Crimes Division which includes several units including Complex Theft, Cyber Crime, Real Estate Fraud, Consumer Protection and Environmental Protection.  He served as the Assistant Chief of the Economic Crimes Division for several years before ascending to his current position as Chief of the Economic Crimes Division for the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office.

 

 

Topics: Education, Market Information, Industry

Be Worry-Free with Cyber Security

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 23, 2023 10:00:00 AM

Be Worry-free with Cyber Security

Network security should be a number one priority for businesses in San Diego. With ransomware, hacks, attacks, vulnerabilities, and data theft affecting companies all around the world on a daily basis, it’s just a matter of time before your business is hit. Tommy Thornton will go over the best ways to protect your business.  All in attendance will get a free network assessment ($497 value).
 
Wednesday, February 8th
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
South PSAR Office
880 Canarious Court, Chula Vista 91910
          Register Here          
(Lunch will be provided)

Discussion topics include:

  • How to beat ransomware
  • Protecting yourself against attack
  • Don't be fooled by phishing
  • Comprehensive backup strategies
  • NextGen Antivirus protection
  • Who is liable for a data breach
  • Ask the expert

About the Speakers:

Tommy Thornton was born and raised in Tifton, GA. Following high school, Tommy joined the U.S. Marines where he honorably served out his enlistment while actively seeking a college education in California. Upon getting out of the Marines, Tommy moved back to Georgia to be closer to his family and to start his first IT business, New Image Computers. “I felt the industry was in a reputational decline. Too much geek-speak, too many hidden fees, and a total lack of transparency. Customers put their faith in our services and that’s important to us.” In 2014, Tommy, accompanied by his wife, Rose, and his daughter, Juliana, returned back to San Diego, CA to restart their business as Automates, a technology-managed service provider. Tommy quickly grew his company and created a culture built around transparency and integrity. Tommy is a nationally recognized leader in the IT industry with a focus on delivering exceptional cybersecurity services and is currently featured on the cover of “MSP Success” magazine.

Additional Speakers
  1. Evelya Rivera, Iuvo Inc.
  2. Lyle Sprung, Goosehead Insurance
  3. Bryce Schetselaar, MortgageOne, Inc.
MSP Success Magazine
 __________________________

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, Market Information, Industry

Legal Insight Into Chula Vista's New Tenant Ordinance

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Jan 20, 2023 5:03:15 PM

This training is a must for anyone renting out residential property in Chula Vista. The law creates liability and is confusing.  

The Chula Vista Ordinance goes into effect on March 1st, 2023, and owners and property managers must be prepared.  Here is a link to the city's site.

Tracey Merrell, Managing Partner of Education for Kimball, Tirey & St. John LLP, will be speaking at our Chula Vista Office.

Chula Vista's New Tenant Ordinance

 
 Monday, February 6th
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

     IMS Registration             Register Eventbrite  

$15 for PSAR and NARPM San Diego Chapter Members
$25 for Non-Members

At the door: $25 Members / $35 Non-Members
(PSAR members use IMS Registration. Non-members, please contact your association for a discount)

About the Speaker:

Tracey Merrell is the Managing Partner of Education for the law firm of Kimball, Tirey, and St. John. She began her career representing banks in post-foreclosure evictions throughout all 58 counties in California. As bank-owned foreclosures slowed down, she transitioned into evictions for management companies and individual owners. Tracey joined KTS as a trial attorney and has extensive experience in court, making hundreds of appearances a year since joining the firm. She is experienced in all aspects of litigation, from the development of case strategy, through discovery, depositions, motion practice, and trials including bench and jury. Tracey transitioned to the Education Department to further her goal of providing training and knowledge to both clients and staff.

Tracey Merrell, Managing Partner of Education for Kimball, Tirey & St. John LLP,

 

 Pacific South West Association of REALTORS

 
NARPM San Diego
 __________________________

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, Market Information, Industry

Crazy year! What's Next? - 2021 Housing Forecast

Posted by Kevin McElroy on Nov 2, 2020 2:45:00 PM

Steven Thomas 2021 SoCal Housing Forecast

Wednesday | November 18th, 2020
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

        Register        

Come see where we are headed for 2021

  • Will the HOT housing market last?
  • Due to unemployment and forbearance, will there be a wave of foreclosures?
  • Will interest move up or down?
  • When will buyers have any transaction leverage?

Bringing his Quantitative Economics and Decision Sciences background coupled with
his years of experience in the real estate field as a REALTOR®, broker, and executive of a multi-office real estate franchise to bear, Steven Thomas delivers a report that encapsulates the status of the current real estate market.

Steven has been quoted by:

Steven Thomas Reports On


Wednesday | November 18th, 2020
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

        Register        

 

Topics: Events, Market Information, Industry

PSAR Virtual Property Pitch & Town Hall Meetings

Posted by Richard D'Ascoli on Apr 10, 2020 9:15:53 AM

San Diego Realtor Town Hall meeting hoste by PSAR


San Diego REALTOR® Town Hall meetings are
changing dates and times
to bring back our property Pitch Sessions.

City Pitch, Rally and Ride Too, and Rally & Ride have returned!  We’ve transformed each of these popular marketing venues to virtual formats. And each one will be enhanced by industry updates from PSAR's CEO.

Here’s the new virtual marketing meeting agenda:
     • Networking with the PSAR CEO: 8:45 am – 9:00 am
     • Brief hyper-local market update by our Realtor Facilitators*
     • Pitch properties and buyers’ needs.
     • Industry updates by PSAR's CEO and other industry experts.

When the COVID-19 crisis first hit, disrupting our lives and our businesses, PSAR moved quickly to organize Town Hall Meetings as platforms on which to inform our members of the massive changes that were taking place daily. 

In the weeks that followed, our industry has adjusted to a new normal.  Real Estate is deemed essential, but with that designation comes responsibility and concern for the welfare of all. Let's practice those traits by sharing available inventory and solving our listing challenges together with old friends and new.

To join the conversation and to add your property to the pitch click below! 

Join Pitch & Town Hall Virtual Meetings
 
 

Topics: Announcements, Brokers/Managers, Market Information, Industry

PSAR Virtual Town Hall Meetings

Posted by Richard D'Ascoli on Mar 30, 2020 4:06:56 PM

San Diego Realtor Town Hall meeting hoste by PSAR

 
Join the Conversation 
San Diego REALTOR® Town Hall meetings
and Property Pitch Sessions
Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
 
City Pitch, Rally and Ride Too, and Rally & Ride have returned!  We’ve transformed each of these popular marketing venues to virtual formats. And each one will be enhanced by industry updates from PSAR's CEO and industry leaders.
 
The meeting is conversational and participants are encouraged to ask questions by either chat or conversation.  Video is encouraged for  a two way  dialogue. 
 
Join the conversation! 
 
Register in advance for this meeting and future meetings. The same link will be used for subsequent meetings.

Register Here

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email
containing information about joining the meeting.

Other Resources

PSAR Open Services          COVID-19 Updates 
 
Virtual Classes and Meetings          Financial Resources  
 

Topics: Announcements, Brokers/Managers, Market Information, Industry