Congratulations to 2024 Good Neighbor Award winner: Jexsi Grey

Posted by Communications on May 16, 2025 4:26:35 PM

Good Neighbor Jexsi GreyAfter serving in the U.S. Air Force in a role focused on nuclear weapons, Jexsi Grey faced a difficult return to civilian life, which led to two years of homelessness, living in hotel rooms and his car. This period of adversity deeply sensitized him to the struggles faced by unhoused individuals. With support from local nonprofits, Jexsi regained stability, sparking a profound commitment to give back to his community. Today, he stands as a dedicated housing advocate and collaborator within regional and statewide organizations, focusing on housing equity, homelessness solutions, and tenant empowerment.

Good Neighbor Jexsi Grey HumbleAs a Board Member and Community Collaborator at Humble Design, Jexsi provides strategic direction and governance oversight. His efforts include board recruitment, member onboarding, performance evaluations, and aligning national and local strategies. He actively engages in fundraising and expanding community partnerships to bolster program sustainability. Additionally, in his role as Landlord Liaison for the San Diego Shared Housing Collaborative (Townspeople), Jexsi leads initiatives to secure shared housing opportunities by cultivating relationships with landlords and property owners. He facilitates tenant move-ins, matches roommates, resolves landlord-tenant issues, and provides education on fair housing and rental best practices. Jexsi maintains a comprehensive database of available units to streamline placement and reduce housing barriers for vulnerable populations.

jexsi Grey homelessnessJexsi's volunteer work with Humble Design San Diego has been transformative, converting empty spaces into fully furnished, personalized homes for those transitioning out of homelessness. His advisory board membership, informed by his personal experience, ensures each home restores dignity and promotes emotional well-being. His contributions have significantly contributed to the program's success, evidenced by a remarkable 98% housing retention rate. His role in the Shared Housing Palooza campaign, which aimed to house 75 individuals through shared housing solutions, was pivotal. Through strategic engagement and advocacy, Jexsi helped surpass expectations, with 69 people securing housing—a 92% achievement of the campaign's goal. His dedication to humanizing the experience of homelessness and forging partnerships has strengthened San Diego's capacity to provide sustainable housing solutions, showcasing the impact of compassionate advocacy and innovative thinking.
jexsi Grey Panel-1

 

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

Cathy Gabrielson: A League of Her Own Through Service & Compassion

Posted by Communications on Mar 12, 2025 10:00:00 AM

Cathy GabrielsonCathy has dedicated over 18 years to the soccer community in East County. beginning her volunteer journey when her own daughter & son played the sport. For the past 9 years, she has served as the board president for the 501c3 (non-profit) club, leading with unwavering commitment and passion.

Her extensive responsibilities include overseeing board meetings, organizing tournaments with volunteers and staff, and managing all communications. Cathy's driving mission is ensuring every child, regardless of financial circumstances, has the opportunity to play a club sport. 

She takes immense pride in helping young athletes not only develop their athletic skills but also grow into responsible, contributing citizens in their communities.

Learn more about the PSAR Good Neighbor Award and submit nominations HERE

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

Veronica Hosey Honored as Good Neighbor Award Finalist for Transforming Lives Through Housing Solutions

Posted by Communications on Mar 1, 2025 11:47:22 AM

 

Veronica HoseyCongratulations to PSAR REALTOR® Veronica Hosey, a PSAR Good Neighbor Award quarterly finalist! Her dedication to helping those in need through Multi Family Moguls has provided life-changing housing solutions for individuals and families displaced by recent natural disasters in San Diego.

As the founder of Multi Family Moguls, Veronica has taken a proactive approach to addressing homelessness by bridging the gap between temporary displacement and long-term stability. Her organization collaborates with key partners, including the San Diego Housing Commission, VASH, ADJOIN, Home Start, Interfaith, the American Red Cross, STOP, Youth for Justice, and the Jewish Foundation. These partnerships allow for a holistic approach, ensuring that vulnerable individuals not only receive immediate shelter but also have access to critical support services.

Veronica Hosey2In 2024 alone, MULTI FAMILY MOGULS has successfully housed over 350 individuals. Beyond securing shelter, the organization provides referrals to credit repair agencies and financial assistance programs to help residents regain financial independence. By focusing on both housing and economic stability, Veronica’s work fosters long-term success for those facing hardship.

Her efforts exemplify the spirit of the PSAR Good Neighbor Award, which recognizes REALTORS® who go above and beyond in their communities. Veronica’s work reminds us of the power of real estate professionals to make a meaningful impact beyond transactions—helping to build stronger, more resilient communities.

Learn more about the PSAR Good Neighbor Award and submit nominations HERE

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

PSAR REALTOR® Terri Dillon: Making a Difference for Rescue Animals

Posted by Communications on Feb 28, 2025 4:24:28 PM

Congratulations to PSAR REALTOR® Terri Dillon, a quarterly finalist for the PSAR Good Neighbor Award!

Terri Dillon pupRescue Fenix is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all-volunteer, all-breed rescue dedicated to helping animals in need. Driven by compassion, the organization rescues animals that are in danger, sick, abused, or neglected. Every rescued animal receives medical care and rehabilitation before being placed in a loving, permanent home. Rescue Fenix operates solely on donor support and does not receive government funding.

Terri is a passionate advocate for pet adoption and foster care, consistently opening her home to dogs in need. While the number of animals she has helped is immeasurable, her dedication to the cause is evident in her ongoing efforts within the community. In addition to her work with Rescue Fenix, she volunteers at various events and programs for other organizations whenever needed.

Support Terri’s mission by visiting Rescue Fenix, or reach out to her directly to learn how you can help by caring for one of the dogs in her care.

Visit Rescue Fenix A.C. https://www.rescuefenix.org/ to support Terri's advocacy. 

Good Neighbor Information and Nominations can be found HERE

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD: Sean & Martine Hillier, 17 years of non-profit causes

Posted by Communications on Feb 28, 2025 4:24:21 PM

Congratulations to PSAR REALTOR® Sean and Martine Hillier, recipients of a PSAR Good Neighbor award.quarterly finalist.

Sean and Martina HillierREALTORS®, PSAR members, and Good Neighbor Award nominees Sean and Martine Hillier have been active in educational and non-profit causes for nearly 17 years. They started out wanting to help senior citizens. This led them to become volunteers for San Diego’s Meals on Wheels in June 2008, delivering meals to seniors across East County once or twice a month. In June 2024, Sean expanded his Meals on Wheels involvement, joining the staff as a paid Site Coordinator and Driver. That same summer, Martine was hired at the non-profit group Oasis, which offers dozens of classes for seniors.

Martine, a native French speaker and also fluent in Spanish, is now on her third semester of teaching Beginning and Intermediate French at Oasis’ Grossmont Center campus.    

Sean and Martina HillierIn addition, Sean has spent many years volunteering in various roles to help his fellow real estate agents and brokers. Sean spent six years hosting PSAR’s weekly East County broker caravan, plus two years as an elected member of PSAR’s Board of Directors.

Sean and Martine also spent four years on PSAR’s East County Government Affairs Committee. Sean was a panelist on several educational forums for agents at Windermere Real Estate SoCal. And Sean remains chairman of the Broker Independent Group (B.I.G.), a twice-weekly meeting of Southern California smaller brokers he co-founded in 2021. 

 

Good Neighbor Information and Nominations can be found HERE

 

Topics: Announcements, Leadership

EastLake III Transfer Fee: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Posted by Richard D'Ascoli on Feb 20, 2025 11:32:46 AM

EastLake III Transfer Fee

CHULA VISTA, CA – Selling a home in certain EastLake III communities requires homeowners to pay a transfer fee to the EastLake Educational Foundation (EEF). This fee is outlined in the community’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) and supports local award-winning, high-achieving schools through technology and educational programs.

Key Points About the Transfer Fee

  • Amount: The transfer fee is 0.1% of the home’s final sale price. For example, a $700,000 sale would include a $700 fee.
  • Payment: The fee is typically deducted from the seller’s proceeds during the closing process.
  • Disclosure: Sellers agree to the fee when they sign the CC&Rs upon purchasing the home. REALTORS® should ensure sellers are reminded of this requirement early in the transaction process.

Where Does the Fee Apply?

The transfer fee is required for homes that are part of the EastLake III Community Association. The neighborhoods subject to this fee include:
  • EastLake Woods: Known for spacious homes and nearby parks.
  • EastLake Vistas: Offers family-oriented living with community amenities.
  • EastLake Trails: Features a variety of single-family homes with access to community pools and trails.
  • Summit at EastLake: A gated community of condominiums and townhomes.

Why the Fee Exists
Established in 1995, the EastLake Educational Foundation uses funds collected through the transfer fee to enhance educational opportunities at local schools. The foundation provides technology resources such as iPads, e-books, and classroom equipment that benefit students in the community.

What REALTORS® Should Do
To ensure smooth transactions and prevent surprises at closing, REALTORS® should:
  1. Verify the Requirement: Confirm the transfer fee applies by checking if the home is part of the EastLake III Community Association.
  2. Educate Sellers Early: Discuss the fee at the start of the listing process.
  3. Provide Resources: Share official documents and direct clients to the HOA and EEF for accurate information.
  4. Prepare Buyers: Inform buyers how the fee supports local education and community amenities.
Resources for More Information
  • EastLake III HOA & CC&Rs: Contact Walters Management for official documents. Walters Management
  • EastLake Educational Foundation: Learn more about how the funds support local schools. EEF Website
  • EEF FAQ Handout: Is attached for additional details.
By understanding and disclosing the EastLake III transfer fee early, REALTORS® can better guide their clients, ensuring informed decisions and a smoother closing process.

EEF Frequently Asked Questions

Topics: Announcements

Important Notice for Real Estate Professionals: Read the Full DRE Report on Executive Order N-7-25

Posted by Richard D'Ascoli on Jan 21, 2025 12:14:38 PM

Important Notice for Real Estate Professionals: Read the Full DRE Report on Executive Order N-7-25The recent Southern California wildfires have prompted Executive Order N-7-25, which directly impacts real estate professionals working in fire-affected areas. This Order, effective until April 14, 2025, aims to protect property owners from unsolicited offers that fall below fair market value.

As a real estate professional, it is essential to understand the policy details to avoid unintentionally violating the Order and to guide your clients effectively.

Why You Should Read the Full DRE Notice:

  • Compliance with New Regulations: Learn how the Order prohibits unsolicited offers in specific zip codes and the penalties for violations, including fines and possible imprisonment.
  • Educate and Protect Clients: Understand how to support clients who may be vulnerable to predatory practices after the fires.
  • Identify Risk Areas: Recognize actions that could inadvertently fall under prohibited practices.
  • Access Resources: Discover tools and guidance to help your clients navigate their decisions responsibly.

The full notice provides critical information about the affected areas, definitions of unsolicited offers, and examples of practices deemed unlawful under the Order.

Stay informed to maintain professionalism and compliance. Click here to read the full notice and ensure you’re equipped to support your clients while adhering to the guidelines.

Read the full notice here.

Topics: Announcements

Support Those Affected by the Devastating Wildfires

Posted by Communications on Jan 16, 2025 10:30:00 AM

Los Angeles Fires

The recent wildfires in California have caused widespread devastation, displacing families and destroying thousands of homes. REALTORS® can help by supporting two impactful, REALTOR®-backed non-profits. The REALTORS® Relief Foundation provides assistance to the public, showcasing how REALTORS® care for their communities, while the C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund supports REALTORS® and their staff, reflecting the organization’s commitment to its members who have been directly impacted. Importantly, 100% of every donation goes directly to helping those in need.

REALTORS® Relief Foundation

The REALTORS® Relief Foundation (RRF) focuses on helping the public by providing housing-related assistance to families impacted by disasters. This fund demonstrates REALTORS®' compassion for the communities they serve.

  • RRF delivers aid quickly, often before insurance or government assistance becomes available.
  • Donations cover temporary housing, repairs, and mortgage payments for victims.
  • 100% of contributions go directly to disaster relief, with administrative costs fully covered by NAR.

Donate to the REALTORS® Relief Foundation (to help the community)

C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund

The California Association of REALTORS® Disaster Relief Fund supports REALTORS®, their employees, and association staff who are personally affected by natural disasters. This fund highlights the organization's commitment to caring for its own members, providing direct assistance to help them recover and rebuild.

  • The fund offers grants for temporary housing, mortgage payments, and essential repairs.
  • It reflects a strong sense of solidarity within the REALTOR® family.

Donate to the C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund (to help REALTORS® )

Your Impact Matters

Both funds serve critical needs. The REALTORS® Relief Foundation helps the public recover from disasters, while the C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund ensures REALTORS® and their staff have support when they need it most. Thank you for your generosity in helping those who need it most. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.

Topics: Announcements, Leadership, story

PSAR Honors Toni Atkins and Juan Vargas for Championing Homeownership, Recognizes Local Leaders

Posted by Communications on Nov 22, 2024 4:55:30 PM

The Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® also installed its 2025 Board of Directors during the celebratory event.

The Pacific Southwest Association of REALTORS® (PSAR) recently hosted a special event to honor the achievements of elected officials who have made significant strides in expanding housing accessibility and protecting property rights. The event recognized Senator Pro Tem Emeritus Toni G. Atkins and Congressman Juan Vargas for their leadership, along with several local leaders for their impactful contributions. The evening also celebrated the installation of PSAR’s 20254 Board of Directors.

 

Transforming Housing Policy in California:

LinkedPreview-PSAR68Senator Pro Tem Emeritus Toni Atkins received the PSAR Key to Homeownership Award for her pivotal role in shaping housing policy in California. Atkins championed Senate Bill 9, the California Housing Opportunity and More Efficiency (HOME) Act, which simplifies the process for homeowners to create duplexes or subdivide properties, increasing the housing supply and affordability.

"SB 9 is about giving homeowners more flexibility and creating opportunities for families to achieve the dream of homeownership," said Atkins during her remarks.

Atkins authored the California Dream for All program, a shared appreciation loan program that has helped thousands of families across California achieve the dream of homeownership. 

Atkins also strongly opposed Proposition 33, calling it "as deceptive as it is dangerous" and warning that it could "dramatically hinder new housing construction." Her leadership has been instrumental in addressing California’s housing crisis and advancing fair housing initiatives.

 

Advocating for Housing at the Federal Level: The Key's to Homeownership.

LinkedPreview-PSAR76Congressman Juan Vargas was also honored with the PSAR Key to Homeownership Award for his tireless efforts to support homeownership at the national level. As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, Vargas has championed fair lending practices and policies to expand access to affordable housing resources.

During his remarks, Vargas shared a personal story about how his parents used the growing equity in their home to provide for their family. "My mother and father taught us the value of homeownership—not just as a place to live, but as a tool for opportunity. They put ten children through college because of the equity they built in their home," Vargas shared.

 

Recognizing Local Leaders:

PSAR also honored several local officials for with The Key to Homeownership Award for their dedication to advancing access to homeownership and protecting property rights.  All of these elected officials opposed the anti-pro-housing bill Prop 33.:

elected officials with keys

State Senator Brian Jones:  Introduced legislative packages addressing homelessness and housing availability.

Supervisor Joel Anderson: Supported efforts to fight homelessness, provide rental assistance, and provide workforce housing.  He also opposed barriers to housing caused by VMT Policies. 

Jordan Marks, San Diego County Assessor/Recorder/Clerk: Advocated for Proposition 13 protections, enhanced tax relief programs, and fought against real estate fraud.

John McCann, Chula Vista Mayor: Focused on public safety, economic growth, and homeowner education in Chula Vista.

Ron Morrison, National City Mayor: Opposed rent control measures that threaten property rights and prioritized homeownership opportunities.

Alonso Gonzalez, Chula Vista Deputy Mayor (And a PSAR Broker Member): Brought industry knowledge as a REALTOR® to advocate for equitable zoning and housing access.

Ditas Yamane, National City Vice Mayor: A former PSAR President who championed property rights and affordable homeownership.

Colin Parent, La Mesa Councilmember: Crafted policies like La Mesa’s ADU ordinance and affordable housing programs to expand housing options.

 

Celebrating PSAR Leadership:

The evening concluded with the installation of PSAR’s 20254 Board of Directors. The new board, led by incoming President Yvonne Cromer, will guide the association in its mission to empower real estate professionals and advance housing opportunities throughout San Diego County.

2025 board sworn in

Thank you Don Anderson of Insight Photos and Brandon of Linked Preview for these great photos: 2025 Installation Dinner Photos
 
And Thank You     

Topics: Announcements, Events, Brokers/Managers

PSAR supports pro-housing candidates and initiatives - 2024 Election Guide

Posted by PSAR Government Affairs on Oct 11, 2024 5:04:01 PM

PSAR has endorsed the following candidates for the November 2024 General Election.

PSAR would like to remind you to please register and vote in this upcoming election. You may register here by October 21st.   PSAR is endorsing the candidates listed below and has taken positions on the ballot measures and propositions listed at the bottom.  The candidates below have demonstrated to PSAR their understanding of our industry and have indicated their commitment to home ownership and private property rights.  PSAR's Government Affairs Committee also reviewed the ballot measures and propositions listed below and PSAR is taking the positions listed based on the impacts these items would have on our industry.   
 
Amid the current housing crisis, we must elect leaders and enact policies that will protect private property rights and promote home ownership.  Click on each candidate to find out how you can support them.

2024_Candidate_Colin Parent 2024_Candidate_Andrew Hayes 2024_Candidate_Joel Anderson-1

2024_Candidate_Michael Inzunza

  Genevieve Suzuki Mark Robak

 

___________________________________

Measures and Propositions

National City
Vote NO on Measure R - Parcel Tax

Chula Vista
Vote YES on Measure P

California
Vote NO on Prop 33 - Rent Control

No on Prop 33 Video

_______________________________________________

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: Announcements, Government Affairs