Nada Benny exemplifies the spirit of advocacy by her deep-rooted commitment to East County and her passion for educational equity. For Nada, community service is a personal mission inspired by her own journey as an El Cajon Valley High School alumna. Living by the philosophy that “a rising tide lifts all boats,” she has dedicated herself to ensuring that the next generation of leaders has the support they need to succeed without the crushing burden of debt.

Eight years ago, Nada turned a personal promise into a reality by founding the Nada Benny Scholarship at El Cajon Valley High School. What began as a small initiative has flourished into a significant community pillar, having provided financial assistance to 52 sensational students to date. Nada’s motivation stems from a desire to see young people pursue higher education, whether to become doctors, lawyers, or engineers, without compromising their future financial stability or their ability to eventually achieve the dream of homeownership. She is also proud of her scholars who have gone to trade school route and have been doing excellently. By easing the weight of student loans, she is helping her scholars build a foundation for lifelong success.

Beyond the financial support, Nada’s advocacy is rooted in a deep admiration for the resilience of her scholarship recipients. Many of these students serve as translators for their parents or parental figures for their younger siblings, all while maintaining high academic standards and participating in extracurricular activities. Her heart for the community extends even further through her ongoing efforts to collect food and clothing for low-income families, addressing the immediate needs of East County residents. By showing up for her community in both grand gestures and quiet, consistent acts of service, Nada has inspired colleagues and friends to follow her lead, proving that one person’s commitment to "paying it forward" can create a lasting ripple effect of hope.

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

Mike Anderson serves as a premier example of a decades-long track record of volunteerism that has woven him into the very fabric of the East County community. For Mike, volunteering isn't just an occasional commitment; it is a way of life. He operates on the principle that the most dedicated volunteers will always find a way to show up and help, regardless of how busy their professional lives may be.

Mike’s most visible impact can be seen through his 30-year tenure as the Chairman of Oktoberfest in El Cajon for the German American Societies of San Diego. Under his leadership, the event has grown into one of the largest and most beloved family-friendly traditions in East County, recently celebrating its 50th anniversary. Through Oktoberfest, Mike has fostered a long-standing partnership with St. Madeleine Sophie’s Center, providing them with financial support and a public platform to showcase their artists, while also personally volunteering his time to support their annual Artwalk event.

His influence is equally profound in the business and civic sectors of Lakeside. Having served nearly 30 years as a member, Director, and two-time President of the Lakeside Chamber of Commerce, he also serves on the San Diego County Assessment Appeals Board. Mike has been instrumental in organizing cornerstone community events like the Western Days Parade, the Spirit of Christmas, and Touch-a-Truck. His commitment to civic health also included four years as an elected member of the Lakeside Community Planning Group and extensive advocacy work within the REALTOR® community. Whether he is hosting monthly mixers to connect local business owners or volunteering at the Lakeside Optimist Club’s Bulls Only Rodeo, Mike’s 25-plus years of service represent a tireless investment in the people and prosperity of San Diego.

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

Calling for Nominations!!!

Do you know a fantastic PSAR REALTOR^®, Broker/Office Manager, or Affiliate? Now is the time to give them the recognition they deserve.  Award Recipients will be announced at the REAL Awards on February 27th, 2026.

Nominations must be received by Monday, February 2nd, 5 pm.
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PSAR shall recognize a REALTOR^®, Broker, and Affiliate who fulfill the following criteria: 

REALTOR® of the Year award criteria

• Outstanding loyalty and devotion to the advancement and success of the Association and the Real Estate Profession through attendance at meetings and services on committees, either as a member or chairperson.
• Committee participation should be heavily weighted.
• Conduct of Candidates’ real estate business and practices, in the judgment of candidates’ colleagues, in the most ethical manner at all times, representing the professional image, and true spirit of REALTORS®.
• Promotion and practice of the Real Estate Code of Ethics and Standard of Practices.
• Participation in Association-sponsored activities.
• Participation in civic and community activities.
• Participation in CAR and NAR.
• The past recipient of the REALTOR® of the Year may be asked to present the award to the new recipient.
• The immediate President shall not be considered for the REALTOR® of the Year award.

Broker/ Office Manager of the Year award criteria

• Outstanding loyalty and devotion to the advancement of the Association and the Real Estate Profession.
• Must exemplify the REALTOR® image and have an enviable record of service to the real estate profession and to the association.
• Must demonstrate skill, expertise, and productivity in the role of a residential qualifying broker or manager, as well as a high rate of ethical conduct and professionalism.
• The past recipient of the Broker Manager of the Year award shall present the award to the new recipient.
• Special Recognition: The Board of Directors and or Executive Committee will also honor and recognize members who have demonstrated excellence in their commitment to the Association and/or the real estate profession.

Affiliate of the Year award criteria

• Outstanding loyalty and devotion to the advancement of the Association and the Real Estate Profession.
• Attendance at meetings and service on committees.
• Conduct of candidates’ real estate-related business and practices.
• Participation in Association-sponsored activities.
• Participation in civic and community activities.
• The past recipient of the Affiliate of the Year award shall present the award to the new recipient.

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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.

California’s Department of Real Estate (DRE) is urging consumers to stay alert for an increase in real estate and mortgage scams targeting homebuyers, homeowners, and investors across the state.

Criminals are using increasingly sophisticated tactics, including email hacks, forged deeds, and mortgage fraud, to exploit the complexity of real estate transactions and California’s high property values. Even honest individuals can unknowingly become involved in these crimes if they fail to recognize warning signs.

The DRE outlines nine of the most common scams and provides clear steps to help consumers protect themselves. Homebuyers and property owners are encouraged to verify credentials, stay cautious during transactions, and report suspicious activity immediately.

San Diego County residents can also take an extra step to safeguard their property. The County Assessor/Recorder/County Clerk provides a free Owner Alert program that notifies property owners of any changes to property records.  It is an effective way to detect potential deed or title fraud early. Learn more and register here: Owner Alert

Read the full article from the DRE to learn how to protect yourself and your clients: Link to California DRE article

The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) has released its Summer 2025 Bulletin, and it’s packed with updates that every REALTOR® should see firsthand. If you think you can skip it, here are five reasons why opening the Bulletin is worth your time.

1. Mentorship Opportunities That Build Careers

The Bulletin highlights how mentorship is changing the way new agents enter the business. Want to know how a Sacramento mentorship program helps students close their first deal within months? The details are in the Bulletin.

2. Compliance Citations You Can’t Afford to Ignore

Minor mistakes—like a missing license disclosure or failing to report an address change—can now lead to fines of up to $2,500. The Bulletin explains exactly what triggers a citation and how to avoid one.

3. Trust Fund Account Rules Clarified

Who can sign on a trust account? Can property owners be added? The Bulletin clears up common misunderstandings that could expose brokers to liability.

4. Mortgage Loan Reporting Deadlines

If you handle mortgage loans, the DRE has new reminders on how and when to file your Business Activity Report. The Bulletin also explains how to troubleshoot filing issues.

5. A New Voice in Enforcement

Meet Shannan West, the new Assistant Commissioner for Enforcement. She lays out her vision for compliance and what REALTORS® can expect moving forward.

Why You Should Read the Full Bulletin

This blog only scratches the surface. The full Summer 2025 DRE Bulletin includes compliance guidance, reminders, and updates directly from the Commissioner’s desk. Reading it now could help you:

• Avoid costly fines and violations

• Protect your license and your business

• Stay ahead of industry changes that affect REALTORS® every day

Read the full Summer 2025 DRE Bulletin here.

Don’t wait until a citation or compliance issue forces you to catch up. Stay informed, stay compliant, and stay ahead by reading the Bulletin today.

Kenny Patrick has spent most of their life in San Diego and can't imagine living and thriving anywhere else. Driven by a deep-rooted sense of community, Kenny engages in various ways to give back. Connection to community, paired with a commitment to service, has earned Kenny the right to be known as a standout Good Neighbor Award finalist for the first quarter of 2025. Kenny’s involvement knows few bounds and stretches across organizations and neighborhoods, always striving to make life better for others.

When the Youth Assistance Coalition was launched (YACSD.org is an organization supporting homeless youth in San Diego), Kenny was among the first to step in. Through volunteering, donating personally, and procuring outside donations, Kenny helped extend vital services to an underserved and vulnerable population. In the iconic Normal Heights neighborhood (where Kenny lives), you'll find Kenny being of service as a board member on the Normal Heights Community Planning Group, working to ensure that local voices are represented. This commitment evolved into the role of Chairperson of the (not yet open) Normal Heights Community Garden. You'll often find Kenny walking door-to-door, sharing important community information with residents who can’t always attend meetings. Kenny is also a board member with a preschool called Includ(Ed) - serving non-neurotypical and neurotypical children. Growing IncludEdSD.org into a self-sustaining preschool is one of the most rewarding and challenging things Kenny will ever do.

Kenny Patrick is more than a neighbor - you'll experience Kenny as a connector, an advocate, and a steady presence in civic spaces that shape the future of San Diego communities. Employing thoughtful local leadership skills ensures that diverse perspectives are placed squarely in front of elected San Diego officials. Vulnerable community members of San Diego will always have a voice because of Kenny and many others with similar passions for civic equity. By modeling inclusive, proactive involvement, Kenny reminds us that being a good neighbor means showing up, speaking out, and helping everyone feel like they belong.

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

The Alpine Woman’s Club stands as a cornerstone of Alpine's community spirit, dedicated to fostering social, civic, educational, and cultural advancement. At its heart beats the Historic Town Hall, a cherished symbol of heritage and unity, meticulously preserved through the tireless efforts of volunteers like Amy Saflar.

Since 2012, Amy Saflar has been at the forefront of the Alpine Woman’s Club's mission, serving as Grant Administrator and Secretary with unwavering dedication. Her pivotal role has not only expanded the club’s membership and fundraising prowess but has also raised over $140,000 in vital funds. Amy’s commitment extends far beyond administrative duties; she actively participates in fundraisers, monthly activities, and chairs luncheons, all while spearheading initiatives that have significantly bolstered the club's impact in the community.

Amy’s influence transcends financial contributions; she embodies the spirit of community through her generosity and hands-on support. From providing cash donations to supplying food for events and donating household goods, Amy's contributions have ensured the success of numerous endeavors, including the Annual High Tea and Attic Treasures Sale.

Central to Amy's impact is her proficiency in securing crucial funding through grant writing initiatives. Her strategic approach has facilitated essential maintenance of the Historic Town Hall and enabled necessary upgrades to ensure accessibility and aesthetic appeal for all visitors.

Beyond her organizational prowess, Amy's inclusive leadership has fostered a culture of engagement within the club, encouraging diversity and community involvement. Her efforts have strengthened the bonds among members and preserved the Historic Town Hall as a vital hub for community gatherings and celebrations.

Amy Saflar's steadfast commitment to the Alpine Woman’s Club and the preservation of the Historic Town Hall exemplifies the power of individual initiative in enhancing community life. Her contributions ensure that Alpine remains a place where heritage thrives and community spirit flourishes.

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

Doreen Smith has made it her mission to ensure that senior dogs are not forgotten. As a dedicated volunteer for Frosted Faces Foundation (FFF), a nonprofit organization that provides loving homes and comprehensive veterinary care for aging pets, Doreen’s compassion has become a lifeline for many dogs in need. Her ongoing commitment has earned her a well-deserved place as one of the first-quarter Good Neighbor Award finalists.

Frosted Faces Foundation relies on community support to carry out its mission, and Doreen’s involvement touches nearly every part of the organization. She regularly volunteers her time at events and open houses, fosters and adopts senior dogs - five so far - and contributes both funds and supplies to help meet the foundation’s needs. Doreen also uses her voice to spread awareness, promoting FFF’s cause on social media, sponsoring their local chamber membership, and encouraging others to get involved. Thanks to her efforts, more volunteers have stepped forward, and more people in the community now understand the critical need to support senior pets.

Doreen’s dedication to Frosted Faces Foundation has had a lasting impact on both the organization and the dogs it serves. Her generosity, advocacy, and hands-on support exemplify what it means to be a good neighbor. Through her work, Doreen has helped ensure that many senior dogs find comfort, care, and companionship in their golden years, showing that it’s never too late for a second chance at love.

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

Congratulations 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.

In 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