Sarasota Realtor Magazine - August 2011

See Page 6

Home, Sweet Home

The Official Monthly Publication of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®

AUGUST 2011

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.

Prices listed are base prices, do not include lot premiums or options, and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood, or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. CBC057850 ©2011 Centex Homes. All rights reserved. 5/11

STONEHAVEN SARASOTAFROM THE $100s •1,036-1,993sq.ft

•2-3BedroomCondos withGarage

•ConvenientLocation, GatedEntryand NeighborhoodPool

VENETIAN FALLS VENICEFROM THE $170s

•1,448-2,165sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomVillasand SingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,Resort Pool,Fitness CenterandMore

RIVERWOOD PORTCHARLOTTEFROMTHE$150s

•1,557-3,193sq.ft.

•2-4BedroomCarriage HomesandSingle FamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,GolfCourse, BeachClubandMore

If you’re ready to stop dreaming,

we’re ready to start building.

centex.com | 866.290.9091

Like many people, your clients might think a new home is out of reach. But we’ll guide them through the homebuilding process, taking the worry out of every step. So if your clients are ready to stop dreaming about a home, we’re ready to build them one. Centex. Put yourself in a better place™

Ask about our2011 REALTOR®

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ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. *Prices listed are base prices, do not include lot premiums or options, and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood, or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. CGC1505166 ©2011 Pulte Home Corporation. All rights reserved. 5/11

DiVosta designs neighborhoods with everything

your clients want, right where they want to be.

And with six DiVosta communities throughout

Florida, your clients’ biggest challenge is to

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Finding the right home is easywhen you know where to look.

The Isles on Palmer Ranch SARASOTA

From the high $100s / 1,542-2,516 sq. ft.2-4 bedrooms, 2-3 baths Miles of walking and jogging trailsVillage Center with heated lagoon pool, fitness center, tennis, bocce, activity rooms and more1907 Burgos Drive | Sarasota, FL 34238

IslandWalk at the West Villages NORTH PORT

From the high $100s / 1,392-2,611 sq. ft.2-4 bedrooms, 2-3.5 baths Lap pool and tennis courtsResort center that will feature lagoon pool, activity and craft rooms, fitness center, library, bocce ball, basketball and more13575 Salinas Street | Venice, FL 34293


incentive program!

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.

Prices listed are base prices, do not include lot premiums or options, and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood, or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. CBC057850 ©2011 Centex Homes. All rights reserved. 5/11

STONEHAVEN SARASOTAFROM THE $100s •1,036-1,993sq.ft

•2-3BedroomCondos withGarage

•ConvenientLocation, GatedEntryand NeighborhoodPool

VENETIAN FALLS VENICEFROM THE $170s

•1,448-2,165sq.ft.

•2-3BedroomVillasand SingleFamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,Resort Pool,Fitness CenterandMore

RIVERWOOD PORTCHARLOTTEFROMTHE$150s

•1,557-3,193sq.ft.

•2-4BedroomCarriage HomesandSingle FamilyHomes

•Clubhouse,GolfCourse, BeachClubandMore

If you’re ready to stop dreaming,

we’re ready to start building.

centex.com | 866.290.9091

Like many people, your clients might think a new home is out of reach. But we’ll guide them through the homebuilding process, taking the worry out of every step. So if your clients are ready to stop dreaming about a home, we’re ready to build them one. Centex. Put yourself in a better place™


incentive program!

ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS, MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE. *Prices listed are base prices, do not include lot premiums or options, and are subject to change without notice. Community Association fees required. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be an actual representation of a specific community, neighborhood, or any completed improvements being offered. Please see a sales associate for details. CGC1505166 ©2011 Pulte Home Corporation. All rights reserved. 5/11

DiVosta designs neighborhoods with everything

your clients want, right where they want to be.

And with six DiVosta communities throughout

Florida, your clients’ biggest challenge is to

discover which one is just right for them. Come

visit us soon. Your clients might be taking the

first look at their next home.

866-210-3134 | divosta.com

Finding the right home is easywhen you know where to look.

The Isles on Palmer Ranch SARASOTA

From the high $100s / 1,542-2,516 sq. ft.2-4 bedrooms, 2-3 baths Miles of walking and jogging trailsVillage Center with heated lagoon pool, fitness center, tennis, bocce, activity rooms and more1907 Burgos Drive | Sarasota, FL 34238

IslandWalk at the West Villages NORTH PORT

From the high $100s / 1,392-2,611 sq. ft.2-4 bedrooms, 2-3.5 baths Lap pool and tennis courtsResort center that will feature lagoon pool, activity and craft rooms, fitness center, library, bocce ball, basketball and more13575 Salinas Street | Venice, FL 34293


incentive program!

Sarasota Realtor® MagazineVolume 8, Issue 8

AUGUST 2011

Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc.

3590 South Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34239

Phone: 941/923-2315 FAX: 941/923-0191

www.sarasotarealtors.com www.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

2011 SAR OfficersPresident

Michael Bruno Prudential Palms Realty

President-Elect Laura Benson

Michael Saunders & CompanySecretary

Dave Swenson EXIT Creative Realty

Treasurer Roger Piro

Town & Country RealtyImmediate Past President

Erick Shumway RE/MAX Alliance GroupChief Executive Officer

Kathy RobertsMission Statement

The mission of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® is to advance members’ professionalism through delivery of education and resources while upholding the Realtors® Code of Ethics. We are committed to be the leading advocate of real estate in the communities we serve by protecting private property rights and expanding relationships with individuals and organizations both locally and worldwide. Sarasota Realtor® is published monthly by the Sarasota Association of Realtors® Inc.

Editorial StaffDirector of Communications

Ray PorterDirector of Membership

and Administrative ServicesDan Andrews

Director of Information TechnologyJesse Sunday

Director of Professional DevelopmentCatherine McCaskill

Governmental Affairs DirectorMarc Mansfield

ProductionCoastal Printing, Inc.

Sarasota Realtor® Advertising: For information on advertising rates and deadlines, contact Ray Porter at 941/328-1168 or [email protected].

Subscriptions: The annual dues of every member of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc., includes a one-year subscription to Sarasota Realtor® magazine. A yearly subscription for Sarasota Realtor® magazine is available to non-members for $25, plus Florida sales tax.

Editorial ideas and manuscripts are welcome. Byline articles and columns express the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the policies or sentiments of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All submitted copy is subject to editing.2011 Copyright© by the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. V

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6 All About Home SAR adopted a Habitat for Humanity home rehabilitation project this year, and the work is almost finished. But in the process, the Association also got to know a wonderful local family.

10 Smart Growth Governmental Affairs Director Marc Mansfield explains how NAR is moving forward with the national push toward Smart Growth initiatives.

12 It’s TRIM Time! Every year in August, local property owners receive the notice of estimate of their property taxes from the Property Appraiser’s office. Here’s what you need to know!

15 Healthy Sales The June 2011 sales statistics in the Sarasota market continued the strong showing this year, and the inventory of available properties fell to the lowest level in over a decade.

18 Small Wins CID President Anthony Homer examines how small wins in the local commercial real estate market can lead to much bigger victories down the road.

In every issue10- Governmental Affairs12- Property Appraiser15- Sales and Listing Statistics18- Commercial Investment Division20- Education Programs24- On the SAR Scene28- WCR29- Global Business Council30- Membership32- Calendar of Events/Education

Visit SAR on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

See a few of the photos this month on Page 24!

4 AUGUST 2011 Sarasota Realtor® Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com

Bill Rogers: SAR Affiliateof the Month for August 2011Bill Rogers of Chem-Dry is the

SAR Affiliate of the Month for August 2011.

Bill is the owner of Chem-Dry Intercoastal, a commercial and residential carpet and hard surface cleaning business which has been servicing Sarasota, Venice and Bradenton since 1985.

Chem Dry Intercoastal’s additional services include expert upholstery cleaning, tile and grout cleaning, wood floor cleaning, and Oriental Rug cleaning (Bill is certified by the New Zealand Wool Association to clean fine rugs).

Further information can be found on the company’s web site: chemdryintercoastal.com

You can reach Bill Rogers at 941-359-3333, or by email at:[email protected]

SAR seeks 2011award nominations

It is that time of year again - time to honor the volunteers who give so much to our Association and to the community.

The SAR Nominating Committee is again seeking nominations for our three service awards. Nominations may be submitted by any member, nominating another member, or nominating themselves. Nomination forms are available on our website at www.sarasotarealtors.com/awards, or e-mail [email protected] or call 328-1169 to request a form. All forms must be received by Sept. 1, 2011.

Realtor® of the Year AwardThis award is based on the member’s lifetime contributions

to the Realtor® organization, service in the community and business accomplishments. Although total contributions may be considered, activities over the past three years will receive priority consideration.

Humanitarian AwardThe recipient of this award is honored for a significant

contribution as a volunteer for an organization or project in the community.

Meritorious Service AwardThe Realtor® selected for this honor is one whose service

to the Sarasota Association of Realtors® and his/her fellow Realtors® has been of such effectiveness and quality so as to deserve special recognition. The member’s service must be both consistent and valuable, and their dedication to personal professional development must be both consistent and of high quality. The member must be held in high esteem by his/her fellow Realtors®.

Don’t forget - nomination forms must be submitted by Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011!

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Bill Rogers

aSAR-Habitat for Humanity project a labor of love

Cove

r Sto

ry From the HeartSee more photos on Pages 8-9At some point, it became clear that

the Sarasota Association of Realtors® didn’t just adopt a Habitat for Humanity home for rehabilitation in 2011. SAR adopted a family. And the project became much more than a community outreach effort. It became a labor of love.

Early in 2011, the Community Outreach Committee, chaired by Elaine Adair, initiated a valuable partnership with Habitat for Humanity Sarasota. Committee meetings led to the decision for SAR to sponsor a Habitat home rehabilitation project, and a home at 2478 Huffton Circle in Kensington Woods was picked. The foreclosured property was in need of major work, inside and out. At that point, a family had not selected the home to purchase through the Habitat program.

That’s where the story took a fortunate and fulfilling turn. Theresa Dixon and her two children, Casey and Joshua, took a look at the home and decided it would fit their needs perfectly. Theresa grew up near the neighorhood, and the Sarasota County school bus driver would be moving near her mother after the closing in August.

It was a match made in heaven!

Theresa and her children have worked diligently on the home alongside members of SAR for months, and now the final stages of the project are under way. Virtually every part of the home is now brand new - new kitchen appliances, fixtures, cabinets and counters; new roof; new hot water heater (energy efficient); new bathrooms; new tile flooring; new

windows (again, specially insulated and energy efficient); new landscaping (sodding, mulching, plantings, etc.); new paint; new plastering and finishing.

The almost finished home is stunning, and the result has been thanks to the combined efforts of Habitat for Humanity, members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors, other Habitat volunteers, the Sarasota County Community Foundation, and of course, the Dixon family.

The home was purchased by Habitat through the Neighborhood Stabilization Program. The SAR Board of Directors in March committed $25,000 from the Association’s “Affordable Housing Fund” administered by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. This money was provided to Habitat for Humanity of Sarasota, Inc. for the purpose of rehabilitating the home.

The final SAR work day on July 16th was a joyous occasion.

Older sliding glass doors were replaced with energy-efficient models to save on future electricity bills.


“We built up the Affordable Housing Fund for many years, through fundraising efforts and commitments from the board of directors,” explained SAR President Michael Bruno, who has peronally been very active in the Community Outreach Committee efforts for several years. “This is a great way to put that money to use in the community. But even more important than the financial contribution - our members have enjoyed working side by side with Theresa (Dixon) and her family to help them achieve their dream of home ownership. It’s trul;y been a win-win for everyone involved.”

In fact, the partnership has been so successful that the Community Outreach Committee wants another Habitat rehab project to be placed in the SAR Strategic Plan for 2012.

“We’ve all really had a wonderful experience with Theresa and her family, and with the Habitat organization and its staff and volunteers,” said Elaine Adair. “Seeing their new home taking shape, and watching their hard work and their appreciation for this community effort has been heart-warming.”

Aside from SAR’s strategic plan goal of involving 1,000 of our members in volunteerism and community activities, the Habitat project has served as a symbol of what Realtors® represent in our local community and our nation. Realtors are committed to helping people live their dreams. A big part of that is home ownership.

Study after study has shown that a community benefits greatly from a higher percentage of residents stepping up to

home ownership.Even with the recent downturn in the housing economy,

there remains a strong sense of the importance of home ownership in America.

The way the Habitat for Humanity program works is simple and quite effective.

Habitat selects families who live in substandard or overcrowded housing, and whose incomes are between 30 and 70 percent of our regional median income. This places the focus on families who would have very little chance of becoming homeowners without Habitat. The organization selects families based upon need for housing, ability to pay the mortgage, and willingness to partner with Habitat to either build or rehabilitate the homes.

Selected families are required to contribute at least 300

Continued on P. 8, See HABITAT

Volunteers complete backyard landscaping on July 16th.

In the early days of the project, volunteers helped prepare the roof for complete replacement..

www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor® Magazine AUGUST 2011 7

hours of “sweat equity” on the projects. This helps instill a certain “pride of ownership,” and a commitment to the program. Once a family takes ownership of a home, the positive impacts are usually very obvious. Childrens’ grades and personal expectations for the new home owners improve. Partner families gain confidence and satisfaction from helping build or rehabilitate the home.

The project fits perfectly with SAR’s strategic plan, and the goal of increasing volunteerism within the community.

There is still much more coming up in 2011 for the Community Outreach Committee, and SAR members will be asked to continue to volunteer.

On Oct. 22, the annual Make A Difference national weekend events will again take place, and SAR has committed to paint several homes during the event. Watch for details on how you can participate in upcoming issues of Sarasota Realtor® Magazine.

“We have an obligation as an organization to promote community-minded volunteerism, and to give back to our local community,” said Michael Bruno. “Most of our members already contribute in countless ways in various community organizations. But this is one way we can act as a conduit to help our members participate fully in a worthwhile and meaningful effort.”

Thanks to all participating SAR members including Committee members: Elaine Adair, Michael Bruno, Hylda Fenton, Bill Geller, Mary Smedley, Blanda Glisson, Cindi Shoe and John Scherden; Other volunteers: Yvonne Aronin, Rob Barnard, Andrew Barrett, Ed Bayer, Jan Benedick, Lucia Burnham, Brian Bush, Susan Christy, Michael Cochrane, Michelle Crabtree, Gail Cristello, Mabell Debonis, Dave Eschenbach, Roxanne Foley, Troy Foxworth, Monica Hawkins, Kris Kesling-Hays, Daniel Kline, K. Scotty Ledford, Renee Marquiss, Wanda Martinetto, Samantha Marvel, Pat McMillan, Brian McCrone, John Michailidis, Patricia Murphy, Dovey Murray, Christina Pitchford, Shauna Phaneuf, Ray Porter, Lori Quinlan, Sally Rackey, Gary Roberts, Kathy Roberts, Chris Sindoris, Russell Smith, Elisabeth Snyder, Douglas Stickler, Ed Thomas, Patti Tebo, Judith Turrentine, Jean Marc Ulysse, Carol White and Steve Winchster.(If you participated and your name is missing, please email Ray Porter - [email protected] !)

HABITATFrom Page 7

Theresa Dixon completes pressure-cleaning work on her new driveway on July 16th.

Theresa Dixon and her children made a grand entrance in a county school bus in April when the SAR Community Outreach Committee and Habitat for Humanity met at the home to celebrate the start of the project.


Before: A lawn in bad shape after years of neglect

After: New sod, fencing, plantings and mulch

Before: Old, stained carpeting After: Beautiful tiling, total rehab The home is almost complete on July 16th, with a closing planned in August.

The SAR-Habitat project was made possible through a $25,000 contribution from SAR’s Affordable Housing Fund, administered through the Sarasota County Community Foundation.


NAR survey revealsstrong interest in smart growth

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By Marc MansfieldGovernmental Affairs Director

A recent survey by the National Association of Realtors® reveals that more people today want to live in a neighborhood characterized by smart growth, rather than one characterized by suburban sprawl. That is one of the many thought-provoking findings contained in the survey of 2,071 adult Americans conducted for NAR in February. Other highlights include:

- While the majority of Americans rank space and privacy as their top priorities, a lengthy commute can sway them to consider smaller houses on smaller lots.

- Seven times more people say the neighborhood where a house is located is a bigger consideration in deciding where to live than the size of the house.

- Two-thirds of Americans see being within easy walking distance of places in their community as an important factor in deciding where to live.

- Americans see preserving farms and open spaces as much more important than creating new developments.

- Improving public transportation is viewed as the best answer to traffic congestion by half the country.

Perhaps the most telling question asked people to choose between living in Community A (all single family homes on large lots, no sidewalks, little public transportation) and Community B (a variety of housing and businesses, more sidewalks, nearby public transportation). People preferred Community B, the neighborhood characterized by smart growth, over Community A, the neighborhood characterized by suburban sprawl, by

a 56 to 43 percent margin.The survey breaks down responses

demographically. People between the ages 18-29 and 60 plus chose Community B more frequently than any other age group. Sixty-percent of people earning $100,000 plus chose Community B (more frequently than any other income group). Fifty-nine-percent of people earning $25,000 or less also chose Community B.

While 65 percent of single people chose Community B, 52 percent of married people chose Community A. Recent homebuyers also chose Community A more often (54 percent) but prospective homebuyers favored Community B by 57 percent.

About 60 percent of those who preferred Community B did so because they were able to walk to restaurants, businesses, schools and other amenities. When asked to

choose from a list of community needs, 46 percent cited having more shops or restaurants within easy walking distance of home.

One finding was not surprising. Nearly 80 percent of respondents stated a desire to live in a detached single family home. Most (59 percent) said they would be willing to accept a longer commute and forgo walking to shops and businesses and restaurants to live in a single family home rather than an apartment or townhome.

Finally, preserving farms and open space was the number one issue with 53 percent of respondents saying it was a high or extremely high priority. Creating new developments was last at 24 percent.

To view the survey in its entirety please visit http://www.realtor.org/government_affairs/smart_growth/survey.

People preferred Community B, the neighborhood characterized by smart growth, over Community A,

the neighborhood characterized by suburban sprawl, by a 56 to 43 percent margin. People between the ages 18-29 and 60 plus chose Community B more

frequently than any other age group.


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iser Every August is

TRIM Time!

For more information, contact the Property Appraiser’s office at 941.861.8200.

By Bill Furst, GRI, CRS, CRBSarasota CountyProperty Appraiser

Editor’s Note: We are publishing the 2011 Notice of Proposed Property Taxes (TRIM) Guide on Pages 26-27 of this issue.

“Notices of Proposed Property Taxes and Proposed or Adopted Non-Ad Valorem Assessments” will be mailed in mid- August.

This will be the second year of the revised TRIM Notice. Taxpayer feedback on the 2010 change in format was overwhelmingly favorable, especially the convenience of having all tax and value information available on one form and the cost savings realized by mailing all that information in one envelope.

So, what’s new for 2011?• Evacuation Zones: In the spring we were contacted by the Sarasota

County Emergency Operations Center seeking our assistance in broadcasting the latest Hurricane Evacuation Zones for Sarasota County. We immediately agreed to do all that we could to provide our citizens the information they need to assist them in deciding when they may need to evacuate for a hurricane. We offered to include the Evacuation Zone for every real property parcel on the TRIM Notice. You will find the zones, provided by the Sarasota Emergency Operations Center, in the upper right on the front page of the TRIM Notice, between the Site Address and Location Description. The five Evacuation Zones are designated A through E; “None” is listed for properties that are not in an evacuation zone. You can find the zone for any property in Sarasota County by going to www.scgov.net/kyz/KnowYourZone.aspx we also offer a link to this site on our website’s home page.

• Exemptions: For those homesteaders who qualify, the new 2011 Deployed Military exemption is included in Other Exemptions in the lower left of the front page. Servicemembers who are claiming homestead, and were deployed in Afghanistan or Iraq in 2010 in specific military operations, may receive this additional exemption. The amount of the exemption is dependent on the ratio of number of days deployed to the assessed value of the property. We are authorized by law to accept late-filed applications for this exemption through the last day of the Value Adjustment Board petition filing period indicated in the TRIM Notice. Go to our website, or review your July copy of Sarasota Realtor Magazine, for more information.

• Proposed or Adopted Non-Ad Valorem Assessment information: This information appeared on your TRIM Notice for the first time in 2010. The Non-Ad Valorem assessment information identifies each levying authority, the purpose of the assessment and the amount of the assessment. Page four of the insert that accompanies the TRIM Notice lists the Non-Ad Valorem levying authorities, their phone numbers, their public hearing dates (if provided), and their business and email addresses. Non–ad valorem fees are not based on property value. My office does not determine these fees; consequently my staff and I are not able to explain how they are derived. Any questions regarding fees on your or your client’s property should be made directly to the district contact listed on page 4 of the TRIM supplement.

Once the TRIM Notices are mailed taxpayers will also be able to view and copy their Notice and any other Notice from the Property Detail page on the Property Appraiser’s website, www.SC-PA.com.

EVERY AUGUST IS TRIM TIME!

“Notices of Proposed Property Taxes and Proposed or Adopted Non‐Ad Valorem Assessments” will be mailed in mid‐ August.

This will be the second year of the revised TRIM Notice. Taxpayer feedback on the 2010 change in format was overwhelmingly favorable, especially the convenience of having all tax and value information available on one form and the cost savings realized by mailing all that information in one envelope. So, what’s new for 2011?

Evacuation Zones: In the spring we were contacted by the Sarasota County Emergency Operations Center seeking our assistance in broadcasting the latest Hurricane Evacuation Zones for Sarasota County. We immediately agreed to do all that we could to provide our citizens the information they need to assist them in deciding when they may need to evacuate for a hurricane. We offered to include the Evacuation Zone for every real property parcel on the TRIM Notice. You will find the zones, provided by the Sarasota Emergency Operations Center, in the upper right on the front page of the TRIM Notice, between the Site Address and Location Description. The five Evacuation Zones are designated A through E; “None” is listed for properties that are not in an evacuation zone. You can find the zone for any property in Sarasota County by going to www.scgov.net/kyz/KnowYourZone.aspx we also offer a link to this site on our website’s home page.

Exemptions: For those homesteaders who qualify, the new 2011 Deployed Military exemption is included in Other Exemptions in the lower left of the front page. Servicemembers who are claiming homestead, and were deployed in Afghanistan or Iraq in 2010 in specific military operations, may receive this additional exemption. The amount of the exemption is dependent on the ratio of number of days deployed to the assessed value of the property. We are authorized by law to accept late‐filed applications for this exemption through the last day of the Value Adjustment Board petition filing period indicated in the TRIM Notice. Go to our website, or review your July copy of Sarasota Realtor Magazine, for more information.

Proposed or Adopted Non‐Ad Valorem Assessment information: This information appeared on your TRIM Notice for the first time in 2010. The Non‐Ad Valorem assessment information identifies each levying authority, the purpose of the assessment and the amount of the assessment. Page four of the insert that accompanies the TRIM Notice lists the Non‐Ad Valorem levying authorities, their phone numbers, their public hearing dates (if provided), and their business and email addresses. Non –ad valorem fees are not based on property value. My office does not determine these fees; consequently my staff and I are not able to explain how they are derived. Any questions regarding fees on your or your client’s property should be made directly to the district contact listed on page 4 of the TRIM supplement.

Once the TRIM Notices are mailed taxpayers will also be able to view and copy their Notice and any other Notice from the Property Detail page on the Property Appraiser’s website, www.SC‐PA.com.

Preliminary Taxable Values for Sarasota County and Municipalities: 7/1/2011 2010 Sarasota County: $42.1 billion 2011 Sarasota County: $39.5 billion

‐6.06% 2010 City of Sarasota: $7.3 billion 2011 City of Sarasota: $6.8 billion

‐6.33%

2010 City of Venice: $2.8 billion 2011 City of Venice: $2.7 billion

‐4.99% 2010 Longboat Key: $3.5 billion 2011 Longboat Key: $3.3 billion

‐4.50% 2010 North Port: $2.4 billion 2011 North Port: $2.2 billion

‐7.58%

Visit our website, www.SC‐PA.com for additional 2011 statistical information and to view the 2010 Annual Report. Save Our Homes Assessed Value Increase for 2011 Every year, as provided by §193.155(1) F.S., the assessed value of homestead property increases no more than 3% or the increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is lower. For 2011 the CPI is 1.5%. As an example, for 2011 a $100,000 assessed value in 2010 will increase to no more than $101,500.

NEED A SPEAKER FOR YOUR MEETING? BILL FURST WILL COME AND SPEAK WITH YOUR GROUP AND ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS. WANT MORE INFORMATION ON NAVIGATING OUR WEBSITE? OUR GIS DEPARTMENT IS AVAILABLE FOR DEMONSTRATIONS AND DISCUSSION. To set up an appointment call our office at 941.861.8200 or email us at PA@SC‐PA.com


Questions About Our Opinion of Value or Exemption Eligibility?Sarasota County taxpayers can avail themselves of any or all of the following three steps to challenge the valuation or the disapproval of an exemption on their property.

1. Request an informal conference with the Property Appraiser to discuss your property’s valuation or exemption eligibility. Most situations are solved by sharing information during this initial step. Although this step is not required, we highly recommend it. Call 941.861.8200 or visit either of our offices; find directions at www.SC-PA.com.

Downtown Sarasota – in the Terrace Building, 2001 Adams LaneVenice – in the R. L. Anderson Administration Center, 4000 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 115

2. File a petition with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) no later than 25 days after the TRIM Notice is mailed. The last day to file a petition is shown at the bottom right hand corner of the Notice.

Petition forms and additional information are available at our offices and these websites.Clerk to the Value Adjustment Board: www.SarasotaClerk.comProperty Appraiser: www.SC-PA.com Florida Department of Revenue: www.myflorida.com/dor/property

Paperless Online Filing You may file a petition with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) online at www.SarasotaClerk.com within 25 days after the mailing of the Truth in Millage Notice (TRIM). All petitions must include the applicable filing fee. Online filing requires payment by credit card (a 3.5% payment processor fee will apply). Petitioners filing electronically will have access to the status of their petitions. Computers are available for your use at these two Clerk office locations:

• Sarasota County Administration Center. 1660 Ringling Boulevard Suite 210, Sarasota, FL 34236• R. L. Anderson Administration Center, 4000 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 222, Venice, FL 34293

Additional information regarding electronic filing is available on the Clerk’s website, www.SarasotaClerk.com

3. If you do not file an appeal with the Value Adjustment Board you may file suit in Circuit Court within 60 days after the Tax Roll is certified for the collection of taxes; date is posted in our offices and on our website. Or, if you file an appeal with the VAB and you do not agree with their decision, you may file a lawsuit in Circuit Court within 60 days after the VAB rendered a decision in your case. This can be done whether or not a petition is filed or someone meets with an appraiser. If you choose this route we suggest you contact a legal professional.

Questions About Our Opinion of Value or Exemption Eligibility? Sarasota County taxpayers can avail themselves of any or all of the following three steps to challenge the valuation or the disapproval of an exemption on their property.

1. Request an informal conference with the Property Appraiser to discuss your property’s valuation or exemption eligibility. Most situations are solved by sharing information during this initial step. Although this step is not required, we highly recommend it. Call 941.861.8200 or visit either of our offices; find directions at www.SC‐PA.com.

Downtown Sarasota – in the Terrace Building, 2001 Adams Lane Venice – in the R. L. Anderson Administration Center, 4000 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 115

2. File a petition with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) no later than 25 days after the TRIM Notice is mailed. The last day to file a petition is shown at the bottom right hand corner of the Notice.

Petition forms and additional information are available at our offices and these websites. Clerk to the Value Adjustment Board: www.SarasotaClerk.com Property Appraiser: www.SC‐PA.com Florida Department of Revenue: www.myflorida.com/dor/property

Paperless Online Filing You may file a petition with the Value Adjustment Board (VAB) online at www.SarasotaClerk.com within 25 days after the mailing of the Truth in Millage Notice (TRIM). All petitions must include the applicable filing fee. Online filing requires payment by credit card (a 3.5% payment processor fee will apply). Petitioners filing electronically will have access to the status of their petitions. Computers are available for your use at these two Clerk office locations:

• Sarasota County Administration Center. 1660 Ringling Boulevard Suite 210, Sarasota, FL 34236 • R. L. Anderson Administration Center, 4000 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 222, Venice, FL 34293

Additional information regarding electronic filing is available on the Clerk’s website, www.SarasotaClerk.com

3. If you do not file an appeal with the Value Adjustment Board you may file suit in Circuit Court within 60 days after the Tax Roll is certified for the collection of taxes; date is posted in our offices and on our website. Or, if you file an appeal with the VAB and you do not agree with their decision, you may file a lawsuit in Circuit Court within 60 days after the VAB rendered a decision in your case. This can be done whether or not a petition is filed or someone meets with an appraiser. If you choose this route we suggest you contact a legal professional.

VALUES - BUDGETS - TAXES …….. Who’s Responsible for What?

Establishes Market Value of all

properties as of January 1.

Call 941.861.8200 if you have a question about your value.

Adopts budgets to be funded by taxes.

If you have a question about your tax rates,

refer to the TRIM notice for contact & public hearing information.

Sends tax bills in November and

collects taxes and assessments. Call 941.861.8300,

option 3, if you have a question about your

payment.


mDistressed Property Report: Second Quarter 2011

The percentage of foreclosures and short sales in the Sarasota market dropped in the second quarter of 2011, primarily due to a rise in normal arm’s length sales.

Overall, the level of distressed property sales fell to 38.3 percent of total sales in the second quarter. This compares to 44.1 percent for the first quarter, and a high of over 50 percent in the second quarter of 2010.

The total number of distressed sales stood at 904 in the second quarter - 462 foreclosures and 442 short sales. This compares to 946 distressed sales in the first quarter (575 REOs and 371 short sales). But there was a big jump in normal arm’s length sales, with 1,453 in the second quarter of 2011 compared to only 1,086 in the first quarter. It was the highest number of arm’s length sales since the second quarter of 2008.

Nationwide, foreclosures were historically high in 2010 and buyers eager to own them came out in record numbers. This has been true in the Sarasota area as well, and some experts have been anticipating foreclosures to climb even higher in the United States in 2011. But the Sarasota area has thankfully bucked the trend so far.

In 2009, distressed property sales locally represented about a third of the local market. That percentage topped 50 percent in the second quarter of 2010, but has since dropped off

to 38 percent - still historically high, but demonstrating an improving picture.

Prices for distressed properties have leveled out for single family homes, with buyers able to close on many foreclosures for roughly a third of the price of normal arm’s length sales. Short sales are generally higher in price - typically only 50 percent of the asking price of traditional arm’s length sales, but usually with inherent upkeep issues.

For condos, the disparity in prices remains even greater between foreclosures and arm’s length sales. Two distinct local real estate markets - one for distressed properties, and the other for non-distressed properties - remains the story in the second quarter of 2011.

Distressed properties represent both a negative and a positive in the current local market - a negative because they reflect the continuing difficult economic times for many families; a positive because they provide opportunities to purchase properties at lower initial cost.

SAR publishes a full quarterly report on distressed property sales, complete with several pages of additional charts, on our web site (www.sarasotarealtors.com) and in the digital version of the monthly magazine (also posted on the front page of our web site, with a link e-mailed to SAR members during the last week of the prior month).

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors®

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Condo Sales ‐ By Quarter REO Short Arm's Length


mSarasota real estate market continues

healthy sales in June 2011Members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® continued

to sell properties at a brisk pace in June 2011 with 728 total transactions recorded last month. This marks the fourth month in the last 12 with sales exceeding the 700 level – all occurring in 2011. In addition, the median sales price for single family homes hit the highest level since last June, and the total inventory of available properties dropped to the lowest level in more than a decade, which could spur stronger competition for homes and condos.

There were 510 single family home closings and 218 condo closings in June, which continues the strong sales surge in 2011. While the total was somewhat lower than May’s 796 sales, and June 2010’s total of 776 sales, the current trend has been the strongest since the real estate boom of 2003-2005. The sales even rival the mini-boom from last year’s federal homebuyer tax credit incentive. This year, there is no government program propping up the market, so the sales simply reflect a high level of buyer interest. Prices for both single family homes and condos were also above the annual median prices for the past two years, with the single family median sales rising to $175,000, the highest since June 2010

(also at $175,000). The figure was a 10 percent jump from May, when the median price was $159,000. The condo median price slipped to $185,000 from last month’s surge to $218,750. But the figure was still much higher than the median for the last 12 month period ($162,000).

The total available property inventory dropped to 4,830, another big decrease from the May figure of 5,010, and now the lowest level in the past 10 years. The inventory reached its apex in April 2007, when 17,089 properties were on the market.

The lower inventory, combined with the higher sales rate, has now dropped the months of inventory to 5.9 months for single family homes and 8.2 months for condos, both figures far below the highs of 25.3 months for single family (in early 2009) and 41.7 months for condos (in late 2008). The 6 month level is traditionally a point which represents equilibrium in the market between buyers and sellers. Once

the figure trends downward below 6 months, buyers are often forced to compete for properties, which generally drives prices higher.

In fact, at the lower price ranges below $120,000, where about 40 percent of sales are occurring, the months of inventory has dipped to below 4 months. That means competition is very high for these properties, with multiple offers often reported by agents. The overall market (combined single family and condo) stands at 6.9 months of inventory.

“It is encouraging to see how the Sarasota market has continued this strong momentum in the face of continuing weakness in the national and state economies,” said SAR President Michael Bruno. “The inventory of available properties, which is lower than it has been since the 1990s, is a very important statistic. Historically, prices rise as competition for homes increases, and we’re seeing that occurring in our market. The percentage of distressed property sales is stabilizing, so prices should naturally continue to rise.”

The overall percentage of distressed sales (short sales and foreclosure sales) remained at 38 percent of the June 2011 sales. That compares to 47 percent as recently as February 2011 and a high of 51 percent in November 2010.

“As an association, we have kept our members educated and informed about the ongoing distressed property situation, and they have benefited greatly from this valuable resource,” explained Bruno. “Realtors® who have kept current on the latest trends and changes within the market have been able to make the best of a tough situation, and the numbers reflect that. We all hope to see a significant drop in foreclosures and short sales in the coming years, and when that happens, Sarasota agents will be ready to handle the new market realities.”

Pending sales dropped to 754 from last month’s level of 841. They reached a recent peak of 1,208 in March 2011, continuing to reflect our area’s typical seasonal slowdown. Pending sales are properties going under contract during the month, and the statistic is a strong indicator for the next two or three months of sales, as pending sales reflect current buyer activity. Last June, pending sales were at 767, so the seasonal trend appears to be holding true.

“We all hope to see a significant drop in foreclosures and short sales in the coming years, and when that happens, Sarasota agents will be ready to handle the new market

realities.”- SAR President Michael Bruno


Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - June 2011 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - June 2011

Statistics were compiled on properties listed in the MLS by members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® as of July 11th, 2011,including some listings in Manatee, Englewood, Venice, and other areas. Single-family statistics are tabulated using property styles of single-family and villa. Condo statistics include condo, co-op, and townhouse.

Single Family – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2010 94.4 92.8 95.2 94.8 95.2 95.3 94.7 95.2 94.6 95.2 94.8 94.1 2011 94.5 94.1 94.7 94.1 94.2 94.3 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

Single Family

#Active #Sold %Sold Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months Inventory

Pending Reported

%Pending # New Listings

# Off Market

This Month 3,048 510 16.7 188 $175,000 $155,000 5.9 586 19.2 321 202

This Month Last Year

3,819 576 15.9 173 $175,000 $165,000 6.6 575 15.9 790 264

Last Month 3,148 546 17.3 192 $159,000 $155,990 5.8 609 19.3 434 186

YTD ‐ 3,144 ‐ 182 $153,750 ‐ ‐ 4,255 ‐ 3,163 ‐


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Jun‐10 Jul‐10 Aug‐10 Sep‐10 Oct‐10 Nov‐10 Dec‐10 Jan‐11 Feb‐11 Mar‐11 Apr‐11 May‐11 Jun‐11

Single Family

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Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - June 2011 Sarasota MLSSM Statistics - June 2011

Median sales price is the middle value, where half of the homes sold for more, and half sold for less. Listings sold were closed transac-tions during the month. Pending sales are sales where an offer has been accepted during the month, but the sale has not yet closed. Even though some pending sales never close, pending sales are an indicator of current buyer activity. DOM indicates the average number of days that sold properties were on the market before a contract was executed.

Condo

#Active #Sold %Sold Average DOM

Median Sale Prices

Median Last 12 Months

Months ofInventory

Pending Reported

%Pending # New Listings

# Off Market

This Month 1,782 218 12.2 231 $185,000 $162,000 8.2 168 9.4 189 231

This Month Last Year

2,174 200 9.2 203 $145,000 $185,000 10.9 192 8.9 260 219

Last Month 1,862 250 13.4 228 $218,750 $160,000 7.4 232 12.4 212 211

YTD ‐ 1,299 ‐ 217 $170,000 ‐ ‐ 1,443 ‐ 1,551 ‐

Condo – Sale Price Vs. List Price % Rates Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

2010 92.5 92.4 92.5 93.2 94.2 93.7 94.2 93.5 93.2 94.3 94.5 92.9 2011 93.4 91.2 92.2 93.4 94.5 94.2 ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐ ‐

Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS

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By Anthony HomerCID President

Getting back to Sarasota from two weeks of vacation in the Pacific Northwest has given me a lot to smile about. First, our local housing market continues to do well, showing healthy signs of life and strengthening momentum. Secondly, our state leaders are turning talking points into action and getting results. Every once in a while it’s good to take your nose from the grindstone and survey the landscape to take stock of where we are and where we are heading.

For the fifth month in a row, Florida unemployment figures have dropped, heading in the opposite direction of a national increase. Governor Rick Scott chalks this up to phasing out the business tax and counties working to keep property taxes low. He has also been on a trade mission to Canada, with Panama on the calendar for later this year.

This year, Florida jumped from the Number 6 spot to the Number 3 place on the podium of the CEO Magazine’s “Best/Worst States for Business” list. Cited reasons were the usual quality of life and the absence of a personal income tax, but also the presence of highly skilled workers. With the shrinking of the NASA operations on the Space Coast, many companies are targeting those engineers for their unique expertise and are making plans to set up operations in Florida.

Surprisingly, Florida scored very well on the high tech jobs list, with enough high tech companies and workers to be 5th in the country in that area. For companies with work forces able to do their jobs from

anywhere, the lifestyle of our Gulf Coast is a huge draw.

Not surprisingly, tourism continues to rebound as providers continue to compete for those vacation dollars and adjusting to the market. With any luck and a good showing from that sector over the summer, this might be one of the better years in recent history for the tourism industry.

Finally, we have seen an increase in activity across the board in commercial real estate transactions. Land sales continue to happen, albeit slowly but at steady prices. Leasing activity has been uncharacteristically upbeat during the slow summer months. And while sales have slowed, this is typical for the summer months and we should see the usual flurry of deal making in the fall with closings happening before the end of the year as lenders try to get some of their bad assets off the books.

All in all, as we wrap up summer and start to head into August/September, expect to see an uptick of activity as job growth and economic development make their impact felt at the local level.

CID

(Com

mer

cial

Inve

stm

ent D

ivis

ion)

Officers:President: Anthony Homer, LWR CommercialPresident-Elect: Brad Lindberg, Hembree & AssociatesVice-President: Linda Emery, Michael Saunders & Co.Secretary: Diane Lee, Wagner RealtyTreasurer: Tim Mapp, Mapp RealtyPast President: Lee DeLieto, Jr., Michael Saunders & Co.

Directors:Pete Skokos: Norton, Hammersley, Lopez & Skokos (1 year - 2011)David Roth: RE/MAX Alliance (2 years - 2012)Sarah Olesen: Michael Saunders & Company (2 years - 2012)Bob Milhoan: Hembree & Assoc. (3 years - 2013)Lori Hellstrom: Osprey Management (3 years - 2013)

2011 CID Officers & Directors

Small wins leading to bigger victories


CID slates meetings for August 2011CID General Membership Meeting - - Tuesday, August 16th, 8:30 a.m. –SAR AuditoriumCommercial Marketplace Sessions- Friday, August 5th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

- Friday, August 12th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium- Friday, August 19th, 9 a.m. – Manatee Association of Realtors®, 10920 Technology Terrace, Lakewood Ranch, FL- Friday, August 26th, 9 a.m. – SAR Auditorium

New real estate-related laws now in effectIt took five years to accomplish, but

starting tomorrow, the $243 million cap on the housing trust funds is history.

A bill passed by the 2011 Florida Legislature removes the cap enacted by the 2004 Legislature at the peak of the housing boom. Since 2007, when the $243 million limit took effect, Florida Realtors® and nearly three dozen other organizations lobbied lawmakers to “scrap the cap” on the Sadowski Housing Trust Funds. The fund is sustained entirely by a portion of documentary stamp taxes paid on deeds.

This year, the Florida Housing Finance Corporation has $64 million for state and local housing programs for downpayment assistance, foreclosure prevention and renovating properties for low- to moderate-income families.

HB 639/SB 912 and several other real estate-related bills took effect on July 1st. Of particular interest to Realtors® is HB 849, which changes the initial requirements for certain persons acting as home inspectors and removes language enacted last year that allowed Division 1 contractors to perform both the home inspection and make repairs.

As a result, the Home Inspection Disclosure has been updated to reflect the fact that home inspectors are regulated and licensed by the state. HID-2 is available from Form Simplicity (login required).

Protection for title insurance policyholders. HB 1007 was introduced on behalf of the Department of Financial Services (DFS) to ensure that property owners continue to have title insurance coverage even if their underwriter is liquidated. When an underwriter is liquidated, as is currently the case, all other underwriters in the state will pay an assessment to DFS.

This assessment will be passed on — over a period not to exceed seven years — to new policyholders in the form of a surcharge of up to $25. DFS indicates that the surcharge resulting from the underwriter currently being liquidated would be significantly less than $25.

You’re S.A.F.E. to move about the transaction. SB 1316 codifies into the Florida S.A.F.E. Mortgage Licensing Act the same language contained in a federal act that allows Florida real estate licensees to list and sell short sales without having to first obtain additional licensure under Chapter 494.

Sales associates catch business tax break. Sales associates who don’t currently pay a business tax (formerly known as occupational licenses taxes) at the local level should be happy with HB 311. Local governments that were not collecting business taxes from sales associates on Oct. 13, 2010, may not do so in the future. Local governments that were collecting business taxes from sales associates on that date are not impacted.

More changes to condo and homeowners’ association laws. HB 1195 seeks to fix aspects of last year’s big condo legislation. Among the highlights:

• Allows condo, homeowners and cooperative associations to demand full monthly rent from tenants in properties of owners who are behind in maintenance payments. Landlords are banned from punishing tenants who comply with the law.

• Exempts condos less than four stories high with exterior corridors from installing manual fire alarm systems.

• Permits associations to install impact glass and other code-compliant windows for hurricane protection.

• Prevents unit owners who are delinquent in their association fees to access common areas and other community assets.

Economic development — possibly to benefit affordable housing. HB 7205 creates a new trust fund to be used for economic development efforts. The State Economic Enhancement and Development Trust Fund will be established in July 2012 and will initially include $125 million drawn from money that now flows to the state’s affordable housing trust fund and the state’s road-building trust fund.

Challenging property tax assessments. So many property owners are challenging their assessments that it has resulted in a number of school boards being unable to forecast their budgets. As a result, Rep. Ana Rivas Logan (R-Miami) filed HB 281 on behalf of the Miami-Dade School Board. As originally filed, this bill required property owners who appealed their assessment to pay 75 percent of the appraised value. Florida Realtors helped to amend the bill to allow owners to make a good faith payment during the appeal process if it extends beyond April 1 of the next year. The new law will apply to petitions filed with value adjustments boards on or after July 1, 2011.

Curbing adverse possession scams. SB 1142 seeks to make it more difficult for people to take possession of homes vacated, often due to foreclosure or other financial hardships, and claim ownership under adverse possession. Among other things, the new law requires county property appraisers to notify the owner of record when an adverse possession claim is made on their property, and giving this individual priority on paying back taxes. - 2011 Florida Realtors®


Educ

atio

n Pr

ogra

ms

Title: Emerging Issues in TaxDate: Aug. 17, Noon to 1:30 p.m.Sponsor: Realtor-Attorney Joint CommitteeCost: Free to SAR & SCBA Members; $10 others

The subject of the national debt and possible changes to the tax code have been the hot topic in the news for weeks. But what could these potential changes mean to you and your business?

If you have questions concerning this or other topics, come to this noontime seminar and walk away

with a better understanding of the latest on taxes. You’ll be glad you did!

This informative monthly seminar series is sponsored by the Realtor-Attorney Joint Committee. Bring your own lunch! Snacks and beverages will be provided.

More of these noontime sessions will be scheduled throughout the year, enabling our members to gain valuable education while enjoying their lunch and the networking opportunity.

RAJC continues informative luncheon sessions in August

Title: Safer Ways of Pest ControlDate: Aug. 15, 9 to 11 a.m.Cost: FREERegister at www.sarasotarealtors.com

Are roaches and fire ants getting the best of you? How about the latest infestation—bedbugs! Ugh!

Join the Green Realtors® Alliance of Sarasota (GRAS) for a special presentation by Fred Santana, Ph.D. Dr. Santana is an entomologist with the UF/IFAS Sarasota County Extension.

Learn greener, more healthy methods to control pests - methods that are better for the environment and better for you. Dr. Santana will cover both indoor and outdoor pests and garden problems. Please register online at www.sarasotarealtors.com so we know how many attendees to expect.

Green pest management will be covered in this free

seminar. Learn about environmentally sound pest management practices.

Although chemical sprays are often relied upon, there are alternative approaches of a less toxic nature that can be used to prevent and suppress many common pests in and around the home and yard.

GRAS presents pest control seminar

Renew your real estate license in AugustTitle: 14-Hours Continuing Education for License RenewalDates: Aug. 9-1014 hours CEInstructor: IFREC Real Estate School, James LoweCost: SAR Members $79; Non-members, $99

The Institute of Florida Real Estate Careers, headquartered in Orlando, Florida, will be the provider of the 14-hour license renewal course for SAR.

This session provides the full 14-hours of continuing education needed for license renewal. The 14-hours CE includes 3 hours of Core Law. Or, you may opt to take Core Law only, which consists of the first three hours of the 14 hours.

SAR members, please go to www.sarasotarealtors.com to register for the live course. Non-members, go to the education tab at the top of the home page (www.sarasotarealtors.com) to download a registration form that can be completed and faxed to SAR.


Title: SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist)Dates: Oct. 11-12Cost: SAR Member, $199; Others, $229Register at www.sarasotarealtors.com

Adults aged 50+ represent more than 20 percent of the U.S. population. For most senior adults, the homes that they live in are their largest asset and account for most of their net worth.

Completion of the Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) Designation Course is an essential step for Realtors® in understanding the goals, concerns, and needs of seniors today.

This course looks at key differences in housing options, from age-restricted communities to age-in-place design to assisted living; applications of the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA); the ins and outs of reverse mortgages; the use of pensions, 401k accounts, and IRAs in real estate transactions; and developing a team of senior specialists, including estate planners, reverse mortgage lenders, clutter and staging specialists, and more. Instructor: Jim Dague

Course instructs Realtors®on senior real estate issues

Title: Resort & Second Home MarketsLocation: Hyatt Regency SarasotaDate: Sept. 14Cost: Only $139 (if received by Aug. 31 - after Aug. 31, $169 (if space available)Instructor: Jimmy DagueRegister at www.sarasotarealtors.com

In this course, you will learn how to: Use community resources and tourism bureaus to your • advantage Be prepared to act when laws, directly affecting your • business, are scheduled to change Make the best use of your marketing dollars • How to handle the media—rather than it handling • you Recognize the rights and wrongs of second-• homeownership and investment.

If you already have one of the following designations—ABR, ALC, CCIM, CIPS, CPM, CRS, CRB, GREEN—this may be your only course requirement!

To earn the RSPS certification, you must complete the Resort & Second-Home Markets Course and choose from two elective paths. The course was recently revamped and shortened! For more details, please read all about the designation at: www.realtor.org/resorts/resorts/requirements_rsps

Learn about resorts, second home market

Help Florida Realtors® break a Guinness World Record!To help kick off Realtor® Safety Month, Florida Realtors®

will attempt to break a Guinness World Record for the “Largest Business Lesson held in Multiple Venues.”

On Sept. 9, Andrew Wooten, Florida Realtors® safety expert, will present “Florida’s Safety and Security,” a 3-hour program designed to provide education, tools and resources necessary to create safe workplace environments while instilling awareness and empowerment in individuals.

This record attempt will connect more than 30 of Florida’s local associations (including SAR) as satellite venues, with participants across the state interacting with each other

simultaneously over a live broadcast. Students will be able to participate in the program with fellow Realtor members in the convenience of their local association office while building strong community relationships with their friends and neighbors who are also invited to participate in the program.

WHEN: Friday, September 9, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ESTCOST: FREETo Register, Visit www.floridarealtors.org/educationand complete the online registration today!


CONGRATULATIONS! Dedication and hard work pay off!! We congratulate our members who have successfully completed the National

Association of Realtors® Green Designation and the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)!

NAR’s GREEN DESIGNATION (GREEN)

Michelle Crabtree Michael Saunders & Company

ACCREDITED BUYER’S REPRESENTATIVE (ABR)

Andrew M Bers RE/MAX Alliance Group

Sarasota’s Premier Real Estate Printer

Award-winning printing and customer service

Specializing in pocket portfolios,die-cutting and foil -stamping

done in-house

FSC and SFI certified to help you go green

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[email protected]

Education takes center stage at FR conventionView the latest gadgets, get motivational advice from top

trainers and gain an opportunity to network with other real estate professionals. That’s what the Florida Realtors® 2011 Convention & Trade Expo has to offer – opportunities to learn new best practices, discover innovative marketing approaches and boost business.

Realtors® from across Florida, including many from Sarasota, are expected to attend the state association’s 95th annual convention on Aug. 24-28, at the Rosen Shingle Creek resort in Orlando. The event features more than 54 educational sessions on topics as varied as handling short sales, social media trends, personal branding and home pricing strategies.

“Every year, Florida Realtors® brings innovative ideas, leading real estate industry experts and the latest products to one convenient location for our annual Convention & Trade Expo,” said 2011 Florida Realtors® President Patricia Fitzgerald. “It offers outstanding value to our Realtor® members, who have the chance to learn from the best in the business, network with colleagues and have fun at the same time. For me, the convention is a highlight of the year, and I always come away with new contacts, fresh ideas and a renewed passion for this profession.”

For the first time, attendees can enjoy a night of spectacular entertainment, reliving the excitement that was John, Paul, George and Ringo during the Beatles Bash concert on Aug. 25

from 8:30 to 11 p.m. Audience members can twist and shout to 1964 … The Tribute, called “the best Beatles tribute on Earth” by Rolling Stone magazine. One complimentary ticket to the concert is included with full convention registration; any attendee can purchase a ticket for $30. The Realtors® Political Action Committee is co-sponsoring the Beatles Bash concert.

Top industry speakers – such as Brian Copeland, familiar to many from “Flip That House” on The Learning Channel; Chandra Hall, a certified instructor on short sales and foreclosures; and Doug Devitre, a nationally recognized consultant on technology and social media solutions – will offer insight into current real estate trends, technology and business practices.

Other highlights include the Trade Expo, where more than 100 exhibitors will demonstrate the latest real estate products and technology; and the Keynote Awards Luncheon, featuring world-class guitarist, stand-up comedian and personal development expert Mike Rayburn. In his motivational address “What If … and Why Not?” Rayburn uses his guitar and comedy to demonstrate how to access your potential.

Convention-goers also should check out the free one-day “RE BarCamp Orlando,” on Aug. 24. To find out more or register online, go to REBarCampOrlando.com.


Your MLS system can do so much morePre-registration is required for all MLXchange classes at www.mfrmls.com. All classes are hands-on in the SAR Technology Center (except for Entering and Updating). Registration is limited to 18. Please be sure that you will attend if you reserve a spot! If you need to cancel, please call MFRMLS at 800.686.7451 (not SAR).

MLXchange BasicAug. 1 or Aug. 15, 9 a.m. to NoonMandatory session for all new users.Learn the basic tools of MLXchange. It does the work for you, emailing the listings that match your client’s criteria automatically through auto notification. Learn the quick way to find a listing or view your inventory with one click right from the home page or create a professional CMA in less time than it takes to drive to work.- Review the home page features - Add a new client from the search module, saving a search and setting prospecting notification features - Searching and viewing listings, using the map, showing road, aerial, hybrid, and locator features - Adding additional search criteria - Viewing/printing/emailing reports, images, virtual tours, tax, map, driving directions and MLS listing history - Customizing hotsheet configurations - Search Tax - Creating a professional CMA - Personalize user contact information

Entering and Updating Listings in MLXchangeAug. 1 or Aug. 15, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.Mandatory class if you will be entering and updating your own listings. You will be taught how to input and modify listings, enter photos, and add attachments along with valuable tips and techniques.- Listing maintenance authorization forms - Explain the importance of accurate data - Rules and Regulations - Review the profile sheet - Entering a new listing, using tax auto pop, reviewing the fields that have

specific entries in the Rules and Regulations - Adding images, attachments, open house information, Supra Key and ShowingTime - Inventory watch-easiest way to modify the listings

Design Web Pages, Capture LeadsAug. 9, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.One of the most crucial components in today’s real estate professional’s day-to-day business is capturing and handling leads along with time management. This course will teach you how to set up your personal agent and client web pages, contact management and scheduling features that go hand-in-hand with a successful real estate business.- Changing the site style, domain name, search engine tools and redirecting web sites - Designing the web page content, adding featured properties - Illustrating the property search - Lead capture shows in today’s summary and schedule - Reviewing schedule, adding/editing appointments, tasks, adding notes and reminders - Plans manager, copying and modifying the action plan - Emailing the client private webpage - Customizing email templates

Creating A Professional CMAsAug. 9, 9 a.m. to NoonThis class is designed to teach you the skills needed to create a comprehensive CMA. You will learn how to import properties that are listed outside of the MLS, into your CMA along with valuable tips and techniques for creating a professional CMA.- Create a new seller or buyer CMA- Importing subject property from MLS or tax search and entering additional information about the subject property

- Adding MLS and tax comparables- Adjustments, pricing, net sheet, selecting pages, and viewing report- Edit and remove reports- Emailing, saving, and printing CMA- Customizing a personal CMA and setting it as the default

iMapp - Interactive Taxand Mailing LabelsAug. 17, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.In this class you will learn how to use the tax search features of MLXchange, access iMapp’s interactive maps, tax data, comparables, auto-valuations, and easily create mailing labels for your favorite area.- MLXchange tax search, using map and field searches, printing mailing labels - iMapp tax search, viewing parcel, GIS, MLS listings, zoom levels, street, aerial and flood zones- Measuring tool, pan and save map - Creating, viewing and downloading mailing labels - Illustrate the link to the tax appraiser website - Viewing and modifying the criteria for comparable properties - MLS and foreclosure searches

MLXchange AdvancedAug. 17, 9 a.m. to NoonTake MLXchange to the next level! In this session you will learn how to customize a search & display screens, personal website links and setup & save advanced searches.- Creating a custom template, adding fields, changing the display order - Foreclosure, fixer upper, and vacant listings with lockbox access - Customizing columns, adding/removing fields, changing the column headers and changing the field sort order- Editing favorite reports


On

the

SAR

Sce

ne

Visit SAR on Facebook atwww.facebook.com/SarasotaRealtors

Heidi Webber with Steve and Christine Heinz at the June 28th SAR Affiliate Business After Hours event.

Photos byJesse Sunday

At left, the GRI 3 class got underway at SAR in late July, and will be completed in early August. Congratulations to the 41 students! Above, Ben Butus, Dyrk Dahl and Lynn Hobeck at the Affiliate Business After Hours event.

SAR members network and hit the books!

Joanne Perry and Kimberly Leckie at the June 28th SAR Affiliate Business After Hours event.

www.MedallionHome.com

*

Get a little sand between your toes... Leave your footprints at Medallion neighborhoods, collect $500 Gold Coins* and Enter to win a Barefoot Retreat

Win a Barefoot Retreat• Enjoy the sun and fun. Take a retreat from the chaos and leave a few footprints in the sand. Every time you visit any of our neigbhorhoods you are eligible to register to win a Barefoot Retreat at Long Boat Key Club. The more Medallion Home neighborhoods that you visit, the better your chances of winning. Plus...• Receive a $500 Gold Medallion* at each neighborhood that you visit. Redeem the coins when you sell a Medallion Home and receive $500 for each coin collected*, in addition to your commission at closing. Must present coins at time of registration. A voucher will be given for coins redeemed at signing of contract.

• No more than 10 Medallions ($5000 value)* may be redeemed per sale.

• Visit Medallion neighborhoods by 9/30/11 to register for a drawing to win a Barefoot Retreat for two to Longboat Key Club. Weekend includes accommodations, hot sandy beach, cool refreshing pool, massage at the Island Spa House, fine dining at the resort on Friday and Saturday. Leisurely breakfast in bed on Saturday. Walk into any of our models for a chance to leave your footprints in the sand.

Medallion Home Gold Coins have no cash value until the closing of a Medallion Home. Must register at each location that you enter into drawing. Not valid in combination with any otherpromotion. Offer ends9/30/11. Prize valid anytime through 10/31/11.

Medallion NeighborhoodsGamble Creek Estates from the mid $100’s4909 131st Drive E • Parrish, Florida 34219Contact Susan or Alex 941-567-2644

River Plantation from the high $100’s2432 129th Avenue East • Parrish, Florida 34219Contact Connie or Austin 941-776-0777

Country Meadows from the high $100’s836 148th Court NE • Bradenton, Florida 34212Contact Arthur or Phil 941-747-7750

Cascades at Sarasota from the mid $200’s6773 41st Street Circle East • Sarasota, FL 34243Contact Holly or Jordan 941-309-3917

University Groves from the low $200’s3611 80th Drive East • Sarasota, Florida 34243Contact Gregg 941-448-9456

Stonewalk Preserve from the mid $200’s19646 Cobblestone Drive • Venice, Florida 34292Contact Celica or Angie 941-567-2658

Bobcat Trail from the high $100’s2802 Royal Palm Dr • North Port, Florida 34288Contact Gabe 941-429-0990

Riva Trace from the high $200’s7515 Rio Bella Place, Sarasota, Florida 34201Contact Gregg 941-448-9456

Mount Dora (coming soon)Mount Dora, Florida 23343Contact Gregg 941-448-9456

Hillcrest Place from the mid $200’s5607 NW 5th Terrace, Bradenton, Florida 34203 Contact Gregg 941-448-9456

*


www.MedallionHome.com

*

Get a little sand between your toes... Leave your footprints at Medallion neighborhoods, collect $500 Gold Coins* and Enter to win a Barefoot Retreat

Win a Barefoot Retreat• Enjoy the sun and fun. Take a retreat from the chaos and leave a few footprints in the sand. Every time you visit any of our neigbhorhoods you are eligible to register to win a Barefoot Retreat at Long Boat Key Club. The more Medallion Home neighborhoods that you visit, the better your chances of winning. Plus...• Receive a $500 Gold Medallion* at each neighborhood that you visit. Redeem the coins when you sell a Medallion Home and receive $500 for each coin collected*, in addition to your commission at closing. Must present coins at time of registration. A voucher will be given for coins redeemed at signing of contract.

• No more than 10 Medallions ($5000 value)* may be redeemed per sale.

• Visit Medallion neighborhoods by 9/30/11 to register for a drawing to win a Barefoot Retreat for two to Longboat Key Club. Weekend includes accommodations, hot sandy beach, cool refreshing pool, massage at the Island Spa House, fine dining at the resort on Friday and Saturday. Leisurely breakfast in bed on Saturday. Walk into any of our models for a chance to leave your footprints in the sand.

Medallion Home Gold Coins have no cash value until the closing of a Medallion Home. Must register at each location that you enter into drawing. Not valid in combination with any otherpromotion. Offer ends9/30/11. Prize valid anytime through 10/31/11.

Medallion NeighborhoodsGamble Creek Estates from the mid $100’s4909 131st Drive E • Parrish, Florida 34219Contact Susan or Alex 941-567-2644

River Plantation from the high $100’s2432 129th Avenue East • Parrish, Florida 34219Contact Connie or Austin 941-776-0777

Country Meadows from the high $100’s836 148th Court NE • Bradenton, Florida 34212Contact Arthur or Phil 941-747-7750

Cascades at Sarasota from the mid $200’s6773 41st Street Circle East • Sarasota, FL 34243Contact Holly or Jordan 941-309-3917

University Groves from the low $200’s3611 80th Drive East • Sarasota, Florida 34243Contact Gregg 941-448-9456

Stonewalk Preserve from the mid $200’s19646 Cobblestone Drive • Venice, Florida 34292Contact Celica or Angie 941-567-2658

Bobcat Trail from the high $100’s2802 Royal Palm Dr • North Port, Florida 34288Contact Gabe 941-429-0990

Riva Trace from the high $200’s7515 Rio Bella Place, Sarasota, Florida 34201Contact Gregg 941-448-9456

Mount Dora (coming soon)Mount Dora, Florida 23343Contact Gregg 941-448-9456

Hillcrest Place from the mid $200’s5607 NW 5th Terrace, Bradenton, Florida 34203 Contact Gregg 941-448-9456

*

Serving our Community with Pride and Accountability

2011 Notice of Proposed Property Taxes (TRIM) Guide

Tax Bills are mailed in

November by the Tax Collector’s

Office.

Taxing Authorities

are the government

bodies authorized to levy taxes on the property;

includes County,

School Board, Municipalities,

etc.

Property ID is a unique

number identifying your

property.

Taxable Value is Assessed

Value minus your

Exemptions. The Taxable

Value is multiplied by

the tax rate set by each of the

governing authorities to establish your

Ad Valorem property tax

bill.

If you disagree with the

Market Value set by the Property

Appraiser’s Office or feel you should

have qualified for an

exemption not shown, please

contact our office for an

informal review. The deadline for

filing a petition appears on your notice.

Assessment Reductions are benefits and use classifications which result in

additional savings on your tax bill. The amount reflects the difference between

Market Value and Assessed Value.

Market Value is the Property

Appraiser’s determination of value as of

January 1. The following are

considered: the selling price of

comparable properties,

income derived from the

property, the replacement

cost of improvements

and other factors such as

location and condition.

Exemptions are shown for the current and prior tax years. If you are missing an exemption for which you applied,

please contact the Property Appraiser’s Office immediately at 941.861.8200.

Refer to the back side of your TRIM notice to view the following: 1) the public hearing information for Ad Valorem Taxing Authorities listed above, 2) your Non-Ad Valorem Assessments, and 3) additional explanation of the columns shown above.

The sum of the Ad Valorem and Non-Ad Valorem assessments may provide an estimate of your total tax bill. Your final tax bill may contain Non-Ad Valorem assessments from districts which have elected not to participate on this notice.

Know Your Hurricane

Evacuation Zone


Serving Our Community with Pride and Accountability

Proposed Property Tax Notice (TRIM) Guide (Back side)

Public hearing information

for Ad Valorem Taxing

Authorities.

Non-Ad Valorem Tax Assessments

shown by levying

authority.

Non-Ad Valorem

levies are not based on the

assessed value of your

property. These

assessments are based on units which

may be related to lot square

footage, front footage,

number of units, etc., as

established by the levying authority.

Ad Valorem means

“according to value”. These

taxes are calculated by multiplying the taxable

value of your property by the tax rate, as shown on

the front side of the TRIM

notice.

Additional explanation

of the columns

showing on the front side of the TRIM

notice.

The sum of the Ad Valorem and Non-Ad Valorem assessments may provide an estimate of your total tax bill. Your final tax bill might contain Non-Ad Valorem assessments from districts which have elected not to participate on this notice.

As always, the Property Appraiser’s office is ready to answer your questions. Please call us at 941.861.8200, email us at at [email protected], write to us or visit one of our offices.


International Real Estate

International Congress coming next monthDon’t miss the 5th Annual

Sarasota International Real Estate Congress, set for Sept. 14-15 at the Hyatt Regency Sarasota, 1000 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL. This year’s theme is “It’s Time to Go Global!”

Attendees will be able to:- Listen to the experts.- Explore new techniques,

products and services.- Consider tried and tested

approaches.- Receive tips to build a successful

international business!This year’s keynote speaker will

be Allan Dalton, Chief Marketing Officer, RISMedia. His address will be entitled “Real Estate’s Universal Language.”

In this fast-paced and action-oriented keynote address, Dalton will convincingly convey what unites consumers and real estate professionals worldwide, both off- and on-line. The former CEO of Realtor.com will share proven

strategies that will help both agents and brokerages of all sizes to increase market share.

Other topics will be presented by a diverse group of authoritative international brokers, builders and global marketing experts. These will include:- “The State of Real Estate in Florida” - Panel moderated by Harold Bubil, Sarasota Herald-Tribune Real Estate Editor- “Converting International Residential Buyers to Commercial Investors” - Anthony Homer, Lakewood Ranch Commercial Realty LLC. We are seeing a huge increase in residential investment from overseas. How can Realtors® build upon that and guide those investors towards larger commercial investments?- “International Luxury Home Buyers” - Panel of Top Producers from Top Markets. The market for high end properties has improved significantly, supported by an influx of cash from other countries. Learn

from successful luxury agents how they have targeted this foreign money and channeled it to their listings.- “Building a Resort & Second Home Business in a Down Market” - Jim Dague, CRS, SFR, SRES, Las Vegas, NVHear from an expert in selling resort properties. Why will the market continue to flourish even in times of economic downturn?

Our sponsors are:• Lakewood Ranch

Communities—Silver• My Florida Regional MLS--

Silver• Neal Communities—Silver• Academy Mortgage—Bronze• Kerkering Barberio & Co.—

Bronze• Moneycorp—Bronze• Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)—

Bronze• Norma Henning, Esq.,

Salvatori, Wood, & Buckel--Bronze

A recent change in banking procedures may impact closings with international buyers who do not attend the closing.

In the last 30-45 days we have learned of three separate incidents, where buyers have had difficulty getting funds to the closing agent.

Several banks will not initiate wire transfers from a U.S. account unless the account holder is physically present at a branch to give the wire instructions. They seem willing to issue cashier/bank checks on written instructions from an absent account holder, but not wire transfers.

However, many attorneys and title companies will accept only wired funds at closing.

How can you get around this when your buyer is overseas? Educate the customer and plan ahead:

• If the buyer is sending US dollars from their home

country, have them wire to the closing agent directly, instead of their own U.S. account.

• Ensure they wire funds to the closing company before they leave town.

• Encourage buyer to think about using a currency exchange company such as our affiliate member Moneycorp. If the closing date is some way off, and

the buyer’s funds are in their home currency and country, the buyer can fix an exchange rate when the rate is favorable. The buyer transmits funds in their home currency to Moneycorp directly before closing, and they wire funds to the closing agent.

Don’t forget – the same rules will apply to foreign home owners who sell properties here and have the proceeds paid into their U.S. accounts. They will not be able to repatriate funds without coming to Florida for one last visit to their bank to give the wiring instructions.

Procedural change may impact closings


Mem

bers

hip

New

sDesignated Realtors®

Bennett, Pauline: Coldwell Banker Res R EGettel, Kelly: Kelly Gettel & Company PLLCPichevin, J Patou: Century 21 Advantage TeamWormwood, Christopher: Christopher Wormwood REYounker, Bruce, Bruce Younker R E Broker

New MembersAiken, Sarah Love: RoseBay Real Estate Inc.Allott, Benjamin: Coldwell Banker Res REBosela, Hajasoa: Coldwell Banker Res REClarke, Daniel: J Wood RealtyDean, John: Coldwell Banker Res REDiPierro, Alfred: Prudential Palms RealtyDiPierro, Donie: Prudential Palms RealtyFust, Stacey: Keller Williams On The WaterGagg, Michael: Atchley International RealtyGerace, Arianna: DeFreest & Associates Inc.Holt, Lauren: RER InternationalHunter, Roy: Atchley International RealtyIacobelli, Christopher: Keller Williams Lakewood RanchKline, Daniel: JM Ulysse Realty LLCKling, Renee: RKW Kleiber Button Inc.Latham, Suzanne: Sarasota Foreclosures.com Inc.Leonard, Jeremiah: Sarasota Foreclosures.com Inc.Morin, Susan: Michael Saunders & CompanyMorreale, Lisa: Coldwell Banker Res RENowak, Julia: Casey Realty CorporationReilly, M. Helen: Preferred Properties of SarasotaSalisbury, Dan: CLUB REALTYSchnackenberg, John: RE/MAX Alliance GroupSchott, Marilyn: London Bay Realty Inc.Slater, Bruce: Rossi & Company Inc.Speicher, Carmen: Florida Internet Realty LLCSpeicher, Scott: Florida Internet Realty LLCStone, Linda: Dawn Cohen and AssociatesSurline, Brandon: Michael Saunders & CompanyTalbot, Carol: Horizon Realty InternationalTrevino, Kathleen: Valencia Realty LLCTurner, Jesse: Keller Williams on the WaterVelez, Emily: Dawn Cohen and AssociatesWilkerson, Patricia: Coldwell Banker Res R EWilson, William: Engel & Voelkers LBK RealtyYouroukov, Milko: Sarasota Foreclosures.com Inc.

Now With ...Andrews, Janet, Horizon Realty InternationalAppignani, Sandra, Signature Sothebys Internat’lBarshinger, Katherine, FARETSBlaikie, Kathleen, Coldwell BankerBrown, Kathleen, Gulf & Bay Club Realty LLCChmieleski, Phillip, DwellGreen Realty LLCCulliton, Kay, Atchley International RealtyFerguson-Brown, Rachael, Michael Saunders & CompanyFloyd, Henry, Coldwell Banker Res R EHarrison, Anne, Prudential Palms RealtyHutton, Timothy, Cityscapes Int’l Realty GrpKitsemble, Stephanie, Michael Saunders & CompanyKling, Renee, RKW Kleiber Button Inc.Krumm, Stephanie, RE/MAX Alliance GroupLennox, Esther, RoseBay Real Estate Inc.Macksey, Timothy, Signature Sothebys Internat’l

Master, Mary, Sanderling Real EstateMcDonald, Diane, RE/MAX Alliance GroupMcNally, Patrick, Ascendia Real EstateMontalvo, Jessica, Sandals Realty of SarasotaMorin, Susan, Michael Saunders & CompanyMorreale, Lisa, Coldwell Banker Res R EPlumb, Richard, Horizon Realty InternationalRaskin, Toby, Coldwell Banker Res R ESeto, Steven, Prudential Lakewood Ranch RltyShkrob, Eleonora, Realty Executives SolutionsSlater, Bruce, Rossi & Company Inc.Snyder, Inna, Atchley International RealtySpencer, M. Scott, Michael Saunders & CompanyStinson, Brigida, Exit King RealtyStrout Koken, Lauren, Sandals Realty of SarasotaTalbot, Carol, Horizon Realty InternationalTripp, Gina, Sandals Realty of SarasotaTsekhanovsky, Bronya, Top Realty Group of FloridaTurrentine, Judith, Atchley International RealtyUntrieser, Werner, Realty Executives SolutionsValenti, JoAnne, RoseBay Real Estate Inc.Velez, Emily, Dawn Cohen and AssociatesWeaver, Lisa, Coldwell Banker Res R EWebb, Ernest, Coldwell Banker Res R EYturraspe, Jo Ellyn, Michael Saunders & Company

New AffiliatesBlu-Aqua Pools1843 Barber RoadSarasota, FL 34230Phone Number: 941-371-4808Representative: Tony KozakSpecialty: Award winning Swimming Pool Contractor/Designer. Since 1975 Blu-Aqua pools has been the leading pool contractor in Manatee, Sarasota, and North Port. Whether building a new pool or remodeling your existing one, Blu-Aqua’s design team can transform your backyard into a “personal Oasis”. State Certified Contractor.Email: [email protected]

Budget Self Storage4029 Bee Ridge RoadSarasota, FL 34233Phone Number: 941-927-1400Representative: Justin C WesleySpecialty: Self Storage Facility, offering climate and non climate control units, 30 different sizes. Budget Moving Truck Rental & Packing Supplies. Making your moving and storage experience as simple as possible.Email: [email protected]

Florida Bank3704 84th Avenue Circle EastSarasota, FL 34243Phone Number: 941-556-5363Representative: Denise HagmannSpecialty: For over 25 years, we have been committed

The Association is pleased to welcome new members!


to developing relationships with friends, neighbors, and businesses in the community. Our passion for providing exceptional service in a personalized manner has built a reputation of being dedicated to the communities and customers we serve. Please allow us to earn your respect and business today by exceeding your expectations every day.Email: [email protected]

Minto Communities LLC12300 Manatee AvenueBradenton, FL 34209Phone Number: 941-896-4826Representative: Bradley AndersonSpecialty: Minto Communities is a leading developer and home builder offering new homes for sale in Florida. For over half a century, the Minto name has represented integrity, financial strength and enduring value. Minto creates a wide array of award-winning new homes and communities to match every lifestyle. A leader in environmental sustainability, Minto builds Green energy and resource efficient new houses and communities for a healthier environment. As a new home builder in Florida, we understand what makes communities special: innovative living environments with state-of-the art design.Email: [email protected]

Mortgage Supercenter USA401 N. Cattleman Rd Ste 304Sarasota, FL 34232Phone Number: 941-625-3987Representative: Dona SmithSpecialty: We have more than 30 years of experience. We are a licensed mortgage broker business. Dona Smith is Mortgage Broker. Some of the services we offer are: Residential Lending/Broker, First Time Homebuyers, &

Refinancing LoansEmail: [email protected]

Sarver Contracting3344 Spainwood DriveSarasota, FL 34232Phone Number: 941-256-6654Representative: Chad SarverSpecialty: Specializing in every aspect of construction, remodeling and renovations. We take care of everything from full home remodeling and home additions to commercial renovation and tenant buildouts. If you have a remodeling or construction project, we are your building and remodeling contractor of choice. We also work closely with a licensed architect and can provide design/build services when necessary. We are your one stop shop for building, construction and remodeling projects.Email: [email protected]

Home-Tech5205 Lena RoadBradenton, FL 34211Phone Number: 941-549-0041Representative: Stephen HeinzSpecialty: Home-Tech is available seven days a week, with extended hours to offer quality service and repair. Home-Tech has been an industry leader and trendsetter in the fields of air conditioning service (HVAC) and installation, major appliance sales and service, and home-service agreements for nearly three decades. Sell several brands of quality appliances. (Trane & Carrier Dealer) Pricing is affordable. Your convenience is our priority.Email: [email protected]


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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

1 9 a.m. MLXchange Basic 1:30 p.m. Entering & Updating

2 8.a.m.—5.p.m. GRI 3

3 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 9 a.m.—4 p.m. GRI 3

4 8 a.m. Power Marketing (University Park CC)

5 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace

8 9 a.m.– 4 p.m. New Member Orientation

9 9 a.m. 14 Hour CE 9 a.m. CMA 1:30pm Design Web Page

10 9 a.m. 14 Hour CE

11 8 a.m. Power Marketing (SAR)


15 9 a.m. MLXchange Basic 1:30 p.m. Entering & Updating

16 8:30 a.m. CID General Membership

17 7:30 a.m. Toastmasters 9 a.m. Advanced MLX 1:30 p.m. iMapp


19 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace - Off Site

22

23 5 to 7:30 p.m. Affiliate Networking The Loft Ristobar

24



29

30

31

Sept. 1 8 a.m. Power Marketing (University Park CC)

Sept. 2 9 a.m. CID Commercial Marketplace

AUGUST 2011

Note: All events/classes are at SAR, except where noted

My Florida Regional MLS Training The classes E & U (Entering & Updating), Tools, Design Web Pages, MLX Intro, MLX Advanced, iMAPP, Custom Reports and CMA are all My Florida Regional MLS training classes offered at no cost to MLS participants. All classes (except E & U) are HANDS-ON in the SAR Tech Center. Please register for all MLS classes at the MFRMLS website: http://mfrmls.com. Click on Education and Training.

EDUCATION & EVENTS CALENDAR

Florida Realtors® Annual Convention & Trade Show Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando


0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

14.0

16.0

18.0


Months of Inventory Single FamilyCondo


0

50

100

150

200

250


Days on Market Single Family

Condo

The Xtra Pages - D

igital Version Only


0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

14.0

16.0

18.0


Months of Inventory Single FamilyCondo


$0 $20,000,000 $40,000,000 $60,000,000 $80,000,000 $100,000,000 $120,000,000 $140,000,000 $160,000,000 $180,000,000


Sales Volume Single Family

Condo


0

50

100

150

200

250


Days on Market Single Family

Condo

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900


New ListingsSingle Family

Condo

Source: Sarasota Association of Realtors® MLS


0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2

Single Family Sales ‐ By Quarter REO Short Arm's Length


0

100

200

300

400

500

600

2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2

Condo Sales ‐ By Quarter REO Short Arm's Length


$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

2008‐4thQ 2009‐1stQ 2009‐2ndQ 2009‐3rdQ 2009‐4thQ 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2

REO Short Arm's LengthSingle Family Median Sale Price


$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

$350,000

2008‐4thQ 2009‐1stQ 2009‐2ndQ 2009‐3rdQ 2009‐4thQ 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2

REO Short Arm's LengthCondo Median Sale Price

Second Quarter 2011 Report

* Homebuyer Tax Credit In Effect



0

100

200

300

400

500

600

2008‐Q2 2008‐Q3 2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2

REO Sales ‐ By Quarter Single FamilyCondo


050

100150200250300350400

2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2

Short Sales ‐ By QuarterSingle Family

Condo


0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

2008‐Q4 2009‐Q1 2009‐Q2 2009‐Q3 2009‐Q4 2010‐Q1 2010‐Q2 2010‐Q3 2010‐Q4 2011‐Q1 2011‐Q2

Arm's Length Sales ‐ By QuarterSingle FamilyCondo




$132,300

$172,500$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$160,000 $163,000

$142,000

$145,000$173,000

$191,000

$225,000

$305,000$301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000

$163,000

Annual Median Sale Price ‐ 2000 to 2010 Condo Single Family

$132,300

$172,500$191,000

$226,000

$272,500

$351,000$342,000

$303,000

$230,000

$160,000 $163,000

$142,000

$145,000$173,000

$191,000

$225,000

$305,000$301,225

$336,250$320,000

$210,000

$163,000

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

Annual Median Sale Price ‐ 2000 to 2010 Condo Single Family

Annual Sales ‐ 2000 to 2010Single Family Condo Total

9697

11267

10562

Single Family Condo Total

6 504

7,596

6,8416533

7036

8167

63586739

7603

4,3494,940

5,603

6,504

4,3533,922

4,6265,183

5,466

3 671 3 721

6533 63586042 5820

,

2,184 2,0962,564

3,1933,671 3,721

2,005 2,120

1,1941,556

2,137

1,194

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

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Sarasota Realtor Magazine - August 2011

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