September 2005
Sarasota Realtor® Volume 2, Number 9 September 2005 Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. 3590 South Tuttle Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34239 Phone: 941/923-2315 FAX: 941/923-0191 www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota REALTORREALTOR® 2005 Officers M A G A Z II N E President Judy Schomaker “The official monthly magazine of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®” RE/MAX Properties President-Elect Felix Power Coldwell Banker Residential R.E. Secretary Contents Joe Hembree Hembree and Associates Inc. September 2005 Volume 2 Issue 9 Treasurer Dan Page RE/MAX Properties 6 Exceptional Taste Immediate Past President The 2005 Taste of Sarasota promises to be the best yet, Nick Figlow and it’s all to benefit some important causes, and issues RE/MAX Gulfstream Realty Chief Executive Officer 8 Why is the Comp Plan important to you? Curt Singleton Every seven years, Realtors® have an opportunity to help Mission Statement shape the future of Sarasota County – that’s why! The Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc., is a professional trade association committed to providing quality programs and services for its 12 Master incoming calls members; enhancing the image of its members in the community; upholding the Realtor® Code of Gain valuable time with some helpful hints! Ethics; planning for the future needs of the organi- zation; and to protecting private property rights. 16 Golf, tennis and affordable housing ® Sarasota Realtor is published monthly by the ® Sarasota Association of Realtors® Inc. What do these things have in common? Join Realtors and Affiliates on the links and courts of Lakewood Ranch and find out! Editorial Staff Director of Communications Ray Porter 18 Meet your 2006 board candidates Director of Member Services An introduction to the SAR leadership Dan Andrews Director of MLS Information Systems 28 You need to know what Boomers want Victoria Szurant They’re coming to Florida - are you ready? Director of Professional Development Catherine McCaskill In every issue Production 10 Governmental Affairs Update Serbin Printing, Inc. Sarasota Realtor® Advertising: 24 Education Programs For information on advertising rates and deadlines, contact Ray Porter at 941/328-1168 or 34 Realtor Etiquette [email protected]. Subscriptions: The annual dues of every member of 22 Sales & Listing Statistics the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc., includes a one-year subscription to Sarasota Realtor® 41 International Real Estate magazine. A yearly subscription for Sarasota Realtor® magazine is available to non-members for $25, plus Florida sales tax. 35 WCR News Editorial ideas and manuscripts are welcomed. Byline articles and columns express the opinions of 21 Ethics in Action the writers and do not necessarily reflect the policies or sentiments of the Sarasota Association of 44 Calendar of Events Realtors®, Inc. All submitted copy is subject to editing. ON THE COVER: This month’s issue of Sarasota Realtor® Magazine focuses on two seemingly 2005 Copyright© by the Sarasota Association of disparate topics – the upcoming Taste of Sarasota event, co-sponsored by the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is Realtors – and the need for workforce and affordable housing in Sarasota. The connection – this year's prohibited. Taste will help raise funds for the Realtor®Affordable Housing Fund. On the cover are, from left, Shane Dabney, chef at Café 1660; Josh Chester, chef at Munchie’s Café; and Paul Mattison, chef and owner of Mattison’s Steakhouse & Wine Cellar, and Mattison's City Grille. The locale is the dining room overlooking Palm Aire Country Club’s scenic 18th green, the location for this year’s Chef’s competition. See page 6 for details on this year’s Taste of Sarasota. Three Buildings 90% Sold Out! Large Luxury Condominiums Building IV Now A vailable For Reservations Starting From The $500’s
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® restaurants. ethe Sarasota Association of Realtors and the Sarasota Chapter Tickets are now on sale for the Chef’s Competition at the Sarasota Association of the Florida Restaurant Association. of Realtors® office, 3950 S. Tuttle Ave., RE/MAX Gulfstream office on The Taste event will be held on the University Parkway, and at All Faiths streets of downtown Sarasota on Food Bank, 717 Cattlemen Road in Main Street and Osprey from Pine to Sarasota. Tickets are $50 each; $75 Links avenue for two. Delicious food from 30 of Sarasota's This year’s event will also feature a most popular restaurants, cooking Silent Auction, with more than 100 demonstrations, live musical packages, each valued at more than $100, entertainment, quality local crafts, available to attendees. The packages will local attractions like Jungle Gardens, include a wide assortment of popular a children’s area, Ice Carving, the items, including golf packages at high-stepping Cloggers, the ever luxurious local country clubs, facials and popular Waiter/Waitress Race, the manicures, sports memorabilia, tickets to Budweiser beer tent and much more major area attractions and theme parks, will greet visitors. and much, much more. ® A Taste of Sarasota Chefs' Realtors may also purchase an Competition will take place at Palm attractive promotional sign, displayed at Aire Country Club (this event is closed the both the Chef’s Competition and to the public) the morning of Monday, downtown event, for $100. A special Oct. 10, and will then move to the package is also offered – for $160, ® Hyatt in Sarasota for the public Realtors can purchase the sign AND two announcement of winners and the tickets to the Oct. 10 event at People's Choice competition at 7 p.m. the Hyatt. This year’s Chef’s Competition event The Florida Restaurant Association is The 2005 Taste of Sarasota poster is the a statewide not-for-profit organization winning design of Amy Hollen, student at will be pre-sold, with only 850 fortunate ticket holders, so get your dedicated to serving its members by Venice High School. She is a student of Art fostering goodwill, encouraging fraternal teacher Louis Miller and was awarded $750 tickets today to enjoy the delicious spirit and promoting the for producing the top design. food, fun and excitement! Continued on page 17 Quarterly Membership Luncheon set for Sept. 28 at the Association The Sarasota Association of Realtors® guest speaker at the event. year term 2005-2007 - Eric Shumway of will hold its Quarterly Membership RE/MAX Suncoast Realty; David Groom The luncheon will be catered by Outback Luncheon on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 12 of Sylvia A. Groom; Roger Piro of Steakhouse. Watch for more details in noon at the Association offices, 3950 S. Century 21 Advantage; Judy Hockett of SAR’s Weekly Update email bulletin. Tuttle Ave., in the auditorium. The cost is RE/MAX Properties; and Steve Bailey of $25 to SAR members, and an RSVP is Association members will be able to Michael Saunders & Company; One required by Sept. 16 to Carolyn Steirer vote on the 2006 slate of board officers Director to serve a 2-year term 2005- ([email protected]), or and directors during the luncheon event. 2006 - Lee Gerletti of Keller Williams 328-1157. Nominees are: President-elect - Joe Realty; One Director to serve a 1-year Hembree of Hembree & Associates term 2006, Brian Kennelly of Osprey Sarasota Herald-Tribune's real (automatically assumes post); Treasurer - Real Estate Services. estate editor to speak. Helen Sosso of Prudential Palms Realty; Turn to P. 18 for the photographs and Secretary - Kris Niehaus of Century 21 Harold Bubil, real estate editor for the brief biographies of the nominees. Sarasota Herald-Tribune, will be the Advantage; Five Directors to serve a 3- 6 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com Cover Story
Nurturing a sustainable future: Realtors® tackle tough affordable housing issue
The local real estate community long ago recognized the glaring Figlow said creative private and public partnerships must come up with responsible solutions to the current and growing deficiency in affordable and workforce housing in situation within the next five to 10 years. Otherwise, he noted, this region may Sarasota County. Faced with this difficult issue, the Sarasota soon require mass transit to bring the workforce to their jobs, much like large Association of Realtors helped create the task force which metropolitan areas of the northeast. t “I’m hopeful we’ll find answers to this produced the Workforce Housing Coalition of Sarasota County. problem,” said Figlow. “Thankfully, the interest rates have remained low, and Now, with the median price of a single- closely associated with the real estate firms have allowed creative financing to family home closing in on $400,000 – an profession are highly concerned with the assist with down payments. But it’s increase of 45 percent in only one year deficiency at the lower end of the market. becoming more and more difficult for the for Sarasota County – the problem has “It was once true that many of our average person to afford a home here.” been further compounded by the red hot Association members saw a high real estate market. percentage of their business from first- The ability to locate and purchase a home time home buyers and others seeking Coalition seeking strategies within a family’s price range, and affordable housing,” said Figlow. “Even geographic work area, is far more integral four or five years ago, you could find to spur workforce housing to our overall community’s health and homes for young buyers in the $80,000 to The Workforce Housing Coalition of sustainability than most people might $100,000 range. It was a good feeling Sarasota County, an association of realize. A deficiency in affordable getting people started with their first real estate, business and community housing can be felt at the neighborhood home, but that price range has vanished.” leaders, is developing strategies to level, all the way up to the corporate Figlow noted many Realtors® are provide affordable workforce housing board rooms, and impacts many personally directly impacted by the in the region. important issues including: skyrocketing home prices. Many agents “We have a regional workforce and new to the profession can’t afford a home real estate market,” said Kathy Baylis, I The availability of a qualified workforce in the community in the median price range here; other president of the Economic Development agents have children who have been Corporation of Sarasota County and a I The number of vehicles clogging our priced out of the local home market and member of the coalition. “Solutions roads during peak hours must either rent or move elsewhere. require a regional approach.” “Finding affordable homes for the local The local real estate community has I Clean air and water, and a generally clean and safe environment workforce – waitresses, laborers, nurses, taken ownership of the affordable and teachers – has become very difficult,” workforce housing issue in Sarasota I The costs of roads, gasoline and other said Figlow. “Many people are County, and is working hard to transportation-related items commuting long distances now, from alleviate problems revealed in a
I The ability to attract skilled and hi- North Port or Port Charlotte, and the recent employee survey. tech workers to our area price of gasoline has squeezed their According to the survey, funded by budgets from the transportation side.” SAR, the Coalition and the EDC, about I The ability to attract quality At a recent membership meeting of the 80 percent of local employees expect corporations to relocate to our area Commercial Investment Division of the problems buying a home today. Half cited I The desire to offer our children an SAR, it was noted that Sarasota “lack of housing I can afford” as the opportunity to buy homes and live Memorial Hospital has been forced at biggest challenge they face in purchasing in this community after completing times to delay a staff shift change due to a home. their education accidents on Interstate 75. Many hospital The coalition recently hosted a staff members live in North Port or other workforce housing summit, attended by Nick Figlow, immediate past president nearby communities due to the lack of more than 150 representatives of of the SAR Board of Directors, noted affordable housing in Sarasota. many Realtors® and those businesses Continued on page 38
www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor Magazine September 2005 7 Affordable Housing FAR: Survey shows affordable housing a top concern for state residents
Editor’s Note: The issue of affordable and workforce housing, spearheaded by widening the gap between those who can the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, is not strictly confined to the Sarasota afford to buy a home and those who County area. As this article from the Florida Association of Realtors relates, cannot afford to buy a home.” According to the national results, the the problem has rapidly spread across the state. survey found that respondents are more likely to support affordable housing in Tampa and Orlando residents have identified the lack of their communities if they are sure it would not hurt property values, would available, affordable housing as a major concern in their areas, not contribute to school overcrowding or would not make traffic worse. A majority of those polled also said according to the recently released National Housing they prefer affordable housing that is single-family detached housing rather tOpportunity Pulse survey from the National Association of than townhomes, low-rise or high-rise apartments. Other highlights: Seven out Realtors® (NAR). of 10 residents nationwide support more open space in their communities, and three out of five feel there is a need for and worked to create the Sadowski more residential growth in their Affordable Housing Trust Funds. If we communities. don’t keep fighting this fight, then those The latest National Housing people we rely on — to teach our Opportunity Pulse survey of 1,600 urban children, for example — won’t be able to The public opinion poll, conducted for live in the NAR by Public Opinion Strategies, found communities that 36 percent of Tampa residents and 46 in which they percent of Orlando residents cited the work and want lack of available, affordable housing as a to call home.” big problem for their communities. A According majority of those polled in both areas to the survey, agreed that they were very concerned residents in about the cost of all housing in their cities both cities (Tampa, 61 percent; Orlando, 63 percent.) identified This is the third year that NAR has having enough sponsored the national housing opinion money for a poll, but the first time specific survey down payment results were compiled only for the Tampa and closing and Orlando areas. costs as one of “This survey certainly underscores the biggest issues impacting housing in and suburban residents in top media what Florida Realtors® know and what we their areas: Orlando, 69 percent; Tampa, markets was conducted by Public have been saying to Gov. Jeb Bush and 70 percent. The cost has also an obstacle Opinion Strategies in May 2005. As in the Florida Legislature — available, to homeownership. The survey cited the past surveys, it found that Americans affordable housing for our teachers, ability to find a home they like and can rank affordable housing as one of the nurses, firefighters, police officers and afford as a problem (Orlando, 78 percent; most difficult issues they face, and they other working families is imperative if we Tampa, 69 percent.) worry that the cost of housing is are to preserve the strength of our A majority of Orlando (67 percent) and widening the gap between those who can communities,” said John Sebree, Florida Tampa (66 percent) residents agreed that afford to buy a home and those who Association of Realtors® (FAR) vice they were either highly concerned or cannot. president of public policy. “Realtors have moderately concerned that housing in — Florida Association of Realtors® been committed to this cause for years their areas is “getting so expensive, it is
8 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com OOPPPPOORRTTUUNNIITTYY DDOOCCKKSS
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The process to review this year’s Sarasota County Comprehensive Plan amendments is moving forward, but twhy is this important to you as a Realtor®?
The Comp Plan essentially governs I Mandatory requirements for workforce ANNE MERRILL Sarasota County’s future growth patterns housing should recognize that the issue is and infrastructure planning. And because an overall community concern and not the Comp Plan is the ruling document on penalize one segment of the community. local land use, it has a major impact on In order to work, inclusionary zoning Anne Merrill the future of real estate in this restrictions (which mandate a certain Phone: 941-362-3011 community. percentage of affordable units in every Fax: 941-362-1921 new development) should provide offsets Cell: 941-544-4750 The time to speak out of bonus densities and/or other incentives. e-mail: [email protected] has arrived I Lack of available land at urban densities leads to higher pricing for This September and October, the residential land, continuing the spiral of county board will be hearing public higher housing costs. The 2050 village comment and discussing amendments to plan is not seen as a near-term solution to the Plan. This particular amendment cycle this issue. Large lot subdivisions east of is a result of the Evaluation and Appraisal Interstate 75 are expensive and perpetuate Comp Plan Update: Report (EAR) analysis required by an unwelcome growth pattern. However, Florida law every seven years. The the concept of increasing density from county submitted its report to the Florida one unit per five acres in fringe asset I Tuesday, Sept. 6, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Department of Community Affairs (DCA) areas near the I-75 (approximately 900 North County, Public Input last year and is currently processing the acres) has been rejected by the Planning I Friday, Sept. 9, 10 a.m. – Noon amendments which resulted from the Commission, even with a 50 percent and 1 – 3 p.m., South County, EAR. affordability requirement. Public Input Major issues addressed in this update include workforce housing, redevelop- I Population projections, which look back I Wednesday, Sept. 14, 5 – 7 p.m., ment, major employment centers, at historic growth patterns, do not account North County, Public Input transportation, environmental habitat for projections based on looking forward I Tuesday, Sept. 20, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., protection, urban open space, population at potential Baby Boomer retirees who North County, Deliberations projections, density in fringe asset areas have already started moving here. Furthermore, the data being used is I Thursday, Sept. 22, 9 a.m. – 5 (low density residential areas adjacent to several years old. This data analysis is p.m., North County, Deliberations urban service boundaries), and much more. As a result, planning staff has important because population projections I Friday, Sept. 23, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., recommended a number of specific land are the basis for determining when and North County, Deliberations use changes, along with landowners who where growth occurs and at what density. I Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2 – 5 p.m., have submitted privately-initiated land It is also used to determine where urban South County, Final Meeting use change requests. services are provided and development is allowed, and whether or not to increase I Wednesday, Sept. 28, 3 p.m. – 5 the urban service area. p.m., North County, Final Meeting A few of the many items which have generated concern include the following: 10 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com
he future of Sarasota
I The Plan needs to balance quality of whether it be affordable and workforce life—including the needs of the housing, transportation, energy, open space, community, the environment and the environment, residential or commercial land economy—and take into consideration the use—you can work with your peers to future of transportation and energy. understand the issues on the table and Housing density may need to be increased communicate with your commissioners. in areas with public transit opportunities However, your most powerful tool is to and areas near work places. Shorter travel attend the public hearings and speak, both as times provide both community and a professional and as a member of the environmental benefits. Transit planning community. must keep up with land use change. Your help is needed. To learn more and participate, contact your Governmental I Since many of the interstate interchange areas are changing in character Affairs committees. Both the local and joint (becoming more retail than office/industrial county groups are working on Comp Plan in nature), other areas need to be analyzed issues, particularly as they impact workforce for major employment use, most likely east housing, our prime directive. There are also of I-75. chambers of commerce and other civic and business groups who are already involved. Keeping track of the Comp Plan updates Please feel free to contact me at is a daunting task for the community. Often, [email protected] and I’ll do my the public hearings pit no-growthers—and best to direct you to such groups. occasionally environmentalists—against the Read The Weekly Update and future business and development community as issues of this magazine from the Sarasota well as those citizens who try to see beyond Association of Realtors to follow this the rhetoric. process from start to finish. To get more Unfortunately, in the past, much of the County information, go to scgov.net and no-growth rhetoric has promoted sprawl click on Planning/Zoning in the right growth patterns which force residents to column, then on Comprehensive Plan drive farther for jobs and shopping Update in the center of the Planning/Zoning opportunities. In an age of high priced land page. This takes you to a page which and increasing oil costs—both of which contains the currently proposed chapters of negatively impact our workforce—sprawl is the Plan as well as the hearing schedule. an extremely expensive option. There’s also a “public input” form, but the The Planning Commission has sent a only real way to get your voice heard is to mixed message by promoting workforce participate — in person. housing on the one hand, while limiting Speaking of personal appearances, here’s opportunities on the other. Clearly, this is a a list of the upcoming scheduled public input time for the community to speak up and sessions: demand leadership from local elected I Tuesday, Sept. 6, 9 a.m. – officials. 5 p.m., North County, Public Input I Friday, Sept. 9, 10 a.m. – Noon and 1 – 3 Realtors® make an impact p.m., South County, Public Input Realtors®, who are viewed as I Wednesday, Sept. 14, 5 – 7 p.m., North professionals on land use and market trends, County, Public Input need to be involved in the Comp Plan I Tuesday, Sept. 20, 9 a.m. – process. If you have a particular concern— 5 p.m., North County, Deliberations Continued on page 20 www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor Magazine September 2005 11 Mastering incoming calls can save time, and money Take charge of an incoming seller call by asking the right questions, and you can clinch the listing By Howard Brinton
Someone interested in selling a home has called meantime, is there anything I can help you with today in preparation for your your office. You try to set an appointment with this move?” potential client, only to be met with the I For prospects wanting to sell within six months, some practitioners prefer to do a disappointing reply: “No, thanks, we’re just doing full pre-listing interview on the phone. Suppose the seller calling in is very Sa little research. We’ll call you when we’re ready.” interested in listing with you and has agreed to come into your office. You can ask this: In situations like this it’s easy to feel the good relationship. They will come out I “We can best prepare for our appointment seller is in the power position. You want the and appraise the property for you for a with you if we can gather some business and there are many other real estate fee. At the same time, I can send you information in advance. I’d like to ask professionals the seller could hire. information on comparable homes from you a few questions. It will take about 10 Quite the contrary: You should take the our computer. Or, Barbara, if you want to minutes. Is that OK?” lead by asking questions, as the person who put your home on the market, I encourage I Now, launch into a prepared questionnaire asks the most questions controls a you to come into our office and discuss and fill it out as completely as possible. conversation. A well-constructed questioning the process of selling your home with us. You can create your own questionnaire process greatly improves your chances of Would you like an appraisal or an using some of the following topics, and bringing in a new listing. Prepare good appointment?” add any of your own questions. questions, and ask them with real interest. I If the caller wants an appointment, ask When dealing with in-bound calls, show The caller will sense your concern and about preferred times until you have set enthusiasm for your work and show become eager to meet with you. the date. If they hesitate to commit, back confidence that you can handle their A couple of general tips: off a bit. Tell them briefly why you are a business better than anyone out there. The good choice for a real estate practitioner, prospect will respond well to your Remember that your goal by the end of and return to the questioning process: leadership, and you will be on your way to a each call is to set a listing appointment to I “By the way, do you mind if I ask you a listing transaction. discuss your services. You must ask for this few questions? Are you the only owner of www.realtor.org appointment, sometimes more than once, the property? And what is the address during the call. You can ask this: there? What is a number I can reach you Assume you will get the appointment and Name: ______at? Why are you selling? When do you give them choices as to when that will be. Address of the property need to move?” you are selling:______Ask, “Do you prefer mornings or Work phone: ______afternoons?” Or, “Is Tuesday or Thursday of I The answers will help you keep the Home phone: ______next week better for you?” (Notice that conversation flowing. If the prospect Mailing address: ______agrees to give you this much information, How did you hear about us? ______offering choices is the same thing fast food Where are you moving to? ______restaurants do, and with good reason: “Do you can bet they will agree to meet with How soon do you need to be there? ______you want a small, medium, or large drink you, so try again to set the listing Is your home currently on the market appointment. with another real estate professional? ______with that?”) Has your home been listed in the I If the seller indicates they won’t be past year?______What to say first moving for a year or so, defer spending When are you thinking of putting your home on the market? ______As soon as a call comes in, thank the time with them. Your time is better spent How long have you lived there?______person for calling. Ask their name and use it with prospects who have an immediate What price range do you think your once or twice during the conversation. need for your help. Tell the person: home is in? ______Would you like recent sales information People are always pleased when you “If you’re looking to move in a year or from your neighborhood, so we can remember their name; it demonstrates so, we can hold off on getting together discuss the right price to get your interest. Often, sellers are looking for a to determine a price on your home home sold at this time? ______Are you interviewing any other market valuation on their property, so try because things are going to change. real estate professionals? ______this script: What I suggest is that we meet about a Are you considering working with another company? ______I “If you want to know the market value of month before you know you’re going to What are you looking for in the your property, we can do one of two be transferred. I’ll check in with you in practitioner you select? ______things. If you are strictly calling for price, three months, and if the date moves up What kind of loan do you have on your I can give you the name of a couple of earlier, give me a call back. In the home, and what is the interest rate? ______What is the approximate loan balance? ______appraisers with whom we have built a 12 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com Wherever you’re headed, it’s easy to get there when you live at The Woodlands. Via I-75, Sarasota is a 30- minute drive and Fort Myers is less than an hour away. Shopping at the Port Charlotte Town Center Mall is nearby. And all the recreational options of the Myakka River and Boca Grande beaches are just minutes away.
EVERYTHIN G A MASTE R-PLANNE D NEIGHBORHOODS FOR EVERYON E. COMMUN ITY SHOU LD B E. Whether you ’re a young professional, a family with The W oodlands is a wonderful place to come growing children or an active adult, The Woodlands home to. Lush landscaping, lakes and has a home for you in a neighborhood that suits your natural wetlands are located throughout lifestyle. Choose from a variety of home styles in a wide the community. Parks, playground and selection of home types. Whichever captivates your community swimming pools mean there’s imagination, you can be assured you ’re buying a quality I-75 North always something to do. And home built by a leading national builder, Centex Homes. to Sarasota families will r eally appreciate Visit the temporary sales and information center, Exit 179 that an elementary , middle located between Dillard ’s and JCPenney at The Port and high school are Charlotte Town Center Mall, 1441 Tamiami Trail, US 41 THE planned right within Suite 375 Port Charlotte, Florida, call 941-627-9922 WOODLANDS I-75 South the community. or visit centexhomes.com. SALES to Ft. Myers CENTER NYSE CTXwww.sarasotarealtors.com Mor tgage Company, Commerce T itle Company and Centex I nsurance Agency are subsidiariesSarasota of Centex and Realtor offer homebuyersMagazine the ease of September 2005 13 one-stop shopping. Br oker participation w elcome. Features, amenities, prices, rates, terms and availability are subject to change without notice or CTX obligation. This material shall not constitute a v alid offer in any state where prior r egistration is r equired. CRC058112 CGC1505726 Appealing Property Taxes versus Appealing Property Value: How much is your property really worth?
By Jim Todora, MAI, CAE Sarasota County Property Appraiser
At this time of year we receive a lot of calls from people concerned over the amount of their property taxes. Often they ask, “How can I appeal my taxes?” This common question is not easy to answer in a ashort sound bite and frequently requires further investigation.
Technically, there is no forum to appeal professionals to estimate market value. an individual property tax. You can address your elected officials in attempts However, if after answering these or other to persuade them to reduce the overall tax questions you are led to the conclusion that JIM TODORA burden, but they cannot alter an individual tax bill. However, I have seen relatively If you believe the market small groups of people go a long way in value, as listed on the influencing government officials at public meetings. Property Appraiser’s For more information, You have the right to appeal records, is incorrect, a call the Property On the other hand, you can appeal challenge can be made. Appraiser’s office at your property value. If you believe the 941-861-8200 or visit market value, as listed on the Property the Taxable Value is overstated, you have www.sarasotaproperty.net Appraiser’s records, is incorrect, a three options for a challenge: challenge can be made. But before you I Request an informal conference with the make that challenge you should ask Property Appraiser or his deputy yourself a few questions: Does the market value represent my property’s value in I Petition the Value Adjustment Board today’s market? If I were to offer my I File a lawsuit in Circuit Court property for sale, would I expect to receive this price? Have recently While all three levels of challenge are purchased neighborhood properties like available to the property owner, it is not mine brought this price? If the answer to necessary to employ all of them. You may choose any one or a combination of the three Often the informal alternatives. Each challenge process has meeting results in a certain legal limitations. better understanding and Meeting may resolve issues sometimes a resolution We encourage the owner to first meet with the Property Appraiser or his deputy in an of the matter, thus informal conference. Following the meeting, if you are not satisfied you may file a petition avoiding a hearing. with the Clerk of the Value Adjustment Board within 25 days of the TRIM Notice mailing. If any of these questions is yes, perhaps the conclusion of the Value Adjustment Board there is no reason to appeal the value. In results in dissatisfaction, you may file suit in other words, the Property Appraiser relies upon market data just like many other Continued on page 40
14 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com
Commercial Investment Division
Drive, chip and putt to support affordable housing initiative
As summer’s searing heat and humidity settles into fall’s cooler, less draining clime, the lure of the links and courts brings Realtors and residents alike a refreshing recreational respite. But enough flowery prose. It’s time to go for the green and race to the net for athe smash return – and it’s all for a vital community cause. The Sponsorship opportunities are still Commercial available, through Sept. 23, so sign up Investment now! The marketing exposure and Division of the potential audience will be enormous, and Sarasota the funds go toward a tremendous cause. Association of Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Realtors is Club (the “Club”) is a private sponsoring Golf membership organization, owned and & Tennis at the Comedian operated by Lakewood Ranch Golf Ranch on Lou Angelwolf Company, LLC, an entity of Schroeder- Thursday, Sept. 29. The division’s major Manatee Ranch, Inc. (“SMR”). annual fundraiser at Lakewood Ranch The goal of the Club, according to Country Club provides money to support their web site, is to provide lifestyle the Realtor® Affordable Housing Fund. amenities for its members. The Club The availability of affordable and consists of the Private Course, featuring workforce housing is crucial to our area, 36 holes of golf designed by the Palmer particularly in these times of soaring Course Design Co., a practice range, property values. While many might see practice chipping area and practice the escalation of home prices as strictly a putting greens. good thing for Realtors, the preservation The beautiful clubhouse offers of affordable communities for the approximately 42,000 square feet of workforce and first-time home buyers is space, featuring a formal dining room, essential to an area’s future vitality. grille and lounge, banquet facilities, No segment of the business private dining rooms, men’s and ladies’ community is more acutely aware of this lounges and card rooms, golf pro shop, fact than the real estate professionals. locker rooms, cart storage and That’s why the Sarasota Association of administrative offices. Realtors has made the issue of promoting The Athletic Center features 18 affordable and workforce housing as the lighted tennis courts, pro shop and deli, organization’s primary focus in heated Junior Olympic and resort pools, governmental affairs and is pro-active in and fitness center of approximately finding solutions that make sense. 11,000 square feet with state-of-the-art This year’s CID event is hosted by equipment, aerobic room, steam room, Lakewood Ranch Country Club on Sept. sauna, whirlpool, therapy room and 29. Sign-in for golf and tennis begins at locker rooms. noon, and a cash bar will open at 5 p.m., Registration is now open for Golf & with dinner served at 6 p.m. Comedian Tennis at the Ranch, so don’t be left out Lou Angelwolf will entertain the when the fun begins! And get those clubs participants following dinner. and rackets ready for a great afternoon of action!
16 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com Commercial: Industry optimism a new trend Taste of Sarasota Continued from page 6 A national survey from Black’s Industry outlook and Guide, a commercial real estate (CRE) trending data restaurant/foodservice industry. FRA source, reveals that 89 percent of members serve their communities by commercial real estate professionals The survey found that some markets had a generously and actively giving their time believe business over the next six more optimistic industry outlook than others. to assist in a variety of charitable Orlando is the most optimistic city of those months will be as good as, or better, programs. Whether it's feeding the surveyed: 51 percent of Orlando’s respondents than it has been in the prior six months. hungry or helping to find jobs for the anticipated their average current space This confidence follows a half-decade unemployed, FRA members believe in requirement to “increase” in the coming six slump in the commercial real estate giving something back to the community industry. months. Denver had the second most positive outlook with 50 percent anticipating an so that there is always more for those Rather than focusing on where who need it most. tenants will come from, commercial increase; in third place was Tampa, with 45 professionals are focusing on the percent of respondents predicting an increase. The two Florida cities both also cited an Proceeds from the Taste will benefit 40 increased demands of new tenants such Carrots, All Faiths Food Bank, and the as WiFi and food services, and the increase in average space requirements over the Realtor® Affordable Housing Fund. Last challenges of accelerating development past 6 months. year, $21,000 was raised to benefit the such as traffic issues and delays in Amenities and challenges housing fund and assist in finding construction permits, the survey shows. According to the Black’s Guide findings, answers to a problem that is vexing the Nearly 1,000 commercial real estate WiFi was the most popular amenity requested professionals nationwide participated in community, state and nation (see related by tenants today. Coming in at number two articles in this issue). the survey. The respondent pool was was food services, with health clubs came in drawn from the Black’s Guide online third. Some interesting amenities being asked registered-user database of more than for are: “24-7 air conditioning for computers” 18,000 commercial real estate (South Florida), “sustainable/green practices professionals - primarily brokers, within the facility” (New Jersey) and “high-end property managers and developers - in restaurants” (Dallas). How You Can Help 19 markets the company serves around the country. Overall, lack of parking topped the Sponsors and volunteers are needed “The results of our first CRE Trends nationwide list as the biggest leasing challenge, for The Taste of Sarasota! If you or Survey demonstrate that the but that wasn’t the major concern in all your company would like more commercial real estate industry is markets. Other leading concerns include: information on sponsorship experiencing signs of consistent growth I The San Francisco and Michigan markets opportunities, please contact Susan after a sluggish five years,” said Ed cited “excess inventory” as their major Brooks of RE/MAX Gulfstream at Barnes, vice president and general obstacle, 67 percent and 75 percent, 360-7777, or by email at manager of Black’s Guide. “CRE respectively. [email protected] professionals are back into problem- I The Orlando and New Jersey markets noted solving mode … looking for the kind of “lack of inventory” as their biggest Marketing opportunities are creative solutions and high-quality challenge, 41 percent and 31 percent, plentiful at these popular community information that gets deals done.” respectively. events. Businesses may donate “goodie bags,” and also participate Other survey findings: I The Jacksonville and New York City through event t-shirts, and all forms of I On space requirements: 43 percent of markets specified “creating product media, TV, radio, print and respondents indicated their average differentiation,” 50 percent and 34 percent, space requirement over the last 6 respectively. promotional literature. months as between 1,000-5,000 Volunteers are also needed to make square feet. The 10-question multiple-choice questionnaire was national in scope. Specific this event a success. For further I On term of a lease: The majority of markets polled were: Atlanta, Baltimore, information visit the official web site respondents (55 percent) cited 3-5 of the event – www.tasteofsarasota.org years as the average term of a lease Boston, Chicago, Connecticut/New York, entered into in their market. Dallas, Denver, Houston, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, Michigan, New Jersey, Manhattan, Current sponsors include: Sweetbay I On deal value: The majority of Orlando, Philadelphia, Richmond, San Supermarket, Countrywide Home respondents (58 percent) noted their Francisco, Tampa and Washington, D,C. While Loans, Michelob, Pepsi, Exit Realty average leasing deal was worth up to commercial real estate brokers constituted 35 Gulf Coast, Comcast, Sarasota Herald- $500,000 this year; 14 percent had percent of all respondents, there were also Tribune, ClearChannel Sarasota, average deals between $1 million-$5 property managers (13 percent) and developers WWSB Channel 7, Sunny 1220 AM, million. (8 percent) among others - such as landlord www.4sarasota.com, Sarasota In all but two of the markets polled, reps and investors - who weighed in Magazine, Must Do, Spotlight “banking/finance” ranked as the leading Graphics and the Hyatt Sarasota. industry to have leased commercial . - FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® space over the past 6 months. www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor Magazine September 2005 17 Meet your 2006 SAR Board Officer and Director candidates These ten candidates will take on leadership positions at your Association this fall Joe Hembree 2002, she was named “Realtor of the Year.” Century 21 Centurion Award Winner for President-Elect She also served as a director for the the past seven years. She is also a Century Founder and Pennsylvania Association from 1993-2002. 21 Quality Service Award Winner. president of Hembree On a national level, Helen has served as a Kris has two children—Brian, and & Associates, Inc., NAR director and on several committees. daughter Stacie, married to David Rossow. Joe has over 25 years In 2000, she was appointed to a special She also has two beautiful grandchildren— experience in all NAR strategic planning committee. David, 2, and Emma, 1. facets of Commercial Real Estate. He is a Kris Niehaus Directors past-president of the Secretary Steve Bailey Commercial Investment Division of SAR, Kris Niehaus has Steve, nominated past chairman of the Sarasota County been an active to serve as SAR Committee for Economic Development, Realtor since 1991, Board Director for a and founding member of the Tampa Bay and is nominated as three-year term, Partnership. Secretary for the entered the real estate He has handled the development, sale, board of directors of profession in 1979 as leasing and management of land, office the Sarasota a sales associate for buildings, shopping centers and income Association of Merrill Lynch Realty producing properties throughout the Realtors for 2006. and eventually Southwest Florida area. Kris will also chair the Programs became the Executive Joe holds a Bachelor of Science degree Committee of the Women’s Council of Vice President of Merrill Lynch Realty in in Economics from the University of Realtors, Sarasota chapter, in 2006. Connecticut and Long Island, with more Florida and is a former Navy pilot. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Kris moved than 68 offices and more than 1,800 sales Joe is currently the President-elect, and to Siesta Key 45 years ago. She attended St associates. serving as Secretary on the Board of Martha’s and Incarnation Grammar School In 1992, Steve became the owner of an Directors for SAR. He is also on the Board and graduated from Cardinal Mooney High independent real estate company in of Directors for the Commercial Investment School. Connecticut with 16 offices and more than Division (CID) of SAR. She began her career in 1971 as Clerk of 350 sales associates. The company gained Circuit Court, Criminal Division, Assistant recognition as one of the top 150 real estate Helen V. Sosso Department Head. From 1974-1990, she companies in the nation based upon units Treasurer was vice-president of Drawingboard sold and sales volume. Since first Concepts, an advertising agency. Steve received his B.A. in political entering the real Kris became a Realtor with Helene science from East Carolina University in estate profession as Anderson Realty from 1991-1994, and Greenville, NC and his J.D. from Tulane an agent in 1976, from 1994 to today she has been a Realtor University School of Law in New Orleans, Helen has served with Century 21 Advantage. LA. Steve served one year as a U.S. Army active roles in the Elected as President-Elect of the Infantry Lieutenant in Vietnam. Realtor associations Women’s Council of Realtors in 2003, she In May 2004, Steve affiliated with in Florida and served as President in 2004. That year she Michael Saunders & Company and Pennsylvania, acting on a local, state and also earned her Performance, Management, oversees the residential brokerage operation national level. She is nominated for the Networking Designation (PMN). and the career development and relocation position of Treasurer of the Sarasota In 2005, Kris was exceptionally busy, divisions. Association of Realtors Board of Directors chairing the Nominating Committee for 2006. Sarasota Women’s Council of Realtors; Lee Gerletti Helen joined the SAR in 2001. Last serving as committee member on the In 1999, Lee R. year, she served on the Board of Directors Membership Committee of the Women’s Gerletti, GRI, of both FAR and SAR as well as chairing Council of Realtors; and serving on the obtained his Florida the Realtor/Attorney Committee. She is Council’s Governing Board. She was also Real Estate License also co-owner of Prudential Palms Realty elected as director with the Sarasota and initially in Sarasota and Prudential Preferred Realty Association of Realtors, and she was vice specialized in the in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. chair of the Programs Committee. sale and development Prior to her affiliation with SAR, Helen Kris received the National Chapter of vacant land. He is was active, since 1978, in the Realtor Excellent Award for 2004 with the currently affiliated with Keller Williams Association of Metropolitan Pittsburgh. Women’s Council of Realtors. She was Realty, Downtown Sarasota, focusing There she served on various committees as inducted into the Centurion Honor Society, primarily on residential sales. well as serving as 1998 Board President. In Century 21 International, and has been a
18 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com This year, Lee earned the National and Realtor®/Attorney Committees, Finance Since joining Osprey in 1999, Brian has Association of Realtors Designation, GRI. Committee, Realtor® Day and Board of successfully negotiated leases for over a He is also active with the Downtown Directors. million square feet of Class “A” Office, Partnership and the Chamber of Flex and Industrial Warehouse space, Commerce, and currently serves on the Judy Hockett which are valued in excess of $95 million. Governmental Affairs Committee at the Judy Hockett is a Brian received the CCIM designation from Sarasota Board of Realtors. native Floridian and Commercial Investment Real Estate Lee is originally from Royal Oak, active in the real Institute in January 2004. A Certified Michigan, and was transferred to Sarasota estate profession for Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) in 1978 by a fine jewelry manufacturer out the past 27 years. is a recognized expert in the disciplines of of New York City. He assumed Born in Miami, commercial and investment real estate. responsibility for the management of the Judy moved to Nationwide only 6% of commercial lease department and sales of fine jewelry Sarasota in 1968 practitioners hold the CCIM designation. in Sarasota, Manatee and Pinellas counties and obtained her for a national retail firm. real estate salesman Roger M. Piro As a Goldsmith and Gemologist, Lee license in 1978, and, later her GRI designa- Roger M. Piro, went on to establish his own manufacturing tion. She has been an active member and originally from and retail business, The Gemcrafter of St. energetic participant in the Sarasota Cleveland, Ohio, Armands Circle. He was on the Board of Association of Realtors since 1978. moved to Sarasota in Directors for the St. Armands Circle Judy and her business partner, Elaine 1978. Becoming a Merchants Association. Gast, have been with RE/MAX Properties licensed salesman in Lee has been nominated to serve a two- for more than 13 years. 1994, Roger immedi- year term on the board of directors, through Judy served on the Grievance ately joined the then 2006. Committee of the SAR for the two years Sarasota Board of preceding her current term as Chairman of Realtors and began his involvement on David C. the Professional Standards Committee. She many different committees. In 2003, Roger Groom II is currently nominated to serve as an SAR became a broker-associate. David C. Groom board director for a three-year term. Roger has been with CENTURY 21 II is a native of Advantage continually since 1994. He Sarasota. He Brian J. Kennelly originally specialized in residential real obtained his real Brian Kennelly estate, rising to and continuing as one of estate salesman graduated with a the companies award-winning sales associ- license in 1975, at Bachelor of Science ates. the age of 18, and his Degree in Real After being asked by his Broker, Roger broker-salesman Estate from Florida agreed to step into a management position license in 1976. He received an AS Degree State University and and managed the Bee Ridge Road office in Real Estate in 1977 from Manatee Junior has been for several years. During this time, Roger College. professionally was involved with educating and mentoring David has been a member of the associated with the many agents, leading them to more produc- Sarasota Association of Realtors since real estate industry for more than 17 years. tive careers. It was also during this time 1976, and has been very active in the Brian is the Director of Leasing of when Roger’s leadership abilities became association since he joined. He has been Osprey Real Estate Services, LLC (ORES) apparent. chairman of the following committees for and Osprey Management Company, LLC Having an outstanding reputation for one or more years: Blood Bank, (Osprey). Osprey is a real estate company honesty, depth of knowledge and top level Communications, Library, Realtor® Day, that developes, leases and manages quality service, new sales associates contin- and Signs & Advertising. commercial real estate for various ue to approach Roger for guidance and David has also served on the following “Osprey” holding companies and advice even though, after the birth of his committees over the years, many more than partnerships in Florida, Michigan and in second child, he decided to return to repre- one time: Signs & Advertising, Board of the Southeast United States. ORES is a senting clients directly and returned to the Directors, Finance, Grievance, Equal full service Real Estate brokerage entity practice of real estate on a full-time basis. Opportunity, Realtor® Lender, that specializes in tenant representation, Roger is currently Chairman of the Realtor®/Attorney, Realtor®/Associate, property management and investment sales Grievance Committee, and also serves on Private Property Week, Membership, primarily on the West Coast of Florida. the Realtor-Attorney Committee. In past American Home Week, Orientation, Brian’s well-rounded real estate career years he has served on the Membership Library, Awards, Civic Affairs, MLS, encompasses experience as a Real Estate Committee, the Professional Development Program, Governmental Affairs, Appraiser, Account Executive for First Committee, the Realtor-Attorney Scholarship, and Realtor® Day. David has American RES (formerly TRW Property Committee and the Grievance Committee been a speaker at the Realtor’s Orientation Data) and Co-Principal of a luxury custom of SAR. Day regarding Signs & Advertising. homebuilder and developer. This year David is serving on the MLS Continued on page 20 www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor Magazine September 2005 19 2006 SAR Board Continued from page 19 Erick H. Shumway Your 2006 Board one-man firm. He soon moved his license to Erick H. Shumway President Coldwell Banker Real Estate and has is a second-generation Felix Power continued his association with this firm even Sarasota Realtor® with Felix Power, as he moved his residency to Sarasota in 1998. more than 30 years incoming Board Felix continues as one of Coldwell experience in the real president for 2006, Banker’s Top agents achieving membership in estate profession. received his Bachelor’s its Diamond Society and International Erick opened degree from the State President’s Circle. His commitment to his RE/MAX Suncoast University College at profession and community is evidenced by his Realty two years ago, Buffalo, New York. involvement: on Clark Road near Interstate 75. The office An Honor Roll and Dean’s List student, SAR (Sarasota Association of Realtors)— specializes in waterfront and high-end residen- while attending college Felix also completed Board of Directors, Executive Committee, tial and commercial property. four years’ employment with a local museum. International Committee, MLS Committee, Erick has seen many changes in the local Upon graduation, Felix became the Curator of Professional Development Committee real estate industry since he was introduced to Education at the Buffalo Historical Society. FAR (Florida Association of Realtors)— the business by his father, Maurice Shumway. Responsible for the Education program, Felix FAR Director, International Operations He has established valuable relationships with developed and coordinated off-site programs, Committee, International Education Sub- builders and developers, and his longtime local museum tours and volunteer docent programs. Committee Chair, Professional Development experience has given him the knowledge and A career change put him in the banking Committee, FAR Faculty Development understanding of the history and character of business, progressing from the Mortgage Loan Committee Sarasota. Servicing & Mortgage Loan Origination Southwest Florida Business Guild - Board Erick’s dexterity in both commercial and Departments to the holding company’s Merger of Directors, Education Scholarship residential real estate transactions has served & Acquisitions Operations Group. This Committee, Outreach Committee him well with his clientele, and has earned position brought Felix to Florida, directing the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce - him numerous sales accolades over the years. Planning & Operations of the acquired Volunteer, Sandfest Committee, Judge for He has been active in the Sarasota Association entities. Small Business of the Year Award (2000), of Realtors, and has been nominated to serve Felix moved from St. Petersburg to Chair of the Ambassador Committee (2000) as a three-year director, from 2005-07. Orlando where he joined another banking firm Church of the Trinity, MCC – Deacon, as Vice President of Retail Banking Music Ministry, Lector, Eucharistic Minister Operations. In 1989, Felix moved to the real estate business, beginning his career with a
9OUR TIME YOUR CHOICES Comprehensive Plan YOUR SUCCESS /VER GRADUATES Amendments SINCE Continued from page 11 2EAL %STATE %DUCATIO N U ÈÎÕÀ ->ià ÃÃV>Ìi *ÀiViÃi V>ÃÃÀ E i® I Thursday, Sept. 22, 9 a.m. – U ÇÓÕÀ ÀiÀ *ÀiViÃi i® .%7 5 p.m., North County, (Note: North County meetings U ÌÕ} `ÕV>Ì\ Deliberations are held at the Sarasota County {xÕÀ ->ià ÃÃV>Ìi *ÃÌViÃi i® Administration Center, 1660 £{ÕÀ ->ià ÃÃV>Ìi E ÀiÀ I Friday, Sept. 23, 9 a.m. – Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, in the VÀÀ ië`iVi E i® 5 p.m., North County, County Commission Chamber; Deliberations "ÕÀ ÃÌÀÕVÌÀà >` EXCLUSIVE >ÌiÀ>à South County meetings are held at >i Ì i `vviÀiVit I Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2 – 5 p.m., the Robert L. Anderson South County, Final Meeting WWWBERTRODGERSCOM Administration Center, 4000 South I Wednesday, Sept. 28, 3 p.m. – Tamiami Trail, Venice, in the 5 p.m., North County, Final County Commission Chamber.) Meeting iÀÌ ,`}iÀà -V Ão > À`> ÌÀ>`Ìt
20 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com n n If seller approves, purchase offers must be divulged o
o Editor’s Note: The following article concerns ETHUCase #1-28: Disclosure of Existence of Offers to Prospective Purchasers (Adopted November 2002), and is intended as an educational tool for i i our members. t t c c Seller S listed her home for sale Realtor® A if he thought that Realtor® A’s buyer- ® client would have made an offer on Seller S’s home with Realtor B. The property was absent Realtor® B’s refusal to disclose whether ®
A ® A priced reasonably and Realtor B there were other offers pending. Realtor A responded that it was impossible to tell for certain, was confident it would sell quickly. but his buyer-client had certainly not been The listing agreement included the favorably impressed by Realtor® B’s response to a n n s seemingly routine question.
i seller’s authorization for publication i in the MLS and authority to Seller S subsequently filed an ethics complaint against Realtor® B alleging violation of Article 1 as disclose the existence of offers to interpreted by Standard of Practice 1-15. He noted s s prospective purchasers. that he had clearly authorized Realtor® B to disclose to buyers and cooperating brokers the c c ® Within days, Realtor® B had shown the property existence of pending offers and that Realtor B’s i i to several prospective purchasers and one of them, arbitrary refusal to share information he was Buyer Z, wrote a purchase offer at close to the authorized to share could have been the reason, or part of the reason, why Realtor® A’s client had
h asking price. h chosen not to make an offer on Seller S’s home. t t Realtor® B called Seller S to make an appointment to present the offer. After hanging up Realtor® B defended his actions indicating that with Seller S, Realtor® B received another call, this while he agreed that he had an obligation to E E time from Realtor® A. Realtor® A explained that he promote Seller S’s interests, his obligation to represented a buyer who was interested in making Realtor® A and to Realtor® A’s buyer-client was an offer on Seller S’s property. Realtor® A simply to be honest. He had not, in any fashion, explained that while his buyer-client was quite misrepresented the availability of Seller S’s interested in the property, price was also a property. Rather, he had simply told Realtor® A to concern. He asked Realtor® B if there were other encourage his client to make her best offer. “I’m offers on the property, indicating that his buyer- not required to turn every sale into an auction, am client would likely make a higher offer if there I?” he asked rhetorically. “I feel that I treated all were competing offers on the table. Realtor® B parties honestly and fairly,” he concluded. responded telling Realtor® A, “That’s confidential information. Please tell your client to make his The Hearing Panel did not agree with Realtor® best offer.” B’s reasoning, indicating that he had violated Article 1 as interpreted by Standard of Practice 1- Taken aback by Realtor® B’s comments, 15. They noted that Standard of Practice 1-15 ® Realtor® A shared them with his buyer-client, who requires Realtor , if they have the seller’s approval, chose not to make an offer and instead pursued to divulge the existence of offers to purchase on other properties. listed property in response to inquiries from either potential buyers or from cooperating brokers. Buyer Z’s offer was accepted by Seller S later Realtor® B had not met that obligation and, that evening and, sometime later, the transaction consequently, the Hearing Panel concluded that closed. Realtor® B had violated Article 1.
Several months afterward, Seller S and Realtor® – Submitted by the Grievance Committee, A met at a social event. Realtor® A related his Case #1-28: Disclosure of Existence of Offers to conversation with Realtor® B. Seller S asked Prospective Purchasers (Adopted November 2002).
www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor Magazine September 2005 21
Sales and Listings for July 2005
Residential Sales Summary Sales Data* SARASOTA ONLY July 2005 July 1 to July 31, 2005 SALES as of SALES Aug. 10 ’05 Class Sales Average Sale Price Median Sale Price Sold Volume 2 – 3 4+ CONDO TOTAL PRICE BDRMS BDRMS BDRMS CO-OP UNITS Residential 534 $470,395 $360,000 $251,191,261 $99,999 OR UNDER 3 0 0 0 4 Condo 284 $444,421 $293,000 $126,215,670 $100,000-119,999 4 0 0 1 5 July 2004 $120,000-139,999 4 1 0 5 10 Class Sales Average Sale Price Median Sale Price Sold Volume $140,000-159,999 0 1 0 7 8 Residential 677 $366,165 $273,000 $247,894,326 $160,000-179,999 3 1 1 18 23 Condo 303 $326,409 $219,000 $ 98,901,934 $180,000-199,999 5 2 0 11 18 $200,000-249,999 22 28 2 44 96 $250,000-299,999 11 46 8 36 101 Listings Data* $300,000-399,999 28 59 12 39 138 $400,000-499,999 9 32 13 17 71 July 2005 $500,000-749,999 7 39 23 28 97 Class New Average List Price Median List Price Volume Listed $750,000-999,999 1 14 13 16 44 Residential 920 $651,987 $399,900 $599,828,557 OVER $1,000,000 1 13 18 22 54 Condo 375 $545,155 $364,900 $204,433,263 **TOTALS 98 237 90 245 670 July 2004 **MEDIAN PRICE $269 $364 $552 $299 $332 (in thousands) Class New Average List Price Median List Price Volume Listed **AVERAGE PRICE Residential 673 $515,968 $309,000 $347,246,821 $317 $461 $761 $470 $480 (in thousands) Condo 283 $699,626 $349,900 $197,994,371 TOTAL DOLLAR VOLUME TOTAL DOLLAR VOLUME TOTAL HOME SALES *Figures represent all listings reported in the Sarasota Association of Realtors SINGLE FAMILY CONDOMINIUM DOLLAR VALUE MLS. Figures include some Manatee, Englewood and Venice listings. $208,918,000 $119,228,000 $324,146,000
July 2005 Average Sale Price/Units Sold/Days On Market Residential Sales Summary 850- Year to Date 800- SARASOTA ONLY January 1 to July 31, 2005 SALES as of 750- SALES Aug 10 ’05 2 – 3 4+ CONDO TOTAL 700- PRICE BDRMS BDRMS BDRMS CO-OP UNITS 677 650- $99,999 OR UNDER 23 00 3 26 $100,000-119,999 6 0 0 4 10 600- $120,000-139,999 5 3 1 8 17 550- 572 $140,000-159,999 6 6 0 22 34 534 $160,000-179,999 10 1 1 47 59 500- $180,000-199,999 12 9 1 46 68 450- $470,395 $200,000-249,999 48 72 4 108 232 $444,421 $250,000-299,999 45 130 23 104 302 400- $300,000-399,999 101 193 31 115 440 350- $366,165 $400,000-499,999 49 133 38 74 294 $326,409 300- $500,000-749,999 40 169 117 165 491 $293,228 303 284 $750,000-999,999 24 98 75 190 387 250- $266,844 257 OVER $1,000,000 38 187 271 280 776 200- **TOTALS 408 1002 562 1166 3138 150- **MEDIAN PRICE $352 $475 $989 $599 $564 (in thousands) 120 100- 111 101 104 **AVERAGE PRICE 82 86 $543 $764 $1861 $888 $959 (in thousands) 50- TOTAL DOLLAR VOLUME TOTAL DOLLAR VOLUME TOTAL HOME SALES 0- SINGLE FAMILY CONDOMINIUM DOLLAR VALUE July 03 July 04 July 05 July 03 July 04 July 05 $2,034,438,000 $1,035,977,000 $3,070,415,000 RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM AVE. SALE PRICE UNITS SOLD DAYS ON MARKET These statistics were gathered from Sarasota Association of Realtors MLS on August 10, 2005. 22 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com Florida’s Existing Home Sales Slow in July; Median Price Continues to Rise
The frenzied pace of existing home Among the state’s larger metropolitan Sales Price sales in Florida eased in July, while the statistical areas (MSAs), Jacksonville statewide median sales price rose 33 reported a 7 percent increase in resales vs. percent to $252,300, according to the activity last month, with a total of 1,647 Florida Association of Realtors® (FAR). homes changing hands compared to 1,536 List Price A year ago, the statewide median price homes sold a year ago. The area's median twas $190,300; in July 2000, the sales price rose 20 percent to $190,500; a Rates statewide median price was $119,600, year ago, it was $159,000. according to FAR records. Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater was "The slowing of unit sales will lessen another larger MSA reporting higher sales Single Family one pressure point lying behind the in July compared to a year ago, with 4,742 abnormally high rates of change in homes sold for an increase of 1 percent. 2004 2005 median sales prices," says David Scott, The market’s median sales price rose 30 January 95.7% 96.9% executive director of the Dr. Phillips percent last month to $217,400. Institute for the Study of American February 96.5% 97.5% Business Activity and professor of March 96.1% 97.9% finance at the University of Central In Sarasota, the median April 96.8% 97.8% Florida (UCF). "Expect the ascent in sales price for a single- May 96.9% 97.5% median prices to begin a gentle leveling off. Several factors lie behind this: (1) family home in July 2005 June 97.1% 97.6% Inflation rates as recently reported have was $360,000, compared July 97.2% 97.4% increased substantially; (2) rising to $274,450 in July 2004. August 97.2% gasoline prices are negatively pressuring The number of single-family September 97.0% household units on the spending side of economic activity; (3) Federal Reserve homes sold in July 2005 October 97.2% policymakers continue to increase short- November 97.4% term interest rates; and (4) wages are was 534, compared to 710 December 97.6% rising at rates less than the various rates in July 2004. of inflation, which will reduce the number of borrowers easily qualifying for conventional mortgages." Among the state’s smaller MSAs, Fort Condominium A total of 21,669 existing single- Pierce-Port St. Lucie posted gains in July family homes changed hands in Florida home sales, with a total of 654 homes 2004 2005 last month, declining 8 percent compared changing hands compared to 623 homes a January 96.5% 97.6% to 23,646 homes sold in July 2004. year ago for a 5 percent boost. The area's February 96.2% 97.7% Nationally, the median sales price for median sales price rose 37 percent to March 96.1% 97.5% existing single-family homes was $265,300; a year ago, it was $193,500. $218,600 in June, up 14.5 percent from a Other smaller MSAs reporting major April 96.6% 97.5% year ago. In California, the statewide increases in resales activity last month May 96.8% 97.8% median resales price was $542,720 in compared to a year ago include: June 96.6% 97.3% June; in Maryland, it was $300,956; in Tallahassee, where 502 homes sold for a 13 July 96.8% 97.7% New York, it was $270,000; and in percent gain; and Gainesville, where 389 Illinois, it was $215,405. homes changed hands for a 7 percent August 97.4% Interest rates for a 30-year fixed-rate increase. The median sale price in those September 97.2% mortgage averaged 5.70 percent in July, markets also rose: in Tallahassee, 15 October 97.7% significantly lower than the 6.06 percent percent to $176,700; and in Gainesville, 11 November 97.7% rate averaged for the same month last percent to $185,600. – Florida Association year. FAR’s sales figures reflect closings, of Realtors® December 97.0% which typically occur 30 to 90 days after sales contracts are written.
www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor Magazine September 2005 23 Education Programs
FREE Technology Programs from MLS Advantage and Forms Online I How to Stay Out of Your Family of Realtor Gold will demonstrate how easily you Trouble With FREC Associations—SAR, FAR and NAR. can search for listings throughout all All classes will be held in SAR’s participating MLS databases with one Instructor Daniel Villazon of the law Education Center. simple tool. Plus, you will see how firm of Daniel Villazon, P.A., will easily you can auto-populate listing present the seminar “How to Stay Out of information right into your free Forms Trouble With FREC” on Thursday, Oct. Ongoing Technology Online Gold account. Classes from SAR 20 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Sarasota ® PlanetRealtor.com: After lunch, Brad Association of Realtors . Registration I Basic MLS Training will take you on a tour of Planet Realtor will begin at 12:30 p.m. where you can search public property Sept. 7 & 21 Villazon is the former legal 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. records for counties throughout Florida, counsel to FREC, FAR and the get tech help in a hurry, and generate FLRE Appraisal Board. The cost I Advanced MLS Training client prospect lists and print labels— of the seminar is $10 for SAR Sept. 8 & 22 just for starters. members, and the presentation is 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. considered a must for Brokers, Basic and advanced MLS training is managers, developers and sales a free service for SAR members. Phone FREE from NAR offices. reservations are required. Please call Carolyn at 923-2315. I e-PRO Workshop with ᮣ Learn the top 10 things to avoid losing Mike Barnett your real estate license, plus the do’s I iMAPP – Tax Program Dec. 8, 2005 and don’ts of selling real estate Sept. 19 1 to 2:30 p.m. developments. The seminar will 9:30 to 11 a.m. SAR Education Center explain what to expect from a Free program – FREE to SAR Members FREC audit. No pre-registration required Increase your earning power with The following will be discussed: Learn how to download the tax roll NAR’s free e-PRO Workshop, presented ᮣ Bank statements/escrow accounts, software, search, use the maps, compare by Mike Barnett, Vice President of handling of deposits and properties, create labels for mailing and Technology for InternatCrusade®. reconciliations much more. Designed to introduce Realtors to the- ᮣ Disputed contract matters, as well as PRO designation course (the only online escrow deposit disputes technology certification course offered Free from FAR ᮣ Review of sales contract matters by NAR®), this workshop will cover ᮣ Proper signage Your FAR/SAR membership comes some really useful stuff: with a wealth of real estate information ᮣ Create a permanent e-mail address ᮣ Proper licensing of salespersons and compliance with continuing education available through just one portal— ᮣ Create an e-mail marketing campaign requirements PlanetRealtor.com. Hurry and register with software you already own today-- first-come, first served! Quick ᮣ Required transaction notices in ᮣ Turn ordinary e-mail into contract files and easy online registration is now set marketing pieces up for both of these free programs that ᮣ Broker liability for single and multi- ᮣ Build your e-mail address book will immediately boost your business office companies potential without costing you a cent! ᮣ Use auto responders ᮣ Operating procedures for escrow Create filters and unlimited e-mail deposits and disputes I MLS Advantage/Forms addresses to eliminate the hassle of ᮣ Online SPAM Documentation between parties relative to deposits timeline and 10 a.m. to noon Register online at requirements sarasotarealtors.com. First -come, ᮣ Advertising requirements and I Tour of PlanetRealtor.com first-served. disclosures 2 to 3:30 p.m. ᮣ Risk management Instructor: Brad Neff, FAR Vice President for Marketing and Business Services
24 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com Education Programs
Designation Courses Certified Commercial Investment I Certified International Property Specialist Member (CCIM) (CIPS) Sarasota enjoys visitors and investors from many I CI 101 – Financial Analysis for Commercial foreign countries, particularly from Great Britain, Investment Real Estate France, Germany, Canada, and Russia. Completing a Oct. 3-7, 2005 successful real estate transaction with a foreign national First day check-in: 8 to 8:30 a.m. presents special challenges, but also has many rewards. Class: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Consider joining the SAR International Council and Cost if received by Aug. 26: $599 become a part of this exciting and growing segment of Cost if received after Aug. 26: $635 the marketplace. SAR International Council holds CCIM Candidate Rate: $920 frequent education programs and offers opportunities for REALTOR Rate: $1,040 networking. The Council is also beginning to plan a Non-Candidate Rage: $1,090 major international real estate conference for 2006—so Course and Candidacy - $1,370 join today. Call Catherine McCaskill at 923-2315. Instructors: Dan Page, CCIM The Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) Mark Polon, CCIM course curriculum is designed to help you grow your This flagship CCIM course offers an array of financial analysis international clientele. The CIPS courses offered below concepts and calculations to help you make sound commercial are the educational foundation of the CIPS Network. A real estate investment decisions. You will learn the fundamentals CIPS designation distinguishes you as an individual who of profitable investing and apply these concepts to commercial has hands-on experience in international real estate properties. Advanced analyses covered throughout the course transactions, as well as who has successfully completed include real estate cash flow model and time value of money. In an intensive seven-day program of study focusing on addition, you’ll learn how to accurately measure investment value critical aspects of transnational transactions, including and performance of a given property. currency and exchange rate issues, cross-cultural Topics include: relationships, regional market conditions, investment performance, tax issues and more. ᮣ Investment Fundamentals ᮣ Real Estate Cash Flow Model I Europe/Asia/Pacific, /the Americas and ᮣ Making Informed Financial Decisions International Real Estate* ᮣ Determining Investment Value Monday – Wednesday, Sept. 19- 21 ᮣ Investment Performance Instructors: Tony Macaluso and Pius Leung ᮣ Tax Implications Cost: $635 ᮣ Two comprehensive case studies I CIPS Investment and Financial Analysis* To register by phone call 800-621-7027, or register online at Instructor: Barbara Rylands, CIPS, CRS, GRI http://www.ccim.com/education/ccim_education/coursereg.jsp Monday – Tuesday, Nov. 7 - 8 Cost if received by Oct. 17: $275 Note: ALL CCIM courses require a Hewlett Packard financial Cost if received after Oct.17: $315 calculator. The HP-10B-II is recommended. A laptop computer with a CD-ROM drive is strongly recommended. Important: The foundation and pre-requisite course Excel 2000 or higher version, and Internet Explorer 6.0 or to courses listed above, “Essentials of International Real higher version, and PowerPoint (any version). Estate,” was offered at SAR earlier in the year. However, An array of CE credit is available, including Florida Appraisal all is not lost. You can take the Essentials course online, and Salesman-Post-Licensing hours. For details, visit the CCIM complete the courses listed above, and apply for your website. CIPS designation without leaving Sarasota in 2005! Go to http://www.realtor.org/international/indeax.html. To register for all CCIM courses: Call 800-621-7027 Or register online at http://www.ccim.com/education/ccim_education/coursereg.jsp
Continued on page 26 www.sarasotarealtors.com Sarasota Realtor Magazine September 2005 25 Education Programs
Continued from page 23 Congratulations! CCIM Courses Congratulations! Below is information on classes being offered locally and around the state in 2005. Class dates and locations are subject to change Designations earned without notice, so for the most up-to-date information, visit Dedication and hard work truly do pay http://www.ccim.com/education/ccim_education/course_schedule.html off!! We congratulate our members who recently completed the requirements for the ® I CCIM 102: National Association of Realtors designation Market Analysis for Commercial Investment and certificate program: Real Estate ᮣ Ft. Lauderdale, September 12-16 Graduate, Realtor Institute (GRI)
I CCIM 103: Mark Castellani User Decision Analysis for Commercial Exit Creative Realty Investment Real Estate ᮣ Orlando, November 14-18 Harold Dallou RE/MAX Gulfstream Realty I CCIM 104: Investment Analysis for Commercial John S. Davis Weichert Realtors on the Circle Investment Real Estate ᮣ Tampa, December 12-16 Idelle F. Levey Sam Parisi Real Estate Broker
Real Estate Buyers Agent Council To register for all CCIM courses: Accredited Buyer Representation Call 800-621-7027 (ABR) Or register online at Larry R. Mitchell http://www.ccim.com/ education/ccim_education/ Michael Saunders & Company coursereg.jsp
Thank you to our Affiliates The Sarasota Association of Realtors® would like to extend a sincere “thank you” to our valued business Affiliate members. Without the generosity of our Affiliate members who freely donate their time and sponsorships, the benefitsThank and services we offer our Realtor® members would suffer, you and in some cases, be impossible. When talking with clients and colleagues, please remember our business Affiliates – they do so much for us!
26 September 2005 Sarasota Realtor Magazine www.sarasotarealtors.com There’s something new on the horizon ...be part of it in Punta Gorda.
...discover Ponce de Leon Luxury Condominiums now at Vivante.
Located in the extraordinary new community of Vivante at Punta Gorda, Ponce de Leon Luxury Condominiums redefine the idea of well-appointed living. Offering only twelve residences, this new neighborhood delivers privacy, prestige and stunning views of Charlotte Harbor. Each of the twelve condominiums feature granite countertops, Travertine marble floors, GE stainless Monogram appliances, Kohler faucets and fixtures, and eight foot sliding glass doors that highlight the magnificent waterfront. The community is rich with amenities, offering residents the ultimate luxury lifestyle. Ponce de Leon features a private resort-style, infinity edge swimming pool, a comprehensive fitness center, six Har-Tru tennis courts, and a two hundred foot fishing pier. The Grand Clubhouse provides a meeting place for residents, and will include theater, card and billiard rooms. Beautiful spaces, resort-style amenities, and waterfront vistas await you at Ponce de Leon Luxury Condominiums. VISIT OUR SALES CENTER 2950 West Marion Avenue, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Tel: (941) 833-8999 • Toll Free: 1-800-901-0106 NEW NEIGHBORHOOD NOW OPENING! www.vivante-fl.com Ponce de Leon Luxury Residences from over $1Million I-75 to Exit 164, West 6 miles to Punta Gorda Isles A partnership of Lely Development and J.D. Allen
Broker participation welcomed. Oral representations cannot be relied upon as correctly stating the representations of the developer. For correct representations reference should be made to the documents required by section 718.503, Florida Statutes, to be furnished by a developer to a buyer or lessee. Not an offering where prohibited by state law. Prices www.sarasotarealtors.comsubject to change without notice. Photography in this ad may be stock photography Sarasota used Realtor Magazine September 2005 27 to depict the lifestyle to be achieved rather any that may exist. LUXURY RESIDENCES