Meet Our Anchorage Escrow

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2 Meet Our Anchorage Escrow Meet and Our Marketing Escrow Team. Team. Amy Kristen brings is 30+ a focused years of and experience accurate spanning Escrow Officer three states with to over her 8 role years as Sr. of Escrow experience. Officer. She Her specializes cheerful in new demeanor construction and and broad residential knowledge transactions. of residential transactions make her a customer favorite. A Cristy rising rejoined star the Alyeska escrow Title field in 2010 with upon 9 years returning of to experience, Alaska. She Christina a well-rounded excels Escrow at Officer customer with service over 9 and years specializes experience in including complex transactions residential, commercial, and complicated relocations, REO, short sales. and short sales. Cristy Lito's rejoined years Alyeska of title and Title in 2010 escrow upon experience returning and to Alaska. charming She is personality a well-rounded are Escrow key Officer to his success with over when 9 years assisting experience with including even the residential, most challenging commercial, relocations, transactions. REO, and short sales. Heather rejoined our our team team in 2010 in 2010 following following her maternity her leave. maternity She is leave. a well-versed She is a Escrow well-versed Officer Escrow with 13 Officer years of with escrow 13 and years lending of escrow experience and lending who experience smoothly handles who smoothly even the most handles even complicated the most complicated commercial and residential commercial transactions. and residential transactions. A Kristen Senior is Escrow a focused Officer and who accurate has over Escrow 30 years Officer of with Alaskan over 10 title years experience, of experience. Bernice's She specializes specialties in new are commercial construction transactions, and residential relocations, transactions. business asset closings, and 1031 tax deferred exchanges. (907) / Amy Kelli brings joined 30+ years us in 2010 of experience and brings spanning 17 years three of states experience to her role managing as Sr. Escrow multiple Officer. residential Her cheerful properties. demeanor She and excels in broad providing knowledge outstanding of residential customer transactions service. make her a customer favorite. Call us or visit our web site today to open your next order. AK

3 President s Message is the monthly publication of the Alaska Association of REALTORS 4205 Minnesota Drive Anchorage, Alaska Phone (907) Fax (907) AAR OFFICERS PRESIDENT Joni Schneider, ABR, GRI PRESIDENT-ELECT Michael Droege VICE PRESIDENT Janice Strong TREASURER Don McKenzie PAST PRESIDENT Helen Jarratt, ABR,CRS AAR DIRECTORS Cora Carleson Les Crane, CRS Kevin Cross Errol Champion April Frick Paula Laird Eva Loken, ABR,CRS,GRI PeggyAnn McConnochie, GRI Debbie Mumma Debbie Murphy, GRI D Ette Owen, GRI Dave Somers Chris Story Kathy Westerberg, GRI CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Sandy Eherenman, RCE Cover photo: Mount Redoubt Photographer: Debra Leisek, Bay Realty - Homer Materials reported in this publication are obtained from various sources which the Alaska Association of REALTORS believes to be reliable. Reasonable effort has been made to insure the accuracy of such material. The Alaska Association of REALTORS expressly disclaims any and all liability or responsibility arising directly or indirectly out of any discrepancy, error, mistake or omission in this publication. Opinions expressed in articles by individual authors and contributors are not neccessarily the official opinion of the Alaska Association of REALTORS. The acceptance of advertising by the Alaska REAL- TOR does not indicate approval or endorsement of the advertiser or his product by the Alaska Association of REALTORS. By Joni Schneider, GRI,ABR 2012 AAR President Heartland Realty Fairbanks 2012 is now well on the way. By now most of us have renewed our real estate license... thanks to AAR s diligent leadership, an overcharging was averted. A big thanks to all that responded when called to action. On January 9th and 10th the leadership conference was once again held in Anchorage at the BP Energy Center. Board leaders from all over the state participated. Attendance was good even though the weather wasn t very cooperative. The theme was held to its name: LEADERSHIP! The keynote speaker, Matthew D. Jones, inspired us all with his personal life of challenge. At age 32, Matt is a three time cancer survivor and instills in others the can do attitude. We will all remember VIC- TORY, ACTION & ATTITUDE! At one point during his illness he couldn t remember how to walk. Now he enters the 26.2 mile marathons. Truly a remarkable individual. The second day was highlighted by our Region 12 Vice President Gail Hartnett, flying in from Boise, Idaho to install the new Board of Directors. However, she first gave us an in-depth explanation of the layering of leaders from national to local and how they work together for common goals. She truly loved Alaska; imagine if it had been summertime. Next, sharing the podium, were two of our state senators: Sen. Joe Thomas (D) Fairbanks District-D and Sen. Kevin Meyer (R) South Anchorage District-O. They shared what is happening around the state and soon to be happening in (President s Message, continued on page 10) February 2012 Alaska REALTOR 3

4 The NAR and RPAC leadership would like to show our gratitude to our 2011 Major Investors from Alaska for their generous support of the REALTOR Party. Thank You GOLDEN R Janice Strong STERLING R Bob Baer Melissa Bidwell Ruth Blackwell Terry Bryan Elise Buchholz Art Clark Paddy Coan Brad Cole Kevin Cross Ryan Danhauser Michael Droege Sandy Eherenman Deborah Erickson Glenda Feeken Roger Floerchinger Kelly Griebel Helen Jarratt Peter Jarratt Uli Johnson Dave Keating Mark Korting Debra Leisek Lonnie Logan Eva Loken Naomi Louvier Wes Madden Larry Maulden PeggyAnn McConnochie Don McKenzie Deb Moore Debbie Murphy Misti Neville D Ette Owen LaVerne Pettigen Krystal Rogers Mimi Rothchild Joni Schneider David Somers Angie Tallant Denny Wood Indicates NAR President s Circle member. Hall of Fame members are in orange. RPAC Major Investors as of 10/26/2011 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION of REALTORS 4 Alaska REALTOR February 2012

5 2012 Legislative Priorities Submitted by Dave Somers Industry Issues Chairman Somers & Associates Fairbanks Without knowing whether proper accounting was used, it is hard to tell if we won or lost the recent license fee increase, but we certainly softened the blow by reducing the renewal fee to $375 from $685. There was an incredible effort put forth by a large number of our members that brought close scrutiny by our legislators forcing the division to rethink their position. Not only did this save licensees approximately $750,000, it forced a complete review of how the division allocates costs and accounts for our money. The fee increase was the first part of the battle. Now we follow up by keeping the issue on the front burner until things are headed in the right direction. There is also an outside consultant that has been hired by the state to review and make recommendations to the cost allocation analysis process. This review will be completed during this legislative session. An internal review brought about by our industry s reaction to the questionable accounting practices already showed that the real estate licensees were paying 16% too much in the allocation of the general pool in the division. We will also be following the discussion on how fines levied in the real estate sector can be properly credited back to us. approximately $150,000 of trust funds and the same broker was left in charge of the trust funds to close things out because there was no other option. The second area covered is on AS This statute was changed years ago to allow a licensee to pay another licensee as an assistant. The law at that time mandated that only the employing broker could pay a licensee. Even though the law clearly states otherwise, some have interpreted this to mean that they can have licensed assistants that have their license hanging in a different office. The language added to our current bill clarifies that a licensed assistant has to have their license hanging in the same office. The last area this bill covers deals with licensees donating part of their commission to charities. Current law does not allow this. The bill, if passed as filed, states that a licensee may contribute part of their commission to a charitable organization and advertise their intent to do so. (2012 Priorities, continued on page 10) The following is a list of bills we will be monitoring or involved with this session: House Bill 267 sponsored by Representive Munoz and Representative Olson - This is a bill that AAR put together to address three issues. The first item this bill covers is the temporary assignment of a licensee to oversee the affairs of a real estate business by the real estate commission in the event the broker has been misappropriating trust funds. The flaw in our statutes was made very apparent in a recent case where a broker had borrowed February 2012 Alaska REALTOR 5

6 Real Estate Commission Update Submitted by Anita Bates AREC Commissioner Bates & Associates, REALTORS Anchorage At this writing, the Alaska Real Estate Commission staff is in the throes of license renewal for As most licensees know, the licensing fee was established in December, 2011, with an effective date of January 9, This means that no licensees were able to renew their licenses before this date due to the 30 day waiting period between adoption and becoming effective. As a result, the Commission staff is seeing a large number of licensees renewing on line. Licensees are encouraged to renew as soon as possible and not wait until the last minute. Remember, the penalty for late renewal is $250. In the October issue of the Alaska Realtor, the Commission announced the new designated continuing education (DCE) topics for the licensing period. They include four 2-hour modules on: Licensing Relationships; Property Disclosures & Inspections; Risk Management & Real Estate License Law; and Contracts & Customer/Client Services. Along with establishing the topics, the Commission included some specific objectives for course developers to provide guidelines for including information deemed important in each topic area. This framework is also intended to create consistency in the information presented by different instructors. Finally, at the December, 2011 meeting, the Commission discussed the Implementation of Civil Fines as presented by Susan Winton, Senior Investigator with the Department of Commerce, Division of Corporations, Businesses, and Professional Licensing. This policy is designed to provide another means of controlling and reducing the amount of open investigations as well as expediting disciplinary actions where violations have occurred. It is intended to impose a civil fine without censure or reprimand and is already provided as a tool for the Commission in Alaska Statutes. It would not be applied in cases of fraud, inability to practice competently or in instances where the public might be harmed. The groundwork for this type of authority has been established with the adoption of the Category of Complaints and Disciplinary Sanctions (the Fine Matrix) in The Fine Matrix established categories of violations and appropriate disciplinary sanctions to be applied under the law, many of which can be dealt with using implementation of a Civil Fine. This will be discussed further at future Commission meetings. The Alaska Real Estate Commission meets next on March 7, 2012, in Anchorage, beginning at 9:00 a.m., at the Atwood Building, Ste P eggy Real Estate & Relocation Expert You ve known me as your Alaskan Realtor for over 13 years! Call me to take advantage of these affordable prices in Arizona and this unique opportunity to purchase a winter home and/or an investment property. DIRECT: PEGGY@PEGGYYOUNG.COM 6 Alaska REALTOR February 2012

7 g y p Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder Iliamna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs McCarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak buk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart Seldovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder amna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs ccarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak Kobuk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart dovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder Iliamna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs McCarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak buk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart Seldovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna aldez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder Choose experience you can amna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs ccarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak Kobuk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart dovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder Iliamna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs McCarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak buk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart Seldovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna aldez Wade rely Hampton Whittier on. Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder amna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs ccarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak Kobuk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart dovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder Iliamna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs McCarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak buk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart Seldovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder amna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs ccarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak Kobuk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart dovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder Iliamna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs McCarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak buk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart Seldovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder amna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs ccarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak Kobuk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart dovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder Iliamna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs McCarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak buk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart Seldovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder amna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak Kotzebue Kuskokwim Kvichak Manley Hot Springs ccarthy Mt. McKinley Nenana Noatak Kobuk Nome Nulato Palmer Petersburg Rampart dovia Seward Sitka Skagway Talkeetna Valdez Wade Hampton Whittier Wrangell Aleutian Islands Anchorage Barrow Bethel Bristol Bay Cape Nome Chitina Cordova Fairbanks Fairhaven Fort Gibson Haines Homer Hyder Iliamna Juneau Kenai Ketchikan Kodiak K t b K k k i K i h k M l H t S i M C th Mt M Ki l N N t k Committed to serving all of Alaska! Anchorage Alaska USA Financial Center 500 W 36th Avenue Suite 410 Anchorage, AK (877) Fairbanks Alaska USA Financial Center 1292 Sadler Way Fairbanks, AK (877) Kenai Alaska USA Financial Center 230 Bidarka Street Kenai, AK (877) Juneau Alaska USA Financial Center 8390 Airport Boulevard Suite 201 Juneau, AK (877) Wasilla 851 USA Circle Suite 101 Wasilla, AK (877) February 2011 Alaska REALTOR 7

8 2011 Real Estate Achievements Despite a challenging year in many respects, 2011 was a year that reinforced the value of homeownership for families and communities across the country. Most Americans still believe in the American dream of owning their own home, and Realtors remained actively engaged to ensure that housing and homeownership issues were first on the nation s public policy agenda. Last year could be described as a rebuilding year, as well as one full of tremendous achievements. The market showed signs of improvement, and more than ever, people aspired to become homeowners. Throughout the past year Realtors across the country have worked hard to make sure everyone who is willing and able to assume the responsibilities of owning a home should have the opportunity to pursue that dream. In 2011 the National Association of Realtors released data that showed a significant majority of today s homeowners and renters agree that owning a home is a smart long-term decision. In addition, more renters than ever before said they aspire to homeownership. Housing is also crucial to the local economy, Housing accounts for more than 15% of the Gross Domestic Product, making it a key driver in our national economy. A typical home sale pumps a total of $60,000 into the economy over time for furniture, home improvements and related items. The importance of the housing market in relation to our nation s well-being couldn t be more evident than it is right now. Realtors helped reshape housing policies throughout 2011 on behalf of would-be home buyers, sellers and owners. On October 1, 2011, Congress allowed conforming loan limits to revert from 125% of the local area median home price to 115% of the local median home price. This meant fewer people had access to affordable mortgage loans. The Alaska Association of Realtor and its members, along with Realtors across the country, successfully persuaded legislators to reinstate the higher loan limit formula. In addition, Realtors ensured that the National Flood Insurance Program was extended for an additional six months through May 31, The National Association of REALTORS continues to work with members of Congress on a longer extension. Looking toward 2012, there are several crucial issues ahead. Realtors will be keeping an eye on efforts to reform the secondary mortgage market to ensure that future home buyers have access to affordable mortgage financing. Preserving A typical home sale pumps a total of $60,000 into the economy over time. The importance of the housing market in relation to our nation s well-being couldn t be more evident than it is right now. the mortgage interest deduction will also remain a top priority for Realtors this year. Homeownership matters to individuals, families and America. In addition to helping people achieve their dreams of owning a home, the Realtor organization will continue to work tirelessly in 2012 to protect and sustain opportunities for responsible homeownership. Article provided by the National Association of REALTORS. 8 Alaska REALTOR February 2012

9 Association News Dave Feeken Scholarship Foundation The Dave Feeken Scholarship Foundation, Inc. was established in 2010 in memory of REALTOR Dave Feeken. The Scholarship Foundation is designed to assist persons in the real estate field who are seeking to obtain a related designation such as GRI (Graduate, Realtors Institute), CPM (Certified Property Manager), CRS (Certified Residential Specialist), CAE (Certified Realtor Executive), CRB (Certified Real Estate Broker Manager) and the many other designations and certifications in the real estate related fields. Scholarships are for tuition only and are limited to one person per calendar year; no more than one course with a beginning date during any calendar year shall be considered. Scholarships will be granted for the course requested and only for such courses that lead to a real estate related professional designation or certification. The Officers of the Foundation will determine the dollar amount of the scholarships for a particular course, which may vary from time to time, depending upon the funds available. Download an application at www. alaskarealtors.com. Alaska Homeownership Simpified - This new website answers most real estate questions, provides links to valuable industry resources and makes the home buying process easier to understand. Whether you re considering buying your first home, are an experienced homeowner, or work in Alaska s real estate industry, org has valuable information for you. The Alaska Association of REALTORS has developed this one-stop shopping website where you ll find any and all groups and agencies that exist to assist with the home buying process. Your comments are appreciated - let us know what you think of the site. Congratulations 2011 REALTORS of the Year Janice Strong Strong Appraisals Alaska Association of REALTORS D Ette Owen Keller Williams Realty Anchorage Board of REALTORS Angie Tallant Somers & Associates Greater Fairbanks Board of REALTORS Dorothy Cunningham Five Star Realty Kachmak Board of REALTORS Marty Radvansky Soldotna Realty Kenai Peninsula Association of REALTORS Debbie White Prudential Southeast Alaska RE Southeast Alaska Board of REALTORS Krystal Rogers RE/MAX Dynamic of the Valley The Real Estate Center Valley Board of REALTORS February 2012 Alaska REALTOR 9

10 (2012 Priorities, continue from page 5) House Bill 40 sponsored by Representatives Kawasaki and Petersen - This bill would allow a municipality to adopt an ordinance increasing the property tax exemption for real property from $20,000 to $100,000. House Bill 90 sponsored by Representatives Neuman and Feige - This bill would allow a widow/widower of a disabled veteran to continue to receive personal property tax exemptions. House Bill 240 sponsored by Representative Chenault -This bill allows a person with a state permit for a cabin to rebuild the cabin if destroyed by fire. Senate Bill 104 sponsored by French - This bill establishes a process to convert manufactured homes to real property. Senate Bill 122 sponsored by Senator Egan This bill would require a title company doing business in Alaska have a title officer licensed in the State of Alaska sign all title commitments. This bill would also ban the use of private transfer fees. House Bill 264 sponsored by Munoz This bill would allow the deferral of municipality property taxes on the increase of value of real property attributed to subdivision of that property. (President s Message, continued from page 3) Juneau. They touched on education, energy, infrastructure and the future fate of our resources. Following along that line, our lobbyist in Juneau, Denny DeWitt, brought us up to speed as to what will be of import to our organization. We also heard from our wonderful RPAC cheerleaders, Paddy Coan (chairman of the Trustee Committee), Janice Strong (newly appointed Region 12 Trustee) and Michael Droege (our Go-To Guy it seems, for everything), President Elect, NAR Director and the Trustee Rep to a higher level of RPAC! By the end of our two days they had a resounding number of Major Investors already on board...32 of the 43 we need to claim the President Circle award. We have been close, receiving the triple crown, but this year we are going all in and bringing one back to Alaska! All reporting committees: Dave Somers, Industry Issues; Don McKenzie, Operations; Helen Jarrett, Education; and Chris Story, Communications, seemed to be really enthusiastic and looking forward to a fantastic year. I really want to thank each and everyone that attended the conference and as always, Sandy Eherenman, who makes my job easy and fun! Let s keep the energy & enthusiasm growing! We are also still looking at changes to the Landlord Tenant Act in the areas of how long a broker should have to refund deposits, definition of wear and tear and finding a way to mandate that carpets should be cleaned in certain circumstances. We have not filed a bill here as we feel we need more input and direction. In our next update report we should have our positions established on the above referenced bills. As these and other issues arise during the session we may be calling once again on all our members to get involved. Please be ready to respond to your calls for action. Your response to the license fee increase is a shining example of what we can all accomplish together. 10 Alaska REALTOR February 2012

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12 Second Session has Begun in Juneau The second session of the 27th Alaska Legislature is shaping up to be a challenging session with the Governor and Legislature far apart on several major issues. The Governor is committed to reducing taxes on the oil industry; the Senate strongly opposes any changes to the current tax structure. The Governor supports depositing surplus revenues into the Constitutional Budget Reserve savings account, the House and Senate want to spend the surplus to build much needed infrastructure in the state. On December 15, 2011 the Governor released his proposed operating and capital budget. I have outlined some highlights below: On The Revenue Side Alaska has nearly $13 billion in savings, not counting the Permanent Fund. Ninety-two percent of Alaska s revenues are attributable to oil. The Governor based his budget on a per barrel price of $109. The proposed FY 2012 budget will leave additional surplus revenues of $3.7 billion. The Legislature is likely to add at least $1 billion of this surplus to the savings account and utilize most of the remaining revenue to fund priority capital projects. The operating and capital budgets total $12.1 billion with $6.4 billion coming from state general funds. The proposed general fund budget is $612 million (8.7% less than the current year). Most of this reduction comes from reduced capital budget spending, as the proposed operating budget increases 4.2 percent. The Operating Budget Here are the details of the 4.2 percent increase. The Office of Management and Budget is eliminating 289 vacant full-time and part-time positions in FY The move will allow the state to better absorb new positions coming online with the completion of the Goose Creek Correctional Center. 12 Alaska REALTOR February 2012 Goose Creek Correctional Center opens increasing operating costs by $29 million. The budget forward-funds and fully funds K- 12 public education and pupil transportation. $8 million is appropriated to the Performance Scholarship Fund. To date more than 2,000 Alaska students have qualified for the Alaska Performance Scholarship program. Unfunded Pension Liability Increasing by $131 million, for a total of $610.5 million. Several legislators support addressing the unfunded liability while the state is awash in revenues. Medicaid Formula Costs Increasing by $131 million total, $45 million of General Funds. Most of the increase is driven by federal mandates. Employee labor contracts increasing by $66 million total: $34 million of this increase is General Fund. Funding for 16 law enforcement officers across the state, additional funding for domestic violence shelters and housing for victims. Capital Highlights The proposed capital budget totals $1.8 billion, including $882 million in state general funds. Below are some of the projects funded in the Governor s capital budget. One billion dollars is appropriated for infrastructure projects including roads and airports, the marine highway, municipal water and sewer projects, harbors, and deferred maintenance. Roads to Resources ($28.5 million) This appropriation includes funding for access to the Ambler Mining District, Umiat-Foothills West, a western access route through Tanana, the Klondike Industrial Use Highway, and other resource roads. The funding will be used for project definition, permitting, environmental work, (Second Session, continued on page 13)

13 (Second Session, continue from page 12) Copper River Native Association Health and right-of-way acquisition. Clinic - $6 million Alaska Marine Highway Funding to build $24 million for the school major maintenance new ferry - $60 million account. State Museum, library and archives rehabilitation - $20 million Governor Parnell is proposing a $350 million Statewide Ports Rural power system upgrades - $13 million general obligation bond package for the following port projects throughout the state: Ketchikan bridge replacements - $9 million MatSu Borough road bond package match - Port of Anchorage - $200 million $20 million Matanuska-Susitna Borough - Port MacKenzie Seward heavy equip diesel shop - $6 million Rail Extension - $110 million Renewable energy grants - $25 million City of Seward Community Development Weatherization - $30 million Quota Home Port - $10 million Home energy rebates - $20 million Bristol Bay Borough Port Improvements - $10 Bulk fuel & rural power systems - $15 million million Full funding for power cost equalization - $38 City of Emmonak Port Improvements - $10 million million New school in Emmonak - $35 million Ketchikan Gateway Borough Ward Cove Port New school Koliganet - $25 million Improvements - $10 million. Bethel Youth Facility upgrade - $10 million Submitted by Wendy Chamberlain Nome State office building - $10 million AAR Lobbyist Friends of Jesse Lee Home - $5 million Legislative Consultants Tired of Experiencing the Same Train Wreck? Count on the professionals at Stewart Title of Alaska for all your title and escrow needs. Knowledgeable and Experienced Service Two Convenient Locations To Serve You: Anchorage: 2601 Denali Street Eagle River: Old Glenn Hwy # Brenda Staats President February 2012 Alaska REALTOR 13

14 2012 Convention Information September 11-14, Girdwood, Alaska The Alaska Association of REALTORS 2012 annual convention will be held Tuesday Friday, September 9 14, 2012 at the Hotel Alyeska in Girdwood, Alaska. The theme of the convention is REALTORS In the Running, being it is an election year. This year s conference will feature guest speakers Dave Mitchell and Amy Chorew. Dave s style is often best described by a term he coined enter-train-ment. Dave takes great pride in using proven principles in applied performance and cognitive psychology and delivering a high impact training experience that is also incredibly entertaining. Amy has been in and around Real Estate since As an experienced salesperson and marketing director for some of Connecticut s prestigious brokerages, she expanded into teaching REALTORS to use technology in Her knowledge of the latest technologies along with her unique ability to translate it all into easy-tounderstand language makes her a consistently top-rated trainer throughout the country. Sponsorship Opportunities There are sponsor opportunities available for the 2012 convention. By being an event sponsor your company has the opportunity to market your business to REALTORS from all over Alaska. For addition information, please contact the AAR office at Tentative Schedule Tuesday, September 11, :00-5:00 PM Directors Meeting 6:00 11:00 PM Ice Breaker Wednesday, September 12, :00 9:00 AM Breakfast 9:15 9:30 AM Opening Ceremony 9:30 12:30 PM Dave Mitchell- Keynote 12:30 2:00 PM PP/ROTY Luncheon 2:30 4:30 PM Education/Workshop 5:30 6:30 PM Wine Tasting/Reception 6:30 8:30 PM Dinner/Affiliate Night Thursday, September 13, :00 9:00 AM Breakfast 9:00 11:30 AM General Membership Mtg 11:30 1:00 PM Lunch on Your Own 1:30 3:30 PM Educational Workshops 4:00-6:00 PM Trade Show/Reception 6:30 8:30 PM RPAC Dinner/Auction 8:30 12:00 AM ARPAC Night/Dancing Friday, September 14, :00 9:00 AM Breakfast 9:00 11:00 Education - Amy Chorew 11:30 1:00 PM CRS Lunch 1:30 4:30 PM Education Amy Chorew 5:30 6:30 PM ARPAC Cocktail Party 6:45 8:30 PM Dinner/Awards Night 8:30 12:00 Dancing Trade Show In the interest of improving communications between trade, professional and service organizations and REALTORS, there will be a trade show on Thursday, September 13, from 4:00pm - 6:00pm. Exhibitor forms will be available on www. alaskarealtors.com. For additional information, please contact the AAR office. 14 Alaska REALTOR February 2012

15 February 2012 Alaska REALTOR 15

16 Meet face to face with an Alaska USA Mortgage Originator. Minerva Mac Carandang Sr. Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS Unique Identifier #AK Laurie Gardner Sr. Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS Unique Identifier #AK Charly Musielak Sr. Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS Unique Identifier #AK Drake Peterson Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS Unique Identifier #AK Jaime Purcell Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS Unique Identifier #AK Michael Thomas Sr. Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS Unique Identifier #AK Stop by the Juneau Office to meet Mac, Laurie, Charly, Drake, Jaime, and Michael! Conveniently located at 8390 Airport Blvd, Suite 201 in Juneau. Open 6 days a week! Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. People you know. A name you can trust. Mortgage License # AK Alaska REALTOR February 2012

17 News Bites from Around the Anchorage The Anchorage Board of REAL- TORS will be co-hosting the annual convention with the Association from September 11 through September 14th at the Alyeska Resort. In light of 2012 being an election year, the theme is REALTORS in the Running. D Ette Owen and Jan Rednall are co-chairwomen. First American Title Insurance generously presented 8 hours of continuing education to ABR s membership. 20 hours of continuing education was offered in December and 8 hours designated credit hours will be offered January 20th. The Anchorage Board, Valley Board, and Alaska Association are offering the entire GRI series in 2012, beginning in February. Of the 4-day course, 2 days will be held in Anchorage and 2 days held in the Valley. The annual Market Forecast Luncheon was held at the Anchorage Sheraton Hotel on January 4th. Speakers include Neal Fried, State of Alaska economist, Jeff Thon, Jack White Commercial, and Jennifer Toomer, Keller Williams. In April, ABR will be hosting a luncheon with Senator Begich. In December, Senator Begich offered to attend a sales meeting. A small session was held with the Senator at Real Estate Brokers of Alaska. 13 Members of the Anchorage Board are RPAC Major Donors. Kachemak Submitted by Kathy Westerberg 2012 President The Kachemak Board of Realtors thanks Sharon Minsch, Past President, for her devoted service to the Board and its members. We are pleased to announce KBR s 2012 officers: Kathy Westerburg, President, Peg Belcastro, President-Elect, Dorothy Cunningham, VP, Shelly Stradling Secretary and EO, John Calhoun, Treasurer, and Directors at Large Nicky Pinsky, Gina Pelaia, and Karen Marquardt. KBR continues its goal of providing education for its members and is currently working on bringing a CRS class to Homer in late fall. We continue our tradition of providing scholarships to local high school students and supporting local non-profits. Kodiak Submitted by Paula Laird 2012 President Now that January 2012 is already almost over, it is a reminder that the pages of the calendar will turn quickly. It will be an interesting year in real estate as we wait and watch how the 2012 market unfolds. Last year showed us a noticeable adjustment in sales volume and value. Higher property taxes, less buying power for buyers, and tighter lender restrictions in recent years also seem to have affected Kodiak s market somewhat. Here, Realtors saw 56 residential sales in 2011, compared to 62 in That s a decrease in gross market value from $14,283,622 to $12,944,995. Historically, the Kodiak housing market has been strong for many years, and the fact that we have a significant need for low and average priced homes, coupled with the regular yearly transfer of a large number of residents, could help to keep our market from making a drastic downward shift this year. As we begin a new year, one fact remains in Kodiak. The Kodiak Board of Realtors continues to surpass the 100% RPAC contribution goal each year and 2011 was no exception. The KBR Christmas party last month raised over $1000 at our annual fundraising auction. Over 50 members, affiliates, family members and friends were in attendance at the Best Western Kodiak Inn, enjoying a lovely dinner and live jazz music, courtesy of the KHS Jazz Band. Thank you to all those who donated auction items and to those who bid so generously to support the Realtors Political Action Committee. The money collected will go to support industry goals which affect real estate professionals in our state legislature and city halls. These donations help us to maximize our political clout in Washington D.C., Juneau and in our local communities. Kodiak Board of Realtors 2012 goals include: (Newsbites, continue on page 18) February 2012 Alaska REALTOR 17

18 (Newsbites, continued from page 17) 1. To continue to exceed the RPAC fundraising goal; 2. To keep an informed board on all of the state and national real estate legislation and the future of the (L-R; Kodiak Holiday Party; Vic Laird, Paula Laird, Becky Shields, Grant Shields, Don MacKenzie, Eloise Lenhert, Joann Brodie & Bob Brodie) industry; 3. To continue informative public marketing which shows the value of using Realtors; and 4. To continue attending borough and city joint work session meetings, voicing concern over Kodiak s housing shortage and offering remedies/suggestions on how the shortage can be lessened in the long term. The goals for 2012 include offering a presentation to service clubs and the Chamber of Commerce on the State of Real Estate in Southeast. The objective is to share the status of real estate sales over the past four years and discuss assessed values versus market values in real estate. There are less than ten states that are non-disclosed for real estate transactions which means Alaskan assessors do not have access to property sales data. The presentation will conclude with a pitch on why one should use a licensee when buying and selling real property. Another goal is to strengthen our classroom education on the Code of Conduct and Ethical Real Estate Practices. With the recent attempt by the Division of Professional Licensing to raise the bi-annual fee because of increased investigations and complaints, it is important that our training stay focused on these topics. I welcome the opportunity to serve as your President for 2012 and ask you to contact any board member with your questions and feedback. As I look forward to 2012, I anticipate a valuable learning experience and a positive and productive year as we all work together in Kodiak toward the same goals. Here s to a new year, a new challenge and new knowledge! Southeast Submitted by Errol Champion 2012 President The SEABR 2012 officers are Past President Mimi Rothchild, President Errol Champion, President-Elect Scott Wagner, Vice President Jim Preston, Treasurer Misti Neville, and Secretary Honey Bee Anderson. At the annual meeting auction, SEABR raised $2,435 for charity and $6,365 for RPAC. Thanks to everyone who donated items for the auction and those who purchased them. A special thanks to planning and decorating committee members Bethany Woods, Audra Peterson, Mimi Rothchild, Julie Moe, Debbie White and Debbie Lewis. And thanks to Bethany Woods, who did a great job as our auctioneer! 18 Alaska REALTOR February 2012

19 Have you set Your 2012 Goals Yet? Check out MATTHEW FERRY S podcast on using the LAW of ATTRACTION for REALTORS!!!!! Alaska Real Estate Podcast comes to you twice a month through the AAR e-newsletter. You can also listen from Tune in for great adventures in Real Estate and learn the latest news and information you need to prosper. Hear from Real Estate leaders from around Alaska and all over the country. What will YOU hear in 2012? Presidents Report Joni speaks we listen! REALTOR Round Table STATE of Real Estate Around the State Monthly Motivational Speakers Stay on TOP!! FEATURED REALTOR monthly conversations with YOU! National NEWS from NAR! SALES strategies and TIPS to push you over the TOP! LISTEN WHILE YOU WORK on your smartphone,pad or pc Alaska Real Estate Podcast The Greatest Show on EARTH!! Sponsored by: AHFC ~ AKUSA Mortgage ~ AKUSA Title Agency ALASKA ESCROW AND TITLE INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. KETCHIKAN 2030 SEA LEVEL DRIVE, STE 201 PO BOX 5040 KETCHIKAN, ALASKA (907) FAX: (907) JUNEAU 8800 GLACIER HWY, STE 102 JUNEAU, ALASKA (907) FAX: (907) COMPLETE TITLE INSURANCE AND ESCROW SERVICES FOR SOUTHEAST ALASKA February 2012 Alaska REALTOR 19

20 Alaska Chapter Council of Residential Specialists 3340 Arctic Blvd. Suite 101 Anchorage, Alaska Earn the CRS Designation The Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) Designation is the professional Designation offered by the Council of Residential Specialists. The CRS Designation is the highest professional designation awarded to REALTORS in the residential sales field. Fewer than 5 percent of all REALTORS hold this designation. By Vivian Coleman, CRS Alaska CRS Chapter President Prudential Jack White Vista RE Anchorage Welcome to the new year of 2012 wherein comes a new President, myself, and a new President-elect, Lonnie Logan of Re?MAX. The other members of our 2012 CRS team include Secretary Eva Loken of Prudential Jack White Vista/Eagle River, Education Chair Cecelia Nims of Prudential Jack White Vista/Anchorage, Connie Giddings of RE/MAX, Treasurer Dale Lamoreux of Keller Williams, Public Relations/Advertising Chair, and Denny Wood of Keller Williams is the Chairperson for Membership as well as the head of the Broker Partnership Program. Peter Jarratt of RE/MAX is Chairperson for the CRS Website and Technology, Cheri Marston of Prudential Jack White Vista/Anchorage is Chairperson of Programs and Events; and new to the Sponsorship Chair is Gordon Sloan of RE/MAX. Other board members include Gary Gearhart, Erin Eker, Beth Simpson, Anita Bates (who is also on the Real Estate Commission Board), Jerrie Duffy of Fairbanks, Honey Bee Anderson of Juneau, Febra Hensley of Soldotna, Angie Newby of Homer, Lisa Conner, our esteemed Past President and our wonderful Regional Vice President, Janelle Pfleiger. This is one hard working board, as many of the Chairs have been working on the committees that make things happen for the local and state CRS members. Our out-of-town CRS members come to Anchorage for some of the great classes and Homer has sponsored educational classes as well. I would like to start out with a huge thank you to Peggy Kelly, a former president of the Alaska CRS Chapter, who convinced me that joining CRS would be good for my business. It was and still is one of my greatest resources for educational training classes and webcasts. It helped me burst through 20 Alaska REALTOR February 2012 that attitude, of just getting by enough to pay the mortgage make car payments and a vacation or two every year, etc. After joining CRS, I still did not take it seriously. It wasn t until Janelle Pfleiger and Helen Jarratt asked me to join the board that I really learned why CRS was good for every Realtor. It was not just for educational purposes, but the credentials to others in the business of being a Certified Residential Specialist meant being the best professional was important. It is important if your career is being a real estate licensee. It is the difference between being a high school graduate and getting your GED. You might learn the material but you don t get the lessons and insights along the way. For me, I could not learn enough about being the best in technology, quality listing presentations, and quality buyer presentations. When I joined, five percent of the real estate population was a member of this wonderful group. CRS real estate classes are designed to get you to the top, to be one of the best professionals, so no matter what the economic conditions, you will still be in business, doing what you love (selling homes to the young and old alike), for as long as you want to. Because being a part of the Alaska State Chapter of CRS means giving back to the community, I want to say thank you to the Anchorage Board of Realtors. They have allowed us to sell tickets at their functions and split the pot. One hundred percent of our proceeds go to Kid s Kitchen, a place for children to have a hot meal every day after school. Elgin Jones started Kid s Kitchen on his own. It is one of the best places to actively give back to the community. Finally, I am happy to announce that our first educational class will be April 5-6, CRS 202: Effective Buyer Sales Strategies, presented by Richard Sands, CRS.

21 Leadership Conference Highlights The Alaska Association of REALTORS recently held their annual leadership conference at the BP Energy Center in Anchorage. This year s conference featured motivational speaker Matt Jones along with Region 12 Vice President Gail Hartnett, Senator Joe Thomas, Senator Kevin Meyer and Lobbyist Denny DeWitt. Thank you to Don and Katie McKenzie for hosting the leadership donner in their home and thank you to Teresa Burnett with HSA Home Warranty for sponsoring the dinner. L-R: Gabe Stephan, Eva Loken, Krystal Rogers & Anita Bates participate in a mock hearing. In conjunction with the conference, Diane Mosely with the National Association of REALTORS Policy Division conducted a one-day Professional Standards training. L-R: Connie Bates, Uli Johnson, Becky Brewer and Michael Droege participate in a mock hearing. Guest Speaker Matt Jones with 2012 AAR President Joni Schneider. L-R: Senator Joe Thomas, Don McKenzie and Senator Kevin Meyer Alaska Association of REALTORS Board of Directors: L-R; Chris Story, April Frick, Dave Somers, Eva Loken, Paula Laird, Debbie Murphy, Errol Champion, Cora Carleson, Joni Schneider, Les Crane, Kevin Cross, Kathy Westerberg, Helen Jarratt, Michael Droege, Janice Strong, Regional Vice President Gail Hartnett and Don McKenzie. February 2012 Alaska REALTOR 21

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24 Alaska Association of REALTORS 4205 Minnesota Drive Anchorage, Alaska (907) (907) PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ANCHORAGE, PERMIT #262