, Author at CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

When You’re in a Transaction, Which Parts of the Code of Ethics Apply?

The Code of Ethics has 17 Articles—but when you’re in the middle of a transaction, you don’t need to search through all 17 to find what’s relevant.

NAR’s “The Code of Ethics is Good Business” resource organizes the related Standards of Practice according to how a real estate transaction actually unfolds. So, instead of searching by Article number, you can find what you need based on where you are in the transaction, making the Code much more practical.

Your Transaction Roadmap:

Listing Agents

Pre-listing
Listing presentation and agreement
Marketing
Contract negotiation
Financing and inspections
Pre-closing, closing and possession
Post-closing

Buyer Agents

Pre-counseling
Counseling and the buyer agreement
Showings
Purchase agreement and negotiation
Financing and inspections
Closing and possession
Post-closing

Why it Matters

Your ethical responsibilities can change depending on which side and where you are in the transaction.

Preparing for a listing presentation? What specific ethical considerations apply?

Marketing a property? What ethical duties need to be kept in mind?

Negotiating an offer or working through inspections? What ethical responsibilities come into play?

The resource provides separate checklists for listing and buyer agents, making it easier to connect the Code of Ethics to your role and the stage of the transaction.

Put it to Work

Don’t wait until an ethics issue comes up. Build the resource into your workflow.

Before a listing appointment, review the Pre-Listing
Before marketing a property, review the Marketing
Before negotiating an offer, review the Contract Negotiation

It takes the Code from something you’re required to follow and turns it into a practical tool you can actively use in your business.

Explore NAR’s “The Code of Ethics is Good Business” resource here .

NAR Ethics Complaints, Arbitration Requests & Related Information

C.A.R. ETHICS & ARBITRATION MANUAL

CODE OF ETHICS DEMYSTIFIED

Gail Hargis
Professional Standards
925.295.9220
[email protected]

Weekly Jolt – 090826

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | SEPTEMBER 8, 2026

Top News

• 2026 DEI Symposium – FREE This Thursday
• Risk Management Seminar – Sep. 23
• Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7
• In Memoriam: Jerry Kidd
• C.A.R. Town Hall: Proposition 37 – Sep. 15
• Conquering Social Media & AI – Sep. 22
• Make an Impact with CCAR Committees
• WCR Upcoming Events

MLS Updates

• REALTORS® Are You Ready to Vote? • REALTOR ® Optimized Laptops For Sale

All laptops purchased through CCAR include a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and Real Estate setup.

ETHICS CORNER

• A Practical Guide to Ethics in Every Transaction

+ Upcoming Education
+ REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)
+ CCAR CALENDAR

In Memoriam: Jerry Kidd

CCAR is saddened to share the passing of former member, instructor, and friend Gerald “Jerry” Kidd. During his 40-year career as a real estate broker, manager, educator, and industry leader, Jerry shared his knowledge and passion for the profession with countless REALTORS® and affiliates, leaving a lasting impact on the local real estate community.

CCAR extends our heartfelt condolences to Jerry’s wife, Diane Gilfether, his family, friends, and colleagues. A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, October 15 at 10:30am at St. Isidore Church in Danville.
READ MORE >>

C.A.R. Town Hall: Proposition 37 & Homeownership – Sep. 15

Join C.A.R.’s Leadership Team on Sep. 15 for a one-hour member town hall on Proposition 37, a November ballot measure that would create homebuyer assistance for eligible middle-income Californians purchasing qualified newly constructed homes.

Learn how the program would work, who may qualify, and what it could mean for REALTORS® and their clients.
REGISTER HERE >>

Conquering Social Media & AI – Sep. 22

This virtual class, held Sep. 22 from 1–2pm, will cover practical strategies REALTORS® can use to improve their marketing. Attendees will learn how to generate referrals and repeat business, strengthen client relationships, use social media more effectively, and incorporate tools like ChatGPT, video, SEO, and blogging.
REGISTER HERE >>

Make an Impact with CCAR Committees

Serving on a CCAR committee is a great way to get more involved in your Association while building relationships, expanding your professional network, developing leadership skills, and staying connected to the issues shaping real estate. Your involvement also gives you an opportunity to share your perspective and help strengthen CCAR and the profession in our community. Ready to get involved? Explore the opportunities and submit your 2027 Committee Application today!
LEARN MORE >>

Explore the Future of Fair Housing –
Free This Thursday

Join REALTORS®, housing professionals, policymakers, and community leaders from across the Bay Area this Thursday, September 10 from 9am – 2:30pm, for the 2026 Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Symposium at the Millbrae Recreation Center.

Hear from speakers including Jordan Levine of C.A.R. and Bryan Greene of NAR, who will share updates on housing policy, market trends, fair housing, and the future of homeownership.

CCAR will also be represented by Past President Zina Hall, who will moderate a panel focused on organizations creating pathways to homeownership and leadership.

Topics throughout the day will include:
• Fair Housing updates from C.A.R. and NAR
• Housing legislation and policy changes
• Affordable housing and homeownership resources
• Down payment assistance, FHA, CalHFA, and BMR programs
• Best practices for serving diverse communities
• Resources for seniors and individuals with disabilities
• Opportunities to partner with local housing organizations

REGISTER HERE >>

Risk Management Seminar – Sep. 23

Join us on Sep. 23 from 9am – Noon via Zoom for an exclusive Risk Management Seminar, free for CCAR members.

Leading real estate attorney Shannon B. Jones will cover current legal issues affecting REALTORS®, including emerging liabilities, recent case trends, and the types of claims and situations her office is seeing most often. You’ll walk away with practical guidance to help protect yourself and your business, along with important updates from CCAR staff and leadership.

Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed, strengthen your risk management practices, and navigate today’s changing real estate environment with greater confidence.

REGISTER HERE >>

Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7

CCAR REALTOR® Members: Join us for an evening of appetizers, drinks, raffles, and fun at St Stephen Church on Oct. 7, from 5pm – 7pm! Discover the wide range of services offered by local industry partners while supporting two amazing causes—the CCAR Scholarship Foundation and CCAR Helping Hands.

CCAR Affiliates: The Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business to CCAR REALTORS®. Think of it as a trade show, but more fun– and it’s all for a great cause! Purchase a vendor table for $35 by contacting Jason Catalano at 925.295.9202 or [email protected].

REGISTER FOR FREE TICKETS >>

ETHICS CORNER:

A Practical Guide to Ethics in Every Transaction

The Code of Ethics includes 17 Articles, but finding the guidance that applies to a specific point in a transaction doesn’t have to be complicated. NAR’s “The Code of Ethics is Good Business” resource organizes relevant Standards of Practice around the way a real estate transaction actually unfolds.

With separate roadmaps for listing and buyer agents, REALTORS® can quickly review the ethical considerations that apply during stages such as listing presentations, marketing, showings, negotiations, inspections, closing, and more.

Rather than waiting for an ethics question to arise, this resource can be used as a practical reference throughout your day-to-day business.

Learn how to put the Code of Ethics to work throughout your next transaction.
EXPLORE THE TRANSACTION ROADMAP >>

WCR: New Member Orientation – Sep. 10

MORE INFORMATION & REGISTER >>

REALTORS® Are You Vote Ready?

In 2024, 154 million Americans made their voices heard in the presidential election, but millions of eligible voters remained unregistered or did not cast a ballot.

National Voter Registration Day is September 15. It’s the perfect time to make sure you are vote ready.

Take a moment to:

Confirm that you’re registered
Check that your name and address are current
Review upcoming election dates and requirements
Share these resources with a colleague, friend or family member

Decisions made at every level of government, from Congress to your local community, help shape what happens next. Make sure you’re ready to have a say.

CHECK YOUR VOTER REGISTRATION >>
Already registered? Pass this message along and help someone else get vote ready.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 090126

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | SEPTEMBER 1, 2026

CCAR Offices Closed: Mon., SEP. 7
in observance of Labor Day

Top News

• YPN Trivia Night FREE This Thursday
• Risk Management Seminar – Sep. 23
• Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7
• West County Marketing Meeting This Thu
• 2026 DEI Symposium – Sep. 10
• The BIG Event Membership Meeting – Oct. 28
• WCR Upcoming Events
• Conquering Social Media & AI – Sep. 10
• Are You Registered to Vote?

MLS Updates

• C.A.R. Market Minute: Inflation Keeps Rates in Focus
• REALTOR ® Optimized Laptops For Sale

All laptops purchased through CCAR include a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and Real Estate setup.

+ Upcoming Education
+ REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)
+ CCAR CALENDAR

West County Marketing Meeting This Thu.

Join us this Thu, Sep. 3, from 8:45–10:00am at the CCAR Hercules office. Our featured speaker, Jalene Drew of the East Bay Rental Housing Association, will present “The First 90 Days of Rental Property Ownership,” covering key compliance requirements, rent programs, documentation, local ordinances, and other essentials REALTORS® should know when working with investment clients.

Enjoy bagels, fresh fruit, and beverages while networking, sharing upcoming listings, and connecting with fellow real estate professionals.

2026 Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Symposium – Sep. 10

Join REALTORS®, housing professionals, policymakers, and community leaders from across the Bay Area for the 2026 DEI Symposium on Thu, Sep. 10, from 9am–2:30pm at the Millbrae Recreation Center.

Hosted by nine Bay Area REALTOR® Associations, the event will feature expert speakers, panel discussions, and networking focused on fair housing, housing policy, homeownership resources, affordable housing programs, and serving diverse communities. Hear from industry leaders including Jordan Levine of C.A.R., Bryan Greene of NAR, and CCAR Past President Zina Hall, and gain practical information and resources you can use with your clients.
REGISTER HERE >>

The BIG Event Membership Meeting – Oct. 28

CCAR Members are invited to a free, exclusive 2027 Economic Forecast and Legal Update featuring two leading industry experts.

Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for NAR, will share his outlook for the 2027 economy and housing market, including key trends affecting housing supply and real estate. Neil Kalin, Assistant General Counsel for C.A.R., will also provide a timely legal update covering important issues REALTORS® need to know.

CCAR Members only—advance registration required. Complimentary refreshments will be served.
REGISTER HERE >>

This Thursday: YPN Trivia Night
Free + 2 Drink Tickets!

CCAR YPN’s 4th Annual Real Estate Trivia Night is this Thursday! Join us at Side Gate Brewery in Concord from 4:30–7:30pm, grab your friends and colleagues, and put your real estate knowledge to the test during a casual night of friendly competition and networking.

Registration (required) is FREE and includes two drink tickets. There will also be raffles throughout the evening, with food available for purchase from the P&B Smash Burger Food Truck.

Come for the trivia, stay for the drinks, food, and a fun night with fellow industry pros!

Sponsored by:
Andrew Waite
Commander Moving Inc.
First American Home Warranty
JCP-LGS Hazard Disclosures
Sanctuary Energy Solutions
Stokley Properties
First American Home Warranty
JCP-LGS Hazard Disclosures

REGISTER FREE >>

Risk Management Seminar – Sep. 23

Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7

Women’s Council of REALTORS^® Upcoming Events

MORE INFORMATION & REGISTER >>

Conquering Social Media & AI – Sep. 10

This virtual class, held Sep. 10 from 10–11am, will cover practical strategies REALTORS® can use to improve their marketing. Attendees will learn how to generate referrals and repeat business, strengthen client relationships, use social media more effectively, and incorporate tools like ChatGPT, video, SEO, and blogging.
REGISTER HERE >>

Are You and Your Clients Registered to Vote?

Residents must be registered by Oct. 19th to vote in Nov.
REGISTER TO VOTE >>

C.A.R. Market Minute: Inflation Keeps Rates in Focus

Inflation and interest rates continue to play a major role in the housing market, with mortgage rates recently moving higher and adding to affordability challenges for buyers. New home sales declined in July, while the rental market showed signs of stabilizing and foreclosure activity remained well below historical levels.

Looking ahead, the direction of the housing market will depend heavily on inflation trends, Federal Reserve policy, and whether borrowing costs begin to ease. C.A.R.’s latest Market Minute breaks down these key economic indicators and what they could mean for real estate in the months ahead.

READ THE FULL MARKET MINUTE >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 082526

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | AUGUST 25, 2026

Top News

• YPN Trivia Night FREE Next Thursday
• Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7
• The BIG Event Membership Meeting – Oct. 28
• In Memoriam: Darryll Whaley
• Ethica – An AI-Powered Transaction Assistant
• Conquering Social Media & AI – Sep. 10
• Safety Strategies For the Modern REALTOR®

MLS Updates

• The Next Phase of RealReports is Here
• REALTOR ® Optimized Laptops For Sale

All laptops purchased through CCAR include a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and Real Estate setup.

ETHICS CORNER

• Have a Complaint? Know Your Options

+ Upcoming Education
+ REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)
+ CCAR CALENDAR

In Memoriam: Darryll Whaley

CCAR is saddened to share the sudden passing of longtime member Darryll Whaley, a CCAR member since 2002 and Broker/Owner of Perception Real Estate Group.

Known for his commitment to his clients, integrity, and service to the community, Darryll will be deeply missed.

His memorial service will be held Saturday, August 29, at 10:00am in the Worship Center Auditorium at NorthCreek Church, followed by a reception with light refreshments, concluding by 12:30pm. Our thoughts are with Darryll’s family, friends, colleagues, and all who knew him.

Ethica – An AI-Powered Transaction Assistant and Your New Member Benefit – Sep. 2

Join us on Sep. 2 from 10–11am to learn about Ethica, a new AI-powered transaction assistant available as a free C.A.R. member benefit. Jon Cox, Head of Sales at Ethica AI, will walk you through account activation, how Ethica works, and answer questions live.
REGISTER HERE >>

Conquering Social Media & AI – Sep. 10

Safety Strategies for the Modern REALTOR® – NAR On-Demand Course

Stay prepared and protect yourself with the on-demand Real Estate Safety Matters course, developed in partnership with NAR’s REALTOR® Safety Program. This 3-hour, $30 course covers practical safety strategies for showings, open houses, client interactions, personal data protection, and recognizing potentially dangerous situations.
REGISTER HERE >>

Beer, Bites & Bragging Rights –
YPN Trivia Night FREE Next Thursday!

CCAR YPN’s 4th Annual Real Estate Trivia Night is back! Join us at Side Gate Brewery in Concord from 4:30–7:30pm, grab your friends and colleagues, and put your real estate knowledge to the test during a casual night of friendly competition and networking.

Registration is FREE and includes two drink tickets. There will also be raffles throughout the evening, with food available for purchase from the P&B Smash Burger Food Truck.

Come for the trivia, stay for the food, drinks, and a fun night with fellow industry pros!

Sponsored by:
Commander Moving Inc.
Floortex Design
First American Home Warranty
JCP-LGS Hazard Disclosures
Sanctuary Energy Solutions
Stokley Properties
First American Home Warranty
JCP-LGS Hazard Disclosures

REGISTER FREE >>

Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7

Rostrum with microphone and computer in conference hall

The BIG Event Membership Meeting – Oct. 28

CCAR Members are invited to a free, exclusive 2027 Economic Forecast and Legal Update featuring two leading industry experts.

Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for NAR, will share his outlook for the 2027 economy and housing market, including key trends affecting housing supply and real estate. Neil Kalin, Assistant General Counsel for C.A.R., will also provide a timely legal update covering important issues REALTORS® need to know.

CCAR Members only—advance registration required. Complimentary refreshments will be served.

REGISTER HERE >>

ETHICS CORNER:

Have a Complaint? Know Your Options

Who can file? Anyone—including members of the public—can file a complaint against a REALTOR^® member. Complaints are filed with the Association where the Respondent REALTOR^® belongs.

Where do you start? Talk with your broker first. If the issue isn’t resolved, our Professional Standards Administrator, Gail Hargis, will confidentially explain the process, early resolution resources, and your options. Procedures and resources are also available on the CCAR website under Professional Standards.

When can I file? Complaints have a 180-day filing deadline, so timing matters.

What happens next? You’re not alone. Our free Ethics Advocates can help you prepare a complaint, organize documentation, and navigate a hearing. The Grievance Committee reviews the complaint to determine whether a Professional Standards hearing is warranted. The process is confidential, and only committee members without bias participate in the review.

What if the case goes to a hearing? If you’re notified of a complaint filed against you, you can also request an Ethics Advocate to help you prepare, substantiate your response, and guide you at the hearing.

The Professional Standards panel will listen to each party and ask questions of both sides. Only after everyone has had the chance to give their testimony does the panel, in private, determine whether a violation occurred. They weigh each allegation separately and write up the facts that support their decision. If any violation(s) occurred, the consequences can include education, fines up to $15,000, or suspension of membership. Serious violations may also be posted by the California Association of REALTORS^®on their website. The entire process is aimed at educating REALTORS^® and keeping everyone accountable to a high level of professionalism.

Questions? Click here to email our Professional Standards Administrator, Gail Hargis.
MORE INFORMATION >>

The Next Phase of RealReports is Here

RealReports has rolled out its next phase, featuring a redesigned desktop and mobile experience, a unified dashboard across its products, a reimagined RealReport and an enhanced Aiden AI property advisor.

What’s new? The updated platform brings property data, documents, research tools and AI-powered insights together in one place, making it easier to move from property research to useful information for your clients. Aiden can help answer questions about property characteristics, permits, zoning, valuations, liens, environmental risks, market information and more, as well as analyze documents such as inspection reports and seller disclosures.

Users can also choose between Classic Mode, which maintains the familiar Aiden experience, and the new Agentic Mode, which introduces advanced capabilities such as workflows, task scheduling, third-party apps and connectors, and enhanced memory.

To walk through the updates, RealReports is hosting a launch-week webinar:
Wed, Aug 26, 10:00am | REGISTER HERE >>
(Registrants will receive the recording and slide deck afterward.)

Want to see what’s new before the webinar? Click here for the full overview.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 081826

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | AUGUST 18, 2026

Top News

• Learn to Use Your Branded IDX Website – Tomorrow
• YPN RE Trivia Night – Sep 3
• Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7
• Congratulations Heather Schiffman!
• West County Marketing Meeting – This Thu
• Giving Back Through C.A.R. CARES
• Discover Realtor.com+ Training – Aug 19 & 24
• WCR Mixer, Mingle & Vote – Aug 26

MLS Updates

• Get Ready for the Next Phase of RealReports
• REALTOR ® Optimized Laptops For Sale

All laptops purchased through CCAR include a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and Real Estate setup.

+ Upcoming Education
+ REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)
+ CCAR CALENDAR

CCAR’s Heather Schiffman Honored as Advocate of the Year

Congratulations to Heather Schiffman, CCAR’s Chief Industry Advocacy Officer, on being named the East Bay Leadership Council’s 2026 Advocate of the Year!

Heather’s dedication to expanding homeownership opportunities, advancing thoughtful housing policy, and building stronger communities continues to make a meaningful impact throughout Contra Costa County and the East Bay. We’re proud to see her leadership and advocacy recognized with this well-deserved honor. Congratulations, Heather!
READ MORE >>

West County Marketing Meeting – Thu, Aug. 20

Join us for the West County Marketing Meeting this Thu, from 8:45–10:00am at 500 Alfred Nobel Drive, Suite 265 in Hercules.

Featured speakers Ron Johnson and Jim Cowen will discuss key insurance issues affecting homeowners and REALTORS®, including availability, rising costs, and the upcoming California Insurance Commissioner election.

Enjoy complimentary breakfast burritos, fresh fruit, and beverages while sharing listings and connecting with fellow members.

Giving Back Through C.A.R. CARES

CARES brings C.A.R.’s four charitable causes together under one philanthropic umbrella: housing affordability, scholarships, REALTOR® education and disaster relief. Together, these efforts help REALTORS® strengthen communities and make a lasting difference across California.
LEARN MORE >>

Get More From Your New CCAR Member Benefit – Training Tomorrow at 10am

Your complimentary, branded MLS IDX website from CCARHomes.com, powered by SaleCore, is now available—and tomorrow you can learn how to put it to work for your business.

Join us Wednesday, August 19 at 10:00am on Zoom for a live training designed for brokers, teams, and agents. You’ll learn how to:

Get the most from your SEO-optimized IDX website
Capture and manage leads using the built-in CRM
Stay connected with clients and prospects
Create email marketing campaigns
Use social media marketing tools to expand your reach
Build stronger referral opportunities and generate more business

Whether you’re just getting started with your new website or want to explore everything included with this CCAR member benefit, this training will help you make the most of the tools available to you. Don’t miss it, register today and join us tomorrow at 10:00am!

YPN 4th Annual Real Estate Trivia Night! – Sep. 3

Get ready for a night of fun, laughs, and a little friendly competition at CCAR YPN’s 4th Annual Real Estate Trivia Night!

Put your real estate knowledge to the test, team up with friends and colleagues, and enjoy a fun night out with the industry. Best of all, registration is FREE and includes 2 drink tickets!

We’ll also have raffles throughout the evening, plus food available for purchase from the P&B Smash Burger Food Truck.

Come ready to compete, connect, and have a great time!

REGISTER FOR FREE TICKETS >>

Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7

Discover Realtor.com+ at an Upcoming Live Training Webinar – Aug 19 & 24

Meet Realtor.com+, a new member benefit now available in the Bay Area. The platform brings client searches, listings, and messages into one secure, branded, and collaborative space, helping REALTORS® stay connected with clients from the first search through closing.

Live training and product demonstrations will be offered on Aug 19th and the 24th, with session times varying by date.
LEARN MORE & REGISTER >>

WCR Mixer, Mingle, & Vote – Aug 26

LEARN MORE & REGISTER >>

Get Ready for the Next Phase of RealReports

A new RealReports experience is coming on Monday, August 24. This next phase is designed as to help you move more naturally from property intelligence to action. You’ll see a clearer desktop and mobile experience, a reimagined RealReports platform, and an Aiden experience that works alongside you across the platform.

RealReports is hosting two general sessions during launch week to walk through the changes, show the new experience, and explain how to begin using it.

• Session #1: Mon, Aug 24, 10:00am | REGISTER HERE >>
• Session #2: Wed, Aug 26, 10:00am | REGISTER HERE >>

(Both sessions will be recorded. Registrants will receive the recording and slide deck afterward.)

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

When You’re in a Transaction, Which Parts of the Code of Ethics Apply?

Your Transaction Roadmap:

NAR CODE OF ETHICS

NAR Ethics Complaints, Arbitration Requests & Related Information

C.A.R. ETHICS & ARBITRATION MANUAL

MLS RULES & REGULATIONS

CCAR BYLAWS

CODE OF ETHICS DEMYSTIFIED

Weekly Jolt – 090826

Risk Management Seminar – Sep. 23

Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7

Weekly Jolt – 090126

Risk Management Seminar – Sep. 23

Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7

Weekly Jolt – 082526

Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7

The BIG Event Membership Meeting – Oct. 28

Weekly Jolt – 081826

YPN 4th Annual Real Estate Trivia Night! – Sep. 3

Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7

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