, Author at CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

Weekly Jolt – 042126

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | APRIL 21, 2026

Nominate by Petition for the 2027 CCAR Board of Directors

As part of the nation’s largest trade association, CCAR has a proud legacy built by members who step up to lead, serve, and inspire. Now, it’s your chance to be part of that legacy.

Voting for the 2027 CCAR Board of Directors begins June 15, 2026, and we want YOU to help shape the future of our Association.

There’s still time to get on the ballot. Under CCAR Bylaws, Article X, Section 7(b), additional candidates may be nominated by petition signed by at least 50 eligible CCAR REALTOR® members.

Petitions must be submitted by 5 pm on May 5, 2026. To request a Nomination by Petition form, contact [email protected].

Cinco de Mayo Affiliate Faire – May 6

CCAR REALTOR® Members: meet Affiliates, explore their booths, and discover new products and services that can help support your business. With raffle prizes, cold beer, wine, and festive bites, it’s the perfect midweek excuse to get out, enjoy the celebration, and support two great causes: the CCAR Scholarship Foundation and CCAR Helping Hands.

CCAR Affiliates: The Cinco de Mayo Affiliate Faire is the perfect way to put your business in front of CCAR REALTORS® in an atmosphere that feels more like a fiesta than a traditional expo. It’s a chance to show off what you do and be part of an event that mixes networking, community, and a little Cinco de Mayo fun!

FREE REALTOR® TICKETS >>

Security Alert: Fake Zoom Links Used in Phishing Scam Targeting Agents

CCAR Member Services is receiving reports of a phishing scam targeting agents. Scammers pose as interested buyers, then send fake Zoom links that can give criminals access to a computer if clicked.

Microsoft recently warned that similar campaigns have used spoofed Zoom and other workplace app downloads to install remote access malware. Use caution with unexpected links or download prompts, and verify suspicious requests before clicking. Follow the below link for more details about the scam from Microsoft.
Read More >>

Change to HomeLight Listing Management (formerly Disclosures.io)

Beginning in May, HomeLight Listing Management will no longer be offered through CCAR.

Here’s what this means for you:

You can continue using the platform by creating an account directly with HomeLight.
You will still be able to add disclosure package links to your Paragon MLS listings using the Disclosures Link field during listing input.

We remain focused on offering tools and services that bring the most value to your business, and we’ll continue exploring solutions that support your day-to-day workflow. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected].

Launching April 28: Realtor.com+
A Smarter Way to Work with Clients

CCAR is excited to introduce Realtor.com+, launching April 28 as a FREE member benefit with the Starter plan. Built with Realtor.com®, this new platform gives members a better way to work with clients by bringing search, communication, and collaboration into one place.

What makes it different?
• Built for agent-client collaboration, not just browsing
• Keeps you at the center—no competing leads
• Powered by MLS data and advanced search
• Shows real-time client activity and preferences

With Realtor.com+, you can collaborate in real time, message clients, manage tours, and stay fully aligned throughout the transaction.

JOIN AN UPCOMING TRAINING WEBINAR | APRIL 28 @2PM >>
VIEW THE REALTOR.COM+ Q&A >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

CCAR Realtor.com FAQs

FAQ’s

Realtor.com® and CCAR have launched a new strategic partnership, driven by a shared vision: elevating the role of the professional by equipping you with powerful, cutting-edge tools.

The first product delivered from this powerful collaboration is Realtor.com+: a collaborative home search for professionals and clients that helps them stay in sync from click to close.

What are the Benefits of Realtor.com+?

Realtor.com+ offers a best in class collaboration experience for practitioners and their clients from search-to-close. For your clients, this means accessing the Realtor.com experience they know and love (a modern platform with nationwide search) with the addition of premium features, like shared listing feeds so they can easily collaborate with you and any co-buyers.

For you, this means access to an entire suite of premium features to that elevates your role as the professional, keeping you as the hero of the transaction, including, but not limited to features such as:

Protected and branded environment
Create saved searches for you AND your clients using MLS-level search filters
Collaborative agent-client search with co-buyers & co-agents
Visibility into your clients’ search behaviors (saves, property views, sessions, likes/dislikes, etc)
In-App Chat with Agent Reminders
Touring Solution
Agent & Client Mobile Apps
Real-Time Client and Market Insights

So this is an app?

Realtor.com+ is a platform available via both desktop and mobile app (for iPhone or Android). Whatever you do on Realtor.com+ syncs across all platforms.

For example, if you save a search while on your computer, you can get notified on your phone from the mobile app when new listings match it! This allows you to do your work wherever you are, whether you’re at your desk or waiting on a front stoop for your buyer to arrive for a showing.

How do I get the app?

You can download the app by searching for Realtor.com+ on the App or Google Play Store. Just look for the Realtor.com+ logo to be sure you’re downloading the correct app.

Download Realtor.com+ on Apple:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/realtor-com-plus/id6749579971

Download Realtor.com+ on Google Play:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.move.realtorplus.android&utm_source=na_Med

Once you’ve downloaded the app, follow the steps on the app screen to sign into your account.

Where do I manage my Realtor.com+ plan?

You can manage your Realtor.com+ plan inside of your Account Page, under the section called “My Subscription.” Once in the “My Subscription” section of your account, you can upgrade or downgrade your plan, manage your credit card on file, and see a full list of features available to you in each plan.

Will I have the ability to gain more benefits through Realtor.com+ if I’m a paid Realtor.com customer?

At this time, there are no paid add-ons for Realtor.com+. While we wholeheartedly believe agents significantly increase their opportunity for success by becoming a Realtor.com customer, it’s not necessary to successfully take advantage of Realtor.com+ and all the tools and insights it has available.

How do I describe Realtor.com+ to my clients?

Shortly before or after you invite a client to Realtor.com+ we recommend giving the client a quick 1-2 minute elevator pitch to remind them of the value of joining you. To name a few of those benefits, you can call attention to:

Advanced collaboration features unlocked within your existing Realtor.com experience.
Cross-compatible web and mobile experience within their existing Realtor.com app.
In-app chat messenger to collaborate, share feedback, and stay connected with me, and if applicable, your co-buyer.
Request tours with me directly, and see past and upcoming showings.
No ads in-app, so you can focus on what matters most – finding your dream home.
And much, much more!

Below is some inspiration to help you get started:

What MLS data will I see on Realtor.com+?

Realtor.com+ is a platform available via both desktop and mobile app (for iPhone or Android). Whatever you do on Realtor.com+ syncs across all platforms.

How do I sign up?

More details to come soon!

Do I have to pay a subscription fee?

Realtor.com+ offers two different plans and pricing options so that you can choose which is best for you and your clients:

Realtor.com+ Starter – Free for Contra Costa REALTORS® members!
Realtor.com+ Unlimited – $39/month

What’s included in each plan?

The only difference between Realtor.com+ Starter and Realtor.com+ Unlimited is the number of active client groups that you can be connected with at any given time.

How is this different from Realtor.com?

Realtor.com+ takes you and your clients beyond a simple search with enhanced collaboration tools built to simplify the way you and your clients work together. In addition to a protected environment, you and your clients will have access to collaboration tools that include direct chat messages, behavior alerts, tour management, market insights, and more!

I received an email about Realtor.com Pro, Connections Plus what’s the difference?

The Realtor.com leads businesses (Connections Plus, MVIP) will continue to exist and will continue to offer leads to professionals who rely on them to grow and power their businesses. Realtor.com+ is a post-lead experience. It is for clients and agents who have already chosen to work together – for the serious buyers in the transaction phase of the journey.

Subject: Heads up! How we’ll search together to find your dream home.

Body:
Hi [Client Name],

As you get ready to start your home search, I want to introduce you to Realtor.com®+™ a smart home search platform designed specifically for my valued clients to find their way home.

Why You’ll Love Realtor.com+:

My Expert Guidance: Always On. You’ll connect with me in a premium search environment where you’ll be able to view my recommended homes for you, invite your co-buyer, share individual listings, see your upcoming tours, and chat with me all in one space, so you never miss a critical update.
Seamless Collaborative Search & Communication. Once you’re connected with me on Realtor.com+, you’ll receive real-time listing updates for our saved searches and you’ll have a direct line to me to chat and request tours instantly, so we can move quickly together.
Available on Web and Mobile. Realtor.com+ is available to use on your computer or on the go via the Realtor.com mobile app, so you can search and communicate with me from anywhere.

Next Steps:

We will be using Realtor.com+ as our primary search and collaboration hub throughout your home search. Realtor.com+ is an exclusive, invite only platform so…

Please keep an eye on your inbox!

I will be sending your invitation to join Realtor.com+ shortly. Look for an email from Realtor.com+ with the invitation link. Once you receive it, please click the link to join me right away so we can jump in and get started!

How do my clients access Realtor.com+?

Easy! Once your clients connect with you on Realtor.com+ by accepting your invitation, if they get logged out of the Realtor.com+ experience, they’ll simply sign back into their account at www.realtor.com or on the Realtor.com app.

Once they’ve signed in, their traditional Realtor.com experience will be automatically upgraded to the premium Realtor.com+ experience they receive by working with you. There is no additional app or separate website they’ll need to go to work with you!

How do get support?

We’re always happy to help. You can get in touch with our support team at any time by selecting the Support button in your Realtor.com+ account.

You’ll also have access to your knowledge center, which provides a variety of helpful product walkthroughs and how-to guides to help you get started. You can access the knowledge center using the link, here.

How will I learn how to use Realtor.com+?

Learn how to use your Realtor.com+ account by joining an upcoming live or virtual training session. Dates and times are actively being scheduled and will be communicated broadly once established.

I received an email about Realtor.com Pro, Connections Plus what’s the difference?

Yes! You can use the co-agent feature to add another agent or team member to one of your client feeds, as long as the agent has a Realtor.com+ account. Your partner agent will be able to see the saved searches and listings on the client feed and add their own saved searches as well.

Learn more about working with your team here.

Weekly Jolt – 041426

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | APRIL 14, 2026

Nominate by Petition for the 2027 CCAR Board of Directors

Spring Into Success This April with CCAR Education

April brings a fresh chance to refocus, reconnect, and grow your business. Our latest Education & Events Newsletter is packed with classes and events designed specifically for you.

Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, stay current on industry changes, or connect with fellow REALTORS®, we’ve made it easy to find what you need.

Inside, you’ll find our full lineup of April offerings with direct registration links, plus access to the CCAR education dashboard—so you can quickly see what’s coming up and plan ahead.

Take time to invest in yourself this month. We’re here to support your success every step of the way.

Upcoming Women’s Council of REALTORS^® Events:

Wed, April 22 | 5:30 – 8:00pm Mon, May 4 | 11:00am – 1:00pm
More Info >> More Info >>

Change to HomeLight Listing Management (formerly Disclosures.io)

Beginning in May, HomeLight Listing Management will no longer be offered through CCAR.

Here’s what this means for you:

You can continue using the platform by creating an account directly with HomeLight.
You will still be able to add disclosure package links to your Paragon MLS listings using the Disclosures Link field during listing input.

Launching April 28: Realtor.com+
A Smarter Way to Work with Clients

With Realtor.com+, you can collaborate in real time, message clients, manage tours, and stay fully aligned throughout the transaction.

JOIN AN UPCOMING TRAINING WEBINAR | APRIL 28 @2PM >>
VIEW THE REALTOR.COM+ Q&A >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Cinco de Mayo Affiliate Faire – May 6

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 5:00 - 7:00pm
St. Stephen Catholic Church

CCAR REALTOR® Members:

Join us for an evening of appetizers, drinks, raffles, and fun at St. Stephen Church on May 6, 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 AFFILIATE MEMBERS:

The Cinco de Mayo 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!

Here’s How:
Purchase a vender table for $35 (non-affiliate members $75) by contacting Jason Catalano at 925.295.9202 or [email protected] and…

Bring:
1. All your marketing materials
2. One raffle prize (gift basket, gift card, wine, etc.)
3. An appetizer to feed at least 20 people (veggie
tray, cheese plate, hors d’oeuvres, etc.)

SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES

Door Prize Sponsor | $500
or a prize of equal value

Thank you to our sponsors!

Weekly Jolt – 040726

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | APRIL 7, 2026

Cinco de Mayo Affiliate Faire – May 6

Spring Into Success This April with CCAR Education

Featured Education:

Take your lead generation to the next level with Lead Gen Blueprint: Secrets to Master Top Platforms – from the trainers behind Conquering Social Media and AI.

Join us Wed, April 22 from 10:00–11:00am on Zoom for a high-energy session designed to help REALTORS® generate more leads from both paid and organic sources across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X, while sharpening your top-of-mind marketing, SEO, traffic and lead management strategies. You’ll also get practical tips on ChatGPT (AI) integration, video marketing, blogging, and more – delivered by rock star coaches in a fun, motivating format!

Register >>

Reminder: Coming Soon Listings Can Now Be Syndicated

Effective March 30, CCAR MLS began allowing Coming Soon listings to be syndicated, giving sellers more choice in how their property is marketed. Agents can now select syndication preferences during listing entry using the Internet Site field and related options, based on their client’s instructions and broker policies. Existing Coming Soon listings default to not syndicated, but can be updated at any time. MLS Rules will be updated to reflect this added flexibility.

Read Rules Change & FAQs Here >>

MLS Updates Coming Next Week: More Space,
More Features, More Control – April 15

We’re updating the MLS to give you more control when adding your listings. These improvements help create better search results and give your property details the attention they deserve.

Directions to Property: Character limit increased from 50 to 70 to allow for clearer, more complete directions.
Public Remarks: Character limit increased from 1,000 to 2,500 characters.
Listing Photos: Maximum number of photos increased from 60 to 99.
Water and Sewer Features: These will now appear as separate feature categories for more accurate data entry and search results.
New Selectable Features:
- “Taxiway Properties” added to X – Lot Description in the Residential class and H – Lot Description in the Lots & Land
- “Aircraft Hangar” added to N – Garage/Parking in the Residential class

New MLS Status: Sold Off MLS
This status is designed to improve data accuracy and provide a clearer picture of market activity. It allows subscribers to enter a property that was sold before being submitted to the MLS, ensuring it is captured for comparable and reporting purposes. Meaning, at the seller’s request, the property was never entered into the MLS prior to the sale.

CCAR’s Director of MLS Services, Joey Masters, will walk you through upcoming changes at the West County Marketing Meeting this Thursday, March 19 at the CCAR Hercules Office.

VIEW MORE UPDATES >>
VIEW APRIL 15 MLS RULES CHANGES >>
(Changes marked in red.)

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 5:00 - 7:00pm St. Stephen Catholic Church

CCAR REALTOR® Members:

CCAR AFFILIATE MEMBERS:

SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES

Thank you to our sponsors!

SERVING YOU AT:

Search

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 5:00 - 7:00pm
St. Stephen Catholic Church