, Author at CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

Learn How to Defer Capital Gains Tax with 1031 Exchanges – May 22

Are you a property owner or investor looking to maximize your real estate investments and defer capital gains taxes?

Join CCAR Education and The 1031 Exchange Company for an informative and engaging Zoom webinar on Thu., May 22, from 11:00am to noon.

Nationally qualified intermediary Kristine Yu will walk you through the fundamentals of 1031 Exchanges — a powerful tool under the Internal Revenue Code that allows property owners to sell and reinvest in “like-kind” properties without immediately paying capital gains tax.

This session will explore key topics including an overview of 1031 Exchanges, the four levels of capital gains taxes, how to calculate capital gains on investment properties, and taxpayer options when deciding whether to hold, sell, or exchange. You’ll also learn about critical IRS time deadlines, “like-kind” requirements — including creative property variations — and guidelines for vacation homes.

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and get your questions answered by an expert.

Space is limited — Register through the CCAR Calendar on May 22 >>

Weekly Jolt – 050625

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | MAY 6, 2025

Top News

• Meet the Candidates Running for 2026 CCAR BOD
• Unlock the Full Potential of Your Social Security Benefits
– May 13
• Learn How to Defer Capital Gains Tax with 1031 Exclusions
– May 22
• WCR Monthly Coffee Social -May 7
• WCR Bowling Tournament – May 16

MLS Updates

• Boost Your Brand with C.A.R.’s Content Studio!
Market Uncertainty
• NAR President Shares Details on Multiple Listing Options
for Sellers
• REALTOR® Optimized Laptops For Sale

Upcoming Education

FEATURED CLASS:
CCAR Presents: Selling in Fire Zones
Thu., May 22 | 10am – 11am

NAR’s Military Relocation Professional Certification
Wed., May 7 | 9:00am – 4:00pm

Estimated Taxes: Quarterly Filing & Tax Efficiency
Wed., May 7 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Mobile MLS: My Content – Property Watches & Listing Carts
Wed., May 7 | 11:00am – 11:30am

Realtor.com®- The Latest Tools & FREE Resources
Thu., May 8 | 9:00am – 10:00am

Argh, I Can’t Talk to Strangers: Getting to a YES, Instead of a NO
Thu., May 8 | 10:00am – 11:00am

zipForm: EXplore Advanced Tools w/ the ZipGuys
Thu., May 8 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

C.A.R. Townhall for Brokers/Managers
Fri., May 9 | 11:00am – 12:30pm

Free OnDemand – The Role of a REALTOR® in Disasters (DPK 1)
Mon., May 12 | 12:00am – 12:00am

Free OnDemand: Buyer Representation & Listing Agreement Bundle
Mon., May 12 | 12:00am – 12:00am

dotloop: Basic Training
Mon., May 12 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

zipForm: e-Signatures
Tue., May 13 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Coastal Issues for REALTORS®: Getting & Selling Coastal Properties
Tue., May 13 | 1:30pm – 2:30pm

Local Government & Community: Partnering for Success (Session 2)
Tue., May 13 | 2:00pm – 4:30pm

Maximize Your Social Security Benefits
Tue., May 13 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Supra eKEY Basic & Professional Training
Wed., May 14 | 8:00am – 9:00am

Disclosures: CA Real Estate Disclosures Required By Law
Wed., May 14 | 10:00am – 1:00pm

Your Network Is Your Net Worth – Referral Strategies That Really Work!
Wed., May 14 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Cloud CMA: How to Create a CMA
Wed., May 14 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

How to Run a Successful & Engaged Online Community
Wed., May 14 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Exchange Advanced Strategies w/ Leonard Spoto
Thu., May 15 | 10:00am – 11:00am 1031

MLS: Set It & Forget It w/ Paragon’s Colab Center
Thu., May 15 | 2:00pm 4:00pm

DRE License Renewal Crash Course
Fri., May 16 | 9:30am – 12:00pm

OnlineEd Offers CA Salespersons
A Fast Track to Becoming Brokers

California Salespersons now have a new path to becoming Brokers with OnlineEd’s fully interactive, online courses. These textbook-free courses are designed to be mobile-friendly and comprehensive, offering a convenient way to advance to a Broker Licensee.
REGISTER NOW >>

Visit the CCAR Calendar to view/register for additional online training opportunities.

YPN Spotlight

How to Overcome the ‘Too Young’ Objection in Real Estate
By: Alex Craig

Being young in real estate can sometimes be a barrier or hurdle to getting clients—but it doesn’t have to be. You can overcome feeling “too young” or clients choosing another agent simply because they believe you’re “too young” to help them buy or sell a home.

I was 25 when I got started in real estate. I had some great real estate training, but I jumped into the deep end by choosing to go solo as an agent and I tried not to drown.

My first few buyer and seller appointments were full of emotions. I felt excitement and A LOT of…

Read More >>

REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)

The RAF supports political activities at the local, state, and national levels. It gives REALTORS^® the financial resources needed to advocate for policies which protect property rights and REALTORS^® ability to effectively conduct their business.

Contribute Today >>

+ 2024 Annual Report

+ CCAR CALENDAR

Sips & Socials: Your Monthly WCR Coffee Connection! – May 7

WCR Presidential Bowling Bash: Celebrating Strikes, Service & Sisterhood! – May 16

Join WCR next Fri., May 16 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at Pinstripes in Walnut Creek, CA, for an unforgettable afternoon of fun, fellowship, and friendly competition as they honor their amazing past presidents.

This exciting event features 1.5 hours of bowling, shoe rental, appetizers, and plenty of networking opportunities. Whether you’re aiming for a perfect game or just showing up for the snacks, you’ll be part of a spirited celebration of leadership and legacy. Teams of 4 or 8 are encouraged, so grab your colleagues and friends and sign up today!
Get Tickets >>

Meet Your 2026 CCAR Board Candidates –
Coming to a Marketing Meeting Near You!

The CCAR Board of Directors election is just around the corner, and now’s your chance to hear directly from the candidates! Starting next week, nominees for 2026 President-Elect and Director-At-Large positions will be making appearances at all the local marketing meetings to share their vision, goals, and commitment to the future of our Association.

These sessions are a great opportunity to ask questions, hear their perspectives, and get to know the dedicated REALTORS® who are stepping up to serve. Don’t miss this chance to engage with the candidates and make an informed decision when it’s time to vote.

President- Elect (1 Position) Important Dates:
• Ron Mintz May 15: West County Marketing Meeting – Candidate Speeches
Director-at-Large (4 Positions) May 20: Rossmoor Marketing Meeting
• Brendan Moran – Candidate Speeches
• Diane Ramirez May 22: RMA
• Victor Reyes – Candidate Speeches
• Joe Stokley May 27: CCRIM
– Candidate Speeches
June 16: Voting begins at 9am*
June 23: Voting ends at 9am
Read More >>
*Unique voting links will be emailed from “ElectionBuddy”.

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Social Security Benefits – May 13

Are you prepared to make informed decisions about your Social Security benefits? Understanding key strategies can help you maximize the benefits you’ve earned through years of hard work. Many people miss out simply because they’re unaware of important factors that impact their benefits.

Join us for a virtual Social Security Benefits workshop on May 13 at 2pm, where you’ll learn how to avoid the costly mistake of claiming benefits too early, plan for widow’s and divorced spousal survivor benefits, and identify key factors to help maximize your income.

Space is limited – reserve your spot today on the ccartoday.com calendar >>

Learn How to Defer Capital Gains Tax with 1031 Exchanges – May 22

Are you a property owner or investor looking to maximize your real estate investments and defer capital gains taxes? Join CCAR Education and The 1031 Exchange Company for an informative and engaging Zoom webinar on Thu., May 22, from 11am to noon.

This session will explore key topics including an overview of 1031 Exchanges, the four levels of capital gains taxes, how to calculate capital gains on investment properties, and taxpayer options when deciding whether to hold, sell, or exchange. You’ll also learn about critical IRS time deadlines, “like-kind” requirements — including creative…

Space is limited – reserve your spot today on the ccartoday.com calendar >>

NAR President Kevin Sears Shares Details on Multiple Listing Options for Sellers

Following NAR’s announcement of its new MLS policy, Multiple Listing Options for Sellers, NAR President Kevin Sears has recorded a video message to share additional details about the policy, how it came to be, and how it will benefit consumers.

As the real estate industry continues to analyze and digest the new policy and NAR’s assessment of its Clear Cooperation Policy, President Sears shares his perspectives and insight into the decision-making process. As part of the continued conversation, the NAR leadership team continues to speak with agents, brokers, MLS executives, and association executives ahead of the September 30 deadline to implement Multiple Listing Options for Sellers.

Watch Video >>

REALTOR® Optimize Laptops For Sale

All laptops purchased from CCAR come with a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and RE setup included. Reminder: Support for Windows 10 ends on Oct. 14, 2025.
• Lenovo Slim 5i 16″ – $935.51 >>
• Lenovo IdeaPad 14″ 2 in 1 – $935.51 >>

Boost Your Brand with C.A.R.’s Content Studio!

Looking to stand out in a crowded market and connect with clients in a more meaningful way? The California Association of REALTORS® (C.A.R.) Content Studio is your new secret weapon for professional, personalized marketing!

This powerful platform is exclusively available to C.A.R. members and designed to help you create high-quality, branded video content—no editing experience required.

What You Can Do:

Customize REALTOR®-branded videos with your name, photo, and contact details.
Choose from a library of commercials and educational videos that highlight your value as a REALTOR®.
Upload your own clips to further personalize your message and make it your own.
Download and share your videos on social media, email, or directly with clients.

Today’s clients are looking for more than just a transaction—they’re looking for connection. Personalized video marketing not only builds trust but also helps you communicate your unique value clearly and memorably. Whether you’re farming a new neighborhood or nurturing leads, Content Studio helps you show up as the expert you are.

Get Started Today: Visit contentstudio.car.org and start creating content that works as hard as you do!

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

2024 Annual Report

Weekly Jolt – 042925

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | APRIL 29, 2025

Nominate by Petition for the 2026 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 opportunity to be part of that legacy.

The election for the 2026 CCAR Board of Directors begins on June 16, 2025, and we want YOU to help shape the future of our Association.

Missed the initial application window? Qualified candidates may still be able to get on the ballot! In accordance with CCAR Bylaws Article X, Section 7, additional candidates may be nominated by petition signed by at least 50 CCAR REALTOR® members eligible to vote.

Petitions must be submitted by 5:00pm on May 6, 2025. To request a Petition by Nomination form, contact [email protected].

Showing Etiquette and Professionalism Matter

In today’s evolving real estate landscape, in-person etiquette has taken on new importance. As spring and summer heat up and showing activity increases, it’s essential to lead with professionalism and respect.

Be mindful that showing a home is a privilege—not a right. Courtesy toward the seller and listing agent reflects not only your personal brand but the profession as a whole.

15 Common Courtesies to follow during showings:

1. TIME LIMIT – Be respectful of the time you scheduled for a showing. If the property is occupied, the owner may be on their way home. There may also be other agents waiting to see the home after you

2. PETS – Do not let a dog or cat out of…

ETHICS CORNER:

Many difficulties that may arise during a real estate transaction are due to misunderstandings and miscommunication. If you have a problem with a fellow-member keep in mind that open, constructive communication often resolves questions or differences, eliminating the need for…
Read More >>

REALTOR® Optimize Laptops For Sale

Market Update: U.S. Economy Shows Mixed Signals Amid Market Uncertainty – Apr. 28

The U.S. economy continued to show mixed signals as housing, labor, and consumer sectors navigated rising uncertainty. New home sales unexpectedly surged to a 724,000 annual rate fueled by a temporary dip in mortgage rates, though new tariffs and higher construction costs pose risks ahead.

In California, housing affordability continued to decline, with gaps between ethnic groups narrowing but remaining wide in 2024. Nationally, the labor market remained resilient despite slight increases in jobless claims and signs of caution in business investment, particularly in tariff-exposed sectors.

Meanwhile, consumer sentiment fell sharply to near-historic lows, reflecting heightened fears of inflation and recession. In regard to the housing market, although supply rose significantly statewide, overall sales remained subdued and will likely stay low as elevated mortgage rates and economic uncertainty continue to weigh on market activity in the near term.

Read Complete Market Update on car.org >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 042225

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | APRIL 22, 2025

Nominate by Petition for the 2026 CCAR Board of Directors

Strengthening CA’s Insurance Market: Expanding Access & Stability – Apr. 29

Join the Center for California Real Estate (CCRE) on Tuesday, April 29, from 3:00 to 4:30pm at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center in Sacramento for a timely and solutions-focused panel discussion on California’s evolving homeowners insurance market. In the wake of devastating wildfires and growing pressure on both private insurers and the FAIR Plan, industry leaders, policymakers, and consumer advocates will come together to explore strategies for expanding access and creating long-term stability in the market.

Don’t miss this important conversation about the future of insurance in California. This event is free and open to all C.A.R. members.

REGISTER FREE >>

ETHICS CORNER:

REALTOR® Optimize Laptops For Sale

New Member Benefit Coming Soon –
RealReports: The “Carfax” for Homes

We’re excited to announce a powerful new member benefit: RealReports is coming to the Contra Costa Association of REALTORS®!

RealReports is an AI-driven platform that delivers instant, in-depth property reports by pulling data from over 60 trusted sources. Think permits, climate risk, zoning, liens, valuations, and more—all consolidated in one clean, comprehensive report.

At the core is Aiden, your built-in AI property advisor. Aiden can read and interpret documents like inspection reports and seller disclosures, answer detailed questions about any property, and offer real-time, actionable insights. It’s like having a research assistant for every listing!

To help you get started, RealReports will be hosting two introductory webinars for CCAR Members where you’ll:

See a live product demo
Explore real-life use cases
Learn how to maximize your new CCAR member benefit

Intro to Real Reports
Tue., Apr. 29 | 10am
Register >>

Intro to Real Reports
Tue., Apr. 29 | 1pm
Register >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Learn How to Defer Capital Gains Tax with 1031 Exchanges – May 22

Weekly Jolt – 050625

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Social Security Benefits – May 13

Learn How to Defer Capital Gains Tax with 1031 Exchanges – May 22

2024 Annual Report

Weekly Jolt – 042925

Nominate by Petition for the 2026 CCAR Board of Directors

Showing Etiquette and Professionalism Matter

Weekly Jolt – 042225

Nominate by Petition for the 2026 CCAR Board of Directors

Strengthening CA’s Insurance Market: Expanding Access & Stability – Apr. 29

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