Blog - CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

Weekly Jolt – 111125

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | November 11, 2025

Unlock the Full Power of Your CCAR Membership!

Whether you’re just getting started in real estate or already a seasoned pro, your CCAR membership gives you the tools, resources, and support to take your business to the next level. From MLS innovations and legal guidance to education, advocacy, and everyday business perks, CCAR is here to help you save time, reduce risk, and strengthen your success.

Your membership also connects you to a powerful network of professionals and ensures your voice is heard at the local, state, and national levels—protecting both your business and the clients you serve.

To help you make the most of your membership, check out our Member Benefits Directory—your go-to guide for exclusive tools, services, and money-saving opportunities from CCAR, C.A.R., and NAR. Explore it today to discover even more ways to grow your business, boost your productivity, and thrive in every market!

Join a CCAR Committee and Make a Difference in 2026!

Are you a REALTOR® member eager to make an impact in your association? CCAR is seeking dedicated volunteers to join our 2026 committees! This is your chance to contribute, learn, and connect with colleagues while helping shape our association’s future.

Opportunities include:
Affiliate and Events
CCAR Helping Hands
Local Government Relations
MLS and Technology
Young Professionals Network (YPN)
Professional Standards
Grievance

Applicants for our Grievance and Professional Standards Committees must meet eligibility requirements, including roles as mediators and ethics advocates on sub-committees. Be a part of something meaningful—apply now to help drive CCAR’s success!

District 99 Hall – Nov 25

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

It’s giving season, and we’re celebrating the holidays by thanking you for the work you do throughout the year to enrich lives in our community. Many CCAR members volunteer for service in the Helping Hands Committee,* the YPN Committee* and the CCAR Scholarship Foundation,* and we are grateful for the hours you spend throughout the year to raise dollars and awareness about these important charitable organizations. And none of it

Helping Hands Fund Turns Good Times into Good Deeds

$5,000 Donation to Feed 15,000+ Locals in Need

would be possible without ALL our members who donate so generously.

Thank you!

Zina

CCAR Members Continue A 58-Year Mission

Next time you get an invitation to a CCAR event, don’t dismiss it as “just another party” or an excuse to grab a few drinks with colleagues.

Every ticket purchased, every raffle entered, and every conversation shared helps create real change in our community. CCAR events do more than connect members—they fuel our Helping Hands Fund, which supports local nonprofits feeding, sheltering, and uplifting thousands of our neighbors in need.

This year, because of your participation and generosity, the Helping Hands Fund has donated approximately $40,000 to individuals and local charities in our community. Most recently, the group committed $5,000 to fund more than15,000 meals for families across Contra Costa, Alameda, and Solano Counties. Donate now by clicking on one of the buttons below. Thank you for your support!

Since 1967, the CCAR Scholarship Foundation has helped local students enter the halls of higher education — and this year was no exception. At the 2025 Scholarship Awards Luncheon held in June, the Foundation presented 20 awards to deserving students from across the county, continuing a long tradition of community investment in education.

Young Pros. Big Purpose: YPN Fills Classrooms with Hope and Supplies

Even in communities that seem comfortable and affluent, not every family can afford a backpack, notebooks, or basic school supplies when a new school year begins. That’s where CCAR’s Young Professionals Network (YPN) continues to make a difference.

The Foundation’s mission is simple yet profound: to support the pursuit of higher education by local residents. Scholarships are open to high school seniors, college undergraduates, graduate students, and trade school students, each evaluated through a rigorous selection process that considers academic achievement, community service, and personal drive

These students representing cities from every corner of Contra Costa County—are now attending universities and trade programs across the nation, pursuing degrees in fields that will shape the future of our communities.

The CCAR Scholarship Foundation draws its financial support from Realtors®, industry affiliates, corporations, and generous community donors. Over the years, these collective contributions have created a lasting legacy of opportunity.

Notably, the CCAR Board of Directors has established Perpetual Scholarships in honor of special initiatives and individuals, including the CCAR Diversity Scholarship, the Centennial Scholarship, and the Nate Ellis Memorial Scholarship, named in tribute to a beloved past training director.

The Affiliates and Events Committee also plays a major role in supporting the Foundation, donating a portion of proceeds from fundraising events each year. Their efforts—and the continued generosity of our members—fuel the Foundation’s ability to give more students a brighter future.

Over the past 12 years, the CCAR Scholarship Foundation has awarded 265 scholarships, totaling an impressive $740,000 in educational funding. That means hundreds of local students have been able to attend college, vocational programs, and graduate schools—students who might otherwise have faced barriers to achieving their goals.

Each scholarship tells a story of determination, community, and the ripple effect of generosity. As these students go on to become engineers, teachers, nurses, business leaders, and innovators, their success becomes our community’s success.

CCAR’s dedication to education goes beyond transactions and market trends—it’s about building strong foundations for future generations. By investing in students, our members are investing in the continued vitality of Contra Costa County.

You Can Help: Members and affiliates can support the CCAR Scholarship Foundation through direct donations, event participation, or sponsorships. Each contribution—no matter the size—helps sustain this long-standing program and the promise it represents for local youth.

Last August the CCAR YPN team organized their 5th annual School Supply Drive that collected hundreds of essential learning tools for local children. The outpouring of generosity from members turned what began as a small local effort into a real force for good — helping ensure that kids from every background can start the year with confidence and dignity.

Each of these items represents more than just school supplies—it represents opportunity, self-esteem, and a community that refuses to overlook need just because it isn’t always visible.

YPN’s initiative reminds us that success isn’t just measured by sales—it’s also measured by service. Through volunteerism, drives, and creative giving, CCAR members continue to show that the real estate community’s impact extends far beyond property lines.

* Many Thanks to 2025 Committee Volunteers and Scholarship Trustees *

Helping Hands Committee

Jennifer Newton, Chair

Victoria Haket, Vice Chair

Marilyn Cunningham

Jamie Gaines

Diane Gilfether

Victoria Haket

Sue Kuehn

Lisa Lilley

YPN Committee

Gilda Whitehead, Chair

Cherry Wade, Vice-Chair

Ruthie Abelson Olivas

Jordan Burns

Ashley Newton

Gabrielle Rajasekhar

Victor Reyes

Rolanda Wilson

Stephen Wondolowski

Scholarship Foundation Trustees

Angela Muetterties, President

Marianne Bordogna, Vice President

Bill Erb, Treasurer

Michael Moore, Secretary

Ruthie Ableson Olivas

Jonas Champion

Lupe Kemper

Terry Moore

Long Nguyen

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 102825

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | November 4, 2025

Join a CCAR Committee and Make a Difference in 2026!

Opportunities include:
Affiliate and Events
CCAR Helping Hands
Local Government Relations
MLS and Technology
Young Professionals Network (YPN)
Professional Standards
Grievance

Recognize Excellence:
Submit Your CCAR Award Nominations Today!

Every year CCAR honors distinguished members with awards for their outstanding service to the industry, association and community. Recipients are nominated by fellow members and executives, then confirmed by the Board of Directors. Awards will be presented at CCAR’s annual inaugural event on January 31, 2026.

2024 Recipients:
REALTOR® of the Year:
Ron Mintz
Affiliate of the Year:
Martha Echols
President’s Community Service Award:
Jamie Gaines
Emeritus Member:
Mary Beall-Neighbor

REALTOR® of the Year Form >>
Affiliate of the Year Form >>
Community Service Award Form >>

Read More >>

What Does the Grievance Committee Do?

CCAR has three groups that help uphold professional standards:
1. The Grievance Committee
2. The Professional Standards Committee
3. The Board of Directors
This week we’ll describe the role of the Grievance Committee. If someone believes a REALTOR^® member of CCAR has acted unethically or has violated a membership or MLS duty, they can file a complaint — but it has to be submitted within 180 days of when they knew (or should’ve known) about the behavior. The complaint should cite the specific Article(s) of the Code of Ethics that may have been violated and include a brief description of what happened that supports the allegations that the cited Article(s) were violated.
The Grievance Committee reviews the complaint to decide if, assuming everything in it is true, it could be an ethics violation. They don’t decide who’s guilty or innocent — their role is to see whether the complaint deserves a hearing by the Professional Standards Committee. The parties are not present during the review. Sometimes, the Grievance Committee might dismiss a complaint. That doesn’t mean they don’t believe the Complainant — it just means that, as written, the complaint wouldn’t support a finding of a Code violation. If the committee dismisses a complaint, the Complainant can file an appeal to the Board of Directors. If the committee does move a complaint to a Professional Standards hearing, that doesn’t mean they think the Respondent is guilty — only that the concerns deserve a closer look by the hearing panel.
In short, the Grievance Committee acts as an important gatekeeper — ensuring that all complaints are properly filed, substantiated, and appropriate to advance to a formal hearing.
Apply to Serve on the Grievance Committee >>

From Rentals to Revenue:
Insider Secrets From Top Agents – This Thu., Nov. 6

Join three top-producing agents this Thursday at 9am for a complimentary fireside chat packed with proven strategies to help you generate steady income, grow your client base, and stay competitive in any market.
This RentSpree webinar will share insider tips on strengthening client relationships, maximizing your rental pipeline, and turning rentals into future sales—all straight from experienced agents who’ve done it successfully.
Seats are almost full—register now to finish 2025 strong and set yourself up for an incredible 2026!
Register Here >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

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Your portal to thousands of California listings.

CCAR MLS PRODUCTS & SERVICES

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WISE AGENT

CCAR SUPPORT: MON – FRI 9:00am – 5:00pm | PHONE: 925-295-1270 | EMAIL: [email protected]

C.A.R. Legal Hotline

Mon. – Fri.: 9am – 6pm | Sat.: 10am – 2pm
AGENTS: 213.739.8282
BROKERS: 213.739.8350
FAX: 213.480.7724

Upcoming Education

RealReports – Product Update
Thu., Sep. 4 | 10:00am – 11:00am
Steps to Financing the Dream of Homeownership
Thu., Sep. 4 | 10:00am – 1:00pm

MLS: Intro to Paragon MLS
Thu., Sep. 4 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Modern Mortgages for Modern Clients
Fri., Sep. 5 | On-Demand

CCAR Safety Day with Real Estate Revive
Fri., Sep. 5 | 10:00am – 12:00pm

Welcome to RPR! Tools, Tips, & Skills Every Agent Needs
Mon., Sep. 8 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

MLS: How to Add & Maintain a Listing in Paragon
Mon., Sep. 8 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm
zipForm – Create a Purchase Transaction
Tue., Sep. 9 | 10:00am – 11:00am
Legal Webinar – A Conversation with the DRE
Tue., Sep. 9 | 1:30pm – 2:30pm
10X Your Business: The Fastest Way to Turn Lookers Into Closers
Wed., Sep. 10 | 10:00am – 11:00am
Cloud CMA: How to Create a CMA
Wed., Sep. 10 | 10:00am – 11:00am
Finish Strong: 4th Quarter Strategies for Real Estate Success
Wed., Sep. 10 | 10:00am – 11:30am

Tech Savvy Agent: Streamline, Automate, and Close More Deals
Wed., Sep. 10 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Crack to Code of Pricing: Nail CMAs w/ RPRs Data-Driven Tools
Thu., Sep. 11 | 9:00am – 10:00am
MLS: Set It & Forget It! Auto Emails Using Collab Center
Thu., Sep. 11 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm
DRE License Renewal Crash Course
Fri., Sep. 12 | 9:30am – 12:00pm

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

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Gain valuable insights on California’s housing market through interactive dashboards. Select your metrics and see where the data takes you.
Tax Portability Calculator
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RentSpree Now Includes Automatic Income Verification!

Tired of chasing pay stubs, W-2s, and bank statements? RentSpree’s new income verification report provides a rundown of an applicant’s bank deposits, helping you make sure their reported income matches what they put in the bank.
As a CCAR member, income verification will automatically be included in your RentSpree screening package starting Tuesday, March 18th at no extra cost to you. Applicants pay $49.99 for the complete package.
LEARN MORE >>

AWARDS NOMINATION FORMS DUE 12/1/25

Who inspires you to lead, serve, and make a difference?
We’re recognizing the best of the best in our CCAR community!
Nominate a peer for:
REALTOR^® of the Year
Affiliate of the Year
President’s Community Service Award
Nominees should reflect CCAR’s values — integrity, professionalism, and service to the community.
Email completed forms to [email protected]. Awards will be presented at the CCAR’s annual inaugural event on January 31, 2026.

REALTOR^® of the Year Form

Affiliate^® of the Year Form

Community Service Form

MLS Rule Changes – SEPTEMBER 24, 2025

On September 24, several important updates to the MLS Rules will take effect, reflecting the July revisions from C.A.R.’s model MLS rules. These updates are being made to bring California’s rules into alignment with recent policy changes adopted by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).
The upcoming revisions include:
Seller Options Policy Compliance: Updates will ensure compliance with NAR’s Multiple Listing Options for Sellers Policy. Most changes are mandatory for MLSs, though the option to incorporate Delayed Marketing Exempt Listings remains optional.
IDX and VOW Rule Updates: Revisions will address new NAR requirements on the co-mingling of MLS and non-MLS data, as approved by the NAR Board of Directors at the 2025 Midyear Meeting. These changes are mandatory.
Other Updates:
Section 5.1.4 (Book Fees) will be removed, as MLSs no longer produce physical listing books.
Section 7.20 (Auction Listings) will be revised to eliminate an inaccurate reference and clarify the definition of a reserve auction.
These revisions are designed to ensure consistency, compliance, and clarity across MLS operations statewide while aligning with national policy.
Read More >>

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!

Learn More >>

New Consumer Guide Focused on Fire Insurance

NAR’s latest consumer guide is focused on fire damage and policy coverage. This guide explains which fire incidents are and are not covered under a standard homeowners insurance policy, what to do if a homeowner cannot secure coverage for damage from wildfires, and information on Fair Access to Insurance Requirements insurance policies.
Read More >>

CCAR Welcomes Tuolumne County to the Supra User Group

Thanks to our partnership with bridgeMLS and the Tuolumne County Association of REALTORS®, CCAR is excited to announce that Tuolumne County is now part of our Supra user group!
This means all CCAR-affiliated Supra Key and lockboxes can now be used in the Tuolumne County area, and all members of the Tuolumne Association of REALTORS® can access the CCAR area—and more. Click the map for full details on CCAR Key Coverage.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 102825

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | OCTOBER 28, 2025

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Top News

• Win a $250 Visa Gift Card! CCAR Instagram Giveaway
$tarts Now!
• Join a 2026 CCAR Committee
• Submit Your CCAR Award Nominations Today!
• CCAR Windows 10 Support Has Ended
• IMAGINE: Become a 2026 CCAR Inaugural Sponsor
• WCR Upcoming Events

MLS Updates

• From Rentals to Revenue – Insider Secrets from Top Agents
• Goodbye ZipForm^® – Hello Transact
• REALTOR® Optimized Laptops For Sale

Upcoming Education

StoryTelling Magic: Elevate Your Brand with Video
Wed., Oct. 29 | 10:00am – 11:00am
Local Government & Community: Partnering for Success (Session 5 of 6)
Wed., Oct. 29 | 2:00pm – 4:30pm
Wise Agent Overview & Demo
Thu., Oct. 30 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Realtors: Grow Your Business with 1031 Exchanges
Thu., Oct. 30 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm
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.

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 >>

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CCAR Windows 10 Support Has Ended— Must be On Windows 11 To Use Laptop Repair Benefit

Microsoft has stopped providing security updates, technical assistance, and feature updates, making computers running Windows 10 more vulnerable to viruses and malware. As a result, CCAR is unable to support members with computer issues using Windows 10.
We recommend contacting your IT department or CCAR to check if your computer is eligible for an upgrade to Windows 11. CCAR can also assist with file transfers and a new laptop transition.
For details, contact CCAR Member Services at 925.295.1270 or [email protected].

IMAGINE: Become a 2026 CCAR Inaugural Sponsor!

Save the Date! CCAR’s 2026 Inaugural Dinner & Award Celebration happens Sat., Jan. 31, 2026, at Round Hill Country Club in Alamo. This annual event honors our incoming leadership team, celebrates excellence within our membership, and brings our REALTOR® community together for an unforgettable evening.
We invite you to be part of the celebration as a sponsor. Your partnership supports CCAR programs and events year-round while showcasing your brand to hundreds of real estate professionals and community leaders.
Sponsorship opportunities are available now—don’t miss this chance to align your business with one of CCAR’s most anticipated events of the year.
More Information >>

Women’s Council of REALTORS^® Upcoming Events

CCAR Instagram Giveaway $tarts Now!
Follow, Like, and Share to Win a $250 Visa Gift Card!

CCAR is officially launching our new Instagram account @contracostarealtors (instagram.com/contracostarealtors) tonight, October 28th!
FOLLOW, LIKE, and SHARE our debut giveaway posts between now and November 3rd, “Treats, Not Tricks — Your Membership. Your Power” for a chance to win one of three (3) $250 Visa gift cards.
Treats, Not Tricks Giveaway Details
1. CCAR REALTOR® & Affiliate Members: Follow @contracostarealtors
(instagram.com/contracostarealtors).
2. Like posts between now and November 3rd. Each like earns one entry!
3. Tag two CCAR REALTORS® or Affiliates in the comments who deserve a treat!
Extra Bonus: Share the post to your Story for an extra entry!
Participating CCAR members will be entered in a drawing to win one of three (3) $250 Visa gift cards. Winners will be announced on November 4, 2025.

Join a CCAR Committee and Make a Difference in 2026!

Are you a REALTOR® member eager to make an impact in your association? CCAR is seeking dedicated volunteers to join our 2026 committees! This is your chance to contribute, learn, and connect with colleagues while helping shape our association’s future.

Opportunities include:
Affiliate and Events
CCAR Helping Hands
Local Government Relations
MLS and Technology
Young Professionals Network (YPN)
Professional Standards
Grievance

Applicants for our Grievance and Professional Standards Committees must meet eligibility requirements, including roles as mediators and ethics advocates on sub-committees. Be a part of something meaningful—apply now to help drive CCAR’s success!

Read More >>

Recognize Excellence:
Submit Your CCAR Award Nominations Today!

Every year CCAR honors distinguished members with awards for their outstanding service to the industry, association and community. Recipients are nominated by fellow members and executives, then confirmed by the Board of Directors. Awards will be presented at CCAR’s annual inaugural event on January 31, 2026.

2024 Recipients:
REALTOR® of the Year:
Ron Mintz
Affiliate of the Year:
Martha Echols
President’s Community Service Award:
Jamie Gaines
Emeritus Member:
Mary Beall-Neighbor

REALTOR® of the Year Form >>
Affiliate of the Year Form >>
Community Service Award Form >>

Read More >>

Goodbye zipForm® — Hello Transact

C.A.R. members now have access to Transact, a new transaction management platform that will eventually replace zipForm®. For now, both zipForm® and Transact will run side-by-side, giving you time to explore and transition at your own pace.
Transact is designed to simplify transactions, streamline workflows, and ensure compliance. Be sure to check the CCAR calendar for upcoming Transact training sessions to get comfortable with the new system before it becomes the default.

REALTOR® Optimized 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 IdeaPad Slim 3 – $850.36 >>
• LG Gram 17 – Ai Ready – $1,845.36 >>

From Rentals to Revenue: Insider Secrets From Top Agents

Join three top-producing agents at 9am on Nov. 6 for a complimentary fireside chat packed with proven strategies to help you generate steady income, grow your client base, and stay competitive in any market.
This RentSpree webinar will share insider tips on strengthening client relationships, maximizing your rental pipeline, and turning rentals into future sales—all straight from experienced agents who’ve done it successfully.
Seats are almost full—register now to finish 2025 strong and set yourself up for an incredible 2026!
Register Here >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 111125

Unlock the Full Power of Your CCAR Membership!

Join a CCAR Committee and Make a Difference in 2026!

District 99 Hall – Nov 25

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Weekly Jolt – 102825

Join a CCAR Committee and Make a Difference in 2026!

Recognize Excellence:
Submit Your CCAR Award Nominations Today!

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Weekly Jolt – 102825

Join a CCAR Committee and Make a Difference in 2026!

Recognize Excellence:
Submit Your CCAR Award Nominations Today!

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