Blog - CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

Coming Soon Status Update – Effective March 30, 2026

Preserving your seller’s choice in how they want to market their property is a priority for CCAR MLS. Effective March 30, the Coming Soon Status can be syndicated.

Based on your client’s preference, you will have control over whether Coming Soon listings are syndicated out of the MLS via the Internet Site (Yes/No) and related fields at the time of listing entry. Agents are reminded that the distribution of Coming Soon listings must be in alignment with their broker’s policies and/or their client’s instructions.

Existing Coming Soon Listings: Will default to Internet Site = No (not syndicated). To enable syndication, update the applicable fields to Yes and select the appropriate distribution options (e.g., “Yes-All Sites, Full address”).
New Coming Soon Listings: Select your syndication options at the time of entry, consistent with your broker’s policies and your client’s direction.

The MLS Rules will be updated accordingly to reflect this change. This update provides greater flexibility to align with your client’s preferences.

FAQs

What triggers MLS rules?
A signed exclusive listing agreement triggers MLS rules. Without a fully executed agreement, MLS requirements do not apply.
When must a listing be submitted to the MLS?
Listings must be submitted to the MLS within three (3) days of the listing agreement’s effective date. If a listing is publicly marketed before being entered into the MLS, Clear Cooperation requirements are triggered, and the listing must be submitted within one (1) business day.
What are the requirements for Office Exclusive listings?
Sellers must sign a disclosure form, and public marketing is not permitted. If public marketing occurs, the listing must be entered into the MLS within one (1) business day.
How long can a listing remain in Coming Soon status?
Coming Soon status may remain in the MLS for up to 30 days. After that, the listing will automatically change to Coming Soon Cancelled.
How are Coming Soon listings syndicated?
Coming Soon listings are shared with MLSs participating in our data-share. For public portals and websites, syndication is controlled by the agent or broker based on the client’s preference selected during listing entry.
How are MLS rules enforced?
All MLS rules are enforced locally. Suspected violations should be reported using the Correction button in the MLS or by emailing [email protected].

MLS Rules Changes Effective March 30.

10.1 Status

Coming Soon – “Coming Soon” is defined as a temporary, optional starting status that can be selected by listing agent. This applies if publicly marketed.

10.1.1 Coming Soon Listings. It shall be the responsibility of the Broker Participant (Section 4.1.1) and Real Estate Subscriber (Section 4.2.1) to follow said rules when placing a property in the Coming Soon section of the multiple listings service (MLS). Broker Participant and Real Estate Subscriber shall only place a property in the Coming Soon section of the MLS if the Participant/Subscriber has met the necessary criteria for MLS input as described in Sections 7.5, 7.6, and 8.1.

Important information surrounding Coming Soon listings:

It is optional to place your listing into the Coming Soon Status.
Listing agent must have a signed written listing agreement in place to enter a “Coming Soon” listing which explains the limitations of the “Coming Soon” status.
Coming Soon listings will be viewable to all MLS Participants.
Coming Soon listings will not be syndicated out to other websites.
Coming Soon listings will not be included in the IDX and data feeds.
Coming Soon listings are not allowed to be placed into open houses or tour modules within the MLS.
Coming Soon listings are only searchable within the Paragon MLS.
Once an agent changes a listing from Coming Soon to New/Active status, it cannot be reverted to Coming Soon status.
Days on Market (DOM) resets when status is changed to New/Active
Agent showing is allowed
Coming Soon Status must clearly state in the Confidential Remarks the seller’s instruction as to whether showings will be permitted or not.
Once Coming Soon status is entered, public marketing is allowed.
Upon request, All Paragon MLS Coming Soon data can be are included in Broker back office data feeds. However, Coming Soon listings may not be displayed or integrated into any public-facing products or websites, except for listings belonging to the listing brokerage.
Photos are optional.
The Coming Soon listing will be automatically placed in a “Cancelled – Coming Soon” status after thirty (30) days of entry.

12.16 Use of Listing Information on Internet. [Also known as Internet Data Exchange (“IDX”)] “Internet Data Exchange” (“IDX”) is a means by which listing brokers permit limited electronic display and delivery of their Active, Pending and sold listing data, in accordance with the IDX rules set forth herein, by other participating Broker Participants and R.E. Subscribers via the following authorized mediums under said Broker Participants and R.E. Subscribers control: websites, mobile apps and audio devices. As used throughout this policy, “display” includes “delivery” of such listings.

Authorization. Subject to paragraphs (b) through below, and subject to an executed IDX Access Agreement with the MLS, notwithstanding anything in these rules and regulations to the contrary, Broker Participants and R.E. Subscribers may electronically display aggregated MLS active, pending and sold listing information through either downloading or by framing such information on the MLS or association public access website (if such a site is available). The MLS’s download will include publicly accessible sold listing data starting from January 1, 2012. “Publicly accessible” sold information as used in the IDX policy and rules, means data that is available electronically or in hard copy to the public from city, county, state, and other government records. [Note: Listings in Coming Soon Status are not authorized for display by this rule.]

Section 12.19.15: A Participant’s VOW may not make available for search by, or display to, Registrants any of the following information:

Coming Soon, Expired or withdrawn listings (Hold, Cancelled).
The type of listing agreement, i.e., exclusive right to sell or seller reserve.
The seller’s and occupant’s name(s), phone number(s), or e-mail address(es).
Instructions or remarks intended for buyer brokers only, such as those regarding showings or security of listed property.

Weekly Jolt – 032426

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | MARCH 24, 2026

CCAR YPN: Timeless Systems, Modern Strategies – Apr. 2

Join CCAR YPN on Thu, Apr. 2 from noon – 3:00pm at the Don Tatzin Community Hall to hear from three highly successful agents who have built strong, sustainable businesses by combining proven systems with modern tools and strategies. Each speaker brings a different approach and perspective, offering practical insights you can actually use in today’s market.

This triple threat panel features:
• Joe Kehrig, Kehrig Real Estate Team
• Lynda Dimond, The Dimond Team
• Jorge Martinez, eXp Realty.

YPN Lunch & Learn events are all about sharing what works, sparking new ideas, and helping you take your business to the next level. Come ready to learn, connect, and leave inspired. Registration is $25 and includes lunch and refreshments.

PURCHASE TICKETS >>

Read More >>

Title Fraud is Rising in CA – What to Know

Title fraud, also known as deed theft, is an increasingly serious issue in California—especially in high-value urban and suburban areas. Although still less common than other crimes, it is growing quickly, with scammers often targeting vacant land, rental properties, and homes with significant equity. Fraudsters typically forge documents to transfer ownership, then sell the property or take out loans against it, leaving homeowners unaware for months. In fact, 62% of real estate professionals reported encountering title fraud in 2025. California’s high-equity housing market makes it a prime target, but homeowners can help protect themselves by monitoring records through their County Recorder’s office or signing up for local deed alert services.

C.A.R.: THE RISE OF TITLE PIRACY >>
NAR: UNDERSTANDING TITLE FRAUD >>
DATA SECURITY BEST PRACTICES >>
REALTOR® SAFETY NETWORK >>
REALTOR® SAFETY ARTICLES >>

Read More >>

Are You and Your Clients Registered to Vote?

Residents must be registered by May 18th to vote in June.
Register to Vote >>

Women’s Council of REALTORS Upcoming Events

March 27 | 11:00am – 2:00pm | Register >>

April 1 | 10:00am | Register >>

Coming Soon Status Update – Effective March 30, 2026

Preserving your seller’s choice in how they want to market their property is a priority for CCAR MLS. Effective March 30, the Coming Soon Status can be syndicated. Based on your client’s preference, you will have control over whether Coming Soon listings are syndicated out of the MLS via the Internet Site (Yes/No) and related fields at the time of listing entry. Agents are reminded that the distribution of Coming Soon listings must be in alignment with their broker’s policies and/or their client’s instructions.
Existing Coming Soon Listings: Will default to Internet Site = No (not syndicated). To enable syndication, update the applicable fields to Yes and select the appropriate distribution options (e.g., “Yes-All Sites, Full address”).
New Coming Soon Listings: Select your syndication options at the time of entry, consistent with your broker’s policies and your client’s direction.
The MLS Rules will be updated accordingly to reflect this change. This update provides greater flexibility to align with your client’s preferences.

Read Rules Changes Here >>
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What triggers MLS rules? A signed exclusive listing agreement triggers MLS rules. Without a fully executed agreement, MLS requirements do not apply.
2. When must a listing be submitted to the MLS? Listings must be submitted to the MLS within three (3) days of the listing agreement’s effective date. If a listing is publicly marketed before being entered into the MLS, Clear Cooperation requirements are triggered, and the listing must be submitted within one (1) business day.
Read More FAQ’s Here >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 031726

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | MARCH 17, 2026

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All laptops purchased from CCAR come with a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and RE setup included.
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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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Watch for details next Tue, Mar. 24, and learn how to apply for nomination as a 2027 CCAR Officer or Director.

West County Marketing Meeting – This Thursday

Join us this Thu, Mar. 19, at the West County Marketing Meeting for an important MLS update you won’t want to miss. CCAR’s Director of MLS Services, Joey Masters, will walk you through upcoming changes to the MLS designed to give you more control when adding listings. These updates are all about improving how your properties are presented—helping your listings stand out and making search results more accurate and effective.
Enjoy free breakfast burritos, fresh fruit and beverages. Come learn something new, connect with your peers, share upcoming listings, and have some fun. Hope to see you there!
Affiliates: if you’d like to donate a small item for the end-of-meeting drawing (and promote your business), please contact Steve Kendall at [email protected].

Featured Education

Read More and Register >>

Read More and Register >>

Proven Systems + Modern Strategies = Real Results
YPN Lunch & Learn – Thu, Apr. 2

Join CCAR YPN on Thu, Apr. 2 from noon – 3:00pm at the Don Tatzin Community Hall to hear from three highly successful agents who have built strong, sustainable businesses by combining proven systems with modern tools and strategies. Each speaker brings a different approach and perspective, offering practical insights you can actually use in today’s market.
This triple threat panel features:
• Joe Kehrig, Kehrig Real Estate Team
• Lynda Dimond, The Dimond Team
• Jorge Martinez, eXp Realty.
YPN Lunch & Learn events are all about sharing what works, sparking new ideas, and helping you take your business to the next level. Come ready to learn, connect, and leave inspired. Registration is $25 and includes lunch and refreshments.
REGISTER NOW >>

Spring Forward with CCAR Education

Spring into March with fresh energy, new opportunities, and powerful ways to grow your business. Our latest Education & Events Newsletter is packed with classes and events designed specifically for you.

Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your skills, stay on top of 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 March 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.

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Code of Ethics Violators

In an effort to make ethics violations and the disciplinary process more transparent, C.A.R. publishes the names of members who are found in violation of the Code of Ethics as well as summaries of the members’ unethical behavior.

Member publication is triggered only if the discipline imposed is a reprimand, fine, suspension or expulsion – anything other than a letter of warning or stand-alone education. The information will be published on the members-only section of car.org.

Past decisions of ethics hearing panels, including the decisions published on C.A.R.’s website, cannot be used as authority by complainants or respondents and cannot provide guidance for current or future hearing panels. Instead…

Read More >>

Rossmoor Marketing Meeting – Mar. 24

Join the Rossmoor Marketing Meeting on March 24 at 9:00am for a presentation by Joe Ottolini, Fire Prevention Captain with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, on defensible space.

Residents must be registered by May 18th to vote in June.
Register to Vote >>

Women’s Council of REALTORS Upcoming Events

March 27 | 11:00am – 2:00pm | Register >>

April 1 | 10:00am | Register >>

Upcoming MLS Updates – 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

District 3 Wade – Mar 26

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Our commitment to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics is what sets our profession apart. Most ethics violations don’t begin with bad intent. They often start with small decisions — a delayed MLS update, an incomplete disclosure, or a quick text sent in frustration.

This newsletter shares a few real examples and a reminder of the time, cost, and disruption an ethics complaint can create. It also highlights the important work of our Professional Standards volunteers, who ensure every case is handled fairly and confidentially.

My hope is that these reminders help all of us stay focused on the fundamentals that protect our reputation and the reputation of our profession.

Thank you for the professionalism you bring to our industry every day.

Warm Regards,

Cherry

Many Ethics Violations Start Out Small:

Beware: A seemingly minor oversight could lead to a complaint and a fine faster than you think.

Could this happen to you? >

Real Ethics Cases. Real Fines. Preventable Mistakes.

These aren’t horror stories. They’re real cases from REALTORS® who probably thought, “It’s not a big deal.” …But it was.

Quick Ethics Check:

Is the MLS status accurate?

Have I disclosed everything material?

Is the advertising truthful?

Would this text/email hold up in a hearing?

Is the agreement signed?

Recent Ethics Violations Cost Members Thousands $$

Recent disciplinary actions published by C.A.R. reveal consistent patterns in ethics violations. Most involve Articles 1, 2, and 12 and stem from:
Incomplete disclosure
Careless communication
Inaccurate MLS information
Weak supervision of new agents
In many cases, the issue wasn’t malicious intent—it was misunderstanding how the Code of Ethics applies in everyday situations. The most serious fines—up to $7,000—were associated with concealment of property defects and improper handling of client funds.

The Hidden Costs of An Ethics Complaint

CA REALTORS® ETHICS VIOLATIONS

(C.A.R. login required to access page.)

The cost of an ethics case is rarely just a fine. It can involve a lot of time, money, and your reputation.

Most REALTORS® know the Code of Ethics exists. What many don’t realize is the real cost of an ethics complaint — even before a decision is made.
From the moment a complaint is filed to the time a hearing concludes and the case is ratified and closed, the process typically takes four to five months.
That’s four to five months spent gathering documentation, reviewing evidence, preparing responses, coordinating with brokers, and attending hearings.
Even when a REALTOR® believes they did nothing wrong, the time, stress, and business disruption can be significant.
And if a violation is ultimately found, the consequences may include fines of up to $15,000, suspension or termination of membership, and publication of a member’s name, photo, and case details on C.A.R.’s website.
In other words, the cost of an ethics case is rarely just a fine. It can involve time, money, and reputation.

The Professional Standards process exists for a reason. The goal is education and professionalism — not punishment. The REALTOR® Code of Ethics helps ensure honest dealings, transparency in advertising and MLS information, and fairness to clients, the public, and other REALTORS®.
Behind the scenes, the system relies on trained Professional Standards and Grievance volunteers who devote hours reviewing cases, serving on hearing panels, and ensuring the process is fair and unbiased.
All Professional Standards matters are strictly confidential, and volunteers sign agreements to uphold confidentiality and impartiality for every case they review.
Simply put, the system would not work without them.
The best way to avoid the time, expense, and stress of an ethics complaint is simple: Follow the fundamentals of the Code of Ethics. When in doubt, ask yourself one simple question:
Would I be comfortable explaining this decision in an ethics hearing?
If the answer is not a confident “Yes,” it’s worth taking another look.

Transparency, Accuracy, Professionalism are Non-Negotiable

Recent ethics violation cases provide valuable reminders for every member. While each situation is unique, the lessons are consistent: transparency, accuracy, and professionalism are non-negotiable.

NAR CODE OF ETHICS >

MLS RULES & REGULATIONS >

CODE OF ETHICS DEMYSTIFIED >

HOW TO FILE A COMPLAINT >

CITY SIGN ORDINANCES >

SIGN ORDINANCE VIOLATION FORM >

Partners In Compliance

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

District 3 Ramirez – Mar 26

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Our commitment to the REALTOR® Code of Ethics is what sets our profession apart. Most ethics violations don’t begin with bad intent. They often start with small decisions — a delayed MLS update, an incomplete disclosure, or a quick text sent in frustration.

This newsletter shares a few real examples and a reminder of the time, cost, and disruption an ethics complaint can create. It also highlights the important work of our Professional Standards volunteers, who ensure every case is handled fairly and confidentially.

My hope is that these reminders help all of us stay focused on the fundamentals that protect our reputation and the reputation of our profession.

Thank you for the professionalism you bring to our industry every day.

Warm Regards,

Diane

Many Ethics Violations Start Out Small:

Beware: A seemingly minor oversight could lead to a complaint and a fine faster than you think.

Could this happen to you? >

Real Ethics Cases. Real Fines. Preventable Mistakes.

These aren’t horror stories. They’re real cases from REALTORS® who probably thought, “It’s not a big deal.” …But it was.

Quick Ethics Check:

Is the MLS status accurate?

Have I disclosed everything material?

Is the advertising truthful?

Would this text/email hold up in a hearing?

Is the agreement signed?

Recent Ethics Violations Cost Members Thousands $$

Recent disciplinary actions published by C.A.R. reveal consistent patterns in ethics violations. Most involve Articles 1, 2, and 12 and stem from:
Incomplete disclosure
Careless communication
Inaccurate MLS information
Weak supervision of new agents
In many cases, the issue wasn’t malicious intent—it was misunderstanding how the Code of Ethics applies in everyday situations. The most serious fines—up to $7,000—were associated with concealment of property defects and improper handling of client funds.

The Hidden Costs of An Ethics Complaint

CA REALTORS® ETHICS VIOLATIONS

(C.A.R. login required to access page.)

The cost of an ethics case is rarely just a fine. It can involve a lot of time, money, and your reputation.

Most REALTORS® know the Code of Ethics exists. What many don’t realize is the real cost of an ethics complaint — even before a decision is made.
From the moment a complaint is filed to the time a hearing concludes and the case is ratified and closed, the process typically takes four to five months.
That’s four to five months spent gathering documentation, reviewing evidence, preparing responses, coordinating with brokers, and attending hearings.
Even when a REALTOR® believes they did nothing wrong, the time, stress, and business disruption can be significant.
And if a violation is ultimately found, the consequences may include fines of up to $15,000, suspension or termination of membership, and publication of a member’s name, photo, and case details on C.A.R.’s website.
In other words, the cost of an ethics case is rarely just a fine. It can involve time, money, and reputation.

The Professional Standards process exists for a reason. The goal is education and professionalism — not punishment. The REALTOR® Code of Ethics helps ensure honest dealings, transparency in advertising and MLS information, and fairness to clients, the public, and other REALTORS®.
Behind the scenes, the system relies on trained Professional Standards and Grievance volunteers who devote hours reviewing cases, serving on hearing panels, and ensuring the process is fair and unbiased.
All Professional Standards matters are strictly confidential, and volunteers sign agreements to uphold confidentiality and impartiality for every case they review.
Simply put, the system would not work without them.
The best way to avoid the time, expense, and stress of an ethics complaint is simple: Follow the fundamentals of the Code of Ethics. When in doubt, ask yourself one simple question:
Would I be comfortable explaining this decision in an ethics hearing?
If the answer is not a confident “Yes,” it’s worth taking another look.

Transparency, Accuracy, Professionalism are Non-Negotiable

Recent ethics violation cases provide valuable reminders for every member. While each situation is unique, the lessons are consistent: transparency, accuracy, and professionalism are non-negotiable.

NAR CODE OF ETHICS >

MLS RULES & REGULATIONS >

CODE OF ETHICS DEMYSTIFIED >

HOW TO FILE A COMPLAINT >

CITY SIGN ORDINANCES >

SIGN ORDINANCE VIOLATION FORM >

Partners In Compliance

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Coming Soon Status Update – Effective March 30, 2026

Weekly Jolt – 032426

CCAR YPN: Timeless Systems, Modern Strategies – Apr. 2

Title Fraud is Rising in CA – What to Know

Weekly Jolt – 031726

Spring Forward with CCAR Education

Code of Ethics Violators

District 3 Wade – Mar 26

District 3 Ramirez – Mar 26

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