CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

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HELPING HANDS FUND

Support when hardship hits close to home.

The CCAR Helping Hands Fund provides confidential assistance to eligible CCAR members, immediate family members, community members, and qualified charitable organizations facing financial hardship, illness, or catastrophic events.

Apply for Assistance
Make a Donation

Confidential Support
All inquiries and requests are handled with care and confidentiality.

Member & Community Focused
Designed to help CCAR members and the broader Contra Costa community.

Need-Based Assistance
Support is reviewed based on hardship, illness, or catastrophic events.

About the Fund

The Contra Costa Association of REALTORS® Helping Hands Fund was created to provide personal assistance to those in need and to support charitable organizations whose programs align with CCAR’s mission.
 
Helping Hands reflects CCAR’s commitment to serving the community that keeps our members working, connected, and supported.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Qualified CCAR members and/or immediate family members experiencing financial hardship, illness, or catastrophic events.

  • Qualified non-members of the community experiencing financial hardship, illness, or catastrophic events.

  • Qualified charitable organizations with programs consistent with the mission of CCAR.

Please note: Assistance is not available for association dues, MLS fees, key fees, or other membership-related fees.

Contact

Jennifer Newton
Chairperson
Keller Williams
925.366.6092
Lisa Lilley
Vice Chair
Robert Lilley Brokerage
925.787.5105
Jason Catalano
CCAR Staff Liaison
925.295.9202

Helping Hands Committee

Thank you to the Helping Hands Committee, past and present, for their commitment to compassion, service, and support for the CCAR community.

Jennifer Newton

Lisa Lilley

Marilyn Cunningham

Diane Gilfether

Sue Kuehn

Need assistance or want to help?

Submit a confidential application or make a donation to support CCAR members and
community members facing hardship.

Apply for Assistance
Make a Donation

Weekly Jolt – 063026

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CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER    |    JUNE 30, 2026
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CCAR Offices Closed: FRI, JulY 3 in observance of independence day

•  REALTORS® Deliver Major Victory: AB 736 Stopped
•  West County Marketing Meeting – This Thu
•  Drive with the NAR Podcast
•  Navigate NHDs with Confidence |  Live + Lunch! – July 15
•  WCR: Healthcare Highlights – July 9

•  MLS Rules Update – Effective July 6
•  Upcoming MLS Change: CDOM Relocation
•  REALTOR® Optimized Laptops For Sale


All laptops purchased from CCAR come with a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and RE setup included.
  • Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 – $850.36 >>
  • LG Gram 17 – Ai Ready – $1,845.36  >>

    Online Continuing Education

New Construction: BuildersUpdate
Wed, July 1 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Transactions: dotloop – Basic Training
Wed, July 1 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

New Construction: BuildersUpdate
Thu, July 2 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Transactions: dotloop – Basic Training
Thu, July 2 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Residential Property Management (PMC)
Tue, July 7 | 10:00am – 2:00pm

Transactions: Getting Started with zipForms & Transact
Tue, July 7 | 10:00am – 11:00am

1031 Exchange Basics
Tue, July 7 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm

RealReports: Find & Convert More Listings with AI
Wed, July 8 | 10:00am – 11:00am

CubiCasa 101: Learn to Create Free & Easy Floorplans
Wed, July 8 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

5 Steps to Building a Brand That Delivers
Wed, July 8 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

From Tenant to Homeowner: Nurturing the Renter Market
Thu, July 9 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

Intro to Listing Input in Paragon with CCAR
Thu, July 9 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

DRE License Renewal Crash Course (virtual)
Fri, July 10 | 9:30am – 12:30pm

C.A.R. Industry Townhall for Brokers & Managers
Fri, July 10 | 11:00am – 12:30pm

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 >>

 Online Continuing Education

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

+ REALTOR® ACTION FUND (RAF)
+ 2025 Annual Report
+ MLS & KEY FEES DUE JULY 1
+ CCAR CALENDAR

Featured Course: Navigate NHDs with Confidence (Includes Lunch) – July 15

Join CCAR and JCP/First American for a member-exclusive live presentation on Natural Hazard Disclosures. High Risk, High Confidence: NHD Essentials for REALTORS® will help you better identify potential risks, protect your clients, reduce liability, and navigate disclosures with confidence. Register today for practical insights you can put to use right away. Lunch is included.
Register on the CCAR Calendar >>

WCR: Healthcare Highlights – July 9

Join the Women’s Council of REALTORS® for an update from John Muir Health on local healthcare trends, access, and resources impacting Contra Costa communities. Gain valuable insights to help inform conversations with your clients, neighbors, and community.
Register >>

REALTORS® Deliver Major Victory: AB 736 Stopped

Thanks to the quick action of REALTORS® across California, AB 736 will not move forward. The bill would have incentivized cities to raise transfer taxes on property sales, particularly on higher-value homes, adding another cost burden for homeowners, homebuyers, and communities already facing housing affordability challenges.

When the threat emerged, REALTORS® responded immediately. In just over 24 hours, more than 12,000 calls were made to members of the Legislature urging opposition to the bill. That strong response sent a clear message: increasing taxes on homeownership is not the solution.

This outcome is a powerful reminder that REALTOR® advocacy works. When REALTORS® speak up, lawmakers listen. Thank you to everyone who took action to help protect homeownership and property rights in California.

READ MORE FROM C.A.R. >>

West County Marketing Meeting – July 2

Join us for the CCAR West Marketing Meeting this Thu, July 2, from 8:45–10:00am at 500 Alfred Nobel Drive, Suite 265, Hercules.

Featured speaker Natasha Dowdy from CalHFA will provide an update on CalHFA’s core homebuyer programs, flexible loan options, and what’s new with the Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan program. This is a great opportunity to learn about valuable financing resources that may help you better support your clients.

Enjoy complimentary Noah’s breakfast bagels, fresh fruit, and beverages while sharing upcoming listings. Come learn something new, connect with fellow colleagues, and stay informed on programs and updates that can benefit your business.

Read More >>

Drive With NAR Podcast: From First-Year Struggles to Industry Leader

The NAR REALTOR® News Change Agents podcast brings REALTORS® candid conversations with industry leaders, market insight, and practical advice.

In this episode, Bennett Richardson talks with Ryan Serhant about the mindset, discipline, and strategy behind growing a successful real estate career. Ryan shares how he started in 2008, the same day Lehman Brothers collapsed, and how early challenges helped shape his path from a difficult first year to building a global brand.

The full episode offers Ryan’s advice on focus, resilience, AI, and what it means to go “all in” for long-term success.

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE >>

Read More >>

Upcoming MLS Change: CDOM Relocation to History Tab

Effective July 6, 2026, the Cumulative Days on Market (CDOM) count will move from MLS reports to the History tab.

This change is intended to keep the listing’s current Days on Market (DOM) count prominently displayed within the MLS report, while encouraging subscribers to reference the History tab for additional listing context.

The History tab provides a more complete view of the property and listing lifecycle, including prior listing activity that may affect the CDOM count. Moving CDOM to the History tab allows subscribers to view the supporting details and better understand why the CDOM and DOM counts may differ.

The History tab can be found below the listing photos on the MLS report, represented as an ‘H’ icon.

MLS Rules Update – Effective July 6

11.5.3 Listing Photographs (IDX)
When a listing is changed to Sold, Expired, or Cancelled status, only the primary/main photo of the property will be authorized to display on IDX websites and syndicated portals. 

All photos remain available within the MLS system for all Subscribers and Participants.

This update is intended to provide more consistency in public photo display while preserving full access within the MLS.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

Weekly Jolt – 062326

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CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER    |    JUNE 23, 2026
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•  Results are In! – Your 2027 Board of Directors
•  CCAR Leaders Take Housing Priorities to Capitol Hill
•  Unlock the Full Power of Your CCAR Membership
•  Using Social Media to Make Clients for Life – June 25
•  WCR: Mastering 1031 Exchanges – June 26

•  Upcoming MLS Change: CDOM Relocation
•  New Supra eKey Features Coming Tomorrow
•  MLS Rules Update – Effective July 6
•  Top MLS Tools to Power Up Your Membership
•  REALTOR® Optimized Laptops For Sale


All laptops purchased from CCAR come with a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and RE setup included.
  • Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 – $850.36 >>
  • LG Gram 17 – Ai Ready – $1,845.36  >>

    Online Continuing Education

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 >>

+ Upcoming Education
+ 2025 Annual Report
+ PAY MLS & KEY FEES
+ CCAR CALENDAR

Featured Course: Client for Life: Using Social Media to Build Repeats & Referrals – June 25

This class helps real estate professionals grow their repeat and referral business through stronger relationship nurturing, smarter social media strategies, and modern marketing tools. Participants will learn how to generate quality leads, advertise effectively across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X, and integrate tactics such as ChatGPT, video marketing, SEO, and blogging to stay top-of-mind and build lasting client connections.
Register >>

WCR: Mastering 1031 Exchanges – June 26

Join the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Contra Costa for an informative session on 1031 Exchanges featuring guest speaker Leonard Spoto. Learn the basics, key strategies, and important considerations behind real estate investment exchanges, plus how they can support your clients’ investment goals and planning conversations.
Register >>

The Results Are In!
Congrats to the Newly Elected 2027 Board Members

Thank you to everyone who voted in the election for the 2027 CCAR Board of Directors! Your participation makes a real difference, and we appreciate your continued engagement and support.

Congratulations to the newly elected board members, we’re excited to see your leadership in action! It takes real commitment to step up and serve, and we’re grateful for your dedication to our members and our mission. Here’s to a great 2027 Board, shaped by the strength of our community!

Total Eligible Members: 3474
Total Members Voted: 589, 17%
Bylaw Amendment: Passed

President-Elect (1 Position)                          Director-At-Large (4 Positions)
498     Leslie Manzone                                    352     Judy Myers
                                                                            352     Matt Rubenstein
Treasurer (1 Position)                                    375     Cherry Wade
475     Michele Manzone                                285     Gilda Whitehead               

Complete Results at Election Headquarters >>

CCAR Leaders Take Housing Priorities to Capitol Hill

Last week, a group of CCAR leaders including President John Fondnazio and NAR Director and Federal Political Coordinator Leslie Manzone joined more than 200 other California REALTORS® in Washington, D.C. to meet with congressional representatives and advocate for policies that support housing affordability and homeownership.

The delegation met with staff from Congressman Mark DeSaulnier’s and Congressman John Garamendi’s offices, and some members also met with U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff. The group also discussed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act (H.R. 6644), which recently passed the U.S. Senate and is awaiting final consideration in the House…

Read More >>

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.

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!

Read More >>

New Supra eKEY Features!

CCAR members have received a complimentary upgrade to a new, next-level Supra eKEY app experience!

This enhanced access was negotiated by CCAR on behalf of our members, giving you new features at no additional cost. Your key automatically updated on June 17, and no action is needed.
Read More >>

MLS Rules Update – Effective July 6

11.5.3 Listing Photographs (IDX)
When a listing is changed to Sold, Expired, or Cancelled status, only the primary/main photo of the property will be authorized to display on IDX websites and syndicated portals. 

All photos remain available within the MLS system for all Subscribers and Participants.

This update is intended to provide more consistency in public photo display while preserving full access within the MLS.

Top Tools to Power Up Your Business

Whether you’re winning new clients, managing transactions, or building your brand, CCAR benefits are designed to save you time, reduce risk, and strengthen your business.
CCAR Products & Services Guide >

Upcoming MLS Change:
CDOM Relocation to History Tab

Effective July 6, 2026, the Cumulative Days on Market (CDOM) count will move from MLS reports to the History tab.

This change is intended to keep the listing’s current Days on Market (DOM) count prominently displayed within the MLS report, while encouraging subscribers to reference the History tab for additional listing context.

The History tab provides a more complete view of the property and listing lifecycle, including prior listing activity that may affect the CDOM count. Moving CDOM to the History tab allows subscribers to view the supporting details and better understand why the CDOM and DOM counts may differ.

The History tab can be found below the listing photos on the MLS report, represented as an ‘H’ icon.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

CCAR Leaders Take Housing Priorities to Capitol Hill

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Last week, a group of CCAR leaders joined more than 200 California REALTORS® in Washington, D.C. to meet with congressional representatives and advocate for policies that support housing affordability and homeownership. The delegation met with staff from Congressman Mark DeSaulnier’s and Congressman John Garamendi’s offices, and some members also met with U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff.

"We enjoyed a very successful day on the Hill sharing thoughtful conversations with key legislators' staff about finding solutions to important housing issues."
John Fondnazio
John Fondnazio
CCAR President

Discussions focused on several housing-related bills, including the More Homes on the Market Act (H.R. 1340), which would increase the capital gains tax exclusion for homeowners; the Uplifting First-Time Homebuyers Act (H.R. 3526), which would provide greater access to retirement savings for first-time buyers; and the Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act (H.R. 2410), which encourages the conversion of underused commercial buildings into housing. Leaders also advocated for the Disaster Resiliency and Coverage Act (H.R. 1105) to help homeowners better protect properties from natural disasters.

The group also discussed the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act (H.R. 6644), a bipartisan housing package designed to increase housing supply, improve affordability, and modernize federal housing programs. The bill recently passed the U.S. Senate with strong bipartisan support and is awaiting final consideration in the House of Representatives before heading to the President’s desk.

The visit reinforced REALTORS®’ commitment to advancing solutions that expand housing opportunities and strengthen communities across California.

"We work actively with Congressional members and staff to help them understand local housing markets and the real-world impact of public policy."
Member Leslie Manzone
Leslie Manzone
CCAR's NAR Director and Federal Political Coordinator

Special thanks go out to our State Political Coordinators (SPCs): Michele Manzone (Sen. Tim Grayson), Debi Mackey (Asm. Anamarie Avila Farias), and Leslie Manzone (Asm. Anamarie Avila Farias and Asm. Rebecca Bauer-Kahan). Leslie also acts as CCAR’s NAR Director and Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) for Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, and plays a key role in connecting REALTORS® with policymakers at every level of government. These members were among the group to travel to D.C. last week, along with President John Fondnazio, President-Elect Donna Souza, Past-President Zina Hall, Treasurer Judy Myers, and CCAR’s Chief Industry Advocacy Officer Heather Schiffman.

Thanks also to the 18 members of CCAR’s Local Government Relations (LGR) Committee for their ongoing dedication to protecting property rights and supporting REALTOR® success throughout our communities. Committee members regularly engage with elected officials and attend local government meetings to ensure REALTOR® perspectives are represented when housing and homeownership issues are discussed.

Your Advocacy Dollars at Work

Last month, CCAR leadership, along with thousands of REALTORS® met with state legislators during Legislative Day in Sacramento to advocate for solutions to some of the most important housing and real estate issues facing Californians today. | PHOTO L to R:  Michele Manzone, Cathleen Griebling (Delta AOR), CCAR President John Fondnazio, Senator Tim Grayson, Leslie Manzone, Jody Drewry (Delta AOR), Otto Catrina (Bay East), and CCAR President-Elect Donna Souza.

Supporting Taxpayer Protections
C.A.R. approved support for a statewide ballot initiative that would require a two-thirds vote for local special taxes and plans to increase California’s homeowners’ property tax exemption for the first time in 50 years.

Faster Housing and Infrastructure
The Association will support a California Chamber-backed initiative to streamline the CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) review process, reducing delays that can impact housing development and economic growth.

Improving HOA Insurance Transparency
Association advocacy efforts in 2026 and beyond will also focus on increasing transparency and consumer protection in homeowners associations, including requiring disclosure of HOA master insurance policies and greater homeowner involvement in insurance decisions.

3 Big Legislative Wins in 2026

Advocacy isn’t just about passing good legislation—it’s also about stopping bad legislation before it becomes law.

So far this year, C.A.R. has successfully opposed several legislative proposals that could have increased costs for homeowners, imposed new burdens on property owners, and created additional challenges for housing providers. Here are three significant bills that have stalled and will not move forward this legislative session:

SB 1404: Stopped Wildfire Prevention Fee on Property Owners :: C.A.R. helped stop a proposal that would have reinstated a wildfire prevention fee on select property owners, adding another cost for homeowners already facing rising expenses in high-risk fire zones.  Status: Dead.

AB 1157: Stopped Expanded Rent Control Measures :: C.A.R. opposed this bill because it would have made rent caps permanent, lowered allowable rent increases, and removed the single-family home exemption for individual property owners. Status: Dead.

AB 2064: Tenant Screening Restrictions Abated :: C.A.R. opposed this bill because it would have limited housing providers’ ability to consider criminal history during tenant screening, creating concerns around liability, resident safety, and small property owner protections. Status: Dead.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

Weekly Jolt – 061626

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CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER    |    JUNE 16, 2026
Facebook Instagram Youtube

CCAR Offices Closed: FRI., Jun. 19 For Juneteenth Freedom Day

•  Voting Now Open – Help Us Reach Quorum
•  West County Marketing Meeting – June 18
•  Make Summer Count with CCAR Education
•  Reverse Mortgage Strategies –  Tomorrow
•  Using Social Media to Make Clients for Life – June 25
•  WCR: Mastering 1031 Exchanges – June 26

•  Upcoming MLS Change: CDOM Relocation
•  New Supra eKey Features Coming Tomorrow
•  MLS Rules Update – Effective July 6
•  REALTOR® Optimized Laptops For Sale


All laptops purchased from CCAR come with a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and RE setup included.
  • Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 – $850.36 >>
  • LG Gram 17 – Ai Ready – $1,845.36  >>

    Online Continuing Education

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 >>

+ Upcoming Education
+ 2025 Annual Report
+ PAY MLS & KEY FEES
+ CCAR CALENDAR

Hidden Listings. Have You Looked in Reverse? Stayin’ Alive in 2026 – Tomorrow

This class helps REALTORS® better serve older homeowners by covering reverse mortgages, financing challenges, trust and title issues, and strategies to earn more listings.
Register >>

Featured Course: Client for Life: Using Social Media to Build Repeat & Referrals – June 25

This class helps real estate professionals grow repeat and referral business through stronger client relationships, smarter social media strategies, AI tools, video marketing, advertising, SEO, and blogging.
Register >>

Voting is Now Open – Help Us Reach Quorum!

The 2027 CCAR Board of Directors election has officially begun, and your vote is needed to help shape the future of our Association.

To make the election official, CCAR must reach a 15% quorum, meaning at least 521 REALTOR® members must cast their vote. Every ballot counts and helps ensure our membership is represented in CCAR’s leadership.

Please take a few minutes to vote today. Your unique voting link will be sent by ElectionBuddy via email and text at 9:00am throughout election week, so be sure to check your inbox and text messages. Please do not share your voting link, as each link is unique to you.

Voting closes Monday, June 22 at 9:00am. Make your voice heard, cast your vote, and help CCAR reach quorum!

Election Headquarters >>

West County Marketing Meeting – July 2

Join us for the CCAR West Marketing Meeting this Thu, July 2, from 8:45–10:00am at 500 Alfred Nobel Drive, Suite 265, Hercules.

Featured speaker Natasha Dowdy from CalHFA will provide an update on CalHFA’s core homebuyer programs, flexible loan options, and what’s new with the Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan program. This is a great opportunity to learn about valuable financing resources that may help you better support your clients.

Enjoy complimentary Noah’s breakfast bagels, fresh fruit, and beverages while sharing upcoming listings. Come learn something new, connect with fellow colleagues, and stay informed on programs and updates that can benefit your business.

Read More >>

Make Summer Count with CCAR Education

There are always new opportunities to learn, connect, and move your business forward.

The June Education & Events Newsletter brings you a full look at upcoming classes, programs, and opportunities created with CCAR members in mind.

From professional development and industry updates to networking events with fellow REALTORS®, this month’s lineup offers plenty of ways to stay engaged and prepared for what’s ahead.

Start summer strong by making time for your growth. CCAR is here to help you stay informed, connected, and ready for what’s next.

Read More >>

New Supra eKEY Features Coming Tomorrow

Beginning June 17, 2026, CCAR members will receive a complimentary upgrade to a new, next-level Supra eKEY app experience.

This enhanced service level has been negotiated by CCAR on behalf of our members, giving you access to new features at no additional cost. Your key will update automatically on June 17, and no action is needed on your end.
Read More >>

MLS Rules Update – Effective July 6

11.5.3 Listing Photographs (IDX)
When a listing is changed to Sold, Expired, or Cancelled status, only the primary/main photo of the property will be authorized to display on IDX websites and syndicated portals. 

All photos remain available within the MLS system for all Subscribers and Participants.

This update is intended to provide more consistency in public photo display while preserving full access within the MLS.

WCR: Mastering 1031 Exchanges – June 26

Register >>

Upcoming MLS Change:
CDOM Relocation to History Tab

Effective July 6, 2026, the Cumulative Days on Market (CDOM) count will move from MLS reports to the History tab.

This change is intended to keep the listing’s current Days on Market (DOM) count prominently displayed within the MLS report, while encouraging subscribers to reference the History tab for additional listing context.

The History tab provides a more complete view of the property and listing lifecycle, including prior listing activity that may affect the CDOM count. Moving CDOM to the History tab allows subscribers to view the supporting details and better understand why the CDOM and DOM counts may differ.

The History tab can be found below the listing photos on the MLS report, represented as an ‘H’ icon.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link