CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

Moves You Forward.

District 99 Fondnazio – Feb 26

by

John Fondnazio masthead + link to email

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Welcome to your first District update of the year. I am John Fondnazio, your CCAR President and Board Liaison, representing those of you who conduct business outside of Contra Costa County. I serve as your direct connection to CCAR leadership, and will share key updates with you, as well as bring your feedback to the Board.

In this first email of the year, you’ll find timely insights on insurance considerations, new California real estate laws taking effect in 2026, and practical information to support your business.

I look forward to staying connected with you throughout the year. I am here to listen, share updates, and bring your feedback forward. Feel free to reach out to me any time—we always want to hear from you. | MEET YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS >

Warm regards,

John

CAR Legal Hotline Ad

Top Tips to Get Insurance in Fire-Prone Areas

In this challenging insurance market, it is important for homebuyers to be proactive, diligent, and patient. Below are the five top tips for homebuyers in finding insurance:

Plan ahead and seek the assistance of insurance agents – Start shopping for insurance early! It takes time to complete applications and obtain quotes. When contacting agents, check to see if they work exclusively with one insurance company or has access to multiple carriers. Keep track of which insurance companies are being contacted to make sure there is a thorough search of all options. Use this tool from the California Department of Insurance for finding an agent or broker near you. 

Check for policies written by admitted insurance companies. It is only admitted insurance companies that are backed by the California Insurance Guarantee Association (CIGA). They must file their rates and policy forms with the California Department of Insurance (DOI) and, most importantly, they are part of CIGA, which provides protections if the carrier becomes insolvent. The DOI has a list of admitted insurance companies >. 

Compare types and limits of coverage, and feel free to ask questions. You can compare the types of coverage and limits using the DOI coverage comparison tool. Also remember to check whether the insurance company will lower the quote for fire hardening (e.g., clearing trees or brush around the perimeter, or having fire-resistant roof materials).

If coverage isn’t available through an admitted carrier, consider surplus lines (non-admitted) insurance. These carriers don’t file rates or forms with the DOI and aren’t part of CIGA, meaning no CIGA protection if the carrier becomes insolvent. However, they often offer more flexible options. Be sure to evaluate the carrier’s financial strength using a service such such as A.M. Best to determine whether it offers the best solution.

The Fair Plan is available as a last resort. If there are no other options, you or your insurance agent should contact California FAIR Plan at 1 (800) 339-4099. The FAIR Plan policy can be expensive, and it only covers certain losses caused by fire and smoke. For other perils such as theft and liability, consumers will need to buy Differences in Conditions (DIC) insurance to fill the gaps. List of DIC carriers >.

MANY ETHICS CASES START THE SAME WAY…

BEWARE: A SEEMINGLY MINOR OVERSIGHT COULD LEAD TO A COMPLAINT FASTER THAN YOU MIGHT THINK.

Know the Code

xx

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

Weekly Jolt – 021726

by

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER    |    FEBRUARY 17, 2026
Facebook Instagram Youtube

•  CCAR Helping Hands Bingo Night! – Feb 25
•  CCAR Annual Crab Feed – Mar 6
•  Code of Ethics Violators
•  In Memoriam: Jerry Feagley
•  West County Marketing Meeting This Thursday
•  Partition Law: How to Sell Property when Co-Owners
   Disagree (Zoom) – Feb 25
•  WCR: 2026 Vision Board Experience – Feb 20

•  Take Control of Your Listing Photos with “Mark as Private”
•  REALTOR® Optimized Laptops For Sale
LAPTOP DOC

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 >>

+ EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

+ CCAR CALENDAR

In Memoriam: Jerry Feagley

CCAR mourns the passing of member Jerry Feagley, who died on January 7, 2026. Licensed since 1966, Jerry built a six-decade career defined by integrity, personal service, and deep local knowledge. He was the Broker/Owner of Feagley Realtors, the Point Richmond boutique office he founded in 1974 with his wife, Jan, and served as President of the West County Board in 1985. He also helped develop 300+ residential and commercial properties across West Contra Costa County.

Guided by his motto, “After all, it is at the pleasure of our clients that we serve,” Jerry leaves a lasting legacy of professionalism and community commitment. Service information is pending and will be shared when available.

West County Marketing Meeting this Thursday

Join us for the CCAR West Marketing Meeting on Thursday, Feb. 19, 8:45–10:00am, at 500 Alfred Nobel Drive, Suite 265, Hercules. Our guest speaker is Marilyn Cunningham—CCAR Past President, newest Realtor of the Year, and a professional photographer—sharing tips for better MLS listing photos.

Enjoy breakfast burritos, plus fruit and beverages. Network, share upcoming listings, and learn something new!

Affiliates: To donate a drawing prize and promote your business, contact Steve Kendall at [email protected].

FEATURED COURSE: Partition Law – How to Sell Property When Co-Owners Disagree – Feb 25

Join us Tue, Feb. 25 at 10:00am (Zoom) for a class on partition actions—a legal process that can force the sale of jointly owned property when co-owners can’t agree. Often overlooked (and not a lot split), partition law can help resolve disputes between siblings, former partners, business associates, and other co-owners—and is increasingly relevant as co-ownership rises, especially among unmarried buyers. Ideal for real estate sales professionals looking to handle tough leads and gain an edge. Register on the CCAR Calendar >>

CCAR Helping Hands Bingo Night: Play, Dine, and Give Back – Next Wednesday!

Get ready for a night of bingo, pizza, and community fun next Wednesday! CCAR Helping Hands is hosting Bingo Night at St. Stephen Church in Walnut Creek on Feb. 25, from 4–7 PM, and you won’t want to miss it!

For $35, you’ll enjoy a slice of pizza, salad, a drink ticket (beer, wine, or soft drink), and five bingo sheets.

This night isn’t just about bingo and raffle prizes — it’s about coming together, having fun, and supporting the community. So grab your bingo buddies, bring your lucky charm, and join us for a great cause!

PURCHASE TICKETS >>

Crab, Champagne & a Great Cause – Help Support CCAR Scholarships & Helping Hands

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring fresh crab, tri-tip, and pasta, plus a complimentary glass of champagne to kick off the evening. The night also includes music from DJ Stallion, raffle and auction prizes, and the always-popular cake auction.

This crab-tastic feast supports two amazing causes: CCAR Helping Hands and the CCAR Scholarship Foundation, so every bite (and every bid) makes a difference!

All tickets must be purchased in advance—no tickets will be sold at the door.

PURCHASE TICKETS >>

Read More >>
Text Code of Ethics typed on retro typewriter

Code of Ethics Violators

In an effort to make ethics violations and the disciplinary process more transparent, C.A.R. is publishing 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…

Read More >>

WCR: 2026 Vision Board Experience – Feb 20

Register Here >>

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

Take Control of Your Listing Photos with the
“Mark Private” Feature

We encourage you to retain photos on your listings until they are marked Sold in the MLS. Photos are an important part of a listing’s history and serve several key purposes.

Did you know that CCAR MLS Participants and Subscribers have the ability to mark listing photos as “Private” – giving you more control over how your listing images are shared. When photos are marked as Private, they remain visible within the MLS but are not distributed to public-facing websites.

This feature is especially valuable for members who rely on listing photos for comparables, appraisal, and research purposes, allowing you to preserve MLS access while protecting seller privacy and marketing strategy.

How to Mark Photos as Private:

  1. Go to your listing under LISTINGS → Maintain Listing
  2. Click on Add/Edit Pictures
  3. Select the photos you want to mark as Private
  4. Click ‘Mark Private’ in the top menu bar
  5. Click Save and exit your listing

For questions or assistance, please contact CCAR Member Services at 925.295.1270.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

Weekly Jolt – 021026

by

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER    |    FEBRUARY 10, 2026
Facebook Instagram Youtube

CCAR Offices Closed: Mon, FEB. 16
in observance of Presidents Day

•  Crab Feed Early Bird Ticket Pricing Extended 1 Week!
•  CCAR Helping Hands Bingo Night! – Feb 25
•  Unlock the Full Power of Your CCAR Membership
•  In Memoriam: Capt Willard Randall Coyner, USAF (Ret)
•  Partition Law: How to Sell Property when Co-Owners
   Disagree (Zoom) – Feb 25

•  FAQ: New Law AB 723 – Disclosure Required for Digitally
   Altered Property Images
•  MLS Updates Coming Next Week – Feb 10
•  REALTOR® Optimized Laptops For Sale
LAPTOP DOC

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 >>

+ EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

+ CCAR CALENDAR

In Memoriam: Captain Willard Randall Coyner, USAF (ret)

We are saddened to share the passing of Captain Willard Randall “Randy” Coyner, USAF (Ret.), a valued CCAR member since 1990. Randy will be laid to rest with military honors at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery (VA Cemetery), 5810 Midway Road, Dixon, CA, on Thursday, February 12 at 11:30am. 

A reception will follow on Friday, February 13 at 3:00pm at the Veterans Hall in Danville, where friends and loved ones are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Randy’s life.
More Information >>

WCR: 2026 Vision Board Experience – Feb 20

Register Here >>

FEATURED COURSE: Partition Law – How to Sell Property When Co-Owners Disagree – Feb 25

Join us Tue, Feb. 25 at 10:00am (Zoom) for a class on partition actions—a legal process that can force the sale of jointly owned property when co-owners can’t agree. Often overlooked (and not a lot split), partition law can help resolve disputes between siblings, former partners, business associates, and other co-owners—and is increasingly relevant as co-ownership rises, especially among unmarried buyers. Ideal for real estate sales professionals looking to handle tough leads and gain an edge.

Registration: Members register via the CCAR Calendar to receive the Zoom link. $30 for non-members.
CCAR Calendar >>

Crab Feed Early Bird Ticket Pricing Extended 1 Week! 

Enjoy a delicious dinner at the Pleasant Hill Community Center on March 6 from 6–10pm, featuring fresh crab, tri-tip, and pasta—plus a complimentary glass of champagne to kick off the evening. The night also includes music from DJ Stallion, raffle and auction prizes, and the always-popular cake auction.

All tickets must be purchased in advance—no tickets will be sold at the door. Purchase your tickets by Feb. 16 and save $25 with Early Bird pricing (extended 1 week)!

This crab-tastic feast supports two amazing causes—CCAR Helping Hands and the CCAR Scholarship Foundation—so every bite (and every bid) makes a difference!

Purchase Tickets >>

CCAR Helping Hands Bingo Night: Play, Dine, and Give Back – Feb 25

Get ready for a night of bingo, pizza, and community fun! CCAR Helping Hands is hosting Bingo Night at St. Stephen Church in Walnut Creek on Wed, Feb. 25, from 4–7 PM, and you won’t want to miss it!

For $35, you’ll enjoy a slice of pizza, salad, a drink ticket (beer, wine, or soft drink), and five bingo sheets.

This night isn’t just about bingo and raffle prizes — it’s about coming together, having fun, and supporting the community. So grab your bingo buddies, bring your lucky charm, and join us for a great cause!

PURCHASE TICKETS >>

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.

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!

Read More >>

CCAR Member Benefit: InfoSparks

More Information >>

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 ended on Oct. 14, 2025.
  • Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 – $850.36 >>
  • LG Gram 17 – Ai Ready – $1,845.36  >>

Online Continuing Education

Take Control of Your Listing Photos with the
“Mark Private” Feature

We encourage you to retain photos on your listings until they are marked Sold in the MLS. Photos are an important part of a listing’s history and serve several key purposes.

Did you know that CCAR MLS Participants and Subscribers have the ability to mark listing photos as “Private” – giving you more control over how your listing images are shared. When photos are marked as Private, they remain visible within the MLS but are not distributed to public-facing websites.

This feature is especially valuable for members who rely on listing photos for comparables, appraisal, and research purposes, allowing you to preserve MLS access while protecting seller privacy and marketing strategy.

How to Mark Photos as Private:

  1. Go to your listing under LISTINGS → Maintain Listing
  2. Click on Add/Edit Pictures
  3. Select the photos you want to mark as Private
  4. Click ‘Mark Private’ in the top menu bar
  5. Click Save and exit your listing

For questions or assistance, please contact CCAR Member Services at 925.295.1270.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

New Law AB 723 – Disclosure Required for Digitally Altered Property Images & FAQ

by

Effective January 1, 2026, California Assembly Bill 723 requires real estate professionals to clearly disclose when images used in advertising or listings have been digitally altered and to provide access to the original, unaltered images when those altered images are made public.

Two new sections will be added to the CCAR MLS Rules and Regulations Effective Jan. 1. 2026

  • 11.5.1 Definition of Digitally Altered Images – Defines digitally altered images as provided under California law.
  • 11.5.2 Digitally Altered Images – Explains how digitally altered images must be treated when inputted in the MLS.

How Does this Affect Photograph Requirements in the MLS?
To support compliance with California’s new law regarding digitally altered property images (AB 723), CCAR will be implementing a standardized approach within the MLS.

Going forward, when a digitally altered image is used in a listing:

  • The digitally altered image must be displayed first,
  • The original, unaltered image must immediately follow, and
  • The altered image must include a photo label clearly disclosing that the image has been digitally altered.

To add a photo label within the MLS, please follow the instructions below:

  • Go to ‘Maintain Listing’;
  • Go to the ‘Add/Edit Pictures’ module;
  • Add listing photos and select ‘Add Label’ for the digitally altered images;
  • Type into the ‘Label’ field that the photo is digitally altered (i.e. “altered,” “digitally altered,” “AI altered,” or some accurate substantially similar term).

This approach allows the MLS to clearly present both versions of the image while maintaining transparency for consumers and consistency for Participants and Subscribers.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What is a digitally altered image?
A: As a threshold matter, it is important to understand what is considered a digitally altered image under the new law. AB 723 defines “digitally altered image” as:

  • an image, created by or at the direction of the real estate broker or salesperson, or person acting on their behalf
  • that has been altered through the use of photo editing software or artificial intelligence
  • to add, remove, or change elements in the image, including, but not limited to, fixtures, furniture, appliances, flooring, walls, paint color, hardscape, landscape, façade, floor plans, and elements outside of, or visible from, the property, including, but not limited to, streetlights, utility poles, views through windows, and neighboring properties.

While AB 723’s definition of “digitally altered image” seems to mostly target items that are part of the property (e.g., fixtures) or features of the property (e.g., views through windows), real estate licensees should take note that the definition also includes furniture. This means that if a real estate licensee uses virtual staging to add, remove, or change furniture in the property, they will need to disclose that the images have been digitally altered.

Q: How do I disclose digitally altered images in the MLS?
A:

  • Go to ‘Maintain Listing’;
  • Go to the ‘Add/Edit Pictures’ module;
  • Add listing photos and select ‘Add Label’ for the digitally altered images;
  • Type into the ‘Label’ field that the photo is digitally altered (i.e. “altered,” “digitally altered,” “AI altered,” or some accurate substantially similar term).

Q: Do I need to upload both edited and unedited versions of a photo?
A: Yes. Ensure that the original, unaltered version is displayed immediately after the digitally altered image.

Q: Does this apply to listings entered before January 1, 2026?
A: Participants and Subscribers are encouraged to review current listings in the Active, Pending, and Hold statuses and make add necessary photo labels to disclose digitally altered images.

Q: What is NOT a digitally altered image?
A: Specifically excluded from the definition of “digitally altered images” are images “where only lighting, sharpening, white balance, color correction, angle, straightening, cropping, exposure, or other common photo editing adjustments are made that the not change the representation of the real property.”

Q: Does AB 723 apply to leases?
A: Yes, but only if the lease exceeds one year’s duration.

Q: Is virtual staging allowed?
A: Yes. Virtual staging is allowed, but virtually staged photos must be clearly labeled, and the unedited version must immediately follow each virtually staged photo.

Q: Who is responsible for compliance, the agent or the photographer?
A: The listing agent and broker are responsible for ensuring all listing content complies with MLS rules, regardless of who created or edited the photos.