Jolt Archives - CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

Weekly Jolt – 121625

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 16, 2025

Happy Holidays! CCAR Offices Closed:
• Wed. – Fri., Dec. 24 – 26
• Wed. – Fri., Dec. 31 – Jan. 2

C.A.R. Podcast: Home Sales Hit 8-Month High but Will the Momentum Last?

The Housing Matters Podcast is your go-to source for market analysis, economic trends, and housing news from C.A.R. Subscribe on iTunes or Spotify to hear expert insights on the week’s top real estate stories – and what they mean for you.

This week’s episode: Home Sales Hit 8-Month High but Will the Momentum Last? (Episode 138) discusses how California home sales have reached their highest level since February, driven largely by low interest rates. As the market transitions into the holiday season, housing demand is expected to ease, with statewide sales projected to close 2025 with a modest increase over 2024. Ultimately, the trajectory of market momentum will depend on underlying macroeconomic fundamentals.

Get Quick Answers to Your Questions with C.A.R. Peer-to-Peer Ethics Infoline

Non-legal ethics questions answered in a snap!

C.A.R.’s Peer-to-Peer Ethics Infoline is a free service facilitated by neutral REALTOR® volunteers trained in the Code of Ethics. They can answer questions from other REALTOR® members regarding the proper interpretation of the Code.

If you have questions about whether certain actions—yours or those of another REALTOR® —might violate the Code of Ethics, the volunteers can assist with non-legal ethics matters. The Infoline is confidential, and no information will be shared with third parties. Please note that answers or opinions are provided orally and will not be given in writing.

CONTACT THE INFOLINE >>

Don’t Miss the 2025 REALTOR® Store Winter Sale!

Now through Dec. 31, save up to 25% on select products to help you finish the year strong. From best-selling publications to revenue-boosting webinars, your REALTOR® Store has everything you need—at exclusive member pricing. Don’t wait, shop now!
Shop the Sale >>

REALTOR® Member Health Insurance
Open Enrollment

There’s still time to secure your 2026 health insurance, and RealCare is here to make the process simple and stress-free. Navigating the health insurance marketplace can feel overwhelming, but with RealCare’s expert guidance, you’ll have the support you need every step of the way. Open Enrollment runs from Nov. 1 to Jan. 31 for most coverage plans, and RealCare continues to offer access to two great options: Individual Plans and Covered CA.

Don’t wait—visit RealCare online or call 800.939.8088 (Option 2) to find the perfect plan for you today!

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 >>

FHA Loan Limit Increases to $1.25 Million in 2026

The Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Federal Housing Administration (FHA) said it will raise the maximum claim amount for its Single-Family Forward and Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) mortgage insurance programs to $1,249,125 in 2026, up from $1,209,750 this year.

FHA updates its loan limits every year based on rules in the National Housing Act. These limits are calculated using home-sale data from each county or metropolitan area. The law sets three cost tiers, and FHA adjusts the limits according to local home prices.

The law also caps the loan limit in high-cost areas at 150% of the national conforming loan limit, which is set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

The new limit is a 3.3 percent increase of $39,375, marking the 10th straight year of increases.

Loan limits for most of the country will increase due to the continued appreciation of home prices over the past year.

READ MORE >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 120925

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 9, 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!

C.A.R. Ombudsman Volunteers On Call to Answer Non-Legal Questions

If you’re a member looking to resolve a minor dispute or communication issue with another REALTOR®, a C.A.R. Ombudsman can help! C.A.R. Ombudsmen are REALTORS® who volunteer their time to answer non-legal questions and resolve non-legal disputes.

C.A.R. Ombudsman aim to enhance communication among REALTORS® and can propose resolutions for minor issues raised by clients or other members, avoiding escalation. Some common grievances include claims of possible ethics violations and communication issues, such as misrepresentation and lying, as well as complaints surrounding cancellation of a contract, listing, or escrow.

Please Note: Ombudsmen are not attorneys, and do not provide legal advice or answer legal questions.

Have You Created Your 20-second CMA? Now’s
the Time

Whether you’re at home making dinner, on the go, or standing next to a potential client, EasyCMA® delivers a fast and easy analysis of what a property is worth. This quick CMA does the work for you, while giving you control of what you want, when you need it. Watch the above video for more information.

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

Effective January 1, 2026, California Assembly Bill 723 introduces new disclosure rules for real estate professionals who use digitally altered images in advertising, marketing, or online listings. The new law requires that a clear disclosure be present on or near the image stating that it has been digitally altered. It is also required to provide access to the original, unaltered version of the image when made publicly accessible.

Why This Matters
AB 723 adds Section 10140.8 to the California Business & Professions Code. It applies to licensed real estate brokers and salespersons and those acting on their behalf.

What Counts as a “Digitally Altered Image”?
According to the recently revised C.A.R. Model MLS Rules:
“Digitally altered image” means 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. “Digitally altered image” does not include an image where only lighting, sharpening, white balance, color correction, angle, straightening, cropping, exposure, or other common photo editing adjustments are made that do not change the representation of the real property.

READ MORE >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 120225

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2, 2025

Start your financial wellness journey now at www.FinancialWellness.realtor!

LEARN MORE >>

You’re Invited! 2026 Inaugural – Sat., Jan. 31st Tickets on Sale Now!

Join us for a very special evening at our annual Inaugural Dinner and Award Celebration on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Round Hill Country Club in Alamo.

We’ll recognize this year’s distinguished award recipients, install 2026 President John Fondnazio and our Board of Directors, and enjoy a night that brings our community together over great food and good company.

Come dressed to impress as we look back on a year of accomplishments and get ready for the exciting possibilities to come. Together, we’ll honor the people and partnerships that continue to strengthen our real estate community.

We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful evening of recognition, connection, and celebration.

PURCHASE TICKETS >>

Read More >>

Title Fraud on the Rise: What You Need to Know

A new survey from the National Association of REALTORS® reveals growing concern over title fraud and deed theft, especially in urban and suburban markets.

63% of REALTOR® association advocates reported awareness of scams in the past year—most involving vacant land, not owner-occupied homes.

Efforts to combat fraud are active in 76% of areas, with strong support (83%) for electronic alerts to notify property owners of title changes.

Stay vigilant—learn how prevention efforts are evolving across the country.

DATA SECURITY & PRIVACY TOOLKIT >>
INTERNET SECURITY BEST PRACTICES >>
REALTOR® SAFETY NETWORK >>
REALTOR® SAFETY ARTICLES >>
COMBAT REAL ESTATE CYBERTHREATS >>
PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS >>

Read More >>

Have You Tried CubiCasa?

CubiCasa is a powerful, easy-to-use mobile app that creates beautiful, detailed floor plans in minutes – all from a quick smartphone scan. According to NAR’s annual Homebuyers and Sellers Survey, floor plans are one of the most in-demand features for listings, right after photos and property data. They help buyers instantly understand layout and flow – making your listings stand out.
As a CCAR member, you’ll enjoy exclusive perks with CubiCasa: get free floor plans for properties up to 5,000 sq ft, plus 25% off all Plus packages and optional add-ons, including GLA floor plans, 3D products, rush orders, and more. You’ll also gain access to a network of CubiCasa-certified photographers—or you can bring your own! Whether you’re an agent, appraiser, or photographer, CubiCasa is the listing tool you didn’t know you needed.
Read More >>

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 >>

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

Effective January 1, 2026, California Assembly Bill 723 introduces new disclosure rules for real estate professionals who use digitally altered images in advertising, marketing, or online listings. The new law requires that a clear disclosure be present on or near the image stating that it has been digitally altered. It is also required to provide access to the original, unaltered version of the image when made publicly accessible.
Why This Matters
AB 723 adds Section 10140.8 to the California Business & Professions Code. It applies to licensed real estate brokers and salespersons and those acting on their behalf.
What Counts as a “Digitally Altered Image”?
According to the recently revised C.A.R. Model MLS Rules:
“Digitally altered image” means 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. “Digitally altered image” does not include an image where only lighting, sharpening, white balance, color correction, angle, straightening, cropping, exposure, or other common photo editing adjustments are made that do not change the representation of the real property.
READ MORE >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 112525

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | November 25, 2025

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Top News

• You Are the Heart of Every Good Deed
• Submit Your CCAR Award Nominations Today!
• Unlock the Full Power of Your CCAR Membership
• Financing the Dream of Homeownership
• Save the Dates – 2025 Holiday Events
• WCR Board Installation – Jan. 9, 2026
• CCAR Inaugural Dinner & Awards – Jan. 31, 2026

Ethics Corner

• How CCAR Keeps the Professional Standards Process Fair &
Impartial

MLS Updates

• New Law: AB 723 – Disclosure Required For Digitally Altered Property Images

Upcoming Education

Transact: Create a Transaction
Wed., Nov. 26 | 7:00am – 7:45am
Intro to Cloud CMA (with CCAR)
Wed., Nov. 26 | 10:00am – 11:30am
Transact: Create a Transaction
Mon., Dec. 1 | 7:00am 8:00am
MLS: How to Add & Maintain a Listing in Paragon MLS
Mon., Dec. 1 | 2:00pm 4:00pm
Real Reports 101
Tue., Dec. 2 | 10:00am 11:00am
Welcome to RPR! Tools, Tips & Skills Every Agent Needs
Tue., Dec. 2 | 11:00am 12:00pm
Transact: Navigation
Wed., Dec. 3 | 7:00am – 8:00am

Steps to Financing the Dream of Homeownership
Wed., Dec. 3 | 10:00am – 12:45pm

Future Forward: Top Marketing & Tech Trends for 2026
Wed., Dec. 3 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Shelter to Stability: Housing’s Role in Ending Homelessness
Thu., Dec. 4 | 10:00am – 11:15am

Intro to zipForm with CCAR
Thu., Dec. 4 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Transact: Agent Templates
Fri., Dec. 5 | 7:00am – 8:00am

C.A.R. Townhall for Brokers/Managers
Fri., Dec. 5 | 11:00am – 12:30pm

CA Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA)
Tue., Dec. 9 | 9:00am – 1:00pm

New & Revised Forms
Tue., Dec. 9 | 1:30pm – 2:30pm

Transact: e-Signatures
Wed., Dec. 10 | 7:00am – 8:00am

2026 Tech Holiday Shopping Guide
Wed., Dec. 10 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

C.A.R. New & Revised Forms – Update for December 2025
Thu., Dec. 11 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Transact: Create a Transaction
Fri., Dec. 12 | 7:00am – 8:00am
DRE License Renewal Crash Course (virtual)
Fri., Dec. 12 | 9:30am – 12:00pm
OnlineEd Offers CA Salespersons
A Fast Track to Becoming Brokers
California Salespersons now have a new path to becoming Brokers with OnlineEd’s fully interactive, online courses. These textbook-free courses are designed to be mobile-friendly and comprehensive, offering a convenient way to advance to a Broker Licensee.
REGISTER NOW >>

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

PAY 2026 MEMBER DUES

Thank you for making CCAR your primary membership resource. Your success is our priority, and we are committed to providing you with the resources you need to achieve the highest levels of professionalism.
2026 CCAR, C.A.R., and NAR membership dues are now payable and must be submitted by 5pm on Jan. 6, 2026.
Your membership dues give you access to thousands of dollars in benefits and services, along with the political backing and collective buying power of one of the most influential professional trade associations in the United States.
Learn More About Your Member Benefits >>
Pay Membership Dues >>

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 >>

+ CCAR CALENDAR

Steps to Financing the Dream of Homeownership

Thu., Dec. 3 | 9:45am – 1:00pm | Via Zoom
Featuring CCAR’s own Rolanda Wilson, Senior Housing Counselor, NID HUD Counseling Agency
Learn the essential tools to help your clients achieve affordable, sustainable homeownership. This streamlined STEPS Toward Homeownership program delivers practical, easy-to-follow guidance for educating renters, first-time buyers, those recovering from foreclosure or short sale, and Baby Boomers looking to support the next generation.
Register Here >>

Save the Dates – 2025 Holiday Events

18th Annual Coats & Cocktails
Fri., Dec. 5 | 5:00pm – 10:00pm
View the Flyer

CCRIM: Channel the Flannel Holiday Breakfast
Tue., Dec. 9 | 8:00am – 10:00am
View the Flyer | Purchase Tickets

RMA: Mingle & Jingle Holiday Breakfast
Thu., Dec. 11 | 8:00am – 11:00am
View the Flyer | Purchase Tickets

WCMM: Spirits & Sparkles Holiday Breakfast
Thu., Dec. 18 | 8:45am – 10:00am
View the Flyer

WCR Board Installation – January 9, 2026

Join WCR to celebrate elegance, empowerment, and leadership on Jan. 9 at the Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center as they honor their members, recognize outstanding leaders, and celebrate the installation of incoming President QuyNitta McDade and the 2026 Governing Board.

Purchase Tickets >>

CCAR Inaugural Dinner & Award Celebration –
January 31, 2026

Join us on Sat., Jan. 31, 2026, at Round Hill Country Club, Alamo for the 2026 CCAR Inaugural Dinner & Award Celebration. This annual event honors our incoming leadership team, celebrates excellence within our membership, and brings our REALTOR® community together for an unforgettable evening.
Purchase Tickets >>
Sponsor Information >>

You Are the Heart of Every Good Deed

Your generosity, service, and leadership fuel every meal donated, every student supported, and every community we uplift together. Thank you for making Giving Season—and every season—extraordinary.
It’s Giving Season at CCAR — and we’re celebrating YOU! Thanks to the dedication of our volunteer leaders, members, and Affiliates, CCAR continues to make a meaningful impact throughout our community.
This year, the Helping Hands Committee, led by Jennifer Newton (Chair) and Victoria Haket (Vice Chair), helped turn CCAR events into more than 15,000 meals for local families.
Our YPN Committee, guided by Gilda Whitehead (Chair) and Cherry Wade (Vice Chair), filled classrooms with confidence and essential supplies through its annual School Supply and Shoe Drive.
The Affiliates & Events Committee, chaired by Jessica Evans with Cameron Chatterton (Vice Chair), powered the fundraising efforts that support both the Helping Hands Fund and the CCAR Scholarship Foundation.
And for over 50 years, the CCAR Scholarship Foundation, led by Angela Muetterties (President) and Marianne Bordogna (Vice President), has opened doors for local students—awarding $740,000 to 265 scholars in the last 12 years alone.
Thank you for giving, serving, and strengthening
our community every day.
LEARN MORE >>

Recognize Excellence:
CCAR Award Nominations Due Dec. 1

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 >>

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 >>

ETHICS CORNER:

How CCAR Keeps the Professional Standards Process Fair and Impartial

When someone files a disciplinary complaint, everyone involved is owed a process that is fair, neutral, and handled with care. Here’s how we make sure of that:
✔️ Everything is Confidential
All details—allegations, findings, recommendations, and decisions—stay strictly confidential. Only what must be shared with C.A.R. per the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual (Section 39) is reported.
✔️ Carefully Selected, Qualified Panel Members
Detailed thought goes into who reviews or hears each case. For example:
Only one person from the same company can sit on a panel.
No one can sit on more than one panel for the same matter.
Anyone connected to the case—whether personally, through family, or through business—is automatically disqualified.
Before participating, panelists sign a statement confirming they can be completely impartial.
✔️ Fair Panel Selection From the Start
Both parties receive a list of potential panel members and can request the removal of anyone who may not be fully neutral—based on valid reasons like personal or business ties. Challenges must be based on valid reasons (not protected characteristics like race or gender), and the goal is simple: no surprises, no bias, and full confidence in a fair process.
✔️ Panelists Can Remove Themselves Too
Even if no one challenges them, panelists are expected to step down if they see anything that might create bias or the appearance of bias.
✔️ Balanced Panels
Panels always have an odd number of members to avoid tie votes. And if a salesperson is involved, at least one salesperson must be on the panel—ensuring representation by “a peer,” similar to a jury system.
Read More >>

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

Effective January 1, 2026, California Assembly Bill 723 introduces new disclosure rules for real estate professionals who use digitally altered images in advertising, marketing, or online listings. The new law requires that a clear disclosure be present on or near the image stating that it has been digitally altered. It is also required to provide access to the original, unaltered version of the image when made publicly accessible.
Why This Matters
AB 723 adds Section 10140.8 to the California Business & Professions Code. It applies to licensed real estate brokers and salespersons and those acting on their behalf.
What Counts as a “Digitally Altered Image”?
According to the recently revised C.A.R. Model MLS Rules:
“Digitally altered image” means 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. “Digitally altered image” does not include an image where only lighting, sharpening, white balance, color correction, angle, straightening, cropping, exposure, or other common photo editing adjustments are made that do not change the representation of the real property.
READ MORE >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 111825

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | November 18, 2025

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Top News

• NAR Adopts New Strategic Plan
• Submit Your CCAR Award Nominations Today!
• Join a 2026 CCAR Committee
• West County Marketing Meeting – This Thu.
• Shutdowns & Elections: What’s Next For Real Estate?
• Save the Dates – 2025 Holiday Events
• WCR Board Installation – Jan. 9, 2026
• CCAR Inaugural Dinner & Awards – Jan. 31, 2026

Ethics Corner

• What Exactly is the Professional Standards Committee?

MLS Updates

• 50% Off Birdhouse Annual Plan!
• Steps to Financing the Dream of Homeownership

Upcoming Education

Transact: Agent Templates
Wed., Nov. 19 | 7:00am – 8:00am

RPA: Learn the CA Residential Purchase Agreement ($35)
Wed., Nov. 19 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Transitioning From an Individual to a Business in the Eyes of the IRS
Wed., Nov. 19 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Building Relationships in the Digital Age
Wed., Nov. 19 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Intro to zipForm – Transaction Management System (with CCAR)
Thu., Nov. 20 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

DRE License Renewal Crash Course
Fri., Nov. 21 | 9:30am – 12:00pm

C.A.R. Townhall for Brokers/Managers
Fri., Nov. 21 | 11:00am – 12:30pm
Realtor.com – Dashboard Essentials
Tue. Nov. 25 | 10:00am – 11:00am
Transact: Create a Transaction
Wed., Nov. 26 | 7:00am – 7:45am
Intro to Cloud CMA (with CCAR)
Wed., Nov. 26 | 10:00am – 11:30am

Real Reports 101
Tue., Dec. 2 | 10:00am 11:00am

Welcome to RPR! Tools, Tips & Skills Every Agent Needs
Tue., Dec. 2 | 11:00am 12:00pm

Steps to Financing the Dream of Homeownership
Wed., Dec. 3 | 10:00am 12:45pm
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 >>

+ CCAR CALENDAR

West County Marketing Meeting – This Thu.

Join us at the West County Marketing Meeting this Thu., Nov. 20, from 8:45–10:00am at 500 Alfred Nobel Drive, Suite 265, Hercules. This month’s featured speaker is Maureen Toms, former Mayor of the City of Pinole, who will share updates on current events, developments, and the city’s budget.
Enjoy a light, complimentary breakfast while you learn something new, connect with peers, share upcoming listings, and have a little fun.
Affiliates interested in contributing a small giveaway item for the end-of-meeting drawing—while promoting their business—are encouraged to reach out to Steve Kendall.

Shutdowns and Elections: What’s Next for Real Estate?

Recorded live at the NXT Conference in Houston, this episode of Advocacy Scoop breaks down the new government funding deal that ends the shutdown, what it means for housing programs and the real estate market, and how recent election results will guide NAR’s advocacy priorities heading into 2026.
Listen Here >>

Save the Dates – 2025 Holiday Events

18th Annual Coats & Cocktails
Fri., Dec. 5 | 5:00pm – 10:00pm
View the Flyer
CCRIM: Channel the Flannel Holiday Breakfast
Tue., Dec. 9 | 8:00 – 10:00am
View the Flyer | Purchase Tickets

RMA: Mingle & Jingle Holiday Breakfast
Thu., Dec. 11 | 8:00 – 11:00am
View the Flyer | Purchase Tickets

WCR Board Installation – January 9, 2026

Join WCR to celebrate elegance, empowerment, and leadership on Jan. 9 at the Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center as they honor their members, recognize outstanding leaders, and celebrate the installation of incoming President QuyNitta McDade and the 2026 Governing Board.

Purchase Tickets >>

CCAR Inaugural Dinner & Award Celebration –
January 31, 2026

Join us on Sat., Jan. 31, 2026, at Round Hill Country Club, Alamo for the 2026 CCAR Inaugural Dinner & Award Celebration. This annual event honors our incoming leadership team, celebrates excellence within our membership, and brings our REALTOR® community together for an unforgettable evening.
Purchase Tickets >>
Sponsor Information >>

NAR Adopts New 2026-2028 Strategic Plan

NAR has officially adopted its 2026–2028 Strategic Plan, following approval from the NAR Executive Committee. The plan focuses on rebuilding trust and modernizing the association, outlining clear commitments and measurable goals to ensure accountability to members, industry partners and consumers.
Key Focus: Building the Future Member Experience
Commitment to Members: NAR will deliver improved tools, training and support to help REALTORS® thrive in their daily business, enhance well-being and confidently serve clients.
Commitment to Partners: The association will strengthen collaboration by co-creating programs, aligning messaging and sharing resources to reinforce REALTOR® value across the ecosystem.
Commitment to the Real Estate Industry: NAR plans to proactively shape legal protections that safeguard REALTOR® priorities and support a resilient industry.
Commitment to Consumers: Advocacy for property ownership remains central, with policies promoted at all levels of government to foster a strong real estate economy.
Key Focus: Modernizing the Association
Commitment to Members: NAR will evolve its financial and operational systems to deliver faster, smarter and more proactive support.
Commitment to Partners: The association aims to rebuild foundational partnerships with greater transparency and aligned goals.
Commitment to the Real Estate Industry: A renewed focus on professionalism will strengthen ethical standards, deepen technical expertise and elevate leaders.
Commitment to Consumers: NAR will work to reinforce trust in the REALTOR® brand as a symbol of integrity, service and expertise.
To bring these commitments to life, NAR has outlined 24 strategic initiatives that will guide its work over the next three years—ensuring progress is transparent, measurable and aligned with the needs of members and the marketplace.
READ MORE >>

Recognize Excellence:
CCAR Award Nominations Due Dec. 1

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 >>

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 >>

ETHICS CORNER:

What Exactly Is the Professional Standards Committee?

If you’ve ever wondered who helps safeguard fairness, professionalism, and ethical practice within our association, look no further than the Professional Standards Committee. While they may work quietly behind the scenes, their role is fundamental to maintaining the integrity of our organization.
So, what do they actually do?
At its core, the Professional Standards Committee is responsible for hearing and resolving matters related to membership duties, ethical conduct, and compliance with MLS rules. When a complaint is filed—whether it’s about an alleged Code of Ethics violation or an MLS rules issue—members of this committee step in as panelists for disciplinary hearings. Confidentiality of all matters pertaining to a complaint is paramount.
These panelists are unpaid volunteers. They give their time as a true act of public service. Their job isn’t to take sides—it’s to ensure that everyone involved gets a fair, unbiased, and respectful hearing.
The Professional Standards Committee plays a crucial role in maintaining trust—within our membership and with the public. Their work helps ensure that our association remains a place where professionalism is expected, ethics are honored, and everyone has a voice.
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Steps to Financing the Dream of Homeownership

Thu. Dec 3 | 9:45am – 1:00pm | Via Zoom
Featuring CCAR’s own Rolanda Wilson, Senior Housing Counselor, NID HUD Counseling Agency
Learn the essential tools to help your clients achieve affordable, sustainable homeownership. This streamlined STEPS Toward Homeownership program delivers practical, easy-to-follow guidance for educating renters, first-time buyers, those recovering from foreclosure or short sale, and Baby Boomers looking to support the next generation.
Register Here >>

Exclusive Offer for CCAR Members:
50% Off Birdhouse Annual Plan!

We’re thrilled to announce that CCAR has partnered with Birdhouse, a new local company offering a simple, powerful platform built specifically for real estate agents.
As a busy agent, keeping transactions organized and clients informed can be challenging. Birdhouse brings everything together in one place — so you always know what’s happening, and so do your clients.

Every CCAR member now gets 50% off an Annual Subscription — that’s full access for just $50 per year!
Birdhouse Helps You:
• Stay organized and collaborate seamlessly with clients
• Get automatic reminders so nothing falls through the cracks
• Keep your clients informed at every step
• Boost productivity and focus on what matters most — closing deals!
How to Get Started
• Create your free Birdhouse account at mybirdhouse.app
• Go to Account Settings (upper right corner) and upgrade to the Annual Plan
• Enter the discount code CCAR at checkout to receive your 50% discount

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

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C.A.R. Podcast: Home Sales Hit 8-Month High but Will the Momentum Last?

Get Quick Answers to Your Questions with C.A.R. Peer-to-Peer Ethics Infoline

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Unlock the Full Power of Your CCAR Membership!

C.A.R. Ombudsman Volunteers On Call to Answer Non-Legal Questions

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Start your financial wellness journey now at www.FinancialWellness.realtor!

You’re Invited! 2026 Inaugural – Sat., Jan. 31st Tickets on Sale Now!

Title Fraud on the Rise: What You Need to Know

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Thank you for giving, serving, and strengthening
our community every day.

Recognize Excellence:
CCAR Award Nominations Due Dec. 1

Unlock the Full Power of Your CCAR Membership!

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Recognize Excellence:
CCAR Award Nominations Due Dec. 1

Join a CCAR Committee and Make a Difference in 2026!

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Start your financial wellness journey now at www.FinancialWellness.realtor!

Thank you for giving, serving, and strengthening our community every day.

SERVING YOU AT:

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Thank you for giving, serving, and strengthening
our community every day.