Jolt Archives - CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

Weekly Jolt – 102026

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | OCTOBER 20, 2026

Nov. 3 General Election: Candidates, Measures & Voting Resources

The November 3, 2026 General Election is an important opportunity to help shape representation and policy at the federal, state, county, and local levels. Ballots have been mailed to registered Contra Costa voters. You can track yours through Where’s My Ballot? or find your polling place here.

To help members and residents prepare, CCAR has compiled an election guide with essential voting information, key dates, candidate listings, and summaries of local and statewide ballot measures, including CCAR and C.A.R. positions on select candidates and measures.

Whether voting by mail, returning a ballot in person, or heading to the polls on Election Day, this guide is designed to help you understand what’s on the ballot and participate with confidence.

Recognize Excellence:
CCAR Award Nominations Due Nov. 9

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 9th.

2025 Recipients:
REALTOR® of the Year:
Marilyn Cunningham
Affiliates of the Year:
Jennifer Britton
Annette Khaliq
President’s Community Service Award:
Cathy Lee Cibelli
Emeritus Member:
Debi Mackey

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

Read More >>

Latest News on Prop 37 & Access Your Member Tools

Watch or revisit the Proposition 37 Town Hall and explore FAQs and campaign resources. Stay informed and access valuable information to share with your clients and community.
READ MORE >>
C.A.R. Sign-in required.

WCR Installation – This Fri, Oct. 23

READ MORE & PURCHASE TICKETS >>

Learn How to Get More From Your New
CCAR Member Benefit – Next Tue, Oct. 27

Your complimentary, branded MLS IDX website from CCARHomes.com, powered by SaleCore, is now available— register today for training to learn how to put it to work for your business.
Join us Wednesday, October 27 at 10:00am on Zoom for a live training designed for brokers, teams, and agents. You’ll learn how to:
Get the most from your SEO-optimized IDX website
Capture and manage leads using the built-in CRM
Stay connected with clients and prospects
Create email marketing campaigns
Use social media marketing tools to expand your reach
Build stronger referral opportunities and generate more business
Whether you’re just getting started with your new website or want to explore everything included with this CCAR member benefit, this training will help you make the most of the tools available to you. Don’t miss it, register today!
REGISTER | OCT 27 TRAINING >>
EXPLORE CCARhomes.com >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 101326

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | OCTOBER 13, 2026

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Top News

• Big Event Annual Membership Meeting – Oct 28
• Elected Official Reception – Oct. 15
• Appraisal Seminar & Lunch – Oct. 20
• C.A.R. Town Hall – Tomorrow
• West County Marketing Meeting – Oct. 15
• Regional Town Hall – Oct. 15
• CCAR Award Nominations Due Nov. 9
• Latest News on Prop 37
• WCR Upcoming Events

MLS Updates

• IDX Website + 10 Lead Generation Tools – Oct 27

All laptops purchased through CCAR include a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and Real Estate setup.

+ Upcoming Education
+ REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)
+ CCAR CALENDAR

What’s Next For California REALTORS®?
Join C.A.R.’s Town Hall Tomorrow

Stay informed about the latest developments impacting California REALTORS® and your business! Join C.A.R. tomorrow, October 14, for a virtual All-Member Town Hall featuring updates from C.A.R.’s recent Board of Directors meeting in Long Beach.
Hear directly from C.A.R.’s leadership team as they share key decisions, legislative developments, and priorities shaping the future of real estate in California.
REGISTER HERE >>

West County Marketing Meeting –
This Thu, Oct.15

Join us this Thu. from 8:45–10:00am for the West County Marketing Meeting in Hercules. Our featured speaker, Heather Schiffman, CCAR’s Chief Industry Advocacy Officer, will discuss the upcoming elections and important ballot measures that could impact homeownership and private property rights. Enjoy complimentary breakfast burritos, fresh fruit, and beverages.

Regional Town Hall with State Senator
Ben Allen – This Thu, Oct.15

Join CCAR and fellow Bay Area REALTOR® associations this Thu, Oct. 15, at 11:30am via Zoom for a Regional Town Hall featuring State Senator Ben Allen, candidate for California Insurance Commissioner.
Hear directly from Senator Allen about his priorities for addressing California’s property insurance challenges, including availability and affordability, and how these issues impact homeowners, REALTORS®, and the real estate industry.
REGISTER HERE >>

The Big Event Annual Membership Meeting
– Wed, Oct. 28

CCAR Members, join us at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek on Oct. 28, from 8:30am to 12:30pm for our Annual General Membership Meeting. This members-only event is your opportunity to stay informed about the rapid changes in the real estate market and gain valuable legal insights to help you navigate today’s challenges with confidence.
We are excited to welcome Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at NAR, who will share his outlook on the 2027 housing market and discuss supply conditions shaping the future. You’ll also hear from Neil Kalin, Assistant General Counsel at C.A.R., who will provide important legal updates every REALTOR® needs to know.
Please plan to arrive early to allow time for parking and to enjoy a light breakfast in the lobby before the program begins. As a reminder, no food is allowed inside the theater.
Don’t miss this chance to hear directly from two of the industry’s most respected voices and connect with fellow CCAR members at one of our most important events of the year.
REGISTER FREE >>

Annual Elected Officials Reception – This Thursday

Enjoy hosted cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and great conversation with local elected officials and community leaders this Thu, Oct. 15, from 5pm – 7pm at the Pleasant Hill Community Center!

Officials from cities across Central and West Contra Costa County have been invited- giving you the chance to personally thank them for their continued support of homeownership and discuss the issues that matter most to you.

This relaxed networking event is a wonderful way to build connections, share ideas, and strengthen relationships with those shaping our communities. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with colleagues and local leaders in a welcoming, social setting!

REGISTER FREE >>

Read More >>

Preparing for UAD 3.6: Appraisal Seminar & Lunch – Oct. 20

Beginning November 2, 2026, appraisal reports for loans involving Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will transition to the new UAD 3.6 format, bringing changes to property details, photos and supporting documentation.

Join CCAR on Tue, Oct. 20, from 12:00 – 3:00pm at St. Stephen Church for a special seminar with Market Analyst and Appraiser Anthony Young. Learn what the new reports will look like, how the changes may impact REALTORS® and homeowners, and what you can do now to better prepare your clients and transactions.

This FREE event includes lunch and is limited to 100 CCAR members and affiliates. Space is first come, first served, so register today!

REGISTER FREE >>

Read More >>

CCAR Award Nominations Due Nov. 9

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 Jan. 9, 2027.
REALTOR® of the Year Form >>
Affiliate of the Year Form >>
Community Service Award Form >>

Latest News on Prop 37: Watch the Town Hall and Access Member Tools

Watch or revisit the Proposition 37 Town Hall and explore FAQs and campaign resources. Stay informed and access valuable information to share with your clients and community. C.A.R. Sign-in required.
READ MORE >>

WCR Upcoming Events

READ MORE & REGISTER >>

Get More From Your New CCAR Member Benefit – Training Oct. 27

Your complimentary, branded MLS IDX website from CCARHomes.com, powered by SaleCore, is now available— register today for training to learn how to put it to work for your business.
Join us Wednesday, October 27 at 10:00am on Zoom for a live training designed for brokers, teams, and agents. You’ll learn how to:
Get the most from your SEO-optimized IDX website
Capture and manage leads using the built-in CRM
Stay connected with clients and prospects
Create email marketing campaigns
Use social media marketing tools to expand your reach
Build stronger referral opportunities and generate more business
Whether you’re just getting started with your new website or want to explore everything included with this CCAR member benefit, this training will help you make the most of the tools available to you. Don’t miss it, register today!
REGISTER | OCT 27 TRAINING >>
EXPLORE CCARhomes.com >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 100626

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | OCTOBER 6, 2026

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Top News

• Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire Tomorrow
• Appraisal Seminar & Lunch – Oct. 20
• CCAR Award Nominations Due Nov. 2
• Local Govt. & Community 6 Week Series – Beginning Oct 13
• Elected Official Reception – Oct. 15
• The BIG Event – Oct. 28
• Latest News on Prop 37
• WCR Upcoming Events

MLS Updates

• Realtor.com®+ Adds RealAssist AI
• IDX Website + 10 Lead Generation Tools – Oct 27
• REALTOR ® Optimized Laptops For Sale

All laptops purchased through CCAR include a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and Real Estate setup.

+ Upcoming Education
+ REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)
+ CCAR CALENDAR

Earn a Professional Certificate in Local Civic Leadership – 6 Week Series

Strengthen your civic leadership and deepen your understanding of local government. C.A.R.’s Center for CA Real Estate is offering an exclusive six-week virtual educational series for members. This complimentary program explores local government fundamentals, funding, community engagement, current issues, and meaningful ways to get involved with the opportunity to earn a professional certificate.
Reserve your spot and expand your role as a trusted community leader. You must attend all 6 virtual sessions to qualify for the certificate. (Oct. 13, 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, and 17).
REGISTER HERE >>

Elected Officials Reception – Oct.15

REGISTER HERE >>

The Big Event Membership Meeting – Oct. 28

REGISTER HERE >>

Beer, Bites, Raffles & More
Tomorrow at the Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire!

Dust off your lederhosen and join us tomorrow, from 5pm–7pm at St. Stephen Church for a FREE evening of Oktoberfest fun!
Raise a stein and unwind with beer, wine, and delicious appetizers, plus raffles and opportunities to win great prizes.
Mix and mingle with local industry partners, get your passport stamped along the way, and enter for a chance to win a $250 Woodhouse Spa gift certificate! Connect with fellow CCAR members while enjoying good conversation, great company, and plenty of Oktoberfest spirit.
Best of all, your participation supports CCAR Helping Hands and the CCAR Scholarship Foundation — two great causes making a difference in our community.
O’zapft is! The keg is tapped — come raise a stein with us!
REGISTER FREE >>

Preparing for UAD 3.6: Appraisal Seminar & Lunch – Oct. 20

Beginning November 2, 2026, appraisal reports for loans involving Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will transition to the new UAD 3.6 format, bringing changes to property details, photos and supporting documentation.

Join CCAR on Tue, Oct. 20, from 12:00 – 3:00pm at St. Stephen Church for a special seminar with Market Analyst and Appraiser Anthony Young. Learn what the new reports will look like, how the changes may impact REALTORS® and homeowners, and what you can do now to better prepare your clients and transactions.

This FREE event includes lunch and is limited to 100 CCAR members and affiliates. Space is first come, first served, so register today!

REGISTER FREE >>

Read More >>

Recognize Excellence:
CCAR Award Nominations Due Nov. 9

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 9th.

2025 Recipients:
REALTOR® of the Year:
Marilyn Cunningham
Affiliates of the Year:
Jennifer Britton
Annette Khaliq
President’s Community Service Award:
Cathy Lee Cibelli
Emeritus Member:
Debi Mackey

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

Read More >>

CCAR MLS Member Benefit: IDX Website + 10 Lead Generation Tools – Oct 27

Brokerages, teams, and agents—discover how to get more from your new CCAR member benefit on Oct. 27 at 10am on Zoom!
Learn how to strengthen your online presence with an SEO-optimized IDX website, keep leads and clients organized with a built-in CRM, and grow your business with integrated email and social media marketing tools.
See how these powerful tools can help you capture more leads, streamline your workflow, stay connected with clients, and generate more referral opportunities.
Don’t miss out—register below and learn how to make the most of your new member benefit!
REGISTER NOW >>

Latest News on Prop 37: Watch the Town Hall and Access Member Tools

Watch or revisit the Proposition 37 town hall and access FAQs and campaign resources at car.org to stay informed and share information with clients and your community. Sign-in required.
READ MORE >>

WCR Upcoming Events

READ MORE & REGISTER >> READ MORE & REGISTER >>

Realtor.com®+™ Adds RealAssist™ AI
To Help Agents Work Smarter

Realtor.com®+™ is getting a major AI upgrade designed to help agents spend less time managing activity and more time connecting with clients.
New RealAssist™ AI works inside Realtor.com®+™ to monitor client activity, surface important updates and suggest what an agent may want to do next. Instead of checking multiple searches, conversations and notifications individually, agents can get a Daily Digest that brings together client searches, chats, alerts and price changes, along with suggested next steps.
RealAssist™ can also help streamline client setup by capturing preferences and notes and creating more tailored property searches. Its Agentic Actions feature can recommend and assist with tasks such as refining searches using MLS data or drafting client messages in the agent’s own tone. Agents remain in control, reviewing and approving actions before anything moves forward.
The goal is simple: help you spot opportunities that might otherwise get buried in a busy day. You still make the call and manage the relationship—RealAssist™ helps make sure you know when there’s a call worth making.
The update is part of a broader expansion of Realtor.com®+™, which is also adding RPR® integration, public invite links for bringing groups of buyers into the collaborative search experience, and listing notes that agents and clients can use to keep track of thoughts on individual properties.
LEARN MORE >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 092926

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | SEPTEMBER 29, 2026

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Top News

• Tomorrow Intro to Paragon Live at CCAR
• Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire Next Wed
• Appraisal Reports Are Changing Nov. 2
• West County Marketing Meeting – This Thu.
• Elected Official Reception – Oct. 15
• The BIG Event – Oct. 28
• WCR Upcoming Events
• Register to Vote

ETHICS CORNER

• From Listing Presentation to Post Closing: Let the Code be Your Guide

MLS Updates

• Make Homeownership Part of the Election Conversation
• REALTOR ® Optimized Laptops For Sale

All laptops purchased through CCAR include a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and Real Estate setup.

+ Upcoming Education
+ REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)
+ CCAR CALENDAR

West County Marketing Meeting – This Thu.

Join us for the West County Marketing Meeting this Thu, Oct. 1, from 8:45–10:00am, at 500 Alfred Nobel Drive, Suite 265, Hercules.

Guest speaker Chris Stafford, a San Francisco real estate broker with more than 30 years of experience and founder of The Listing Collective, will share practical strategies designed to help agents consistently generate more listings and grow their business.

Enjoy complimentary breakfast bagels, fruit, and beverages, while connecting with fellow REALTORS®, sharing upcoming listings, and learning something new.

Elected Officials Reception – Oct.15

REGISTER HERE >>

The Big Event Membership Meeting – Oct. 28

REGISTER HERE >>

WCR Upcoming Events

READ MORE & REGISTER >> READ MORE & REGISTER >>

Tomorrow: Get Hands-On with Paragon MLS
Live & In-Person at CCAR

A live, in-person CCAR training with Chris Dickson, CCAR Education & Training Coordinator
Class Details
Date: Wednesday, September 30
Time: 10:00am – Noon
Location: CCAR Boardroom, Walnut Creek
What You’ll Learn
Build confidence using Paragon MLS with guided, step-by-step instruction covering:
Navigating the Paragon MLS platform
Customizing your preferences and settings
Running more effective searches
Managing contacts
Using Collaboration Center
Exploring integrations
Accessing MLS tools on the go with Paragon Connect
Who Should Attend
This class is ideal for members who are new to Paragon MLS, as well as anyone who wants a practical refresher on the platform’s core tools and features.
Space is limited and snacks are provided — Register on the CCAR Calendar >>

Food, Raffles, and Beer! Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire Next Wed! – Oct. 7

Dust off your lederhosen and join us next Wed, Oct 7, from 5pm–7pm at St. Stephen Church for a FREE evening of Oktoberfest fun!

Raise a stein and unwind with beer, wine, and delicious appetizers, plus raffles and opportunities to win great prizes.

Mix and mingle with local industry partners and fellow CCAR members while enjoying good conversation, great company, and plenty of Oktoberfest spirit.

Best of all, your participation supports CCAR Helping Hands and the CCAR Scholarship Foundation — two great causes making a difference in our community.

O’zapft is! The keg is tapped — come raise a stein with us!

REGISTER FOR FREE TICKETS >>

Read More >>

Preparing for UAD 3.6: Appraisal Seminar & Lunch – Oct. 20

Beginning November 2, 2026, appraisal reports for loans involving Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will transition to the new UAD 3.6 format, bringing changes to property details, photos and supporting documentation.

Join CCAR on Tue, Oct. 20, from 12:00 – 3:00pm at St. Stephen Church for a special seminar with Market Analyst and Appraiser Anthony Young. Learn what the new reports will look like, how the changes may impact REALTORS® and homeowners, and what you can do now to better prepare your clients and transactions.

This FREE event includes lunch and is limited to 100 CCAR members and affiliates. Space is first come, first served, so register today!

REGISTER FREE >>

Read More >>

ETHICS CORNER:

From Listing Presentation to Post-Closing: Let the Code Be Your Guide

Last week we looked at the buyer’s agent’s perspective and how the Code of Ethics can become a practical checklist from first conversation to closing. Let’s do the same now for Listing Agents.
For listing agents, the transaction begins long before the sign goes in the yard.
There is the first conversation with the seller, the listing presentation, the agreement, marketing decisions, negotiations, inspections, closing—and the responsibilities that continue after the transaction is complete.
NAR’s “The Code of Ethics is Good Business” resource organizes the relevant Standards of Practice around each of these stages, making the Code easier to apply to the work listing agents are actually doing every day.
The listing-agent checklist begins with Pre-Listing. That’s an important reminder: ethical practice doesn’t begin when you have a signed listing agreement. The professional relationship and the decisions surrounding it can raise ethical considerations from the…
READ MORE >>

Are You and Your Clients Registered to Vote?

Residents must be registered by Oct. 19th to vote in Nov.
REGISTER TO VOTE >>

Make Homeownership Part of the
Election Conversation

The opportunity to own a home remains central to California’s future. It helps families build stability, supports local economies, and gives communities a stronger foundation for long-term success. Through C.A.R.’s Vote Homeownership campaign, Californians are being encouraged to have conversations with candidates about where they stand on policies that can make homeownership more attainable.
Sharing “Vote Homeownership” information gives your clients useful context about the policies and decisions that affect their ability to buy, sell, or remain in a home. It helps them better understand issues such as housing supply, affordability, first-time buyer support, and community stability, while giving them practical questions to ask candidates during election season. By connecting these issues to their own housing goals, REALTORS® can help clients feel more informed, engaged, and prepared to advocate for solutions that expand homeownership opportunities.
READ MORE AT car.org >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 092226

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®
WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | SEPTEMBER 22, 2026

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Top News

• Risk Management Seminar – Tomorrow
• Fall Into Learning with CCAR
• Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire – Oct. 7
• Watch C.A.R. Prop 37 Town Hall
• CA Insurance Town Hall – Oct. 15
• Save the Date: Elected Official Reception – Oct. 15
• The BIG Event – Oct. 28
• WCR Upcoming Events
• Register to Vote

ETHICS CORNER

• First Conversation to Closing: An Ethical Roadmap For Buyer Agents

MLS Updates

• Fed Rate Hike: What it Could Mean For Your Buyers and Homeowners
• REALTOR ® Optimized Laptops For Sale

All laptops purchased through CCAR include a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and Real Estate setup.

+ Upcoming Education
+ REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)
+ CCAR CALENDAR

Latest News on Prop 37: Watch the Town Hall and Access Member Tools

Watch or revisit the Proposition 37 town hall and access FAQs and campaign resources at car.org to stay informed and share information with clients and your community. Sign-in required.
READ MORE >>

CA Insurance Town Hall with Senator
Ben Allen – Oct. 15

Join Bay Area REALTOR® associations on Thu, Oct. 15, at noon for a virtual town hall with State Senator Ben Allen, candidate for California Insurance Commissioner. Hear his priorities for addressing California’s insurance challenges, followed by a discussion of property insurance availability, affordability, and the impact on homeownership and real estate transactions.
REGISTER HERE >>

Save the Date: Elected Officials Reception – Oct. 15

The Big Event Membership Meeting – Oct. 28

REGISTER HERE >>

WCR Upcoming Events

READ MORE & REGISTER >> READ MORE & REGISTER >>

Avoid Costly Mistakes:
Risk Management Seminar Tomorrow

Join us tomorrow morning from 9:00 to 11:00am for a Risk Management Seminar via Zoom. Get a closer look at the legal issues affecting REALTORS® and practical guidance to help you avoid costly mistakes.
Real estate attorney Shannon B. Jones will share insights from her practice, including the types of claims her office is seeing most often and what REALTORS® can learn from them. Topics will include:
Emerging liabilities and recent case trends that could affect your transactions.
Common claims and disputes REALTORS® are facing—and where problems tend to arise.
Practical steps to reduce your risk and help protect yourself, your clients, and your business.
You’ll also hear important updates from CCAR staff and leadership to keep you informed about issues affecting your membership and the profession.
Set aside the morning for information you can put to work in your day-to-day business.
Free for CCAR members · $35 for non-members
REGISTER NOW >>

Fall Into Learning with CCAR

A new season is a great time for fresh ideas! As we head into fall, there’s still time this September to sharpen your skills, explore new tools, and pick up practical tips to help grow your business.

This month’s remaining Education & Events lineup offers something for every stage of your career. From REALTOR® safety and risk management to AI-powered CMAs with RPR, digital business strategies, Realtor.com profiles, Lone Wolf Transact, and Paragon, there are plenty of opportunities to stay informed and work smarter.

Check out what’s coming up and finish September strong with fresh knowledge, new skills, and ideas you can put to work this fall!

Read More >>

Food, Raffles, and Beer! Oktoberfest Affiliate Faire Next Wed! – Oct. 7

Dust off your lederhosen and join us next Wed, Oct 7, from 5pm–7pm at St. Stephen Church for a FREE evening of Oktoberfest fun!

Raise a stein and unwind with beer, wine, and delicious appetizers, plus raffles and opportunities to win great prizes.

Mix and mingle with local industry partners and fellow CCAR members while enjoying good conversation, great company, and plenty of Oktoberfest spirit.

Best of all, your participation supports CCAR Helping Hands and the CCAR Scholarship Foundation — two great causes making a difference in our community.

O’zapft is! The keg is tapped — come raise a stein with us!

REGISTER FOR FREE TICKETS >>

Read More >>

ETHICS CORNER:

First Conversation to Closing: An Ethical Roadmap for Buyer Agents

Two weeks ago, we introduced the Code of Ethics re-organized according to the way a typical transaction actually unfolds, highlighting relevant ethical duties based on where you are in the transaction.
This week, we’ll take a closer look at how this resource can help buyer agents use the Code as a practical guide from the first conversation with a prospective client through the closing table.
A buyer’s real estate journey can move quickly. One conversation leads to a buyer agreement. Then come showings, questions, offers, negotiations, inspections, financing and, eventually, closing. At every stage, different professional responsibilities come into focus.
That’s why NAR’s “The Code of Ethics is Good Business” resource is worth adding to your everyday toolkit. Rather than organizing the Code solely by its 17 Articles, NAR has arranged the relevant Standards of Practice according to the stages of a typical transaction.
For buyer agents, the roadmap begins before the showing…
READ MORE >>

Are You and Your Clients Registered to Vote?

Residents must be registered by Oct. 19th to vote in Nov.
REGISTER TO VOTE >>

Fed Rate Hike: What It Could Mean
for Your Buyers and Homeowners

The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by a quarter percentage point in September, bringing the target range to 3.75%–4% as it works to bring inflation down.
For REALTORS®, an important distinction to share with clients is that a Fed rate increase does not automatically mean the same increase in mortgage rates. As CNBC explains, fixed-rate mortgages tend to follow the 10-year Treasury yield and broader bond-market conditions rather than the Fed’s benchmark directly. However, inflation pressures could push rates higher on new home loans. Even a small change can matter to a buyer’s budget. CNBC cites an example in which a quarter-point increase in mortgage rates could add approximately $65 per month to a roughly $389,000 mortgage.
Homeowners with existing fixed-rate mortgages will keep their current interest rates, while borrowers with adjustable-rate mortgages could face higher costs when their rates reset. Home equity lines of credit, which typically carry variable rates, may also become more expensive.
For client conversations, the focus is on understanding how the type of loan—and changes in borrowing costs—can affect affordability.
READ MORE ON cnbc.com >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS