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Weekly Jolt – 020425

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | FEBRUARY 04, 2025

Top News

• CCAR Welcomes 2025 Board of Directors
• Tony Robbins: Kick Off 2025 Strong! – Feb. 12
• Social Security Benefits Workshop – Mar. 3
• WCR: Mastering AI with Anthony Young – Feb. 21
• CCAR Scholarship Foundation Poker Tournament – Mar. 22

MLS Updates

• Save 20% on 2025 Code of Ethics Bundle + Free Bonus
• Important MLS Rules Update: Coming Soon Data in Broker Back-Office Feeds
• RE Optimized Laptops for Sale

Upcoming Education

Tom Ferry Live: Listing Edge
Wed., Feb. 5 | 8:00am – 5:00pm

SMART From the Start: Accounting & Tax Tips for New Agents
Wed., Feb. 5 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Cloud CMA: How to Create a CMA
Wed., Feb. 5 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

Mastering Your Real Estate Finances
Wed., Feb. 5 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

MLS: Intro to Paragon Professional
Thu., Feb. 6 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Social Media in Real Estate
Fri., Feb. 7 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Unlocking Real Estate Opportunities in Your Neighborhood
Mon., Feb. 10 | 10:00am – 11:00am

MLS: Paragon’s Collaboration Center (Your Client Concierge)
Mon., Feb. 10 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

All About Disclosures: Close Deals & Stay Out of Court
Tue., Feb. 11 | 9:00am – 12:00pm

Legal Live Webinar – “Real” Estate Cases, Redux (RCR)
Tue., Feb. 11 | 1:30pm – 2:30pm

eKEY®Basic Training
Wed., Feb. 12 | 8:00am – 9:00am

Keep More of Your Paycheck: Tax Strategies for Agents
Wed., Feb. 12 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Tony Robbins: Your NEXT LEVEL 2025 (CCAR Member Event)
Wed., Feb. 12 | 10:00am – 11:30am

Strategies to Leverage Market Value
Thu., Feb. 13 | 10:00am – 11:00am

zipForm: Explore Advanced Tools
Thu., Feb. 13 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

MLS: How to Add & Maintain Your Listing
Thu., Feb. 13 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

DRE License Renewal Crash Course
Fri., Feb. 14 | 9:30am – 12:00pm

C.A.R. Townhall for Brokers/Managers
Fri., Feb. 14 | 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 >>

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

YPN Spotlight

Stay tuned for CCAR YPN’s first event of 2025,
coming this March!

How to Get Organized for a Successful Year
By Heather Haase

Let’s be real: staying organized can feel like a never-ending obstacle course. But the good news? With a little strategy and a whole lot of grace, you can set yourself up for a year of success. This isn’t about becoming perfectly organized overnight; it’s about finding what works for YOU and leaning into tools and habits that play to your strengths. Let’s dive into how you can harness your creativity and quick thinking while taming the chaos—and growing your business in the process.

Read More to Learn the Strategies >>

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 >>

+ WILDFIRE DISASTER RESOURCES

+ CCAR CALENDAR

WCR’s The Future of Marketing: Mastering AI with Anthony Young – Feb. 21

Ready to elevate your marketing game? Join WCR for “Marketing Mastery with AI & Anthony Young” on Wed., Feb. 12, from 10:30am – 1pm at 1220 Concord Ave. in Concord.

This hands-on workshop, led by AI enthusiast Anthony Young, will show you how to leverage AI and data-driven strategies to market yourself effectively. Bring your laptop for interactive learning! Tickets are $25 for members and $40 for future members or at the door, brunch is included.
Reserve your spot now >>

CCAR Scholarship Foundation’s Puppies & Poker – A Night of Fun for a Great Cause! – Mar. 22

Join the CCAR Scholarship Foundation on Sat., Mar. 22 at Back Forty Texas BBQ in Pleasant Hill for a night of poker, great food, and fundraising! Doors open at 4:30pm, with a buffet dinner at 5:00pm and cards flying at 6:00pm.

$40 – Dinner Only | $100 – Dinner & Poker | $1000 – Table of 10
Limited seating – reserve early! No poker experience needed—just bring your game face! Sponsorships are also available.

Details & Tickets
Bill Erb: 925.698.4495 | [email protected]
Michael Moore: 925.289.8930 | [email protected]

CCAR Welcomes 2025 Board
and Celebrates Industry Achievements

CCAR kicked off 2025 at the Blackhawk Auto Museum on January 11, with over 220 members and guests attending the installation of the 2025 Board of Directors, led by President Zina Hall. The evening’s theme, “Radiating Real Estate Excellence,” captured the spirit of the event.

The program also introduced President-Elect John Fondnazio, Past President Tyra Wright, Treasurer Judy Meyers, Secretary/CEO Sheiren Diaz, and Directors Debi Mackey, Matt Rubenstein, Leslie Manzone, Valerie Crowell, Rolanda Wilson, Stephen Wondolowski, Donna Souza, Cherry Wade, and Affiliate Liaison Martha Echols.

Awards Included:
President’s Community Service Award: Jamie Gaines
Affiliate of the Year: Martha Echols
REALTOR^® of the Year: Ron Mintz
CCAR Emeritus Award: Mary Beall-Neighbor

The event was emceed by Mark Ibanez (formerly of KTVU Ch. 2), with NAR Region 13 Vice President Otto Catrina officiating. Featured guests included city and county officials and staff, such as Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, Assemblymember Anamarie Avila Faris, and County Supervisor John Gioia, along with CCAR past presidents, volunteers, affiliates, sponsors, and staff from associations across the Bay Area. The celebration highlighted CCAR’s commitment to leadership, service, and excellence in the year ahead.

View the Photo Album >>

CCAR x Tony Robbins:
Kickoff 2025 STRONG with
Stu Massengill! – Feb. 12

Achieve Extraordinary Results with Tony Robbins’ Top National Trainer, Stu Massengill! Join us live on Zoom next Wed., Feb. 12, from 10 – 11:30am, for an exclusive FREE session designed to help you create lasting change and reach new heights in your personal and professional life.

As a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies and an expert in Peak Performance, leadership, and the psychology of achievement, Stu will guide you through a transformative three-step process to overcome obstacles and bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn powerful strategies, develop an unshakable mindset, and define clear goals for a more fulfilling life!

REGISTER NOW >>

Unlock the Full Potential of Your Social Security Benefits – May 13

Are you prepared to make informed decisions about your Social Security benefits? Understanding key strategies can help you maximize the benefits you’ve earned through years of hard work. Many people miss out simply because they’re unaware of important factors that impact their benefits.

Join us for a virtual Social Security Benefits workshop on May 13 at 2pm, where you’ll learn how to avoid the costly mistake of claiming benefits too early, plan for widow’s and divorced spousal survivor benefits, and identify key factors to help maximize your income.

Space is limited – reserve your spot today on the ccartoday.com calendar >>

Important MLS Rule Update:
Coming Soon Data in Broker Back-Office Feeds

We’d like to inform you of an important update to the MLS rules regarding Coming Soon listings in Broker back-office data feeds.

Previous Rule:
“Allow Coming Soon data to be in Broker back-office feeds (no front-facing data component) (Brokerages’ own data only).”

Updated Rule:
“Upon request, all Paragon MLS Coming Soon data can be included in Broker back-office data feeds. However, Coming Soon listings may not be displayed or integrated into any public-facing products or websites, except for listings belonging to the listing brokerage.”

REALTOR® Optimize Laptops For Sale

All Laptops purchased from CCAR receive a 2-year warranty, data transfer, and RE setup.
• HP 15.6″ Touchscreen – $833.40 >>
• Lenovo ThinkPad Yoga L13 – $718.41 >>
• LE Gram 16 Intel Evo Platform Touchscreen – $978.40 >>

Save 20% on the 2025 Code of Ethics Bundle + Free Bonus!

Get 20% off the 2025 Code of Ethics Bundle and receive a FREE download of the 2024 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. Use code MVPFEB25 at checkout.

This all-in-one bundle includes:

2025 Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice Pamphlet (100-pack)
2025 Professionalism in Real Estate Practice Booklet
2025 Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual
2025 MLS Handbook – Residential
2025 Code of Ethics Bookmarker (25-pack)

Stay informed, uphold the highest standards, and elevate your practice with these essential resources.

Don’t Miss This Exclusive Offer >>
(Remember use code MVPFEB25 at checkout.)

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 012825

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | JANUARY 28, 2025

Top News

• CCAR Annual Crab Feed Ticket Sales End Soon
• Help CA Wildfire Victims – Donate Now
• Tony Robbins: Kick Off 2025 Strong! – Feb. 12
• Free .realtor Domain
• CCAR Scholarship Foundation Poker Tournament – Mar. 22

MLS Updates

• New FCC Rule on Telemarketing and Texting
• New C.A.R. Quick Guide on Price Gouging
• MLS Rules & Regulations Update Effective Jan. 27
• RE Optimized Laptops for Sale

Upcoming Education

RPR Commercial – Advanced Class
Wed., Jan. 29 | 9:00am – 10:00am

Combatting & Preventing Real Estate Fraud
Wed., Jan. 29 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

WomanUP!® Live Show
Wed., Jan. 29 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

New Year, New Goals: Smart Real Estate Goals for 2025
Wed., Jan. 29 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Mobile MLS: Setting Up Buyers In Collab Center (Auto-Email Drip System)
Thu., Jan. 30 | 11:00am – 11:30am

MLS: How to Add & Maintain Your Listings
Thu., Jan. 30 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

License Renewal Crash Course
Fri., Jan. 31 | 9:30am – 12:00pm

C.A.R. Townhall for Brokers/Managers
Fri., Jan. 31 | 11:00am – 12:30pm

February 2025 Tax Summit: 4-part Series
Wed., Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

OnlineEd Offers CA Salespersons
A Fast Track to Becoming Brokers

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

YPN Spotlight

Stay tuned for CCAR YPN’s first event of 2025,
coming this March!

These 5 Professional Insecurities Could Cost You Money
By Nicole Slaughter Graham

Most real estate professionals all have that one thing they absolutely don’t want to do: public speaking, door-knocking, networking. The reality is that not partaking in certain aspects of the business could be costing you money or keeping you from reaching your full potential in the business. YPN member, real estate trainer and presenter, Heather Haase, recently covered some common industry phobias and how to overcome them on the Agent Inner Circle blog. Her original post was written in a Halloween theme, and each phobia is listed as a well-known Halloween character: ghouls, ghosts and phantoms to name a few.

Her take on these dreaded insecurities definitely fit the Halloween vibe, but the reality is that they can affect your real estate business year-round. Haase listed the following professional fears in her post:

Public Speaking
“I absolutely love being on stage, yet every time before I get up there, I’m a ball of nerves,” Haase writes. “Some of those who know me, like my friend John Gillam, can tell you about my pre-show panic attacks where I feel “not good enough” for the audience.”

Prospecting
“In real estate, the beauty lies in being able to build your business in whatever way suits you. Working FSBOs or Expireds is classic—it works, but it’s not everyone’s style. Personally, I’ve sworn off FSBOs because it’s just not my cup of tea. I’ve found other…

Read More >>

REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)

Contribute Today >>

+ WILDFIRE DISASTER RESOURCES

+ CCAR CALENDAR

Boost Your Brand with a Free .realtor™ Domain!

As a REALTOR® member, you get one free year of a .realtor™ domain, complete with a professional website designed to showcase your expertise. After your first year, renew your domain for just $39.95/year—an unbeatable value for building your online presence.

Backed by NAR, .realtor is the easiest and most complete solution to launch and grow your brand online. With just a few clicks, you can have your website live and working for you in minutes.

Why wait? Take advantage of this exclusive member benefit today and show clients you mean business. Start building your digital presence now—for free!

Visit Get.realtor to claim your domain and get started!

CCAR Scholarship Foundation’s Puppies & Poker – A Night of Fun for a Great Cause! – Mar. 22

$40 – Dinner Only | $100 – Dinner & Poker | $1000 – Table of 10
Limited seating – reserve early! No poker experience needed—just bring your game face! Sponsorships are also available.

Details & Tickets
Bill Erb: 925.698.4495 | [email protected]
Michael Moore: 925.289.8930 | [email protected]

Don’t Miss Out! 🦀 CCAR Annual Crab Feed This Friday
Last Chance for Tickets (No Door Sales!)

Join us at the Pleasant Hill Community Center this Fri., Jan. 31 from 6:00 to 10:00pm for
CCAR’s 24th Annual Crab Feed Fundraiser – A Crustacean Celebration You Won’t Want to Miss!

We’re serving up delicious crab, tri-tip, and pasta with a complimentary glass of bubbly champagne, and an evening packed with fun! Get ready to dance the night away with our DJ, try your luck at the raffle and auction, and top it all off by bidding on one of the irresistible cakes during the exciting 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!

Don’t wait—tickets must be purchased by Thursday morning! No tickets will be sold at the door, so grab yours now to secure your spot.

Purchase Tickets Here >>
Sponsorship Opportunities (ends 1/29) >>

Help California Wildfire Victims – Donate Now!

More than 100,000 Los Angeles residents have been displaced by one of the most devastating wildfires in California’s history. The need for immediate assistance is critical to help families recover and rebuild.

You can make a difference by supporting the REALTORS® Relief Foundation. Now through January 31, 2025, 100% of donations designated for California wildfire relief will go directly to helping victims and recovery efforts.

Give now:
  • “Read more” and scan the QR code
  • Text RRFCAStrong to 71777
  • Visit rrf.realtor

Every donation brings hope and relief. Please share and support today!

CCAR x Tony Robbins:
Kickoff 2025 STRONG with
Stu Massengill! – Feb. 12

New Quick Guide: Price Gouging Limits During State of Emergency

C.A.R. Legal has created an urgent Quick Guide on Price Gouging Law and Residential Rental Properties. Under the price gouging law, rental prices, like most goods and services, cannot be increased by more than 10% during a declared State of Emergency (DSOE). It is illegal for any individual, business, or entity to raise rental prices above this 10% threshold for both existing and prospective tenants. Violators of this law may face up to one year in jail and a $10,000 fine. Civil penalties can also apply, with fines up to $2,500 per violation and potential restitution.

Read More >>

Important Updates to MLS Rules and Regulations – Effective January 27

To maintain the highest standards of efficiency, fairness, and usability within our MLS platform, new changes to the MLS Rules and Regulations took effect on January 27. The updates are designed to streamline processes, enhance accuracy, and better support the needs of our members.

The rules affected are:
10.1.1 Coming Soon Listings
11.5 Photographs on MLS

Click Here to Read Complete Changes >>

REALTOR® Optimize Laptops For Sale

New FCC Rule on Telemarketing and Texting

Attention real estate professionals: A new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rule took effect on January 27, 2025, which impacts how telemarketing calls and texts can be used to promote your real estate services.

Under this rule, agents and brokers must obtain direct consent from consumers (known as “1-to-1 consent”) before using an automatic telephone dialing system (ATDS) or sending artificial or prerecorded voice messages.

Telemarketing and texting can remain an effective way to connect with potential clients, but it’s essential to comply with these updated regulations to avoid penalties.

Now is the time to review your current marketing practices, update your consent collection methods, and ensure your approach aligns with the new requirements.

Read More >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 012125

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | JANUARY 21, 2025

Top News

• CCAR Annual Crab Feed – Next Friday
• Help CA Wildfire Victims – Donate Now
• Tony Robbins: Kick Off 2025 Strong! – Feb. 12
• Fix it For Free at Walnut Creek’s Fix it Café
• REALTORS Donate 600,000 To Disaster Relief Funds
• The Bay Area’s Pacific Palisades

MLS Updates

• C.A.R. to Hold Wildfire Resources Member Townhalls
• New Fact Sheets Help Your Clients Stay Informed
About Insurance
• MLS Rules & Regulations Update Coming Jan. 27
• RE Optimized Laptops for Sale

Upcoming Education

Top Questions and Answers About Open Houses
ONLINE ANYTIME

NAR’s Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) Designation (50% OFF)
Wed., Jan. 22 | 9:00am – 4:00pm

The 2025 Real Estate Roadmap: Trends, Tools, and Tactics for Success
Wed., Jan. 22 | 9:00am – 10:00am

Cloud CMA: How to Create a CMA
Wed., Jan. 22 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

Tech: State of Smart Homes in 2025
Wed., Jan. 22 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

RPR: Intro to RPR – Searches, Stats, Reports & More!
Wed., Jan. 22 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

1031 Exchange: Problems & Pitfalls
Thu., Jan. 23 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Mobile MLS: My Content, Property Watches & Listing Carts
Thu., Jan. 23 | 11:00am – 11:30am

Webcast: Social Media for Agents – Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube
Fri. Jan. 24 | ON DEMAND

Webcast: Top Questions & Answers About Open Houses
Fri. Jan. 24 | ON DEMAND

Realtor.com: Agent Profile Basics
Mon., Jan. 27 | 9:00am – 9:30am

Mobile MLS: EasyCMA
Mon., Jan. 27 | 11:00am – 11:30am

CRM: Wise Agent Overview & Demo (CCAR Discount)
Tue., Jan. 28 | 9:00am – 10:00am

Mobile MLS: Collab Center for New Users (Auto-Email Drip System)
Tue., Jan. 28 | 11:00am – 11:30am

RPR Commercial – Advanced Class
Wed., Jan. 29 | 9:00am – 10:00am

Combatting & Preventing Real Estate Fraud
Wed., Jan. 29 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

WomanUP!® Live Show
Wed., Jan. 29 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

New Year, New Goals: Smart Real Estate Goals for 2025
Wed., Jan. 29 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

Mobile MLS: Setting Up Buyers In Collab Center (Auto-Email Drip System)
Thu., Jan. 30 | 11:00am – 11:30am

MLS: How to Add & Maintain Your Listings
Thu., Jan. 30 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

License Renewal Crash Course
Fri., Jan. 31 | 9:30am – 12:00pm

C.A.R. Townhall for Brokers/Managers
Fri., Jan. 31 | 11:00am – 12:30pm

February 2025 Tax Summit: 4-part Series
Wed., Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

OnlineEd Offers CA Salespersons
A Fast Track to Becoming Brokers

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

YPN Spotlight

Stay tuned for CCAR YPN’s first event of 2025,
coming this March!

How to Take Ownership of Your Time
By Nicole Slaughter Graham

Do you tell your clients that you’re available 24/7? Do you answer the phone no matter what time it is or who you’re with? Do you struggle to take time off?

In a business that doesn’t have standardized hours, it’s hard to set boundaries around your time, but not doing so can lead to unintended consequences. Time management is the latest topic of conversation on the latest episode of the Drive with NAR podcast’s REALTOR® to REALTOR® series. Host Marki Lemons Rhyal speaks with real estate professionals Vanessa Franz Barnes, CIPS, SRES and Natalie Davis, ABR, CRS, to learn more about their best tips for time management.

Lemons Rhyal starts the conversation acknowledging the fact that many real estate professionals tell they’re clients that they are available round the clock. She asks Franz Barnes and Davis their take on the subject.

Franz Barnes, who is an associate-broker with Keller Williams Realty in Celebration, Fla., noted that she sees many agents in the business struggling with the “always on” mindset and that she’s struggled with it herself. Over time, however, she’s learned that excellent customer service does not equate to being available all the time.

“It’s really two separate things. We can still provide exceptional customer service and an experience for them and have boundaries and time with our families,” she says…

Read More >>

REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)

Contribute Today >>

+ WILDFIRE DISASTER RESOURCES

+ CCAR CALENDAR

Fix It for Free at Walnut Creek’s Repair Café!

Reduce waste and give your household items a second life! Join experienced volunteers at Walnut Creek’s upcoming Repair Café on January 25 at the Civic Park Community Center Assembly Hall, from 10:00am to 1:00pm. Get your items fixed for free and help promote sustainability!

REALTORS® donate $600,000 to two wildfire disaster relief funds

REALTORS^® in California and across the nation have launched a massive, industrywide fundraising effort to support those impacted by the Southern California wildfires. C.A.R. is contributing a combined $600,000 toward two REALTOR^®-sponsored charitable funds to help those who have incurred losses due to the wildfires and other disasters. C.A.R. is donating $300,000 to its Disaster Relief Fund, which provides grants to members of the REALTOR^® family — which includes more than 190,000 REALTORS^®, their staff and association staff. C.A.R. is currently providing grants of up to $10,000 to those who have suffered losses in the Southern California wildfires. Since the fund’s inception, C.A.R. has raised more than $2.7 million, thanks to the tremendous generosity of its REALTOR^® family and community members, and it has distributed $1.9 million in grants…
Read More >>

The Bay Area’s Pacific Palisades: Cities at High Risk of Urban Firestorms

When California lawmakers sought an estimate of how much a worst-case-scenario fire might cost, experts identified three communities where impacts would be devastating. One was Pacific Palisades. The others were in the Bay Area…
Read More at the SF Chronicle >>

Crab, Champagne, and Charity:
CCAR’s Annual Crab Feed Fundraiser is Next Friday!

Get ready for a night of fun and flavor next Friday, January 31st!
Join us at the Pleasant Hill Community Center from 6:00 to 10:00pm for CCAR’s
24th Annual Crab Feed Fundraiser
– A Crustacean Celebration You Won’t Want to Miss!

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!

Don’t wait—tickets must be purchased in advance!
No tickets will be sold at the door, so grab yours now to secure your spot.

Purchase Tickets Here >>
Sponsorship Opportunities >>

Help California Wildfire Victims – Donate Now!

CCAR x Tony Robbins:
Kickoff 2025 STRONG with
Stu Massengill! – Feb. 12

New Fact Sheets Help Your Clients Stay Informed About Insurance

With nearly 500,000 California homes worth a combined $268 billion under serious risk from wildfires, and the issue growing more acute with each passing year, insurance companies are ramping up prices or outright refusing to renew policies in fire-prone areas. Use these materials to help your customers stay informed about protecting their homes, maintaining insurance coverage, and finding new policies when needed.

Important Updates to MLS Rules and Regulations – Effective January 27

To maintain the highest standards of efficiency, fairness, and usability within our MLS platform, new changes to the MLS Rules and Regulations will take effect on January 27. The updates are designed to streamline processes, enhance accuracy, and better support the needs of our members.

The rules affected are:
10.1.1 Coming Soon Listings
11.5 Photographs on MLS

Click Here to Read Complete Changes >>

REALTOR® Optimize Laptops For Sale

C.A.R. to Hold Wildfire Resources Member Townhalls

C.A.R. President Heather Ozur, along with other C.A.R. leaders, will host a townhall to discuss how C.A.R. is supporting members during the Southern California wildfire crisis. This is also a great opportunity to ask questions and share valuable information with fellow members.
• Wednesday, January 22
• Tuesday, January 28

Additionally, C.A.R. understands that many members have pressing questions about transactions, insurance, price gouging, and other wildfire-related legal issues. To address these concerns, C.A.R.’s legal team will host two dedicated legal townhalls:
• Friday, January 24
• Thursday, January 30

Read More & Register >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 011425

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | JANUARY 14, 2025

CCAR Offices Closed: Mon., Jan. 20 in observance of MLK Jr. Day

Top News

• VIDEO: How to Minimize Fire Vulnerabilities
• Help Wildfire Victims – Donate Now
• CCAR Crab Feed Fundraiser – Jan. 31
• Tony Robbins: Kick Off 2025 Strong! – Feb. 12
• Insurance Protection for SoCal Wildfire Victims
• CCAR Restructures Budget & Finance Committee
• Updated LFRO Form

MLS Updates

• C.A.R. Issues a Warning About Price Gouging
• MLS Rules & Regulations Update Coming Jan. 27
• RE Optimized Laptops for Sale

Upcoming Education

Business Planning for the New Year for REALTORS®
Wed., Jan. 15 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Day of Giving: Alameda Food Bank
Wed., Jan. 15 | 12:30pm 1:30pm

Contact Activation & Loyalty to Win Listings
Wed., Jan. 15 | 1:00pm 2:00pm

The Truth Behind the Headlines
Thu., Jan. 16 | 10:00am 11:00am

License Renewal Crash Course
Fri., Jan. 17 | 9:30am – 12:00pm

C.A.R. Townhall for Brokers/Managers
Fri., Jan. 17 | 11:00am 12:30pm

Mobile MLS: Creating Hotsheets
Mon., Jan. 20 | 11:00am – 11:30am

BrokerBay: Schedule Showings for Clients & More!
Tue., Jan. 21 | 8:00am – 9:00am

zipForm : e-Signatures
Tue., Jan. 21 | 10:00am – 11:00am

zipForm: Live Q&A & Problem Solving
Tue., Jan. 21 | 10:00am – 11:00am

NAR’s Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) Designation (50% OFF)
Wed., Jan. 22 | 9:00am – 4:00pm

The 2025 Real Estate Roadmap: Trends, Tools, and Tactics for Success
Wed., Jan. 22 | 9:00am – 10:00am

Cloud CMA: How to Create a CMA
Wed., Jan. 22 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

Tech: State of Smart Homes in 2025
Wed., Jan. 22 | 1:00pm – 2:00pm

RPR: Intro to RPR – Searches, Stats, Reports & More!
Wed., Jan. 22 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

1031 Exchange: Problems & Pitfalls
Thu., Jan. 23 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Mobile MLS: My Content, Property Watches & Listing Carts
Thu., Jan. 23 | 11:00am – 11:30am

Webcast: Social Media for Agents – Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube
Fri. Jan. 24 | ON DEMAND

OnlineEd Offers CA Salespersons
A Fast Track to Becoming Brokers

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

YPN Spotlight

Real Estate Lessons That We’re Taking Into 2025

With the start of the new year, now seems like the perfect time to review the real estate lessons learned in 2024 so that we can start 2025 out with a blueprint in mind. In 2024, house prices rose by 4.3%, mortgage rates hovered around 6% in the last quarter of the year, and low inventory levels remained a central market issue, leading some experts to assert that the 2024 market was one of the slowest in decades.

However, there are changes on the horizon in 2025, and some parties will reap the benefits. For starters, an estimated 1.1 million new homes are slated to be built in the next 12 months, giving buyers more options. Mortgage rates are projected to level or even drop, which could impact the cost of homeownership and bring buyers back into the market who were otherwise pushed out in previous years.

Things are projected to change in the commercial space as well, with an expected growth rate of over 7.5%.

Taking these factors into account, alongside lessons learned throughout 2024, below are some insights into practical best practices it may be worth applying to operations as you plan out your strategy for the next 12 months.

Read More >>

REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)

Contribute Today >>

+ JOIN A CCAR COMMITTEE

+ CCAR CALENDAR

Insurance Protection for SoCal Wildfire Victims

The Calif. Dept. of Insurance announced it is issuing a mandatory one-year moratorium on insurance non-renewals and cancellations for homeowners impacted by the Southern California wildfires.

Those within the perimeters or adjoining ZIP Codes of the Palisades and Eaton fires in Los Angeles County will be shielded for one year by the Governor’s January 7 emergency declaration regardless of whether they suffered a loss.
Read More >>

CCAR Restructures Budget & Finance Committee

In December, CCAR Board of Directors approved a proposal to transfer the authority and duties of the Budget and Finance Committee to the Executive Committee, with the addition of the Chief Financial Officer (staff), and a Financial Subject Matter Expert. Trainees will also be appointed if warranted by the Executive Committee. This business practice eliminates operational redundancies and is also employed by other REALTOR® associations and organizations. This change is effective immediately.

View Organizational Charts >>

Updated LFRO Form

As of January 1, 2025, CCAR implemented a one-time $25 administrative fee for each salesperson newly designated as a Referral (LFRO) agent.
View Updated Form >>

How to Minimize Fire Vulnerabilities
Fire Chief Describes Wildfire Risk, Reduction and Insurance

Get practical insights for homeowner fire risk reduction and community-based wildfire mitigation practices.

View CAS Research Paper: Catastrophe Models for Wild Fire Mitigation >>

Help California Wildfire Victims – Donate Now!

You can make a difference by supporting the REALTORS® Relief Foundation. Now through January 31, 2025, 100% of donations designated for California wildfire relief will go directly to helping victims and recovery efforts.

Give now:
Scan the above QR code

Text RRFCAStrong to 71777

Visit rrf.realtor

Every donation brings hope and relief. Please share and support today!

Crack into Fun at CCAR’s 24th Annual Crab Feed – Jan. 31st!

Mark your calendars for Friday, January 31st and join us at the Pleasant Hill Community Center from 6:00 to 10:00pm for CCAR’s 24th Annual Crab Feed Fundraiser

We’re serving up delicious crab, tri-tip, and pasta with a complimentary glass of bubbly champagne, and an evening packed with fun! Get ready to dance the night away with our DJ, try your luck at the raffle and auction, and top it all off by bidding on one of the irresistible cakes during the exciting 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!

PURCHASE TICKETS >>

CCAR x Tony Robbins:
Kickoff 2025 STRONG with
Stu Massengill! – Feb. 12

Important Updates to MLS Rules and Regulations – Effective January 27

The rules affected are:
10.1.1 Coming Soon Listings
11.5 Photographs on MLS

Click Here to Read Complete Changes >>

REALTOR® Optimize Laptops For Sale

C.A.R. issues a warning about price gouging

The CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) has been made aware of some rental listings, both on and off the MLS, where lease prices have increased by 25 percent or more since the onset of the wildfires in Southern California. REALTORS® should be aware and advise their clients that raising the price of essential goods and services, including housing, by more than 10 percent during a state of emergency violates California’s anti-price gouging statute and is prohibited by law.

Many evacuees and homeowners who have lost their properties are in urgent need of housing. In these circumstances, real estate professionals have a responsibility to ensure rental prices remain fair and compliant with California’s Penal Code 396(e), which prohibits increasing the rental price advertised, offered or charged for housing by more than 10 percent after a declaration of emergency.

C.A.R. has created the following resources to help address price gouging:
Landlord Tenant: Price Gouging and Eviction During a Declared Emergency >>
Quick Guide: Rent Increases >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Weekly Jolt – 010725

CONTRA COSTA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®

WEEKLY NEWSLETTER | JANUARY 7, 2025

Top News

• CCAR Crab Feed Fundraiser – Jan. 31
• New Director, Treasurer Appointed to CCAR Board
• Tony Robbins: Kick Off 2025 Strong! – Feb. 12
• WCR Elevate Your Health & Business – Jan. 13
• Bay View “Brokers Open” – Jan. 14
• C.A.R. “Make it Your Own” Content Studio

MLS Updates

• Mortgage Rates Reach Highest Point Since July
• MLS Rules & Regulations Update Coming Jan. 27
• C.A.R. Transaction Coordinator
• RE Optimized Laptops for Sale

Upcoming Education

FEATURED: Business Planning for the New Year for REALTORS®
Wed., Jan. 15 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Welcome to RPR!
Wed., Jan. 8 | 9:00am – 10:00am

Cloud CMA: How to Create a CMA
Wed., Jan. 8 | 11:00am – 12:00pm

MLS: Paragon’s Collaboration Center
Thu., Jan. 9 | 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Realtor.com: Agent Profile Basics
Mon., Jan. 13 | 9:00am – 9:30am

MLS: Paragon’s Collaboration Center
Mon., Jan. 13 | 11:00am – 11:30am

zipForm: Create a Purchase Transaction
Tue., Jan. 14, | 10:00am – 11:00am

January Legal Live Webinar
Tue., Jan. 14, | 1:30pm – 2:30pm

Intro to zipForm – Transaction Management
Tue., Jan. 14, | 2:00pm 4:00pm

Business Planning for the New Year for REALTORS®
Wed., Jan. 15 | 10:00am – 11:00am

Day of Giving: Alameda Food Bank
Wed., Jan. 15 | 12:30pm 1:30pm

Contact Activation & Loyalty to Win Listings
Wed., Jan. 15 | 1:00pm 2:00pm

The Truth Behind the Headlines
Thu., Jan. 16 | 10:00am 11:00am

License Renewal Crash Course
Fri., Jan. 17 | 9:30am – 12:00pm

C.A.R. Townhall for Brokers/Managers
Fri., Jan. 17 | 11:00am 12:30pm

OnlineEd Offers CA Salespersons
A Fast Track to Becoming Brokers

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

PAY 2025 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.

2025 CCAR, C.A.R., and NAR membership dues were due by 5pm on Jan. 2, 2025 and are now past due. Please pay promptly to avoid additional fees and potential suspension of your membership.

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 >>

Invest in RAF – Win up to a $1,500 Amazon Gift Card >>

REALTOR^® ACTION FUND (RAF)

Contribute Today >>

+ JOIN A CCAR COMMITTEE

+ CCAR CALENDAR

WCR: Elevate Your Health & Business with LaTahsa Renee – Jan. 13

Unlock your full potential in 2025 by mastering your health and hormones. Join Functional Medicine Practitioner and Certified Personal Trainer LaTasha Renée as she shares how prioritizing wellness can elevate your energy, focus, and success in business and beyond.
Register Now >>

Bay View “Brokers Open” – Discover, Network, and Learn! – Jan. 14

Join CCAR Affiliate Meritage Homes for a Bay View “Brokers Open” on Tue., Jan. 14, from 4:00–6:00pm at 4102 Markovich Ct., Richmond. Explore four stunning floorplans with bay and golf course views, learn about Meritage Homes’ innovative REALTOR®-focused model, and discover exclusive buyer incentives. Enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and networking. RSVP by Jan. 12 to [email protected] or 562.454.9613. Don’t miss this VIP event!

Learn More >>

Quickly Create Marketing Videos with C.A.R.’s “Make it Your Own” Content Studio

C.A.R.’s new “Dear California Dream” campaign lets you personalize videos and tools to build your brand and inspire clients. Use Content Studio to easily create or customize videos, showcasing your expertise and helping clients achieve their California Dream.
Try it Today! >>

Crack into Fun at CCAR’s
24th Annual Crab Feed – Jan. 31st!

Mark your calendars for Friday, January 31st and join us at the Pleasant Hill Community Center from 6:00 to 10:00pm for CCAR’s 24th Annual Crab Feed Fundraiser
– A Crustacean Celebration You Won’t Want to Miss!

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!

Don’t wait—tickets must be purchased in advance! No tickets will be sold at the door, so grab yours now to secure your spot.

Purchase Tickets Here >>
Sponsorship Opportunities >>

New Directors, Treasurer Appointed to CCAR Board

Three positions on the 2025 CCAR Board of Directors have been vacated, including the Treasurer. In accordance with CCAR Bylaws (Jun 2024) Section 10, Vacancies, the following members have been approved by the Board to fill the vacancies:

• Judy Myers (term ends 12/26)
replaces Treasurer Peter MacLennan
• Leslie Manzone (term ends 12/25)
replaces Aeysha Corio, Director-at-Large
• Rolanda Wilson (term ends (12/26)
replaces Murrey Kehrlein,
Director-at-Large

Directors will be sworn in at the Association inaugural ceremony on Saturday.

CCAR BYLAWS >>

CCAR BOARD OF DIRECTORS >>

CCAR x Tony Robbins:
Kickoff 2025 STRONG with
Stu Massengill! – Feb. 12

Important Updates to MLS Rules and Regulations – Effective January 27

The rules affected are:
10.1.1 Coming Soon Listings
11.5 Photographs on MLS

Click Here to Read Complete Changes >>

C.A.R. Transaction Coordinator – New zipForm Member Benefit

Invite your Assistant or Transaction Coordinator into your zipForm account where they can manage transactions seamlessly on your behalf based on the permissions assigned to them. This C.A.R. Member Benefit provides customized access, empowering your TC to keep real estate transactions on track.
Read More >>

REALTOR® Optimize Laptops For Sale

Mortgage Rates Reach Highest Point Since July

Freddie Mac’s latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) reports that the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) has risen to 6.91% as of January 2, 2025, its highest level in nearly six months. This marks an increase from last week’s 6.85% and significantly higher than the 6.62% rate a year ago.

The 15-year FRM also rose to 6.13%, up from 6.0% last week and 5.89% a year ago. Despite elevated rates and affordability challenges, Freddie Mac’s Chief Economist, Sam Khater, noted increased buyer activity, as reflected in rising pending home sales.

Freddie Mac’s PMMS® focuses on conventional loans for creditworthy borrowers and highlights its ongoing mission to support affordability, stability, and equity in the housing market since 1970.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

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