CCARToday - Contra Costa Association of REALTORS

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District 99 Wright – Oct 25

by

Tyra Wright Masthead

September Market Snapshot Is In — Attend the Big Event Oct. 15 for Full Update + 2026 Forecast

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Be sure to attend CCAR’s Big Event on October 15th to hear C.A.R.’s Chief Economist Jordan Levine present a full market update and statewide economic forecast for 2026. Also featured, C.A.R. Assistant General Counsel Gov Hutchinson will review the latest legal news and information to help you navigate the dynamic real estate environment. 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Warmest Regards,

Tyra

REGISTER FOR BIG EVENT

Preliminary numbers for September indicate that despite ongoing challenges in the labor and housing markets, recent data offers reasons for guarded optimism. New home sales have surged to multi-year highs, buoyed by lower mortgage rates and builder incentives, while inflation remains contained enough to reassure policymakers. Although jobless claims have dropped and builder sales expectations are improving, persistent concerns about unemployment and construction costs suggest that the recovery, while promising, still faces headwinds. Overall, the outlook is brighter, but caution remains warranted as uncertainties linger.

Sep 2025 Stats Infographic w/ link to source

C.A.R.’s Quick Market Analysis weekly infographics can help keep clients on top of market trends.

Mortgage rates have edged up slightly after several weeks of decline. Even so, loan applications for home purchases are 18% higher and refinances 42% higher than a year ago. This points to steady demand, but conditions could change if rates rise further. REALTORS® can use this moment to advise buyers on locking rates early, help sellers set realistic prices based on true affordability, and share timely lending updates to position themselves as trusted market guides. Visit: FreddieMac >

FreddieMac PMM Sep 25, 2025
CCAR CALENDAR >
24/7 VIDEO TRAINING >
LICENSE RENEWAL >

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

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District 99 Fondnazio – Oct 25

by

John Fondnazio Masthead

September Market Snapshot Is In — Attend the Big Event Oct. 15 for Full Update + 2026 Forecast

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Be sure to attend CCAR’s Big Event on October 15th to hear C.A.R.’s Chief Economist Jordan Levine present a full market update and statewide economic forecast for 2026. Also featured, C.A.R. Assistant General Counsel Gov Hutchinson will review the latest legal news and information to help you navigate the dynamic real estate environment. 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Warmest Regards,

John

REGISTER FOR BIG EVENT

Preliminary numbers for September indicate that despite ongoing challenges in the labor and housing markets, recent data offers reasons for guarded optimism. New home sales have surged to multi-year highs, buoyed by lower mortgage rates and builder incentives, while inflation remains contained enough to reassure policymakers. Although jobless claims have dropped and builder sales expectations are improving, persistent concerns about unemployment and construction costs suggest that the recovery, while promising, still faces headwinds. Overall, the outlook is brighter, but caution remains warranted as uncertainties linger.

Sep 2025 Stats Infographic w/ link to source

C.A.R.’s Quick Market Analysis weekly infographics can help keep clients on top of market trends.

Mortgage rates have edged up slightly after several weeks of decline. Even so, loan applications for home purchases are 18% higher and refinances 42% higher than a year ago. This points to steady demand, but conditions could change if rates rise further. REALTORS® can use this moment to advise buyers on locking rates early, help sellers set realistic prices based on true affordability, and share timely lending updates to position themselves as trusted market guides. Visit: FreddieMac >

FreddieMac PMM Sep 25, 2025
CCAR CALENDAR >
24/7 VIDEO TRAINING >
LICENSE RENEWAL >

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

District 99 Hall – Oct 25

by

September Market Snapshot Is In — Attend the Big Event Oct. 15 for Full Update + 2026 Forecast

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Be sure to attend CCAR’s Big Event on October 15th to hear C.A.R.’s Chief Economist Jordan Levine present a full market update and statewide economic forecast for 2026. Also featured, C.A.R. Assistant General Counsel Gov Hutchinson will review the latest legal news and information to help you navigate the dynamic real estate environment. 

We look forward to seeing you there!

Warmest Regards,

Zina

REGISTER FOR BIG EVENT

Preliminary numbers for September indicate that despite ongoing challenges in the labor and housing markets, recent data offers reasons for guarded optimism. New home sales have surged to multi-year highs, buoyed by lower mortgage rates and builder incentives, while inflation remains contained enough to reassure policymakers. Although jobless claims have dropped and builder sales expectations are improving, persistent concerns about unemployment and construction costs suggest that the recovery, while promising, still faces headwinds. Overall, the outlook is brighter, but caution remains warranted as uncertainties linger.

Sep 2025 Stats Infographic w/ link to source

C.A.R.’s Quick Market Analysis weekly infographics can help keep clients on top of market trends.

Mortgage rates have edged up slightly after several weeks of decline. Even so, loan applications for home purchases are 18% higher and refinances 42% higher than a year ago. This points to steady demand, but conditions could change if rates rise further. REALTORS® can use this moment to advise buyers on locking rates early, help sellers set realistic prices based on true affordability, and share timely lending updates to position themselves as trusted market guides. Visit: FreddieMac >

FreddieMac PMM Sep 25, 2025
CCAR CALENDAR >
24/7 VIDEO TRAINING >
LICENSE RENEWAL >

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

Recent Changes to the Code of Ethics You Need to Know

by

WATCH WHAT YOU SAY -
IT COULD COME BACK TO YOU

Recent Changes to the Code of Ethics You Need to Know

Three months ago, important updates were made to the Code of Ethics, including 11 amendments to its Standards of Practice. One key change is to Standard of Practice 10-5, which now includes a clearer definition of “harassment” and emphasizes that REALTORS® are accountable for their words and actions—including what they say, write, or post—when acting in a professional capacity.

Why These Changes Matter

These updates are designed to:

  • Clarify your responsibilities under Article 10.
  • Protect local and state associations and their volunteer leaders.
  • Help REALTORS® comply more easily with the Code of Ethics.

Article 10 – A Quick Refresher (amended 1/23)

REALTORS® shall not:

  • Deny equal professional services to anyone based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
  • Be involved in any agreement or plan that discriminates against people based on these same characteristics.
  • Discriminate in their real estate employment practices for these reasons.

What’s New in Standard of Practice 10-5 (Effective June 5, 2025)

Updated Language:

REALTORS®, in their capacity as real estate professionals, in association with their real estate businesses, or in their real estate-related activities shall not harass any person or persons based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Harassment is:

“Unwelcome behavior directed at an individual or group based on one or more of the above protected characteristics where the purpose or effect of the behavior is to create a hostile, abusive, or intimidating environment which adversely affects their ability to access equal professional services or employment opportunity.” (Adopted and effective 11/13/20, Amended 1/23 and 6/5/25).

Changes to Policy Statement 29:

While REALTORS® are encouraged to live by the Code of Ethics in all areas of life, a REALTOR® shall be subject to disciplinary action under the COE only with respect to all of their capacity as real estate professionals, in association with their real estate businesses, or in their real estate-related activities.

Bottom Line: Be Thoughtful in All Communications

There’s no “real estate agent-client privilege” that protects your messages in a legal dispute. Anything you say—online, in writing, or in person—can be used against you.

Here are some tips:

  • Always act like a professional, even during tough conversations.
  • Never use insults, slurs, or profanity.
  • If you’re upset, pause before responding. Talk to your broker or manager first.
  • Your words could be misinterpreted and used as evidence of discrimination or a violation of Article 10.

Remember: The Code of Ethics is not just a guideline—it’s a protection for you, your clients, and the reputation of the profession.

READ MORE AT NAR >>

NAR CODE OF ETHICS

NAR Ethics Complaints, Arbitration Requests & Related Information

C.A.R. ETHICS & ARBITRATION MANUAL

MLS RULES & REGULATIONS

CCAR BYLAWS

CODE OF ETHICS DEMYSTIFIED

District 5 Rubenstein – Aug 25

by

Matt Rubenstein masthead + link to email

Strategies to Help You Win More Clients, Close More Sales

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Our local real estate market is evolving fast — inventory is rising, prices are hitting record highs, and industry rules continue to change. For Realtors, this means one thing: opportunity for those who are ready to adapt, lead, and capture market share.

That’s why we’ve created this special collection of targeted, opportunity-driven articles — each paired with powerful MLS product solutions designed to give you a measurable edge. These tools are industry-leading resources that can help you streamline workflows, deliver data-driven insights, and provide the kind of client experience that wins repeat and referral business.

Here, you’ll find strategies to help you:

  • Stand out in a crowded market and secure more listings, even as inventory surges — and see how MLS tools like Cloud CMA and ListHub can maximize exposure.

  • Guide buyers through high-price environments using proven financing and negotiation strategies — backed by MLS solutions such as RatePlug and Down Payment Resource.

  • Unlock homeownership for first-time buyers with creative, affordability-focused solutions — supported by tools like RentSpree and RPR Buyer Reports.

  • Leverage forecasts and data to position yourself as the go-to expert in your farm area — using MLS-powered market analytics to lead the conversation.

Each article blends market insights, practical, step-by-step tactics, and specific MLS product recommendations so you can put ideas into action immediately with the right technology at your fingertips.

Whether you’ve been in the business for six months or twenty years, these strategies — combined with the great value of your MLS benefits — will help you sharpen your competitive edge in 2025 and beyond.

Sincerely,

Matt

CCAR Product Solutions For All Your Business Challenges

MLS Products And Services

The information provided here is for educational purposes only, aligning MLS tools with potential business strategies. Members should consult with their broker, legal counsel, and other qualified professionals before implementing these solutions.

photo of houses and urban buildings

Stand Out by Leveraging Surging Inventory

The Contra Costa housing market is buzzing with activity. In the past year, active listings have surged by nearly 90%, creating a market where buyers have more choices — but so do sellers when it comes to selecting an agent. This environment rewards the Realtor who is both nimble and strategic.

For newer agents, now is the time to align with seasoned partners. Luxury specialists should take advantage of tools like virtual staging to make listings pop online, particularly for relocation buyers coming from San Francisco or Silicon Valley. And if you focus on buyers, weekly “Top 5 New Listings” updates in your farm area keep you top-of-mind.

 

Proximity to BART and commuter-friendly neighborhoods remain powerful selling points for relocation clients seeking a blend of affordability and accessibility.

Recommendations:

  • Craft neighborhood-specific listing descriptions with local keywords for SEO.
  • Implement a 15-minute lead response rule — a fast callback can win you a client before the competition.
  • Use geo-targeted social ads to zero in on your ideal client demographic.

Start now: Choose one micro-market and commit to saturating it with weekly online and offline marketing for the next 90 days.

MLS Product Solutions:

  • Cloud CMA – Create compelling, data-rich CMA reports to win listings and differentiate from competitors.
  • RPR (Realtors Property Resource) – Pull detailed neighborhood data, school info, and commuter stats for relocation buyers.
  • Matterport / Virtual Tour Café – Offer immersive virtual tours and staging to make listings pop for remote buyers.
  • ListHub – Expand listing exposure beyond MLS to targeted national and niche websites.

View MLS Products & Services brochure to access product information.

Creative Solutions For First-Time Buyers

With just 15% of California households able to afford the median-priced home, first-time buyers face one of the toughest markets in decades. But for the resourceful Realtor, this is also an opportunity to shine.

Creative financing is key. Mortgage-savvy agents can layer down payment assistance programs with interest rate buydowns to create a feasible path to ownership… 

Hosting casual “Homebuying 101” events at a local brewery or coffee shop can break down barriers and attract young professionals. For multi-generational buyers, identifying properties with ADUs or separate living spaces can make a home purchase financially viable.

Local down payment assistance programs in Contra Costa County and the City of Concord are often underutilized — positioning yourself as the go-to resource for these tools can instantly set you apart.

Recommendations:

  • Keep a current database of all assistance programs and eligibility details.
  • Partner with local nonprofits and lenders who specialize in first-time buyer products.
  • Share success stories to inspire and educate potential buyers.

Start Now: Create a downloadable “First-Time Buyer Roadmap” PDF and send it to every renter lead in your CRM.

CCAR Product Solutions:

  • Down Payment Resource – Showcase all available grants and loan programs.
  • RentSpree – Transition renters into buyers through streamlined application-to-purchase pathways.
  • RPR Buyer Tour Reports – Deliver polished, branded tour packets for first-time buyer showings.
  • Cloud CMA Buyer Tours – Present listings in a step-by-step roadmap.

View MLS Products & Services brochure to access product information.

Help Buyers Navigate Record High Prices

California’s median price for single family homes hit  $910,160 in April; condos/townhouses hit $670,000. While sticker shock is real, it doesn’t have to stall transactions. The Realtors who thrive in this climate are those who reframe the conversation from “too expensive” to “long-term value.”

For investors, this means highlighting rental yield and demand trends to prove a property’s income potential. Move-up buyers benefit from seeing “cost of waiting” scenarios that account for projected price and rate changes — data that can create urgency. First-time buyers may need a step-by-step path, starting with a modest home purchase and building equity over 3–5 years before moving up.

Local insight is key here. Certain areas may still offer below-average prices with strong growth potential, giving you an edge when guiding budget-conscious buyers.

Recommendations:

  • Pre-qualify all buyers before showings to ensure they can move quickly.
  • Present multiple financing scenarios — buydowns, seller credits, and adjustable rates.
  • Use historical appreciation charts for neighborhood-specific education.
  • Maintain a roster of responsive lenders who can act fast when buyers are ready.

Start now: Develop a “Buy Now vs. Buy Later” comparison for three local listings and post it to your social channels to spark conversation.

MLS Product Solutions:

  • Down Payment Resource – Instantly match buyers to available assistance programs.
  • RatePlug – Embed real-time financing scenarios directly into listings.
  • Cloud MLX – Quickly search for price-advantaged submarkets and present in buyer meetings.
  • RPR Market Trends – Use neighborhood-level appreciation charts to educate clients.

View MLS Products & Services brochure to access product information.

Leverage C.A.R.’s 2025 Market Outlook

CAR’s forecast for 2025 is optimistic — a 10.5% increase in sales, 4.6% rise in prices, and slightly lower mortgage rates. These projections aren’t just interesting reading; they’re powerful business tools.

For listing agents, forecasts can motivate sellers to get on the market before competition heats up. Buyer agents can leverage these predictions to push pre-approvals now, ensuring clients are ready to act as soon as rates drop. In your farm areas, forecasts can be shared through newsletters or local Facebook groups, positioning you as a trusted source of forward-looking insight.

Recommendations:

  • Review forecasts quarterly and update your talking points accordingly.
  • Create easy-to-read visuals to make data approachable.
  • Encourage clients to contact you first with market-related questions.
  • Keep a list of rate-sensitive buyers to activate quickly.

Start Now: Film a short “2025 Market Playbook” video and post it to both Instagram and LinkedIn to educate and engage your sphere.

CCAR Product Solutions:

  • RPR Market Trends – Turn state and local projections into digestible visuals.
  • Cloud CMA “What’s My Home Worth?” Landing Pages – Capture seller leads before market shifts.
  • Remine – Build custom lists of homeowners likely to sell based on predictive data.
  • ListHub Reports – Show sellers where and how their property will be marketed.

View MLS Products & Services brochure to access product information.

CCAR CALENDAR >
24/7 VIDEO TRAINING >
LICENSE RENEWAL >

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link