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Finish July Strong with CCAR Education

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July Education & Events Masthead

July 2026 Classes

Click on any listing below to view course summaries and link to more information + registration.

AI / DATA / SOCIAL MEDIA (AUG PREVIEW)

Commonwealth Club in San Francisco | 9:00 am – 11:30 pm | FREE | Join the Center for California Real Estate for a forward-looking discussion on how artificial intelligence may transform residential real estate. Industry leaders will explore AI’s growing influence on home valuation, marketing, transactions, consumer expectations, and the systems that support the housing market. | MORE + REGISTER >

Virtual | 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm | FREE | Take the stress out of video marketing with a beginner-friendly tour of the tools, apps, equipment, and shortcuts that make creating professional-looking content easier. RETI social media expert Heather Haase will share practical tips for producing Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, property walk-throughs, and more—without a large budget or complicated editing software. | MORE + REGISTER >

BROKERS & MANAGERS

Virtual | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm | FREE | The California Association of REALTORS® hosts Industry Leader Town Halls twice a month to provide brokers and key brokerage staff to meet virtually with C.A.R. Leadership, C.A.R. staff and brokers throughout the state to discuss the latest information impacting real estate brokerages and transactions. Rotating list of guest speakers provides updates on the latest issues including transactional, legal, market and legislative issues. | MORE + REGISTER >

BUDGET & TIME MANAGEMENT

Virtual | 9:00 – 11:30 am | FREE | Stay ahead of the market with Brian Buffini’s 2026 Mid-Year Update. Gain fresh real estate market insights, practical time management strategies, and financial planning tips to help you make smarter decisions and finish the year strong. | MORE + REGISTER >

CMAs

Virtual | 2:00 – 4:00 pm | FREE | Learn how to create professional CMA reports, property flyers, and buyer tour packets with Cloud CMA. This class also covers lead generation tools, virtual listing presentations, and strategies to help you demonstrate your value and win more listings. | MORE + REGISTER >

DISCLOSURES / FORMS / TRANSACTION MANAGEMENT

Virtual | 10:00 am – 1:00 pm | $35 | Stay current with the latest California Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA) updates. This comprehensive course walks you through the RPA and related forms, explains key contract concepts, reviews recent legal changes, and provides practical guidance to help protect you and your clients in every transaction. | MORE + REGISTER >

LICENSE RENEWAL

Virtual | 9:30 am – 12:30 pm | $85 | Renew your real estate license quickly and confidently with this fast-paced review course. Covering required DRE updates and key exam topics, this class prepares you to pass your online final exams through REVEI with confidence—and includes a money-back pass guarantee. | MORE + REGISTER >

MLS

Virtual | 11:00 – 11:30 am | FREE | Create professional Comparative Market Analyses in minutes with EasyCMA. Learn how to quickly generate accurate, data-driven CMA reports using automated comparable selection, price adjustments, listing price recommendations, and customizable reports—all from your computer, tablet, or smartphone. Ideal for agents looking to save time and deliver polished listing presentations. | MORE + REGISTER >

Virtual | 2:00 – 4:00 pm | FREE | Learn how to use Paragon’s Collaboration Center to enhance client communication and automate listing alerts. This course covers setting up client portals, managing buyer searches, tracking client feedback, receiving real-time notifications, and collaborating with buyers online from any device to deliver a more responsive, personalized experience. | MORE + REGISTER >

Virtual | 11:00 – 11:15 am | FREE | Learn how to use Paragon Connect’s Reverse Prospecting tool to identify agents with buyers whose saved search criteria match your listings. This quick 15-minute webinar shows you how to uncover potential buyer matches, connect with fellow agents, and increase your listing exposure—all within the Paragon platform. | MORE + REGISTER >

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Virtual | 10:00 – 11:00 am | FREE | Learn how to turn today’s renters into tomorrow’s homebuyers with proven strategies from RentSpree. This course covers renter-to-buyer conversations, long-term client nurture campaigns, and techniques for building lasting relationships that lead to future sales and repeat business. | MORE + REGISTER >

WOMEN +

Virtual | 11:00 am – Noon | FREE |  Connect, inspire, and share your journey and learn from the stories of others. Each session promises a unique blend of inspiration, learning, and community spirit. Stay tuned for this month’s theme and special guests – we promise it’s an event you won’t want to miss! | MORE + REGISTER >

Education AT Your Fingertips

Post and Present like a Pro: Video calls. Phone calls. Or no calls at all. No matter how you stay connected with your clients, these tools make it simple and fun to communicate when you’re not in-person. Visit Share University >

CONTACT

Chris Dickson
Education Coordinator
(925) 295-9210
[email protected]

weekly MARKETING MEETINGS

CCRIM Marketing Group Ad + link to site
Rossmoor Marketing Meeting ad + link to email contact
West County Marketing Group ad + link to contact email
RMA Marketing Group Ad + link to website

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

News for Brokers – May 2026

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MAY 2026

Keep Real Estate Human in the Age of AI

According to some experts, the future of real estate is not about choosing between AI and people. The strongest businesses will likely be those that combine smart technology adoption with authentic communication, strong relationships and trusted expertise.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the real estate industry, from brokerage operations to online home search. As companies adopt new AI tools, many professionals are asking the same question: Will technology enhance the customer experience, or replace the people behind it?

Recent industry discussions have highlighted growing concerns about companies using AI primarily to reduce staffing and automate support functions. While technology can improve efficiency, many real estate professionals argue that removing experienced people from the process weakens trust, service and workplace culture. In a relationship-driven business, human expertise remains one of the industry’s greatest assets.

At the same time, AI-generated communication is becoming increasingly common across social media, marketing and professional content. Many posts now sound repetitive, overly polished or disconnected from real experience. As audiences become more aware of these patterns, authenticity is becoming even more valuable. Consumers are more likely to engage with professionals who communicate naturally, share real insights and demonstrate genuine market knowledge.

AI is also changing how buyers search for homes. Conversational search tools now allow consumers to ask detailed real estate questions and receive instant recommendations. This shift means agents must focus 

more intentionally on their online presence, reputation and local expertise. Consistent business information, strong reviews and community-focused content all help establish credibility in an increasingly AI-driven environment.

The common thread across all of these changes is clear: Technology may influence how information is delivered, but trust is still built through human connection. The professionals who will stand out are those who use AI strategically while continuing to prioritize authenticity, expertise and relationships.

This news summary is based on paraphrased commentary and reporting from articles by Holly Brink published on Inman.com.

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

Broker.1.2 – Jun 2026

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CCAR Broker Brief Masthead

AI Update: The Future of Real Estate is Still Human

For many brokers and real estate professionals, keeping up with AI has started to feel like a full-time job. Every week seems to bring more rapid change and pressure to move faster and automate every part of the business.

It’s understandable that many feel overwhelmed, but there’s also good news hidden beneath all the noise: Brokers do not need to adopt every new AI tool to stay relevant.

Real estate has always been built on relationships, professional insight, experience, and trust. Technology can support those things, but it cannot replace them. While AI might help organize information faster and simplify repetitive tasks, it cannot replicate local expertise, negotiation instincts, empathy, or long-term client relationships.

To succeed in this fast-paced market does not require you to chase every new trend. Focus on adapting thoughtfully and use technology in ways that strengthen, not replace the human experience.

Read on for more AI insights…

News & Views

Avoid Formulaic AI-Generated Content. Focus On Authenticity

Consumers are tech-saavy and ignore generic AI-generated marketing content.  It’s no secret. Real estate pros are using AI to automate everything they can to simplify repetitive and creative tasks. Problem is, everyone can now easily identify AI-generated content, and will ignore marketing that sounds mechanical and inauthentic. Recent Inman news reports help decipher what works and doesn’t work when agents use AI to communicate with the public. | LEARN WHAT TO AVOID WHEN USING AI IN YOUR BUSINESS > 

CA Dept of Insurance Webinar Jun 17

Free webinar series designed to help consumers better understand important insurance topics. Invite your clients and colleagues to join an upcoming statewide webinar hosted by the California Department of Insurance. Featured guest panelists will review the current residential insurance landscape and give expert advice and counsel to all those seeking ways to better understand and access available insurance services–often the deal-breaker, or deal-maker in a transaction. | REGISTER NOW >

CCAR Brokers Want Legal, AI, Marketing, and Tech Support

CCAR’s Spring Broker Survey provided valuable insight into the challenges and priorities brokers are facing in today’s market. Check out the key findings that CCAR will use to help shape future programs, education, communication, and member services. | VIEW SURVEY RESULTS >

APRIL 2026 | MONTHLY MARKET rECAP

Contra Costa County’s April market showed stronger spring activity with rising inventory, increasing sales volume, faster-moving homes, and upward pressure on both list and sold prices. While annual appreciation remains modest to slightly negative in some metrics, current month-over-month trends suggest improving market momentum and continued competitive conditions for buyers.

  • Inventory up:  ( ↑ 18.7% MoM )
  • Sales up:  ( ↑ 4.6% MoM )
  • Speed of sales improving: ( ↑ 7.1% MoM )
  • Median sold price: $818,000 ( ↑ 2.38% MoM )
  • Median list price: $799,000 ( ↑ 2.44% MoM )
  • Pricing trends = Renewed spring momentum

| VIEW / DOWNLOAD APRIL 2026 MARKET REPORT >

QUICK LINKS

PARAGON STATS    |

RPR STATISTICS    |

INFOSPARKS STATS    |

C.A.R. STATISTICS    |

NAR STATISTICS

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

LeadHax logo/link

MLS Home – Chris Draft

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CCAR MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE

Your portal to thousands of California listings.

Thin Gradient bar

CCAR MLS PRODUCTS & SERVICES

BROKERBAY

BUILDERS
UPDATE

CUBICASA

DOTLOOP

GLIDE

HOMESPRO

INFOSPARKS

LISTTRAC

RATE MY AGENT

REALREPORTS

REALTOR.COM+

RENTSPREE

RPR

WISE AGENT

CCAR SUPPORT: MON – FRI 9:00am – 5:00pm  |  PHONE: 925-295-1270  |  EMAIL: [email protected]

Thin Gradient bar

Mon. – Fri.: 9am – 6pm   |   Sat.: 10am – 2pm 

AGENTS:         213.739.8282
BROKERS:     213.739.8350
FAX:               213.480.7724

+  PAY MLS & KEY FEES

+  WEEKLY JOLT

+  EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

+  CCAR EXPANDED KEY ACCESS

+  CLEAR COOPERATION FORM

+  City Sign Ordinance Violation
    Reporting Form

+  CCAR CALENDAR

RESOURCES

> CLIENT EMAIL NOTIFICATION OPT-IN

> PARAGON HELP | VIDEOS

> CLEAR COOPERATION REPORTING FORM

> CCAR BYLAWS

> CRS TAX

> DIGITAL DOCUMENTS

> DISCLAIMER & DISCLOSURE ADVISORIES

> DUES PAYMENTS

> eKEY SUPPORT & INFO

> GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

> MARKETING MEETINGS

> MARKETING TOOLS

> MLS RESOURCES & INFO

> MLS RULES & REGS

> MOBILE APPLICATIONS

> SYNDICATION TOOLS

> TRANSACTIONAL TOOLS

 

interactive dashboards

Online Continuing Education

RentSpree Now Includes Automatic Income Verification!

Tired of chasing pay stubs, W-2s, and bank statements? RentSpree’s new income verification report provides a rundown of an applicant’s bank deposits, helping you make sure their reported income matches what they put in the bank.

As a CCAR member, income verification will automatically be included in your RentSpree screening package starting Tuesday, March 18th at no extra cost to you. Applicants pay $49.99 for the complete package.
LEARN MORE >>

Realtor.com+: A Smarter Way to Work with Clients

CCAR is excited to introduce Realtor.com+, a FREE member benefit with the Starter plan. Built with Realtor.com®, this new platform gives members a better way to work with clients by bringing search, communication, and collaboration into one place.

What makes it different?
  •  Built for agent-client collaboration, not just browsing
  •  Keeps you at the center—no competing leads
  •  Powered by MLS data and advanced search
  •  Shows real-time client activity and preferences

With Realtor.com+, you can collaborate in real time, message clients, manage tours, and stay fully aligned throughout the transaction.

LEARN MORE >>

Security Alert: Fake Zoom Links Used in Phishing Scam Targeting Agents

CCAR Member Services is receiving reports of a phishing scam targeting agents. Scammers pose as interested buyers, then send fake Zoom links that can give criminals access to a computer if clicked.

Microsoft recently warned that similar campaigns have used spoofed Zoom and other workplace app downloads to install remote access malware. Use caution with unexpected links or download prompts, and verify suspicious requests before clicking.

Follow the link for more details about the scam from Microsoft.
Read More >>

MLS UPDATES 

We’re updating the MLS to give you more control when adding your listings. These improvements help create better search results and give your property details the attention they deserve.

  • Directions to Property: Character limit increased from 50 to 70 to allow for clearer, more complete directions.
  • Public Remarks: Character limit increased from 1,000 to 2,500 characters.
  • Listing Photos: Maximum number of photos increased from 60 to 99.
  • Water and Sewer Features: These will now appear as separate feature categories for more accurate data entry and search results.
  • New Selectable Features:
    • “Taxiway Properties” added to X – Lot Description in the Residential class and H – Lot Description in the Lots & Land
    • “Aircraft Hangar” added to N – Garage/Parking in the Residential class

New MLS Status: Sold Off MLS
This status is designed to improve data accuracy and provide a clearer picture of market activity. It allows subscribers to enter a property that was sold before being submitted to the MLS, ensuring it is captured for comparable and reporting purposes. Meaning, at the seller’s request, the property was never entered into the MLS prior to the sale.

View More Updates >>

RealReports: The “Carfax” for Homes

We’re excited to announce a powerful new member benefit: RealReports is coming to the Contra Costa Association of REALTORS®!

RealReports is an AI-driven platform that delivers instant, in-depth property reports by pulling data from over 60 trusted sources. Think permits, climate risk, zoning, liens, valuations, and more—all consolidated in one clean, comprehensive report.

At the core is Aiden, your built-in AI property advisor. Aiden can read and interpret documents like inspection reports and seller disclosures, answer detailed questions about any property, and offer real-time, actionable insights. It’s like having a research assistant for every listing!

Learn More >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Bay Area News Group Logo

MLS Home – Susan Draft

by

CCAR MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE

Your portal to thousands of California listings.

Thin Gradient bar

CCAR MLS PRODUCTS & SERVICES

BROKERBAY

BUILDERS
UPDATE

CUBICASA

DOTLOOP

GLIDE

HOMESPRO

INFOSPARKS

LISTTRAC

RATE MY AGENT

REALREPORTS

REALTOR.COM+

RENTSPREE

RPR

WISE AGENT

CCAR SUPPORT: MON – FRI 9:00am – 5:00pm  |  PHONE: 925-295-1270  |  EMAIL: [email protected]

Thin Gradient bar

Mon. – Fri.: 9am – 6pm   |   Sat.: 10am – 2pm 

AGENTS:         213.739.8282
BROKERS:     213.739.8350
FAX:               213.480.7724

+  PAY MLS & KEY FEES

+  WEEKLY JOLT

+  EDUCATION HIGHLIGHTS

+  CCAR EXPANDED KEY ACCESS

+  CLEAR COOPERATION FORM

+  City Sign Ordinance Violation
    Reporting Form

+  CCAR CALENDAR

RESOURCES

> CLIENT EMAIL NOTIFICATION OPT-IN

> PARAGON HELP | VIDEOS

> CLEAR COOPERATION REPORTING FORM

> CCAR BYLAWS

> CRS TAX

> DIGITAL DOCUMENTS

> DISCLAIMER & DISCLOSURE ADVISORIES

> DUES PAYMENTS

> eKEY SUPPORT & INFO

> GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

> MARKETING MEETINGS

> MARKETING TOOLS

> MLS RESOURCES & INFO

> MLS RULES & REGS

> MOBILE APPLICATIONS

> SYNDICATION TOOLS

> TRANSACTIONAL TOOLS

 

interactive dashboards

Online Continuing Education

RentSpree Now Includes Automatic Income Verification!

Tired of chasing pay stubs, W-2s, and bank statements? RentSpree’s new income verification report provides a rundown of an applicant’s bank deposits, helping you make sure their reported income matches what they put in the bank.

As a CCAR member, income verification will automatically be included in your RentSpree screening package starting Tuesday, March 18th at no extra cost to you. Applicants pay $49.99 for the complete package.
LEARN MORE >>

Realtor.com+: A Smarter Way to Work with Clients

CCAR is excited to introduce Realtor.com+, a FREE member benefit with the Starter plan. Built with Realtor.com®, this new platform gives members a better way to work with clients by bringing search, communication, and collaboration into one place.

What makes it different?
  •  Built for agent-client collaboration, not just browsing
  •  Keeps you at the center—no competing leads
  •  Powered by MLS data and advanced search
  •  Shows real-time client activity and preferences

With Realtor.com+, you can collaborate in real time, message clients, manage tours, and stay fully aligned throughout the transaction.

LEARN MORE >>

Security Alert: Fake Zoom Links Used in Phishing Scam Targeting Agents

CCAR Member Services is receiving reports of a phishing scam targeting agents. Scammers pose as interested buyers, then send fake Zoom links that can give criminals access to a computer if clicked.

Microsoft recently warned that similar campaigns have used spoofed Zoom and other workplace app downloads to install remote access malware. Use caution with unexpected links or download prompts, and verify suspicious requests before clicking.

Follow the link for more details about the scam from Microsoft.
Read More >>

MLS UPDATES 

We’re updating the MLS to give you more control when adding your listings. These improvements help create better search results and give your property details the attention they deserve.

  • Directions to Property: Character limit increased from 50 to 70 to allow for clearer, more complete directions.
  • Public Remarks: Character limit increased from 1,000 to 2,500 characters.
  • Listing Photos: Maximum number of photos increased from 60 to 99.
  • Water and Sewer Features: These will now appear as separate feature categories for more accurate data entry and search results.
  • New Selectable Features:
    • “Taxiway Properties” added to X – Lot Description in the Residential class and H – Lot Description in the Lots & Land
    • “Aircraft Hangar” added to N – Garage/Parking in the Residential class

New MLS Status: Sold Off MLS
This status is designed to improve data accuracy and provide a clearer picture of market activity. It allows subscribers to enter a property that was sold before being submitted to the MLS, ensuring it is captured for comparable and reporting purposes. Meaning, at the seller’s request, the property was never entered into the MLS prior to the sale.

View More Updates >>

RealReports: The “Carfax” for Homes

We’re excited to announce a powerful new member benefit: RealReports is coming to the Contra Costa Association of REALTORS®!

RealReports is an AI-driven platform that delivers instant, in-depth property reports by pulling data from over 60 trusted sources. Think permits, climate risk, zoning, liens, valuations, and more—all consolidated in one clean, comprehensive report.

At the core is Aiden, your built-in AI property advisor. Aiden can read and interpret documents like inspection reports and seller disclosures, answer detailed questions about any property, and offer real-time, actionable insights. It’s like having a research assistant for every listing!

Learn More >>

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Bay Area News Group Logo