CCAR Realtor.com FAQs

FAQ’s

Realtor.com® and CCAR have launched a new strategic partnership, driven by a shared vision: elevating the role of the professional by equipping you with powerful, cutting-edge tools.

The first product delivered from this powerful collaboration is Realtor.com+: a collaborative home search for professionals and clients that helps them stay in sync from click to close.

What are the Benefits of Realtor.com+?

Realtor.com+ offers a best in class collaboration experience for practitioners and their clients from search-to-close. For your clients, this means accessing the Realtor.com experience they know and love (a modern platform with nationwide search) with the addition of premium features, like shared listing feeds so they can easily collaborate with you and any co-buyers.

For you, this means access to an entire suite of premium features to that elevates your role as the professional, keeping you as the hero of the transaction, including, but not limited to features such as:

Protected and branded environment
Create saved searches for you AND your clients using MLS-level search filters
Collaborative agent-client search with co-buyers & co-agents
Visibility into your clients’ search behaviors (saves, property views, sessions, likes/dislikes, etc)
In-App Chat with Agent Reminders
Touring Solution
Agent & Client Mobile Apps
Real-Time Client and Market Insights

So this is an app?

Realtor.com+ is a platform available via both desktop and mobile app (for iPhone or Android). Whatever you do on Realtor.com+ syncs across all platforms.

For example, if you save a search while on your computer, you can get notified on your phone from the mobile app when new listings match it! This allows you to do your work wherever you are, whether you’re at your desk or waiting on a front stoop for your buyer to arrive for a showing.

How do I get the app?

You can download the app by searching for Realtor.com+ on the App or Google Play Store. Just look for the Realtor.com+ logo to be sure you’re downloading the correct app.

Download Realtor.com+ on Apple:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/realtor-com-plus/id6749579971

Download Realtor.com+ on Google Play:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.move.realtorplus.android&utm_source=na_Med

Once you’ve downloaded the app, follow the steps on the app screen to sign into your account.

Where do I manage my Realtor.com+ plan?

You can manage your Realtor.com+ plan inside of your Account Page, under the section called “My Subscription.” Once in the “My Subscription” section of your account, you can upgrade or downgrade your plan, manage your credit card on file, and see a full list of features available to you in each plan.

Will I have the ability to gain more benefits through Realtor.com+ if I’m a paid Realtor.com customer?

At this time, there are no paid add-ons for Realtor.com+. While we wholeheartedly believe agents significantly increase their opportunity for success by becoming a Realtor.com customer, it’s not necessary to successfully take advantage of Realtor.com+ and all the tools and insights it has available.

How do I describe Realtor.com+ to my clients?

Shortly before or after you invite a client to Realtor.com+ we recommend giving the client a quick 1-2 minute elevator pitch to remind them of the value of joining you. To name a few of those benefits, you can call attention to:

Advanced collaboration features unlocked within your existing Realtor.com experience.
Cross-compatible web and mobile experience within their existing Realtor.com app.
In-app chat messenger to collaborate, share feedback, and stay connected with me, and if applicable, your co-buyer.
Request tours with me directly, and see past and upcoming showings.
No ads in-app, so you can focus on what matters most – finding your dream home.
And much, much more!

Below is some inspiration to help you get started:

What MLS data will I see on Realtor.com+?

Realtor.com+ is a platform available via both desktop and mobile app (for iPhone or Android). Whatever you do on Realtor.com+ syncs across all platforms.

How do I sign up?

More details to come soon!

Do I have to pay a subscription fee?

Realtor.com+ offers two different plans and pricing options so that you can choose which is best for you and your clients:

Realtor.com+ Starter – Free for Contra Costa REALTORS® members!
Realtor.com+ Unlimited – $39/month

What’s included in each plan?

The only difference between Realtor.com+ Starter and Realtor.com+ Unlimited is the number of active client groups that you can be connected with at any given time.

How is this different from Realtor.com?

Realtor.com+ takes you and your clients beyond a simple search with enhanced collaboration tools built to simplify the way you and your clients work together. In addition to a protected environment, you and your clients will have access to collaboration tools that include direct chat messages, behavior alerts, tour management, market insights, and more!

I received an email about Realtor.com Pro, Connections Plus what’s the difference?

The Realtor.com leads businesses (Connections Plus, MVIP) will continue to exist and will continue to offer leads to professionals who rely on them to grow and power their businesses. Realtor.com+ is a post-lead experience. It is for clients and agents who have already chosen to work together – for the serious buyers in the transaction phase of the journey.

Subject: Heads up! How we’ll search together to find your dream home.

Body:
Hi [Client Name],

As you get ready to start your home search, I want to introduce you to Realtor.com®+™ a smart home search platform designed specifically for my valued clients to find their way home.

Why You’ll Love Realtor.com+:

My Expert Guidance: Always On. You’ll connect with me in a premium search environment where you’ll be able to view my recommended homes for you, invite your co-buyer, share individual listings, see your upcoming tours, and chat with me all in one space, so you never miss a critical update.
Seamless Collaborative Search & Communication. Once you’re connected with me on Realtor.com+, you’ll receive real-time listing updates for our saved searches and you’ll have a direct line to me to chat and request tours instantly, so we can move quickly together.
Available on Web and Mobile. Realtor.com+ is available to use on your computer or on the go via the Realtor.com mobile app, so you can search and communicate with me from anywhere.

Next Steps:

We will be using Realtor.com+ as our primary search and collaboration hub throughout your home search. Realtor.com+ is an exclusive, invite only platform so…

Please keep an eye on your inbox!

I will be sending your invitation to join Realtor.com+ shortly. Look for an email from Realtor.com+ with the invitation link. Once you receive it, please click the link to join me right away so we can jump in and get started!

How do my clients access Realtor.com+?

Easy! Once your clients connect with you on Realtor.com+ by accepting your invitation, if they get logged out of the Realtor.com+ experience, they’ll simply sign back into their account at www.realtor.com or on the Realtor.com app.

Once they’ve signed in, their traditional Realtor.com experience will be automatically upgraded to the premium Realtor.com+ experience they receive by working with you. There is no additional app or separate website they’ll need to go to work with you!

How do get support?

We’re always happy to help. You can get in touch with our support team at any time by selecting the Support button in your Realtor.com+ account.

You’ll also have access to your knowledge center, which provides a variety of helpful product walkthroughs and how-to guides to help you get started. You can access the knowledge center using the link, here.

How will I learn how to use Realtor.com+?

Learn how to use your Realtor.com+ account by joining an upcoming live or virtual training session. Dates and times are actively being scheduled and will be communicated broadly once established.

I received an email about Realtor.com Pro, Connections Plus what’s the difference?

Yes! You can use the co-agent feature to add another agent or team member to one of your client feeds, as long as the agent has a Realtor.com+ account. Your partner agent will be able to see the saved searches and listings on the client feed and add their own saved searches as well.

Learn more about working with your team here.

District 99 Fondnazio – Apr 26

A MESSAGE FROM JOHN FONDNAZIO | CCAR PRESIDENT, DISTRICT 99 LIAISON | 925.817-9053 | [email protected] | APRIL 2026

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

California’s housing affordability crisis continues to challenge buyers with high home prices, limited inventory, and rising costs keeping ownership out of reach for many.

Recent reports show that thousands of approved affordable units remain stalled due to funding gaps, even as demand grows. Meanwhile, home prices are expected to stay near record highs, statewide, despite slight improvements in affordability.

While no single solution exists, a growing mix of state, local, and community programs is helping close the gap.

In this issue, we highlight key resources—from C.A.R.’s Housing Affordability Fund and Fair Housing initiatives to local down payment assistance programs—that can help your clients move closer to homeownership.

Warm Regards,

John

6 Ways to Expand Access to Homeownership

CalHFA Dream For All Shared Appreciation Loan +

One of the largest assistance programs in California.

Best for: First-generation, first-time buyers who lack a large down payment.

Provides up to 20% of purchase price (max ~$150K) for down payment.

Structured as a shared appreciation loan (repay + % of appreciation at sale/refi).

| LEARN MORE >

CalHFA My Home Assistance Program +

Best for: First-time buyers needing help with upfront cash.

Provides ~3-3.5% of purchase price for down payment/closing costs.

Structured as a deferred-payment second loan (no monthly payments).

Repaid only when the home is sold, refinanced, or paid off.

| LEARN MORE >

Black Wealth Builders (BWB) Fund +

Best for: Black first-time buyers facing down payment barriers.

Provides zero-interest loans (typically ~$15K–$20K) for down payment, closing costs, or related expenses.

No monthly payments; repayment deferred until sale or refinance.

| LEARN MORE >

GSFA Down Payment Assistance Programs +

Best for: Broader pool of low-to-moderate income buyers (not just first-timers).

Offers up to ~5-5.5% of loan amount for down payment/closing costs.

Structured as a second mortgage (often repayable over time).

Works across many loan types (FHA, VA, USDA) and conventional loans.

| LEARN MORE >

Pathway to Home Closing Cost Assistance +

Best for: First-time buyers from underserved communities needing closing cost support.

Provides up to $10,000 in grants (no payback required) for closing costs.

Must include at least one buyer from an underserved community (people of color, persons with disabilities, or LGBTQ+).

| LEARN MORE >

Contra Costa Down Payment Assistance Program +

Best for: First-time buyers in Contra Costa County needing grant support.

Provides up to $10,000 in grants (no repayment required) for down payment or closing costs.

Funded by a $1 million investment from U.S. Bank, supporting ~100 families.

Targets low- to moderate-income households facing high entry costs.

| LEARN MORE >

Find A Trusted CCAR Affiliate Lender

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Cinco de Mayo Affiliate Faire Next Wed – May 6

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 5:00 - 7:00pm
St. Stephen Catholic Church

CCAR REALTOR® Members:

Join us for an evening of appetizers, drinks, raffles, and fun at St. Stephen Church on May 6, from 5pm – 7pm! Discover the wide range of services offered by local industry partners while supporting two amazing causes—the CCAR Scholarship Foundation and CCAR Helping Hands.

CCAR AFFILIATE MEMBERS:

The Cinco de Mayo Affiliate Faire offers a fantastic opportunity to showcase your business to CCAR REALTORS®. Think of it as a trade show, but more fun– and it’s all for a great cause!

Here’s How:
Purchase a vender table for $35 (non-affiliate members $75) by contacting Jason Catalano at 925.295.9202 or [email protected] and…

Bring:
1. All your marketing materials
2. One raffle prize (gift basket, gift card, wine, etc.)
3. An appetizer to feed at least 20 people (veggie
tray, cheese plate, hors d’oeuvres, etc.)

SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES

Door Prize Sponsor | $500
or a prize of equal value

Thank you to our sponsors!

Broker.1.1 – Apr 2026

< APRIL 2026 : MARCH MARKET RECAP | QUICK LINKS TO STATS | NEWS & INFORMATION | TOP TOOLS TO POWER YOUR BUSINESS <

Introducing the CCAR Broker Brief

Running a brokerage today requires clarity, adaptability, and the ability to make the right decisions in a changing market.

We’re launching the CCAR Broker Brief as a new way to stay more connected with you—bringing focused, local insight into what’s happening in your market and what it means for your business.

Each issue will highlight what’s changing, why it matters, and what you can do to lead your agents and stay competitive.

As your local partner, CCAR is here to support you with the tools, education, and resources you rely on every day to run and grow your brokerage—and to stay more engaged with you as your business evolves.

We’re excited to share the first issue and continue building this resource for you.

Please take a few minutes to respond to this short survey so we can better understand and address your most pressing business needs:

MARCH 2026 | MONTHLY MARKET rECAP

Inventory still tight: 1.95 mo-supply ( ↑ 8.33% MoM )
Selling above ask: 11.6% avg. S/L $ ( ↑ 2.2% MoM )
Speed of sales: avg. 14 DOM ( 0% MoM )

Median sold price: $780,000 ( ↑ 4% MoM )
Median list price up: $795,000 ( ↑ 3.25% MoM )
Short-term pricing stabilizing; slightly below last year

| VIEW / DOWNLOAD MARCH 2026 MARKET RECAP REPORT >

QUICK LINKS

News & Views

Turn Market Pressure Into Opportunity

Recent indicators reflect a mix of opportunity and pressure for real estate brokerages. Inventory is improving in some areas, but pricing sensitivity remains high. Buyers are active, but more selective, while sellers are entering the market with expectations that don’t always align with current conditions. C.A.R. housing updates continue to point to affordability constraints and uneven demand shaping buyer behavior across California. | MORE >

Winning Listings In A Complex Marketplace

Agents who lead with solid pricing strategy and market positioning are winning more business. Many listing presentations still focus heavily on marketing. But today, sellers are more sensitive to outcomes like time on market, price reductions, and net proceeds. Brokers can help support agents by coaching them on pricing conversations, reviewing listing strategies before presentations, and sharing local examples of what is/is not working. | Learn about NAR’s Self-Paced Pricing Strategies Certification. >

Increase Agent Productivity with Consistent Coaching and Education

With fewer “easy” transactions, success is coming from agents who are focused, consistent, and intentional in how they generate business. Brokers can help by conducting regular check-ins and pipeline reviews. Ongoing education and skill development play a critical role in helping agents navigate pricing decisions with confidence, ensuring they can provide clear, data-driven guidance that serves their clients’ best interests. | Share the CCAR monthly Education Calendar with your team today. >

Top Tools to power Up Your Business

JOEY MASTERS, cCAR MLS dIRECTOR

Whether you’re winning new clients, managing transactions, or building your brand, CCAR benefits are designed to save you time, reduce risk, and strengthen your business.

| UNLOCK THE FULL POWER OF MEMBERSHIP with the CCAR Products & Services Guide >

CCAR ANNUAL SPONSORS

Coming Soon Status Update – Effective March 30, 2026

Preserving your seller’s choice in how they want to market their property is a priority for CCAR MLS. Effective March 30, the Coming Soon Status can be syndicated.

Based on your client’s preference, you will have control over whether Coming Soon listings are syndicated out of the MLS via the Internet Site (Yes/No) and related fields at the time of listing entry. Agents are reminded that the distribution of Coming Soon listings must be in alignment with their broker’s policies and/or their client’s instructions.

Existing Coming Soon Listings: Will default to Internet Site = No (not syndicated). To enable syndication, update the applicable fields to Yes and select the appropriate distribution options (e.g., “Yes-All Sites, Full address”).
New Coming Soon Listings: Select your syndication options at the time of entry, consistent with your broker’s policies and your client’s direction.

The MLS Rules will be updated accordingly to reflect this change. This update provides greater flexibility to align with your client’s preferences.

FAQs

What triggers MLS rules?
A signed exclusive listing agreement triggers MLS rules. Without a fully executed agreement, MLS requirements do not apply.
When must a listing be submitted to the MLS?
Listings must be submitted to the MLS within three (3) days of the listing agreement’s effective date. If a listing is publicly marketed before being entered into the MLS, Clear Cooperation requirements are triggered, and the listing must be submitted within one (1) business day.
What are the requirements for Office Exclusive listings?
Sellers must sign a disclosure form, and public marketing is not permitted. If public marketing occurs, the listing must be entered into the MLS within one (1) business day.
How long can a listing remain in Coming Soon status?
Coming Soon status may remain in the MLS for up to 30 days. After that, the listing will automatically change to Coming Soon Cancelled.
How are Coming Soon listings syndicated?
Coming Soon listings are shared with MLSs participating in our data-share. For public portals and websites, syndication is controlled by the agent or broker based on the client’s preference selected during listing entry.
How are MLS rules enforced?
All MLS rules are enforced locally. Suspected violations should be reported using the Correction button in the MLS or by emailing [email protected].

MLS Rules Changes Effective March 30.

10.1 Status

Coming Soon – “Coming Soon” is defined as a temporary, optional starting status that can be selected by listing agent. This applies if publicly marketed.

10.1.1 Coming Soon Listings. It shall be the responsibility of the Broker Participant (Section 4.1.1) and Real Estate Subscriber (Section 4.2.1) to follow said rules when placing a property in the Coming Soon section of the multiple listings service (MLS). Broker Participant and Real Estate Subscriber shall only place a property in the Coming Soon section of the MLS if the Participant/Subscriber has met the necessary criteria for MLS input as described in Sections 7.5, 7.6, and 8.1.

Important information surrounding Coming Soon listings:

It is optional to place your listing into the Coming Soon Status.
Listing agent must have a signed written listing agreement in place to enter a “Coming Soon” listing which explains the limitations of the “Coming Soon” status.
Coming Soon listings will be viewable to all MLS Participants.
Coming Soon listings will not be syndicated out to other websites.
Coming Soon listings will not be included in the IDX and data feeds.
Coming Soon listings are not allowed to be placed into open houses or tour modules within the MLS.
Coming Soon listings are only searchable within the Paragon MLS.
Once an agent changes a listing from Coming Soon to New/Active status, it cannot be reverted to Coming Soon status.
Days on Market (DOM) resets when status is changed to New/Active
Agent showing is allowed
Coming Soon Status must clearly state in the Confidential Remarks the seller’s instruction as to whether showings will be permitted or not.
Once Coming Soon status is entered, public marketing is allowed.
Upon request, All Paragon MLS Coming Soon data can be are 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.
Photos are optional.
The Coming Soon listing will be automatically placed in a “Cancelled – Coming Soon” status after thirty (30) days of entry.

12.16 Use of Listing Information on Internet. [Also known as Internet Data Exchange (“IDX”)] “Internet Data Exchange” (“IDX”) is a means by which listing brokers permit limited electronic display and delivery of their Active, Pending and sold listing data, in accordance with the IDX rules set forth herein, by other participating Broker Participants and R.E. Subscribers via the following authorized mediums under said Broker Participants and R.E. Subscribers control: websites, mobile apps and audio devices. As used throughout this policy, “display” includes “delivery” of such listings.

Authorization. Subject to paragraphs (b) through below, and subject to an executed IDX Access Agreement with the MLS, notwithstanding anything in these rules and regulations to the contrary, Broker Participants and R.E. Subscribers may electronically display aggregated MLS active, pending and sold listing information through either downloading or by framing such information on the MLS or association public access website (if such a site is available). The MLS’s download will include publicly accessible sold listing data starting from January 1, 2012. “Publicly accessible” sold information as used in the IDX policy and rules, means data that is available electronically or in hard copy to the public from city, county, state, and other government records. [Note: Listings in Coming Soon Status are not authorized for display by this rule.]

Section 12.19.15: A Participant’s VOW may not make available for search by, or display to, Registrants any of the following information:

Coming Soon, Expired or withdrawn listings (Hold, Cancelled).
The type of listing agreement, i.e., exclusive right to sell or seller reserve.
The seller’s and occupant’s name(s), phone number(s), or e-mail address(es).
Instructions or remarks intended for buyer brokers only, such as those regarding showings or security of listed property.

Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 5:00 - 7:00pm St. Stephen Catholic Church

CCAR REALTOR® Members:

CCAR AFFILIATE MEMBERS:

SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES

Thank you to our sponsors!

Introducing the CCAR Broker Brief

MARCH 2026 | MONTHLY MARKET rECAP

Top Tools to power Up Your Business

JOEY MASTERS, cCAR MLS dIRECTOR

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Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 5:00 - 7:00pm
St. Stephen Catholic Church