GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

Advancing Homeownership Rights

The Contra Costa Association of REALTORS^® is the East Bay Area’s voice of real estate. Through its Government Affairs Department, CCAR provides advocacy and legislative representation on behalf of local homeowners and the real estate industry. As a partner in a powerful state and national alliance of real estate professionals, the California Association of REALTORS^® and the National Association of REALTORS^®, CCAR and nearly 1,200 other local REALTOR^® Associations around the country work together through local, state and federal channels to promote and protect homeownership, private property rights and the viability of the real estate industry.

Together, CCAR Government Affairs staff, leadership and member volunteers develop and organize a variety of local programs and services to fund, educate and build awareness among members and consumers about important real estate related legislation and other related issues.

Avoid Fines, Heed City Sign Ordinances

Don’t get stuck with fines or unnecessary fees. Be aware of the signage restrictions in your area.

With the 2020 election season comes a race for space to post signage. Be sure to familiarize yourself with local laws pertaining to sign placement, which may differ in every city. Illegal sign placement could result in onerous legislation that severely restricts your signage privileges.

“As members of the CCAR team, we must police ourselves to avoid signage battles at the city and county levels,” warns CCAR Government Affairs Director Heather Schiffman. “Please do not assume that placement of signs by your fellow REALTORS® means that location is legal.”

| REVIEW CITY SIGN ORDINANCES |

CalHFA for Teachers and First-Time Buyers

Contra Costa County provides a variety of housing assistance programs for first-time home buyers and teachers through the California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA). Local cities also offer housing affordability programs. View list of cities offering housing assistance programs.

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REALTORS® Contribute Millions to Protect Private Property Rights

One of the most important services organized real estate provides to members and consumers is representation in the halls of government. The REALTOR^® Action Fund (RAF), supported solely by REALTOR^® contributions, raises money to advance the goals of political action committees (PACs) supporting real estate at the local, state and federal levels of government.