Welcome to the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®!

For a PDF version of C.A.R. at a Glance 2009, please click here.

A Message from C.A.R. President James Liptak...

Congratulations on your membership in the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®! You’ve chosen a challenging profession, and the market that you are entering is equally
challenging. For more than 100 years—in both buyer’s and seller’s markets—C.A.R. has worked diligently to preserve and promote a commitment to excellence, professionalism, and integrity within the real estate industry. As a C.A.R. member, you have access to products, services, and opportunities for professional development at special member prices and, in some instances, available only to C.A.R. members. As the state counterpart to the National Association of REALTORS®, C.A.R. works with California’s 117 local REALTOR® associations to deliver the tools you need to provide high-caliber service to your clients—whether they are
distressed sellers or first-time buyers with a 20 percent down payment and a FICO score of 800—and compete successfully in today’s market. In 2009, we will accomplish this objective
by listening to you as you communicate your needs to us. Whether it’s through your local association’s board of directors or your regional C.A.R. director, you have a direct conduit to
communicate with your state trade association and direct the future of our organization.

Your Association is here to assist you as you embark on your real estate career, but keep in mind that it’s incumbent upon all of us to take responsibility for our profession and actively participate in
our industry. For example, in light of the credit/liquidity crunch, legislation affecting your distressed sellers, and changes in campaign-finance laws and term limits, it’s more critical than ever before for individual members to be involved in the political process, whether through direct contributions to federal political action committees or by serving on city councils and planning commissions in our communities. As your Association continues its second century of service to our members and the real estate industry, I encourage you to use this C.A.R. at a Glance brochure to learn about the programs and services C.A.R. provides to you as a benefit of your membership and to determine how you can leverage your position within the REALTOR® organization to ensure the long-term success of the professional real estate practitioner.

Sincerely

James Liptak, 2009 C.A.R. President

 
2009 Event Calendar

January 21-24 | Business Meetings | Monterey
As part of the Association’s governance structure, more than 35 committees composed of REALTORS® from throughout the state meet three times a year during C.A.R.’s business meetings. The committees examine issues affecting all aspects of the real estate business and formulate policies to be considered by the Association’s board of directors. C.A.R.’s meetings are open to all members. For more information, call (213) 739-8384 or visit http://www.car.org/meetings.

April 18-19 | Southern California Home Buyer's Fair | Los Angeles
Today's housing market presents opportunities for qualified buyers. Many buyers have more choices today than when they first contemplated the home-buying process months--or even years--ago. It's time to get the word out and educate consumers about their choices! That's why C.A.R., in conjunction with the Los Angeles Times, is sponsoring a home buyer's fair that will showcase how to capitalize on these opportunities. Consisting of exhibits and seminars, the event will educate potential home buyers on what they need to know to purchase a home. For more information, call (213) 739-8301 or visit www.homebuyersfair.com.

June 3-6
Business Meetings Sacramento
See description above under "Business Meetings."

June 3
Legislative Day Sacramento
See description in the "Governmental Affairs" section below.

October 6-8 | CALIFORNIA REALTOR® EXPO 2009 | San Jose
The CALIFORNIA REALTOR® EXPO is C.A.R.’s annual convention for California real estate practitioners. As a free member benefit, the EXPO provides two days of hands-on training, continuing education seminars, networking opportunities, and one of real estate’s largest exhibit halls featuring hundreds of industry vendors showcasing the latest products and services to streamline the transaction process. For information, contact Betty Thomas at (213) 739-8236 or bettyt@car.org. Free entrance is exclusively for C.A.R. members. Prices for non-members are significantly higher.

October 6 | Tech Tuesday | San Jose
Immediately preceding the EXPO, Tech Tuesday offers a full day of training, education sessions, and product analyses to explore the technological innovations revolutionizing the real estate industry. Admission fees apply. Prices for non-members are significantly higher.

October 7-10 | Business Meetings | San Jose
See description above under “Business Meetings.”

October 15-18
Business Meetings
Long Beach
See description above under "Business Meetings."

Various Dates
REALTOR® S.W.A.T. - Special Weapons and Tactics to Navigate the Market See description in the Professional Development and Education section below.  For  more information, click here.

C.A.R. Commercial Connection
Four commercial education seminars will be conducted throughout California. Learn how to transition your business to more commercial transactions. Visit www.carcommercial.org for dates, locations, and additional information.


Legal Services at a Glance

Through C.A.R.'s suite of legal tools and member services, you have access to the latest information you need to decipher the complexities of a real estate transaction. With more than 150 collective years of experience in the field of real estate law, C.A.R.'s team of dedicated attorneys knows your business, your marketplace, and the legal challenges and pitfalls you face in your daily transactions. C.A.R.'s legal staff tracks developments in real estate's legal arena and delivers that information directly to you.

Legal Section of C.A.R. Online
The expansive Legal section of C.A.R. Online (www.car.org) features important real estate law updates, helpful disclosure charts, and numerous legal articles written by C.A.R. attorneys. To access this free legal information, visit http://www.car.org/legal.

Legal Articles
C.A.R.'s attorneys have produced Legal Articles for more than 150 topics covering more than 30 subject areas affecting the real estate brokerage practice. Topics range from natural hazard disclosures and REO sales requirements to arbitration and fair housing. To read the articles, log on to the Legal section of C.A.R. Online (http://www.car.org/legal) and select "Legal Q&As."

C.A.R. Member Legal Hotline
C.A.R.'s Member Legal Hotline, available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. by calling (213) 739-8282, delivers live, personalized real estate advice from C.A.R. attorneys. Answers to many of your legal questions also can be found under "Legal Q&As" on the Legal section of C.A.R. Online (http://www.car.org/legal). Regularly updated by C.A.R. attorneys, these articles often are referenced during hotline calls. C.A.R. members who are brokers/owners, office managers, or designated REALTORS® may call (213) 739-8350 to receive expedited service. E-mail inquiries for the Hotline should be sent to legalhotline@car.org; include your full name, C.A.R. membership number, and phone number.

Legal Action Fund
C.A.R. proactively defends your real estate profession in the appellate courts through the Association's Legal Action Fund. The Fund has contributed to favorable decisions in several landmark cases in which C.A.R. filed amicus curiae (friend of the court) briefs urging the court to consider the REALTOR® position. If you're involved in a real estate-related case going up on appeal, it may qualify for involvement from the Legal Action Fund. For information, contact Neil Kalin at (213) 739-8341 or neilk@car.org.

Realegal® Legal Updates by E-mail
Realegal® provides information about legal developments to all C.A.R. members. This free e-mail newsletter contains breaking legal information and legal prevention tips to those who have an e-mail address on file with C.A.R. To subscribe, verify your e-mail address with your local association or visit http://www.car.org, log in, click the "Members" tab in the Quick Links area, and follow the Newsletter Subscriptions link.

Strategic Defense Program
C.A.R. seeks to improve the current litigation climate against members and address the availability and affordability of errors and omissions insurance in California. C.A.R. members now have direct access to seasoned attorneys who can defend a claim or lawsuit for a reduced fee. Visit C.A.R.'s Strategic Defense Web page in the Legal section of C.A.R. Online (http://www.car.org/legal).

Risk Management Program
C.A.R.'s Risk Managment program minimizes risk and your exposure to deal-breaking transaction challenges like mold, inspection contingencies, and environmental hazards. Whether you're an individual agent or a manager of an office, there's a program package specifically designed to meet your needs. To purchase a Risk Management package, click on the "Risk Management Packages" tab in the Legal section of C.A.R. Online (www.car.org.)
 
C.A.R. Legal Blog
C.A.R. recently rolled out its first blog, C.A.R.'s Legal Blog. This site offers a convenient community forum where members can submit comments and questions, easily connect with their peers and C.A.R.'s legal staff, and get their important legal questions answered. C.A.R.'s Legal Blog can be accessed at http://blogs.car.org, or from C.A.R.'s home page by clicking on the box in the upper right-hand corner, and from the Legal section.



REALTORS ® Care

REALTORS® throughout the state have a long-standing tradition of community involvement and making a difference in the neighborhoods in which they serve. REALTORS® volunteer their time and effort in numerous charities and worthy causes. C.A.R. sponsors several charitable programs that help REALTORS® and their communities.

C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund
C.A.R. established the C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund inthe wake of the devastating 2003 California wildfires. Grants provided by the fund were used to help members of the REALTOR® family -- REALTORS®, their staff, and association members and their staff -- who incurred substantial losses due to the wildfires. Today, C.A.R. continues to reach out to those affected by natural and other disasters by distributing grants of $1,000 to $10,000 from the fund. To receive an application to request a grant from the C.A.R. Disaster Relief Fund, call Elizabeth de Carteret at (213) 739-8308 or e-mail elizabethd@car.org.

C.A.R. Scholarship and Education Foundations
Since 1948, the C.A.R. Scholarship Foundation has provided awards ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to students enrolled at a California college or university for professions that are centered on, or support a career in, real estate transactional activity. Real estate licensees who wish to pursue advanced real estate designations, degrees, or credentials also may be considered for scholarships. The C.A.R. Education Foundation was established in June 2005 to work in conjunction with the existing C.A.R. Scholarship Foundation. Scholarships, awards, and grants also will be given to deserving students and other worthy individuals beginning in early 2009 through the C.A.R. Education Foundation. For more information, to donate, or to apply, click on “C.A.R. Scholarship Foundation/Education Foundation” in the About C.A.R. section of www.car.org.


Communication and Information at a Glance

Because having the latest news about breaking developments can mean the difference between an under-priced bid and a winning offer, C.A.R. provides timely access to the critical information you need to understand the market and successfully counsel your clients. C.A.R.'s mix of topical newsletters, regular magazines, and electronic updates delivers the essential data you need to represent your clients and close transactions.

California Real Estate Magazine
As C.A .R. ’ s of f i c ial publication, California Real Estate magazine delivers news about industry trends, business ideas, and practical solutions to common problems faced by the active practitioner. ret2® (Real Estate Trends + Technology®) magazine, a supplement to California Real Estate magazine, covers leading-edge technologies and practices to help you succeed in today’s competitive environment. For information, call (213) 739-8320.

C.A.R. Newsline E-mail Newsletter
C.A.R. Newsline provides breaking news about economic trends, legal and legislative developments, and other issues affecting the real estate industry in an easy-to-read format delivered directly to your inbox every Wednesday. To subscribe, verify that your correct e-mail address is on file with your local association.

Media Relations
C.A.R.'s media relations division proactively develops and implements the Association's media and public relations strategy to address perceptions in the consumer media and industry at large about the California housing market and the real estate profession. News releases, media interviews, and news conferences are used to convey information about California's housing market and economy, legal issues impacting the real estate industry, C.A.R.'s efforts in the legislative and public-policy arenas, and other key industry topics. For information, contact Mark Giberson at (213) 739-8304 or markg@car.org.

Consumer Advertising Campaign
Through "Your piece of California. Your peace of mind," C.A.R.'s dynamic consumer advertising campaign aims to increase the public's understanding of the true value of using a REALTOR® when buying or selling a home. This campaign emphasizes how a REALTOR®'s unique professional insight can make the complicated and stressful process of buying or selling a home an overall positive experience. The campaign features radio spots, interactive Web banners placedon popular Web sites, and search engine marketing on Yahoo! and Google. These features direct consumers to the campaign Web site, www.yourpieceofcalifornia.com, which reinforces key messages from the radio ads, while reminding consumers why they should use a REALTOR® in all of their real estate transactions and links to the "Find a REALTOR®" page on C.A.R. Online (www.car.org). This year, the campaign will add a Spanish-language component through radio ads directed toward the state's Hispanic home buyers and sellers. For information, contact Anne Framroze at (213) 739-8322 or annef@car.org.

Market Matters
With media coverage of the real estate market and REALTORS®’ role in the transaction under heightened scrutiny, Market Matters offers proactive solutions to addressing media coverage as well as providing the tools to help you make sense of the often conflicting and confusing data, market studies, and news reports about your industry and profession. Through the weekly Market Matters e-newsletter delivered to your inbox every Thursday, you’ll be armed and ready to position yourself as the market expert with your clients, while demonstrating the knowledge, experience, and expertise a REALTOR® brings to the transaction. For more information, http://marketmatters.car.org.

C.A.R. Online (www.car.org)
As C.A.R.’s official Web site, car.org provides 24/7 access to the critical information you need as a real estate professional. This dynamic site offers password-protected, members-only sections, as well as a customizable “Find a REALTOR®” profile, which consumers can link to from REALTOR.com’s® “Find a REALTOR® White Pages” link. You’ll find discounts on key products and services as well as access to C.A.R.’s extensive market research and industry studies. This site also provides access to online education, continuing education, professional development, and license-renewal information. The expansive Legal and Governmental Affairs sections give you the latest news about breaking developments in real estate law and related business practice issues. Dates and locations of upcoming C.A.R., National Association of  REALTORS®, and other industry events are available, as well as committee materials and related information. For password-protected areas, you’ll need your NRDS number to create an account.  

California Living Network™
The California Living Network™ is California’s largest directory of homes for sale on the Internet and features information about virtually all homes listed for sale in the Golden State. For more information visit http://ca.realtor.com.

Videos
From interviewswith industry experts to coverage of C.A.R. events, C.A.R. produces short videos to help you stay informed about what's going on at C.A.R. and in the real estate industry at large. To view the videos, visit http://videos.car.org/mediavault.html.



Free Marketing Tools

Free materials and services to help you create more business and retain clients.

ClientDIRECT^TM: free consumer newsletter for your clients
ClientDIRECT™ is an agent-branded online newsletter that is automatically sent to your clients every month. This free, Web-based marketing tool helps you to effortlessly keep in touch with clients. Featuring your contact information, listings, and photo, plus professionally written articles about buying, selling, or owning a home, this customizable newsletter is delivered once a month directly to your clients’ inboxes. With ClientDIRECT™, you create the title of your newsletter, select from a wide variety of professionally written articles, and add pictures, messages, links, listings, and more. ClientDIRECT™ is the perfect way to remind clients of the valuable services you provide as their REALTOR®. To subscribe, click on the ClientDIRECT™ logo in the “Tools” section of the car.org home page (www.car.org).



REALTOR® Business Products at a Glance

C.A.R. produces business products and tools to empower REALTORS® through its Real Estate Business Services, Inc. (REBS®) subsidiary. C.A.R. Business Products offers REALTORS® tools to help grow their business, from the standard forms used in nearly every transaction in California to informative publications and the latest technology tools.

C.A.R. Business Products Online Store
You can access C.A.R. Business Products 24/7 at http://store.car.org , the place to order C.A.R. standard forms, real estate reference publications, training and coursework materials, open house and risk management tools, and much more. The best part is all products can be delivered right to your door. To begin shopping, visit http://store.car.org or call C.A.R. Customer Service at (213) 739-8227.  

Clarus™ REsource™
Clarus™ REsource™ is a powerful suite of Web-based tools designed to enhance your real estate market insight and professionalism. Clarus™ REsource™ is comprised of three services:

• Clarus™ MarketMetrics™ powered by Terradatum
This simple to use, market-oriented tool is designed pecifically for the real estate professional to better understand the local market and communicate those insights to clients easily and effectively.

• Clarus™ Investor™
This property analysis tool allows agents to help buyers interested in investment real estate obtain a quick picture of a property’s value and profit potential.

• Clarus™ DataMine™
This online destination contains essential information about the economy and housing market. It is the source for C.A.R. Research Reports and County Economic Profiles (CEPs).

For more details, call (213) 739-8278 or visit www.clarusresource.com.

Standard Forms
Developed by practicing real estate professionals and attorneys working closely with C.A.R.'s attorneys, C.A.R. standard forms are dependable real estate transaction tools that are user friendly and comprehensive. As the industry standard throughout California, the library of more than 100 C.A.R. standard forms is backed by the C.A.R. User Protection Agreement. Members are encouraged to send feedback to carforms@car.org.

ePUBS™ for WINForms®
ePUBS™ for WINForms® is a great way to save money, time, and the environment while conducting your real estate transactions. ePUBS™ for WINForms® is a new add-on library for your WINForms Online® account that consists of six disclosure titles (two mandated and four consumer). Not only are you now able to send the Combined Hazards book via e-mail, but you can also help educate your client on disclosures and the disclosure process. Visit www.winforms.com for more information.

WINForms® Electronic Forms
As the electronic version of C.A.R. standard forms, WINForms® provides you with instant access to the latest versions of the contracts you need to complete your transactions.  With this free software, you can e-mail contracts to clients, enter data automatically through the software's auto-fill functionality, and more. WINForms® Desktop software can be installed directly to your PC by going to www.winforms.com. This feature is also available on pre-registered CD for an additional fee. If you have a high-speed Internet connection, WINForms Online® allows you to access and update your transactions anytime, anywhere, from any computer that is connected to the Web.  For information, visit www.winforms.com or contact C.A.R. Customer Service at (213) 739-8227.

RELAY^TM Transaction Management
RELAY®  transaction management streamlines workflow and connects agents to clients through a custom Web site 24/7. With one click, maximize the benefits of your WINForms Online® member benefit and move to an electronic transaction helping you win listings, close transactions, and get client referrals. Transfer information from WINForms Online®, share documents, receive instant updates, and present a professional transaction site to clients. Brokers find out how RELAY® is a risk reduction tool. See a demo at www.ziplogix.com/relaydemo or call (866) 736-7328.


Member Advantage Program

C.A.R.'s Member Advantage program provides members-only discounts on a variety of products and services you use in your business and a list of C.A.R.-approved insurance providers. Current* partners and insurance providers include:

Fax2Mail (Electronic Fax Service): www.premiereglobal.com/car or (866) 329-2624

ListingLight (Listing Night Lights and Locks): www.listinglight.com/carmap or (866) 210-6616

Paychex, Inc. (Payroll Processing and HR Services): ( 800) 729-2439 (mention code 5796)

UPS (Shipping): www.savewithups.com/car or (800) 325-7000

T-Mobile (Mobile Phone Provider): www.car.org/members/memberbenefits or (866) 464-8662 (new customers), (877) 453-8824 (current customers)

OfficeMax (Office Supplies): www.car.org/members/memberbenefits

Bank of America (C.A.R. Branded Rewards Credit Card): www.car.org/members/memberbenefits

Tech Hotline (Technology Help): http://car.matthewferrara.com or (866) 95-FIXPC (34972)

PrintingForLess.com (Printing Services): www.printingforless.com/car or (800) 930-6040

Begley’s Best (Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products): www.begleysbest.com/car

RealCare Insurance (Medical, Dental, Life, Vision, LTC): www.RealCareCA.com or (800) 939-8088

VPI Pet Insurance (Pet): www.petinsurance.com/affiliates/CAR_npr or (800) 719-1163

Costello and Sons (E&O, Worker’s Comp, Home, Auto Insurance) www.costelloandsons.com/REALTORS.html or (800) 949-0640

For more information, visit C.A.R.’s Member Advantage Program Web page or call (213) 739-8303.


Professional Development and Education at a Glance


For more than 30 years, the CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (C.A.R.) has provided high-quality real estate education for its members. C.A.R. offers a variety of delivery methods, such as live lecture, home study, and online. Our training has exceeded industry standards for both members who have just entered real estate and those who are long-term professionals. Apply tonight what you learn today!

License Renewal
C.A.R. offers award-winning, online and home study, continuing education courses developed to meet all your license renewal requirements. All license renewal courses are approved by the Department of Real Estate (DRE) for both salespersons and brokers.

C.A.R.’s online courses (a complete online experience) make it easy for you to renew your real estate license online with high-quality content and testing from OnlineEd.com. Visit www.rebsonline.com.

C.A.R.’s real estate license renewal courses are also available through home study binders, CDs, or electronic PDF downloads, all with the ease of online exams. Visit store.car.org.

Professional Development
C.A.R. is proud to offer a range of highquality courses in both live lecture and online options to enhance your professional career in real estate.

Live lecture courses offered include:

• Distressed Properties: Familiarize yourself with the procedures used in the sale and disposition of short sales, foreclosures, and REOs (four hours of continuing education credit).

• Your Guide to the California Residential Purchase Agreement (RPA-CA): Learn from C.A.R.’s attorneys the several essential concepts, principles, and facts about the RPACA form that all REALTORS® should know (three hours of continuing education credit).

• Fundamentals of Transaction Coordination: Achieve a full understanding of the real estate transaction either to get your deals through quickly, or to effectively process the paper transactions as a coordinator.

Online courses offered include:

• Working With Foreclosures: Prepares you to work with sellers, buyers, and lenders in foreclosure and short sale situations.

• Broker Essentials: Covers topics that will help you build and manage an efficient and productive office.

• Agent Fundamentals: A series of courses providing you with the essential knowledge needed to reach your maximum potential.

For a complete list of C.A.R.’s live and online professional development courses, please visit http://www.car.org/education.

Professional Designations
C.A.R. offers access to professional designations to give you an edge in your business.

Green - Become the green real estate resource for your community. Learn the financial advantages of eco-friendly, energy-efficient properties and how to market to the green consumer.

GRI - The Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) designation fulfills all of your continuing education requirements for license renewal or allows you to obtain college-equivalent credits toward your broker's license while receiving essential training in marketing, real estate law, contracts, finance, and more. For information, contact the Professional Realty Institute at (888) 785-4800 or visit www.edesignations.com.

SRES - The Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®). By earning the SRES® designation, R E A LTORS® are prepared to approach the various niches of mature clients with the best options and information for them to make lifechanging decisions.

WINForms® Certification - After completing this one-day training, you will be able to effectively and efficiently guide REALTORS® and office staff through the use of WINForms® Desktop, WINForms Online®, Forms Advisor™, and Forms Tutor™ software.

For more information about designation and certification programs offered by C.A.R., including the Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR), e-PRO, and RELAY® Certification, visit education.car.org, or call (213) 739-8227 or cs@car.org.

Outreach Presentations
Each year, C.A.R.'s Leadership Team, economists, attorneys, and lobbyists speak at local associations and brokerage offices to deliver the latest details about market conditions, legal and legislative developments, effective ways to use technology in your day-to-day business, tips to maximize WINForms®, and more. For information, contact C.A.R. at (213) 739-8200.

REALTOR® S.W.A.T. - Special Weapons and Tactics to Survive a Down Market
In an effort to arm members with the most current and relevant resources in this challenging market, C.A.R. is going on the road, delivering valuable information on succeeding in today's market, including regional market trends, legal advice, and tips on how to work with challenging transactions. Each program includes lunch, your choice of a three-hour continuing education credit course on Foreclosures or Short Sales, a legal panel with experts in the field of Short Sales and Foreclosures, and an economic update. To register for a conference near you, visit www.REALTORSWAT.com or call (213) 739-8227.


C.A.R. Broker Services

C.A.R. Broker Services focuses on the broker's need for financial analysisand benchmarking, brokerage guidance, and education by providing broker-specific strategic tools and services to support the ongoing success of brokers and managers.

Real Estate Profit Navigator^TM
Real Estate Profit Navigator™ is a powerful Web-based tool designed to assist brokers and managers to improve their company’s profitability. Easily input your financial data to quickly display datarich, comparative reports detailing the financial health of your brokerage or office. Use these reports to analyze where your business is and how it can be more profitable in today’s market. Put the intelligence back in your business. For more information, visit http://www.rebos.com.

Broker Publications
C.A.R. Broker Services offers publications focused specifically on brokers' needs. For a complete list of broker publiscations, visit http://store.car.org.

Broker/Manager Training
C.A.R. offers brokers and managers a series of short one-hour courses that covers financial statements, structure and business planning, business operations and management of real estate, technology, and leadership. These courses are designed for licensed real estate brokers and managers who desire a better understanding of the factors that influence a brokerage. Whether you are just starting out or managing an established firm, the Broker Management Essentials courses will help you achieve maximum success as the operator of a real estate brokerage business. To learn more about these courses, visit www.rebsonline.com.


Governmental Affairs at a Glance

C.A.R. monitors legislation and regulations affecting the real estate brokerage industry and private property owners' rights in California. In addition, C.A.R. uses its Member Mobilization network to involve and educate REALTORS® and communicate the REALTOR® position to lawmakers. C.A.R. also administers political action committees (PACs) to support candidates who understand andreflect REALTORS®' interests and to promote or defeat real estate-related initiatives.

Federal 
At the federal level, C.A.R. works closely with the National Association of REALTORS® to protect REALTOR® business interests while promoting homeownership opportunities. Legislative victories during the 110th session of Congress included passing legislation that permanently increased the conforming loan limits, FHA loan limits, and VA loan limits in high-cost areas; permitted the veterans of recent conflicts to participate in the Qualified Veteran Mortgage Bond program; created a tax exemption for certain mortgage debt forgiveness; established a first-time homebuyer tax credit; and fixed FIRPTA so sellers are no longer required to furnish their Social Security number to the buyer. In 2009, C.A.R. will work with the California congressional delegation to strengthen not only California’s housing market, but the economy as a whole. 

State 
In 2008, C.A.R. successfully sponsored SB 1737, requiring disclosure to all parties whenever a licensee represents a buyer and originates a loan in a “1-4” transaction. C.A.R. also strongly opposed AB 2678, forcing it to change from a required point-of-sale energy audit and retrofit for all homes and commercial properties, which would have added untold delays and thousands of dollars to the cost of purchasing a home. C.A.R. supported instead a comprehensive statewide approach to flexible cost-effective energyefficiency improvements for existing buildings. C.A.R. successfully sought a veto of AB 1830, a misguided mortgage “reform” measure that attempted to create a new one-sided attorney fee rule that could have added new liability for mortgage brokers and a double standard that prejudiced real estate licensees in favor of institutional lenders. In 2009, C.A.R. will pursue a defensive legislative agenda in anticipation of new point-of-sale requirements, attempts to impose new tax liabilities on transactions an REALTORS®, and new restrictions on the housing supply. C.A.R. will also collaborate with allied groups to advance legislation that streamlines the transaction process, facilitates mortgage financing, and avoids imposition of new liability on REALTORS®.

Local 
C.A.R. tracks, monitors, and analyzes local governmental issues pertaining to housing and real estate in California on an ongoing basis. The staff works with individual REALTORS®, association executives, and governmental affairs directors at local associations to develop effective strategies for advocating the REALTOR® position on local issues. For information, contact Rick Laezman at(213) 739-8273 or richardl@car.org.

Member Mobilization
The Member Mobilization program is designed to support C.A.R.'s policy agendas by involving REALTORS® in lobbying and political activities. Thousands of REALTORS® have responded to C.A.R.'s Red Alerts and Calls-for-Action and contacted their legislators about specific pieces of legislation or policy initiatives. The Member Mobilization program has been credited with playing an important role in successfully achieving C.A.R.'s legislative agenda over the years. Join the C.A.R. Governmental Affairs Team by becoming a Legislative Liaison today! For more information, contact Lisa Edwards at (916) 492-5211 or via e-mail at lisae@car.org.

2009 Legislative Day
Each year, thousands of California REALTORS® convene at the State Capitol during Legislative Day to meet with their elected officials and discuss current issues affecting the real estate brokerage business. Legislative Day participants that have contributed $197 or more to the REALTOR® Action Fund are invited to attend the annual C.A.R. Capitol Reception, an opportunity to network with state lawmakers and other REALTORS®. This year, Legislative Day will be held on Wednesday, June 3. For more information, contact DeAnn Kerr at (800) 337-9285 or via e-mail at deannk@car.org.

Field Representatives
C.A.R. Field Representatives work in conjunction with C.A.R.’s Member Mobilization effort to coordinate grassroots and political activities in cooperation with local associations. Field Representatives support the C.A.R. Legislative Liaison program and augment C.A.R.’s political fundraising efforts. For more information, contact Lisa Edwards at (916) 492-5211 or via e-mail at lisae@car.org.


Tackling Housing Affordability

In response to concerns about housing affordability within the Golden State, C.A.R. created the Housing Affordability Fund to address this critical issue. With a mission to serve as the philanthropic arm of C.A.R., the Housing Affordability Fund has been successful at working in tandem with our political advocacy efforts to promote homeownership, create an increase in housing stock, and support programs that will involve a REALTOR® transaction. Housing affordability isn't an issue that affects the less fortunate; it affects us all.

With your voluntary, 100-percent tax-deductible contribution, you can help the non-profit that supports your industry. Show your clients that you care about affordability in our state by wearing your Key to California Homeownership, a special lapel pin for contributors, beginning at the $100 contribution level. Tax-deductible contributions to the Housing Affordability Fund can be sent to: C.A.R. Housing Affordability Fund (C.A.R.H.A.F.), 525 S. Virgil Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90020. Additional information about C.A.R.H.A.F., including funding request forms, is available at www.carhaf.org. For more information, contact Monica Rodriguez at (213) 739-8380 or monicar@car.org.


Political Action

Every year in Sacramento and Washington, D.C., legislation is introduced that threatens our members' ability to serve clients and sell real estate. Your voluntary contribution of $197 to the REALTOR® Action Fund (RAF) is used to support or oppose issues that impact REALTORS® and to support candidates sympathetic to REALTOR® issues. Through the following political action committees, C.A.R. supports quality candidates and issues that promote homeownership, private property rights, and REALTORS®' rights to do business:

CREPAC - California Real Estate Political Action Committee
CREPAC/Federal
CREIEC - California Real Estate Independent Expenditure Committee
IMPAC - Issues Mobilization Political Action Committee

CREPAC and CREIEC both support candidates at the state and local government levels who understand the goals and philosophies of REALTORS®. These bipartisan committees are not affiliated with any political party. CREPAC/Federal supports qualified candidates for the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate, and IMPAC supports or opposes local and/or state ballot measures that affect real property rights in California.

C.A.R.’s PACs protect the REALTOR® profession and livelihood. REALTORS® are urged to make an annual investment! For more information, contact Lisa Edwards at (916) 492-5211 or via e-mail at lisae@car.org.


Industry Research and Market Data at a Glance

C.A.R. closely monitors and analyzes trends in the residential real estate industry that affect your clients' ability to own their own homes. C.A.R.'s economists and research analysts are widely recognized as leading experts by key industry players, media outlets, and individual REALTORS® looking for insight into developments within the state's real estate sector.

Market Stats
Considered industry experts on California's housing market, C.A.R.'s economists closely track and analyze trends, sales activity, and other economic indicators to provide timely data REALTORS® can use to explain market conditions to their clients. C.A.R. releases statistics about median home prices, sales activity, supply indicators, and affordability levels throughout the state, as well as detailed price information for more than 300 cities and communities. Monthly statistics can be found in the Economics section of C.A.R. Online (http://www.car.org/economics).

Targeted Research Reports
In addition to the monthly market data C.A.R. distributes, the Association conducts in-depth surveys about trends and issues impacting your business. Reports include:
    - Internet Versus Traditional Buyers Survey
    - Survey of California Home Sellers
    - State of the California Housing Market
    - Member Use of Technology
    - Survey of Top Producers
Reports also include data released through C.A.R.'s Housing Market Series, general membership surveys and more. Excerpts from the reports are available by logging on to the Economics section of C.A.R. Online; complete reports can be purchased by contacting C.A.R. Customer Service at (213) 739-8227 or visiting www.clarusresource.com/datamine.

TRENDS in California Real Estate
This monthly, subscription-based newsletter provides current information on housing market conditions for California and its major regions thatREALTORS® can use in listing presentations, marketing materials, and more. Topics include median price and sales data, unsold inventory indexes, time on market, and housing affordability indexes. For subscription information, call (213) 739-8352.

County Economic Profiles
Developed by C.A.R.'s economics and research team, this subscription-based product is the only comprehensive single source of trends for California county economies and their housing markets available today. Updated ona monthly basis, each profile covers a specific county; 25 counties are available. To view a sample profile or to subscribe, visit www.clarusresource.com/datamine or call (213) 739-8278.


C.A.R. Contact Information

Executive Office
525 South Virgil Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90020
Phone: (213) 739-8200
Fax: (213) 480-7724

Legislative Office
980 Ninth Street, Suite 1430
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 492-5200
Fax: (916) 444-2033

Web site
www.car.org

E-mail
When sending e-mail to staff, use the staff member's first name and the first initial of the last name followed by @car.org. For example, to e-mail C.A.R. Vice President and Chief Economist Leslie Appleton-Young, type lesliea@car.org.


C.A.R. Phone List

C.A.R. Online (213) 739-8229
California Living Network (213) 739-8389
California Real Estate magazine (213) 739-8320
CALIFORNIA REALTOR® EXPO (213) 739-8301
California REALTOR® Showcase (213) 739-8301
County Economic Profiles (213) 739-8278
Customer Service/Product Order (213) 739-8227
Economics (213) 739-8352
Education (213) 739-8214
FederalIssues (213) 739-8375
Housing Affordability Fund (213) 739-8380
Legal Action Fund (213) 739-8341
Legal Hotline (213) 739-8282
     Designated REALTORS® & Office Managers (213) 739-8350
Local Governmental Relations (213) 739-8273
Media and Public Relations (213) 739-8304
Meetings, Business (213) 739-8384
Member Advantage Program (213) 739-8303
Membership Information (213) 739-8265
Outreach Presentations (213) 739-8200
RELAY^TM Transaction Management System (866) 736-7328
ret2 magazine (213) 739-8320
Risk Management Packages (213) 739-8227
Standard Forms (213) 739-8232
Strategic Defense Program (213) 739-8379
Trends in California Real Estate (213) 739-8352
WINForms® - General Information (213) 739-8227
     Registration/Installation (800) 228-9466

Have a question, but don't know who to call?
Try C.A.R.'s Customer Contact Center at (213) 739-8227.



FAQs

Q: Where can I find information pertaining to the disclosure requirements for different types of transactions?
A: C.A.R. Legal Services publishes four disclosure charts to help REALTORS® and their clients determine the disclosure requirements applicable to commonly handled real estate transactions. Members can download these easy-to-use reference guides from the Legal section of C.A.R. Online at http://www.car.org/legal.

Q: I've noticed I need my member number to use some of C.A.R.'s member services. Where do I find it?
A: Your NRDS number is printed on the membership card you may have received from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. If you have a copy of California Real Estate magazine, look for your member number on the label. You also can find your number on the "Edit" screen of your free member Web page on C.A.R. Online at Member Center.

Q: Why haven't I received my C.A.R. magazine?
A: C.A.R. probably doesn't have your new or updated member record yet. Changes in membership information typically take four weeks to be processed by both your local association and C.A.R. If you would like to change the address to which your magazines are being delivered, notify your local association of your preferred mailing address.

Q: How do I renew my real estate license?
A: The Department of Real Estate (DRE) can assist you in the process of renewing your real estate license. C.A.R. does not handle real estate license renewals. The DRE can be reached at dre.ca.gov or through one of its district offices: Fresno, (559) 445-5009; Los Angeles, (213) 620-2072; Oakland, (510) 622-2552; Sacramento, (916) 227-0931; and San Diego, (619) 525-4192. For information about C.A.R.'s continuing education offerings, contact your local association, visit C.A.R. Online, or log on to car.learningcenter.com.

Q: How do I access WINForms®?
A: First, to access WINForms®, you will need to create a username and password by logging in to C.A.R. Online at www.car.org, then click on either the Sign-In or WINForms® button. Second, you also need to determine which version of the software best suits your needs. WINForms Online® allows you to quickly and easily create, edit, and complete the forms required forany real estate transaction, and can be used on the Internet from anywhere, anytime. WINForms® Desktop software operates as stand-alone software on your computer, running on Windows® 2000, ME, or XP. Third, when installing the software, you may encounter firewall issues that prevent you from completing the installation process. You will be prompted to determine which firewall vendor is causing the problem. Follow the online prompts to correctly configure your firewall.

Q: How do I change my address in C.A.R. records?
A: Call your local association with any changes. Member records are collected and updated by the local associations, which then insert office codes and other local information before forwarding data to C.A.R. For additional questions about your membership information, contact C.A.R.'s Membership Department at (213) 739-8265.


For a PDF version of C.A.R. at a Glance 2009, please click here.