UPDATE: November 17, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: EDD requiring proof of self-employment; another round of state stimulus checks going out
• The Market & Industry: Mortgage rates remain low; California's home sales solid in October 
• Around the State: More states join California in urging booster shots for all; COVID-19 cases remain low for now

Health Check-Up: Pfizer asks approval for COVID-19 pill and agrees to allow other nations to make generic versions; 10% of U.S. kids aged 5-11 have had first dose of vaccine; where to make your appointment

Read the full issue here.




UPDATE: November 10, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: California unemployment finally drops; U.S. jobless rate reaches pandemic low
• The Market & Industry: Mortgage rates dip again; California's housing affordability index rose slightly in Q2
  
• Around the State: State officials urge boosters; L.A. mandates vaccination proof for many indoor venues; U.S. lifts ban on international travelers; U.C. Berkeley cancels football game due to new cases
  
• Health Check-Up: Nearly 1 million young children vaccinated in first week; how to make your appointment
  

Read the full issue here.

 

 

UPDATE: November 3, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: U.S. jobless claims drop again; California unemployment finally falls slightly
• The Market & Industry: Mortgage applications fall again; mortgage rates lower slightly
• Around the State: Children's doses of COVID-19 vaccine available today; LA Mayor tests positive; cases remain low
• Health Check-Up: CDC approves Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11; California begins children's vaccinations

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: October 27, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: U.S. jobless claims drop; California unemployment jumps
• The Market & Industry: U.S. home sales rebounded last month; mortgage rates rising; Fed will begin tapering in November
• Around the State: COVID-19 cases plummet; many vaccinated state employees are not being tested
• Health Check-Up: FDA advisors recommend Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11; Moderna's trial shows its vaccine safe for children ages 6 to 11

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: October 25, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: National jobless claims drop to pre-pandemic level; California unemployment still rising
• The Market & Industry: Market still strong, stabilizing; Freddie Mac & Fannie Mae predict home prices will continue growing; mortgage rates rise slightly
• Around the State: Hospital staff strike for more staffing; 97 percent of LAUSD teachers and administrators meet vaccination deadline
• Health Check-Up: Halloween gets the green light; Moderna booster is recommended for approval; J&J vaccine needs a second dose; Colin Powell dies of COVID-19

Read the full issue here.

UPDATE: October 13, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: Jobless claims fall; auto insurers told to refund more premiums
• The Market & Industry: Remote working may allow more renters to buy homes; mortgage rates nudge upward
• Around the State: Cases continue to decrease
• Health Check-Up: Even mild COVID has long-term neurological effects; Moderna will not share its vaccine recipe

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: October 6, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: Jobless claims rise; some local eviction moratoria in California continue
• The Market & Industry: Mortgage rates rise; supply chain issues and anticipated inflation cool forecasts for Q3 2021
• Around the State: Eligible California students mandated to receive vaccine for in-person schooling; California National Guard called to assist beleaguered hospitals in
• Northern California and Central Valley
• Health Check-Up: COVID-19 cases slow nationwide; Merck applies for approval for antiviral medicine for COVID; Johnson & Johnson applies for approval for boosters

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: September 29, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: U.S. jobless claims rise again; state rental relief programs continue through eviction moratorium ends tomorrow; apply now for the relief grant program or for unemployment benefits for weeks before Sept. 4
• The Market & Industry: Mortgage rates remain low, sales and mortgage applications slow
• Around the State: Some counties and school districts requiring vaccinations; 200 SF police request religious exemptions; COVID cases slowing in California
• Health Check-Up: Pfizer applies to FDA for approval for vaccine for 5-11-year-olds; CDC expands booster eligibility

Read the full issue here.

UPDATE: September 22, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: U.S. jobless claims rose due to Hurricane Ida but California claims dropped; California labor market grows; Federal Child Tax Credits roll out; state small business relief grant applications are open
• The Market & Industry: Mortgage rates tick slightly up; sales slow but prices still high; forbearance ending soon
• Around the State: California has lowest transmission rate in the U.S.
• Health Check-Up: Boosters not approved for general population, approved for high-risk groups; Pfizer announces results showing safety for vaccine for children 5-11; majority in U.S. say public health restrictions worth the cost

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: September 8, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: PUA ended Sept. 4; state stimulus checks go out; jobless claims lower
• The Market & Industry: Surprisingly few jobs created; mortgage rates mostly flat
• Around the State: Two new strains identified in California, but vaccinations seem to be slowing hospitalizations
• Health Check-Up: Earliest COVID-19 death in the U.S. was Jan. 19

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: September 1, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: PUA ends Sept. 4; jobless claims rising
• The Market & Industry: Consumer confidence lowers; interest rates rise slightly; U.S. Supreme Court rules against CDC's authority to maintain national eviction moratorium, but leaves local ordinances in place
• Around the State: Cases rising; 80 percent of Californians at least partially vaccinated
• Health Check-Up: ICUs filling up; do not take ivermectin to prevent or treat COVID-19

Read the full issue here.

UPDATE: May 9, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: For another week, U.S. jobless claims fall while California’s rise
• The Market & Industry: Consumers pessimistic about homebuying
• Around the State: Masks still required in offices unless everyone vaccinated
• Health Check-Up: New potential COVID-19 antiviral drug identified

Read the full issue here.

UPDATE: May 5, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: Newsom signs $6.2 billion tax cut for small business PPP recipients
• The Market & Industry: FHFA announces new refinances option
• Around the State: Hospitalizations at lowest levels since March 2020
• Health Check-Up: Experts caution not to skip your second dose of the vaccine

Read the full issue here.

UPDATE: APRIL 29, 2021, 4 P.M.

FINAL ROUND OF CA COVID-19 RELIEF CLOSES MAY 4

Application period for the sixth and final round of funding for the California small business grant program is open April 28 through May 4.

Read More



UPDATE: APRIL 29, 2021, 11 A.M.

• The Economy & Your Finances: Final round of applications for California small business grant program opens today
• The Market & Industry: California market closed out April strong
• Around the State: California has lowest case rate in the nation
• Health Check-Up: CDC issues new outdoor mask guidance for fully vaccinated people

Read the full issue here.

UPDATE: APRIL 21, 2021

• The Economy & Your Finances: Paycheck Protection Program funds may run out before end of the month 
• The Market & Industry: California median home price hits new record high 
• Around the State: All Californians age 16+ eligible for vaccination 
• Health Check-Up: Fewer than 6k Americans have been infected with COVID-19 after full vaccination

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: APRIL 14, 2021

•   The Economy & Your Finances: Weekly unemployment claims shoot up
•    The Market & Industry: CFPB recommends new COVID-19 foreclosure protections
•    Around the State: California set to reopen June 15, all Californians over 16 eligible for vaccination starting tomorrow
•    Health Check-Up: Risk of contracting COVID-19 from surfaces is low

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: APRIL 7, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: March jobs report shows 916k increase in nonfarm jobs
•    The Market & Industry: REALTORS® expect sales to improve in coming weeks
•    Around the State: California economy to reopen June 15
•    Health Check-Up: CDC declares travel safe for fully vaccinated Americans

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: MARCH 31, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Unemployment drops to pandemic low
•    The Market & Industry: CDC extends eviction moratorium through June 30
•    Around the State: All Californians over 16 will be eligible for vaccination in April
•    Health Check-Up: Health officials urge caution over 

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: MARCH 24, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Federal and state tax deadlines extended
•    The Market & Industry: Mortgage rates climb
•    Around the State: Vaccines could be available to all by May 1
•    Health Check-Up: CDC urges the fully vaccinated to keep wearing masks 

Read the full issue here.

UPDATE: MARCH 17, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: President Biden signs 1.9 trillion stimulus package
•    The Market & Industry: California opens state portal for rental assistance
•    Around the State: Vaccine eligibility expanded to include high-risk Californians
•    Health Check-Up: All U.S. adults could be vaccine eligible by May 1

Read the full issue here.

UPDATE: MARCH 16, 2021

California opens COVID-19 Rent Relief Portal

CA COVID-19 Rent Relief will help income-eligible households pay rent and utilities, both for past due and future payments. The federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 provides funding to support the program and tenant (renter) protection laws signed by Governor Newsom.

You can find the website here.

 

UPDATE: MARCH 11, 2021

President Biden signs the American Rescue Plan Act

President Biden has signed a $1.9 trillion stimulus bill that will provide direct payments and extended unemployment benefits to struggling Americans and badly needed funds for struggling homeowners, housing providers and small businesses, including REALTORS®.

C.A.R. has advocated for many of the provisions that would provide meaningful relief to REALTORS® including extensions of Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits and additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The law will also provide direct payments of $1,400 to most Americans and mortgage and rental assistance. 

Read more about the American Rescue Plan Act here.

 

UPDATE: MARCH 10, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Congress nearing passage of $1.9 trillion stimulus package
•    The Market & Industry: Buyer demand remains strong
•    Around the State: California gearing up to reopen
•    Health Check-Up: CDC okays mask-free indoor gatherings for the fully vaccinated

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: MARCH 3, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: $1.9 trillion stimulus package passes House, heads to Senate
•    The Market & Industry: Interest rates rise, market slows somewhat
•    Around the State: Deal reached to reopen schools
•    Health Check-Up: FDA authorizes Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: FEBRUARY 24, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Newsom signs $7.6 billion stimulus package
•    The Market & Industry: C.A.R. revises 2021 forecast higher than previously estimated
•    Around the State: Study shows California variant more infectious
•    Health Check-Up: FDA confirms safety of Johnson & Johnson vaccine
 
Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: FEBRUARY 17, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: California outpaces nation on jobless claims
•    The Market & Industry: Forbearance and foreclosure relief extended
•    Around the State: Millions more added to vaccine eligibility list in California
•    Health Check-Up: Double-masking significantly boosts protection

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: FEBRUARY 10, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: U.S. economy added fewer jobs than expected in January
•    The Market & Industry: California market continues upward trend
•    Around the State: Cases, deaths, hospitalizations declining
•    Health Check-Up: Johnson & Johnson applies for emergency-use authorization

Read the full issue here.
 

UPDATE: FEBRUARY 3, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: U.S. economy shrinks 3.5 percent in 2020
•    The Market & Industry: California eviction moratorium extended
•    Around the State: Winter surge stabilizing
•    Health Check-Up: South Africa variant detected in the U.S.

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JANUARY 21, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Jobless claims fall nationwide, rise in California
•    The Market & Industry: Eviction and foreclosure moratoriums extended
•    Around the State: California stay-at-home order lifted
•    Health Check-Up: Moderna vaccine less effective against South African variant
 
Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JANUARY 20, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: President Biden unveils $1.9 trillion relief plan
•    The Market & Industry: California market ends year on strong note
•    Around the State: California surpasses 3 million cases
•    Health Check-Up: Wearing two masks can boost efficacy

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JANUARY 13

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Newsom releases new budget proposal
•    The Market & Industry: Low rates likely to remain for a while
•    Around the State: California passes 30k deaths, vaccine rollout slower than expected
•    Health Check-Up: More infectious strain likely spreading in California
 
Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: JANUARY 8, 2021

New Quick Guides & Updated Q&A

C.A.R. has posted two new COVID-19-related Quick Guides to the Quick Guides page on car.org:

• Complying With the Industry Guidance Showing Rules
• Using the C.A.R. PEAD-V Form

We have also updated the FAQ on the Industry Guidance on Showings. 

UPDATE: JANUARY 6, 2021

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Initial applications window fro California small business grant program closes Jan. 13
•    The Market & Industry: Housing market closed out the year strong
•    Around the State: Experts warn of deadly surge to come post-holidays
•    Health Check-Up: New mutation discovered in South Africa
 
Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: DECEMBER 30, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: President Trump signs stimulus bill into law
•    The Market & Industry: Buyer demand remains strong
•    Around the State: California's surge worst in U.S.
•    Health Check-Up: New mutated strain detected in Colorado
 
Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: DECEMBER 28, 2020
 
New COVID-19 Small Business Relief Program Available to REALTORS®

Starting on Wednesday, REALTORS® can apply for California’s new relief grant program for small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The program provides micro grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 to eligible small businesses (including independent contractors and sole proprietors) impacted by COVID-19 and the related health and safety restrictions. The grant amount will be based on the business’s annual revenue as documented in its most recent tax return:
 
For annual revenue of $1,000 to $100,000, the available grant amount is $5,000.
For annual revenue of greater than $100,000 up to $1,000,000, the available grant amount is $15,000.
For annual revenue of greater than $1,000,000 up to $2,500,000, the available grant amount is $25,000.
 
A small business must satisfy certain criteria to be eligible to receive a grant award — read the criteria in full here. Please keep in mind that even if you meet all eligibility requirements, it is not guaranteed you will receive a grant.

Applications for the program must be submitted through a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that has partnered with the state of California to distribute the funds. The list of partners, organized by location and by language services, can be found here.

The first round for applications opens on December 30, 2020, at 8:00 a.m. and closes on January 8, 2021, at 11:59 p.m. Approval notifications will begin on January 13, 2021. There will be a second round for application submissions and reviews, although the dates for that round have not yet been announced.

See the grant California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program website for more information.

 

UPDATE: DECEMBER 26, 2020

President Trump Signs Stimulus Bill

President Trump has signed a $900 billion stimulus bill into law that will provide direct payments to Americans, additional unemployment benefits, and funding for housing providers and small businesses, including REALTORS®.

Among provisions C.A.R. advocated for, the bill will provide an additional $300 per week in federal employment benefits for individuals receiving Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) and traditional unemployment. 

It will also expand the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) by allowing certain eligible businesses to receive a second PPP loan of up to $2 million. 

See full details of the law.

 

UPDATE: DECEMBER 23, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Stimulus package deadline approaches
•    The Market & Industry: Signs of seasonal slowdown beginning
•    Around the State: Hospitals running out of beds, first vaccines administered
•    Health Check-Up: California launches CA Notify contact tracing app

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: DECEMBER 21, 2020

Congress has passed a $900 billion stimulus bill that will provide direct payments and additional unemployment benefits to struggling Americans and badly needed funds for housing providers and small businesses, including REALTORS®. President Trump is expected to sign the bill shortly.
Update 12/23: President Trump is indicating he may not sign the relief bill. More information to come.

C.A.R. has advocated for many of the provisions that would provide meaningful relief to REALTORS® including extensions of Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits and additional forgivable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. The law will also provide direct payments of $600 to Americans and rental assistance. 

Specifically, the law will:

Unemployment Benefits and Direct Payments

• Allow an individual to receive unemployment benefits (traditional or PUA) for up to 50 weeks, through March 13, 2021 in California. 
• Provide an additional $300 a week in federal unemployment benefits for individuals receiving PUA or traditional unemployment compensation for 11 weeks, beginning December 27, 2020, and ending March 13, 2021 in California.  
• Provide a one-time direct payment of $600 for individuals making up to $75,000 and $1,200 for couples making up to $150,000, as well as an extra $600 per eligible child dependent.
• Payments are expected to begin rolling out before the end of the year but will take time to get to all eligible recipients.

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

• Provide an additional $284 billion for PPP loans.
• Allow certain eligible businesses to receive a second PPP loan of up to $2 million. To qualify for a “PPP second draw,” businesses, independent contractors and other self-employed persons must have 300 or fewer employees, have used or will use the full amount of their first PPP loan, and be able to demonstrate at least a 25 percent reduction in gross receipts in any quarter of 2020 compared to the same quarter in 2019.
• Create a simplified forgiveness process for PPP loans up to $150,000.
• Allow use of PPP funds to cover purchase of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for employees and certain other expenses not eligible for the first round of PPP loans.

Eviction Moratorium & Rental Assistance

• Provide $25 billion to states and local governments for rental assistance.
• Allow landlord to directly apply for the funds.
• Extend the CDC's eviction moratorium through January 31, 2021. California’s eviction moratorium already extends through January 31, 2021, so REALTORS® should see little effect from this provision.

UPDATE: DECEMBER 16, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Stimulus package deadline approaches
•    The Market & Industry: Signs of seasonal slowdown beginning
•    Around the State: Hospitals running out of beds, first vaccines administered
•    Health Check-Up: California launches CA Notify contact tracing app
 
Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: DECEMBER 9, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Job growth slows
•    The Market & Industry: Pandemic changed buyer preferences
•    Around the State: New regional stay-at-home order announced
•    Health Check-Up: U.K. starts vaccinations
 
Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: DECEMBER 3, 2020

REALTORS® can continue to provide essential services but must continue to comply with state and local health ordinances

Governor Newsom announced new restrictions on top of the color-coded tier system. If a region’s ICU capacity falls below 15 percent, a new stay-at-home order will be applied in that region for at least three weeks. State officials anticipate the majority of the state will qualify for this stay-at-home order within the next few weeks. Visit the government’s COVID website for information on your specific county.

Under the new stay-at-home order, bars, wineries, personal service businesses like hair and nail salons will close, and retail establishments will be reduced to 20 percent capacity. Critical infrastructure (including real estate) and schools with waivers will stay open, and restaurants will be allowed to continue take-out and delivery service only. In addition, all non-essential travel is prohibited statewide.

For the time being, real estate remains an essential service, and the rules REALTORS® have been following under the color-coded tier system still apply. REALTORS® will be able to continue conducting business in regions where the new stay-at-home order has been implemented, provided they follow the state guidelines and local showing rules if more restrictive. 

REALTORS® must continue to comply with state and local health ordinances in order to reduce the risk of exposure to, and spread of, COVID-19, while providing the essential services of residential and commercial real estate. The Enforcement Division of the Department of Real Estate has made clear that complaints regarding non-compliance with the showing protocols have been and will continue to be investigated.

For more information on safely and legally practicing real estate during COVID-19, see the collection of COVID Legal Documents.



UPDATE: DECEMBER 2, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Watch for income verification notices from EDD
•    The Market & Industry: Record-low mortgage rates, but REALTORS® less optimistic
•    Around the State: Newsom institutes statewide curfew
•    Health Check-Up: AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine up to 90 percent effective

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: NOVEMBER 25, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: 750k Californians set to lose unemployment benefits on Dec. 26
•    The Market & Industry: Record-low mortgage rates, but REALTORS® less optimistic
•    Around the State: Newsom institutes statewide curfew
•    Health Check-Up: AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine up to 90 percent effective
 
Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: NOVEMBER 18, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: U.S. faces a tough winter ahead
•    The Market & Industry: Lack of inventory dampens affordability
•    Around the State: Unprecedented surge drops 41 counties to most restrictive tier
•    Health Check-Up: Moderna vaccine 94.5 percent effective
 
Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: NOVEMBER 11, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Unemployment edges down, stimulus package before 2021 still uncertain
•    The Market & Industry: Reasons for optimism heading into 2021
•    Around the State: Cases and hospitalizations on the rise
•    Health Check-Up: Pfizer vaccine shows promising early results

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: NOVEMBER 4, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: California accounts for one-fifth of U.S. unemployment claims
The Market & Industry: Unseasonably strong market persists
Around the State: California no longer state with most COVID cases
Health Check-Up: COVID-19 spreads quickly through households

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: OCTOBER 28, 2020

Deadlines for License Application Fees, Renewal Fees & Continuing Education Extended Until June 30, 2021

Governor Gavin Newsom issued Executive Order N-83-20, which addresses a variety of COVID-related issues. Among them, the Executive Order extends the deadline by which real estate license application and renewal fees need to be paid until June 30, 2021. Continuing education requirements for licensees are also extended through the same date.

The Executive Order also allows California residents 70 years of age or older to renew their drivers' licenses by mail.
 
You can read the full text of N-83-20 here.

 

UPDATE: OCTOBER 28, 2020
 
•    The Economy & Your Finances: California unemployment claims fall
•    The Market & Industry: Homebuying slows in California
•    Around the State: California staving off nationwide surge
•    Health Check-Up: FDA approves remdesivir for COVID-19

Read the full issue here.

UPDATE: OCTOBER 23, 2020

The Department of Real Estate Threatens Enforcement of COVID Showing Protocols

In a letter released on October 9, the Enforcement Division of the Department of Real Estate (DRE) reiterated that the health and safety of consumers is a priority, and that complaints regarding non-compliance with the showing protocols have been and will continue to be investigated.

COVID showing protocols (per the COVID-19 Real Estate Guidance or "the Guidance") require, among other things, that all visitors to a property wear masks, agree to the posted rules of entry and use hand sanitizer upon entry. Agents must also clean and disinfect the property both before and after each showing and ensure that social distancing and all other COVID showing protocols are adhered to.

In demonstration of how seriously the DRE takes these showing protocols, the Enforcement Section released a letter indicating the steps it will take upon receiving information of a licensee's non-compliance. Those steps are taken in the following order:

1. Attempt to educate the licensee or licensees, including contacting a licensee’s responsible broker if the licensee is a salesperson or broker associate. As part of its education effort, the Enforcement Section will review the Guidance with the licensee and seek to obtain assurances from the licensee and the licensee’s broker that the brokerage, its affiliates/agents and its employees will comply with the Guidance going forward.
2. If a licensee or that licensee’s broker continues to operate outside the Guidance, the Department may consider pursuing citations and/or other disciplinary action, as is deemed appropriate. The Department also may refer the licensee and the licensee’s broker to state or local health and/or law enforcement officials.
3. The DRE has gone so far as to actually encourage agents to come forward and make complaints. The letter concludes, "If DRE licensees are made aware of a real estate licensee who is not following the Guidance, please contact the Department of Real Estate at 1-877-373-4542.”

 

UPDATE: OCTOBER 21, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: Economy unlikely to return to normal before 2022
•    The Market & Industry: Calif. market outperforms expectations
•    Around the State: New guidance for private gatherings
•    Health Check-Up: Nevada man confirmed to have contracted COVID-19 twice

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: OCTOBER 14, 2020

•    The Economy & Your Finances: New PPP loan forgiveness application
•    The Market & Industry: Prices remain high while inventory tightens
•    Around the State: New guidance for private gatherings
•    Health Check-Up: Arrival of vaccine unlikely to bring everything back to normal

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: OCTOBER 7, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: Hiring slowed in September
The Market & Industry: Supply remains a stumbling block
Around the State: New equity metric may slow reopening
Health Check-Up: CDC revises guidelines to acknowledge airborne transmission

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: New unemployment claims unexpectedly increase 
The Market & Industry: Mortgage applications increase 25 percent 
Around the State: San Francisco becomes first Bay Area locale to enter orange tier 
Health Check-Up: California cases fall below plateau 

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 23, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: EDD stops accepting new claims through Oct. 5 
The Market & Industry: Median Calif. home price tops $700k 
Around the State: Calif. deaths top 15k, positivity rate decreasing 
Health Check-Up: Federal government outlines plan for vaccine distribution 

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 15, 2020

Step-by-Step Guides Moved to Car.org

From now on, the following guides will only be accessible through the COVID Legal Documents webpage on car.org:


Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA):

Step-by-step instructions for filing a PUA claim
Step-by-step guidance for PUA certification and other post-application information

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans:
Step-by-step guide for PPP loan forgiveness (with employees)
Step-by-step guide for PPP loan forgiveness (without employees)

If you have any questions, you may you may call (213) 351-8450 for 24x7 support via SMS text and live support between 8:00 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. or email [email protected].

UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 9, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: Unemployment ticks up in California, falls nationwide
The Market & Industry: Market holding strong, mortgage rates unlikely to drop lower
Around the State: August deadliest month for California
Health Check-Up: Concerns about virus rollout and safety

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 1, 2020

New Q&A on COVID-19 Tenant Relief Act of 2020
Yesterday, on August 31, Governor Newsom signed the COVID-19 Tenant Relief Act of 2020 into law.

Under this act, when a tenant has not paid rent for any period between March 1, 2020, and January 31, 2021, the COVID-19 Tenant Relief Act of 2020 ("Rent Relief Law") will allow most residential tenants to remain in the rental property through January of 2021 as long as the tenant makes a declaration under penalty of perjury that they are unable to pay their rent or meet other financial obligations because of circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For rent that comes due between September 1, 2020, and January 31, 2021, the tenant is responsible for paying at least 25%. However, that amount need only be paid by January 31, 2021. Otherwise, the tenant would be at risk of being evicted for non-payment of rent through an unlawful detainer process, but not before February 1, 2021. After January 31, 2021, and with the exception of the 25% of rent owed from September through January, the landlord will not be able to base an unlawful detainer action on a demand for payment of rent that came due during any time between March 1, 2020, and January 31, 2021.

However, the balance of the unpaid rent is still owed. The Rent Relief Law permits a claim for the unpaid rent to be brought in small claims court, beginning March 1, 2021, even if the amount at issue would otherwise be more than the small claims court limits.

For more information on the COVID-19 Tenant Relief Act of 2020, see the full Q&A on car.org.

 

UPDATE: AUGUST 19, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: New unemployment claims dip
The Market & Industry: Housing recovery continues, Calif. to end statewide eviction moratorium on Sept. 1
Around the State: Calif. hits 600k cases, top health official resigns
Health Check-Up: Regular masks don't protect against wildfire smoke

Read the full issue here.
 

UPDATE: AUGUST 12, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: President signs executive actions on coronavirus relief
The Market & Industry: Mortgage applications up, many homes seeing multiple offers
Around the State: Technical glitches lead to case undercount
Health Check-Up: More children testing positive

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: AUGUST 8, 2020

President Trump signs executive order on stimulus aid relief

With Congress unable to reach a deal on the next coronavirus relief package, President Trump on Saturday signed executive orders that would extend enhanced federal unemployment benefits, cut payroll taxes for some employees, continue a temporary ban on evictions and defer student loans.

It’s unclear whether Trump has the legal authority to make such changes on his own, because the power to collect taxes, spend money and write laws rests with Congress. The impact of the orders may be limited, and legal challenges are expected.

Congress has been unable to agree on how much to provide for unemployment insurance, whether to continue delaying student loan payments, whether Congress should impose an eviction moratorium, or help renters make payments, and how much to provide to help schools reopen and to help state and local governments weather the crisis.

Read the Los Angeles Times story.

 

UPDATE: AUGUST 6, 2020

• The Economy & Your Finances: U.S. economy reports record-breaking decline
• The Market & Industry: Housing sector remains strong
• Around the State: State deaths pass 9k, Central Valley new hotspot
• Health Check-Up: Vaccine could be available by 2021

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JULY 31, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan application deadline is Aug. 8.

The deadline to apply for a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loan is Saturday, August 8, 2020. For some members, a PPP loan may be a way to replace income lost during the pandemic without having to repay a loan. Borrowers can potentially get 100% of their PPP loan forgiven, which means the loan will become a grant and will not need to be repaid. Sole proprietors, independent contractors, and other self-employed individuals all qualify for PPP loans. Most real estate brokers and real estate firms are therefore likely to qualify.

One common question has been whether a PPP loan must be reported by members receiving unemployment or Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits. Neither the California EDD nor the U.S. Department of Labor have provided guidance on this issue.

However, since the $600 federal addition to UI or PUA benefits has ended (as of July 25), many members are reconsidering whether it makes sense to apply for a PPP loan now, even if they are eligible for PUA or UI benefits. Members without employees may be eligible for fully forgivable loans up to $20,833.

While there is no guidance on whether recipients of a PPP loan must report loan proceeds when certifying for benefits, the California EDD has said it is safest to report the proceeds until guidance is available from the appropriate government agencies. It’s important to note that reporting the PPP proceeds could impact receipt of Pandemic Unemployment Assistance or regular unemployment benefits for eight weeks, so members should consider the potential trade off before deciding to apply for a PPP loan.

Entities making PPP loans include banks, financial technology companies, and credit unions. Applications must be submitted to the lender rather than to the SBA directly. To apply, contact your regular bank, another brick and mortar bank, or various FinTech companies providing PPP loans. Information on such entities can be found in our SBA Loan FAQ, found at the link below.

More information about PPP loans can be found here: SBA Loan FAQs for Agents. General questions regarding the PPP loan forgiveness process should be directed to the COVID Relief Hotline at 213-351-8450 or [email protected].

 

UPDATE: JULY 29, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: Unemployment rises, stimulus package negotiations begin
The Market & Industry: Wave of upcoming evictions anticipated
Around the State: California is a "new New York"
Health Check-Up: Moderna's vaccine study begins final testing phase

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: JULY 22, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: Additional $600 weekly federal unemployment to end this week
The Market & Industry: Calif. market rebounded in June
Around the State: 90 percent of Calif. students to start school year online
Health Check-Up: Results from early vaccine trials encouraging

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JULY 16, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: Federal taxes due today, $600 extra weekly unemployment to end July 25
The Market & Industry: Buyer demand on the rise, renters facing significant challenges
Around the State: Newsom shuts down all bars, indoor restaurants and more
Health Check-Up: Avoid poorly ventilated indoor spaces

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JULY 13, 2020, 5: 58 p.m.

Governor Newsom’s Shutdown Order of 7/13 Does Not Affect Brokers or Offices

On Monday, July 13, Governor Newsom issued a new shutdown order — this order does not affect the current practices of real estate brokers or their offices. Based on updates to the State’s Industry Guidance for Real Estate Transactions made on July 2, C.A.R.’s legal team revised our Reopening Brokerage Offices FAQ. Today’s order requires no further changes to the FAQ because real estate remains an essential service. Remember to check to see if your city or county has stricter rules.



UPDATE: JULY 13, 2020, 10:07 a.m.

New Open House Guidance

On July 2, the Departments of Public Health and Cal/OSHA released new guidance on COVID-19, which included some points relating to real estate. While there were some changes in office opening, cleaning and other protocols that required minor changes to the BPPP and related forms, the new guidelines do not significantly change practices.    

“Open Houses” on a walk-in basis are still prohibited. All showings still require either an appointment or a digital sign-in process prior to entry, including completing a PEAD form. Any such showings still must follow these rules:

1. Have protective equipment like masks and hand sanitizer made available.
2. Thoroughly clean all shown properties and disinfect commonly used areas such as doors and doorknobs, cabinet handles, switches, etc.
3. Control the number of people in the house by only allowing in one buying party at a time (which could consist of more than one person). The listing agent and buyer's agent may also be on the property at the same time.
4. All showings require appointments OR digital sign-ins.

Read more on car.org here.

 

UPDATE: JULY 8, 2020
 
The Economy & Your Finances: Paycheck Protection Program extended
The Market & Industry: Recovery continues, eviction moratoria extended
Around the State: Cases spike statewide, 23 counties now on watchlist
Health Check-Up: Young adults represent bulk of new cases, transmission by aerosols raising concerns
 
Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JULY 6, 2020

Paycheck Protection Program Extension Signed Into Law
An extension of a $660 billion lending program in an effort to help small businesses hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic has been signed into law..
The law keeps the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which expired June 30, operating for another five weeks through Aug. 8.
Created under the CARES Act, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is an expansion of SBA’s 7(a) loan program for providing financial assistance to small businesses.

Businesses with fewer than 500 employees — including sole proprietors, independent contractors, and other self-employed individuals ­— all qualify for PPP loans. Most real estate brokers and real estate firms are therefore likely to qualify.

 

UPDATE: JULY 1, 2020
The Economy & Your Finances: New weekly unemployment claims fall nationwide, rise in California
The Market & Industry: Buyer demand rebounding
Around the State: Cases spike across the state
Health Check-Up: U.S. cases undercounted

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JUNE 24, 2020
 
The Economy & Your Finances: Updates to PPP loan forgiveness
The Market & Industry: Fewer buyers and sellers withdrawing, fewer borrowers in forbearance
Around the State: All Californians must wear masks, hospitalizations hit all-time high
Health Check-Up: More young adults testing positive

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JUNE 17, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: High unemployment projected to last throughout the year
The Market & Industry: Homebuying sentiment and demand increases
Around the State: Cases keep rising as California reopens
Health Check-Up: CDC releases new tips for daily activities

Read the full issue here.
 


UPDATE: JUNE 10, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: New modifications to the Paycheck Protection Program
The Market & Industry: Buyer interest rising, supply remains constrained
Around the State: Schools, bars and gyms to reopen even as cases rise
Health Check-Up: WHO recommends all individuals wear masks in shops, confined spaces

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: JUNE 3, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: Unemployment, consumer confidence beginning to stabilize
The Market & Industry: Mortgage applications rebounding, eviction moratoria extended
Around the State: Reopening accelerates
Health Check-Up: Pandemic picking up speed across the globe

You can read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: MAY 27, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: Unemployment sees an uptick
The Market & Industry: Mortgage applications and showings keep rising, but more declines expected
Around the State: Restrictions eased on retail, restaurants, places of worship (subject to county approval)
Health Check-Up: Hydroxychloroquine trial halted, anxiety over COVID-19 keeps patients from seeking treatment for other conditions

You can read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: MAY 22, 2020

NEW: Best Practices Guidelines, FAQs and Forms for Stage 2 Reopening of California
 
C.A.R. has developed new Best Practices Guidelines for Real Estate During COVID-19 in response to the COVID-19 Industry Guidance for Real Estate Transactions issued earlier this month by the California Departments of Public Health and Industrial Relations. The Industry Guidance document details physical distancing and cleaning/disinfecting practices REALTORS® must follow when showing properties as California enters stage 2 of reopening. Since the release of this document, C.A.R. has worked closely with these agencies to interpret and revise some of the restrictions in order to make them more manageable, while still focusing on the health and safety of our members, their clients and the community.
 
C.A.R.’s updated best practices guidelines are available in zipForm®. We urge you to read these guidelines carefully and to implement them at all times when showing properties. Always defer to the rules governing your local area, as cities and counties may have more stringent restrictions on real estate activity.
 
To further clarify California’s Industry Guidance document, we also have released two new FAQs — one on showing properties, and the other on reopening offices — as well as a legal Quick Guide on Complying with Industry Guidance Showing Rules. We have also released a “Posted Rules for Entry” (C.A.R. Document PRE) you can use to comply with the guidance that all agents must post rules, complete with pictograms, outside a property that all viewing the property must agree to before entering. These resources will provide you with a blueprint for efficiently incorporating the Industry Guidance into your real estate practice.
 
And next week, keep an eye out for the following forms and resources in zipForm®:

Coronavirus Property Entry Advisory and Declaration - Visitor
Coronavirus Property Entry Advisory and Declaration - Seller
Coronavirus Lease/Rental Property Entry Advisory and Declaration
Listing Agreement Coronavirus Addendum or Amendment
Posted Rules for Entry
Best Practices Guidelines for Real Estate During COVID-19
 
Please continue to check this website regularly for the latest information on how best to navigate practicing real estate during these challenging times.

 

UPDATE: MAY 20, 2020

C.A.R. releases step-by-step guides for the PPP Loan Forgiveness Application

One guide is intended for real estate firms and sole proprietors with employees, and the other is intended for independent contractors and sole proprietors without employees.

 

UPDATE: MAY 19, 2020

The Economy & Your Finances: Looming budget cuts for California
The Market & Industry: Housing indicators show signs of life, California considers rent stabilization program
Around the State: Reopening begins in some counties
Health Check-Up: Debate over vaccine timeline, California allows testing at pharmacies

You can read the full issue here.
 


UPDATE: MAY 12, 2020

• The Economy & Your Finances: Job losses continue to soar
• The Market & Industry: Listings and closings on the rise
• Around the State: California starts easing restrictions
• Health Check-Up: Where to get tested, new guidelines for offices, mysterious syndrome impacting children

You can read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: MAY 8, 2020

C.A.R.'s letter asking the California Congressional Delegation for continued support and protection against future distressed markets.

Read the C.A.R. statement.

UPDATE: MAY 7, 2020, 4:49 p.m.

California releases new guidance for real estate transactions

The California Departments of Public Health and Industry Relations have released Industry Guidance for Real Estate Transactions. This document provides guidance for businesses operating in the real estate industry including sales and rentals of single-family, multi-family, apartment, commercial, and industrial properties to support a safe, clean environment for workers.

The guidance envisions that as California enters Stage 2 of the “Resilience Roadmap” and begins to gradually reopen lower-risk workplaces, agents who show properties will adhere to policies designed to curb the spread of COVID-19. The document includes specific guidance with respect to drawing up specific plans for showing properties, cleaning and disinfecting protocols, and physical distancing guidelines.

The state has also released a checklist to help real estate professionals implement their plans, which can be found here.

C.A.R. is reviewing these new documents and working to update our Best Practices Guidelines accordingly. Please note that this guidance does not supersede stricter local or county orders that may still place restrictions on real estate activity.

 

UPDATE: MAY 7, 2020, 8:00 a.m.

Step-by-step guidance for certification and other post-application information

Once your Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits claim has been submitted, use this guide for the certification process.



UPDATE: MAY 5, 2020

• The Economy & Your Finances: PUA application rollout mired by glitchy system
• The Market & Industry: California market starting to show signs of life
• Around the State: Tensions mount over when to reopen
• Health Check-Up: New drug shows promise, debate on vaccine timeline continues

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: APRIL 28, 2020, 12:39 P.M.

Detailed instructions for completing Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) applications

Starting this morning, April 28, REALTORS® can apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) through the California Employment Development Department (EDD). PUA, a key component of the CARES Act, expands unemployment benefits eligibility to business owners, self-employed workers and independent contractors, including most REALTORS®.

California REALTORS® can apply for PUA through UI Online. You can create an account, file your claim, certify for continued benefits, verify your income and update your information.

To assist you with learning about and applying to this relief program, C.A.R. has created step-by-step illustrated instructions available here.

Additionally, we have extended the COVID Relief Hotline hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. beginning today through Friday, May 1. Call the hotline at (213) 351-8450 for 24/7 support via SMS text and live support between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. Or email us at covidreliefhotline@car.org and someone will respond within one business day. 
 
C.A.R. also will be providing webinars on Wednesday and Thursday on the application process. See the Webinars page on the coronavirus microsite for more details. You can also visit the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance page on C.A.R.’s coronavirus website, which will be updated as more information becomes available.



UPDATE: APRIL 28, 2020, 8:30 A.M.

• The Economy & Your Finances: Applications open for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)
• The Market & Industry: COVID-19 suppresses spring home buying season
• Around the State: More testing needed before California reopens
• Health Check-Up: Coronavirus circulated in U.S. earlier than expected, FDA cautions against hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine as treatments

You can read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: APRIL 27, 2020
 
Beginning April 28 at 8 a.m., REALTORS® will be able to apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) through the California Employment Development Department (EDD). 

PUA, a key component of the CARES Act, expands unemployment benefits eligibility to business owners, self-employed workers and independent contractors, including most REALTORS®.

To assist you with learning about and applying to this and other relief programs, we have extended the COVID Relief Hotline’s hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. from April 28 to May 1. Additionally, C.A.R. will be providing webinars on the application process. See the Webinars page on the coronavirus microsite for more details. You can also visit the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance page, which will be updated as more information becomes available.

According to California Secretary of Labor Julie Su, the fastest and most convenient way to apply for PUA will be through UI Online, where you can create an account, file your claim, certify for continued benefits, verify your income and update your information. If you are an independent contractor, even though you may be able to set up a UI Online account now, you will need to wait until 8 a.m. tomorrow to file your claim.

To qualify for PUA, you must meet the following criteria:

• You are unable to work due to the COVID-19 pandemic — see the list below for what qualifies.
• You are not eligible for traditional unemployment compensation.
• You have exhausted any other unemployment benefits, if applicable.
• You are not receiving paid sick leave or other paid leave benefits.
• You do not have the ability to work remotely with pay.

To be “unable to work due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” you must also meet at least one of the following criteria:

• If you work as an independent contractor with reportable income, you may qualify for PUA benefits if you are unemployed, partially employed, or unable or unavailable to work because the COVID-19 public health emergency has severely limited your ability to continue performing your customary work activities, and has thereby forced you to stop working.
• You have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and are seeking a medical diagnosis.
• You are unable to work because a health care provider advised you to self-quarantine due to concerns related to COVID-19.
• A member of your household has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
• You are providing care for a family member or a member of your household who has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
• A child or other person in the household for whom you have primary caregiving responsibility is unable to attend school or another facility that is closed as a direct result of the
• COVID-19 and the school or facility care is required for you to work.
• You became the breadwinner or major support for a household because the head of the household has died as a direct result of COVID-19.
• You have to quit your job as a direct result of COVID-19.
• Your place of employment is closed as a direct result of COVID-19.
• You were scheduled to start a job that is now unavailable as a direct result of the COVID-19 public health emergency.
• You are unable to reach the place of employment as a direct result of the COVID-19 public health emergency.

PUA benefit payments to eligible applicants will be issued in phases. Initially, claims will be approved on an emergency basis. You will need to provide your total income for 2019 (including both W-2 and 1099 income) and self-certify that you meet the criteria above. The EDD will initially rely on your self-certifications and approve the base benefit of $167 per week within 24-48 hours. If additional information is needed, the EDD will contact you.

These base benefits are available for weeks starting February 2 and continuing for up to 39 weeks, depending on the effective date of your claim and your continued eligibility.  Additionally, the CARES Act provides a temporary increase of $600 per week that will be added to the base benefit for any eligible weeks between March 29 and July 25, so total benefits during this period will be $767 per week. These benefits will be paid on EDD debit cards mailed shortly following approval.

If the income you stated in the initial application indicates you would be entitled to more than the base benefit, the EDD will attempt to verify your income using other resources available to it. If the EDD needs additional information to document your income, they will contact you and may ask for documentation such as an annual tax return, 1099 forms, W-2 pay stubs or other documents that show your income.


UPDATE: APRIL 24, 2020

More REALTOR® relief on the way for SBA loan programs

President Trump has signed into law an interim spending bill allocating additional funds for emergency aid programs for small businesses. Many REALTORS® are eligible for these aid programs.

Specifically, the law allocates:

• $310 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which provides forgivable loans to small businesses, including REALTORS®. Of this allocation, $60 billion has been set aside for community banks, credit unions, and community development financial institutions, which can better serve smaller businesses and minority-owned firms, organizations that are less likely to have an existing relationship with a larger bank.
   
• $60 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, to provide $50 billion in loans and $10 billion in emergency grants to small businesses, including REALTORS®. 
   
• $25 billion for coronavirus testing and $75 billion for hospitals.

Both the PPP and EIDL programs will proceed with the same eligibility criteria and application processes as they did prior to running out of funding last Thursday, April 16. These funds are expected to be expended very quickly. 

The SBA will make additional coronavirus-related financial assistance available to small businesses beginning on Monday.

For more information on these and other financial relief programs, see the REALTOR® Relief page.



UPDATE: APRIL 23, 2020

Congress approves bill to fund small business aid programs

Congress has passed an interim spending bill focused primarily on replenishing emergency aid programs for small businesses. These programs ran out of funds less than two weeks after the SBA began accepting applications. The bill allocates:

• $310 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which provides forgivable loans to small businesses. 
  
  
• $60 billion of the PPP allocation to be set aside exclusively for community banks, credit unions, and community development financial institutions, with the goal that it will reach smaller businesses. 
  
  
• $60 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, to provide $50 billion in loans and $10 billion in emergency grants to small businesses. The EIDL program provides targeted, low-interest loans to small businesses impacted by the coronavirus.
  
  
• $25 billion for coronavirus testing and $75 billion for hospitals.

Once replenished, both the PPP and EIDL programs are expected to have the same eligibility criteria and application processes as they did previously. For more information on these programs, see the REALTOR® Relief page. The bill now awaits the president’s signature.



UPDATE: APRIL 21, 2020, 2:11 p.m.

Senate passes bill to replenish SBA loan programs

The Senate has passed an interim spending bill that will replenish emergency aid programs for small businesses. The new bill allocates an additional $310 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which provides forgivable loans to small businesses. This program ran out of funds last Thursday, less than two weeks after it began accepting applications. This bill allocates $60 billion to be set aside for community banks, credit unions, and community development financial institutions, with the goal that it will reach smaller businesses. This new bill also sets aside an additional $60 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, to provide $50 billion in loans and $10 billion in emergency grants to small businesses. This program also ran out of funds last Thursday. 

The bill now heads to the House of Representatives, which is expected to vote on the additional funding as soon as Thursday.

For more information on the PPP and EIDL programs, see the REALTOR® Relief page on C.A.R.’s coronavirus microsite.



UPDATE: APRIL 21, 2020, 10 a.m.

• The Economy & Your Finances: Loan programs for small businesses run out of funds
• The Market & Industry: Slowing market, millions of loans in forbearance nationwide
• Around the State: Planning for the reopening of California
• Health Check-up: Virus may be more widespread than initially thought, many of those infected show no symptoms

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: APRIL 21, 2020, 9:10 a.m.
New video series on Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)

C.A.R. has released a new video series guiding you through some of the most frequently asked questions about Pandemic Unemployment Assistance. Watch the full series here.

 

UPDATE: APRIL 16, 2020, 5:50 P.M.

C.A.R. releases three new and four updated forms for use during the coronavirus pandemic

The following are new forms:

• Coronavirus Lease/Rental Addendum or Amendment (Form CVA-LR), which can be attached to a lease agreement and creates a contractual agreement if the initial possession in the lease is affected by an unforeseen circumstance.
• Notice of Unforeseen Lease/Rental Coronavirus Circumstance (Form NUCC-LR), which is to be used when the CVA-LR is part of the lease agreement and one party has an unforeseen circumstance that impacts the ability to perform under the purchase agreement.
• Coronavirus Lease/Rental Property Entry Advisory and Declaration (PEAD-LR), is used for any visitor who is entering a property with a tenant or occupant, or when it is related to property management.

The following are forms that have been updated — if you have been using one of the following forms, be sure you switch to the updated version:

• Coronavirus Addendum or Amendment (Form CVA)
• Notice of Unforeseen Coronavirus Circumstance (Form NUCC)
• Listing Agreement Coronavirus Addendum or Amendment (Form RLA-CAA)
• Coronavirus Property Entry Advisory and Declaration (Form PEAD)

You can access all these forms here. The updated forms are set to go live in zipForm® on Friday, and the new forms will be available in zipForm® on Monday.

 

UPDATE: APRIL 16, 2020

C.A.R.'s letter asking Congress to increase funding for the SBA's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
Read more.

UPDATE: APRIL 15, 2020

New Coronavirus Weekly Recap newsletter available
The Economy & Your Finances: Relief is coming — slowly
The Market & Industry: Even with delays, market is still moving
Around the State: Stay-at-home unlikely to end soon
Health Check-Up: Antibody testing, racial disparities and guide for running errands

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: APRIL 15, 2020

C.A.R.'s letter to Congress on eliminating bulk sales and mandating first-look programs; providing zero-down mortgages and suspending loan limits; and looking for opportunities to increase housing inventory.

Read more.

UPDATE: APRIL 14, 2020

Two more weeks until PUA applications available, according to California Department of Labor

California Labor Secretary Julie A. Su released an open letter today that contains more information on the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, which extends unemployment benefits to the self-employed and independent contractors. In this letter, Secretary Su announced the California Employment Development Department (EDD) will need an additional two weeks to have the application system up and running. Once the system goes live, she anticipates individuals will be able to receive payments within 24 to 48 hours of their applications being approved.

C.A.R. is continuing to urge the EDD to move as quickly as possible to get our members much-needed relief. We will communicate the actual application start date, along with other guidance, as soon as that information is made available by the EDD.

You can read the full letter here. For more information on PUA, see our FAQ.



UPDATE: APRIL 13, 2020

Traditional lenders haven’t updated Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) applications to include independent contractors yet; still no application for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA)

Pursuant to SBA’s previous announcements, lenders were allowed to begin processing loan applications on April 10, 2020 for independent contractors and the self-employed. However, many major lenders are currently only assisting independent contractors who already have a business checking account with them. If you only have a personal checking account, these lenders will still not accept your PPP application. However, there are some PPP lenders, such as community banks, that are willing to take new customers. If you need assistance finding a PPP lender, SBA has created a “Lender Match” tool that allows you to search for lenders based on your Zip Code: https://www.sba.gov/paycheckprotection/find. As of April 8, Wells Fargo began taking PPP loan applications again.

Additionally, the California Employment Development Department (EDD) has not yet put the application process in place for independent contractors to apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). We will update you with more information as soon as we receive guidance from the EDD.

 

UPDATE: APRIL 7, 2020, 4:15 P.M.

Protect yourself from SBA loan scams

Since the CARES Act was signed, there has been a rise in scammers targeting applicants for and recipients of SBA loans. Learn more about what these scams look like and how to protect yourself here.




UPDATE: APRIL 7, 2020, 12:15 p.m.

C.A.R. releases new economic/market update

[Video]

 

UPDATE: APRIL 7, 2020, 10 a.m.

• The Economy & Your Finances: Aid is on the way
• The Market & Industry: Not business as usual
• Around the State: Face masks now recommended, in some places required
• Health Check-up: Resources for older adults and coping with stress

Read the full issue here.



UPDATE: APRIL 6, 2020

C.A.R. releases two new forms for owners of rental properties

Form NTAP (Notice to Tenant of Ability to Pay Rent During Coronavirus Pandemic) is an informational notice that a landlord can send to a tenant for the purpose of starting a dialogue with the tenant regarding the payment of rent during the coronavirus pandemic.

Form RPD (Coronavirus Rent Payment Delay and Repayment) is an addendum to a residential lease or rental agreement that, when agreed to and signed by the landlord and tenant, documents the tenant’s claim that the tenant is unable to pay rent and the reason for the inability; proof of the inability to pay; the amount of the rent not being paid; and a plan to pay it in the future.

Both forms are available here and will be on zipForm® later this week.

 

UPDATE: APRIL 3, 2020

C.A.R. releases list of city and county ordinances

C.A.R. has compiled a list of county and local orders relating to real estate’s status as an essential service. Many cities and counties are changing their guidance/orders based on local events. These change daily, sometimes hourly. We are working to keep this information current, but we encourage you to use these lists with caution and continue to check your local and county websites for any updated orders or guidance.

See the full list here.

UPDATE: APRIL 3, 2020

UPDATE: APRIL 2, 2020

C.A.R. President Jeanne Radsick discusses best practices during the COVID-19 crisis

UPDATE: MARCH 31, 2020, 1:30 p.m.

C.A.R. releases two new coronavirus forms

Form RLA-CAA (Listing Agreement Coronavirus Addendum or Amendment) is for sellers and listing agents to sign, and Form PEAD (Property Viewing Advisory and Declaration) is to be given to and signed by the seller, buyer, agents and anyone else who will be entering a property.

You can find both forms here. They are also both available in zipForm®.



UPDATE: MARCH 31, 2020, 8 a.m.

• The Market & Industry: Real estate now an essential service — with caveats
• The Economy & Your Finances: CARES Act provides REALTORS® with relief
• Around the State: Stay-at-home order likely to continue through April
• Health Check-Up: Enroll in health coverage without a qualifying event

Read the full issue here.

 

UPDATE: MARCH 30, 2020, 3:25 p.m.

C.A.R. releases guidelines for real estate best practices during COVID-19

Following these guidelines will enable REALTORS® to demonstrate care for the health and well-being of clients, colleagues and the greater public welfare in reducing the risk of exposure to, and spread of, COVID-19, while providing the essential services of residential and commercial real estate recognized by the Department of Homeland Security as being necessary for the maintenance of America’s Critical Infrastructure. 

Read the full guidelines here.



UPDATE: MARCH 30, 2020

C.A.R. launches COVID Relief Hotline offering 1:1 financial assistance for CA REALTORS®

Call (213) 351-8450 for 24x7 support via SMS text and live support between 8:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m. on financial relief programs available to REALTORS®.

You can also reach the hotline at [email protected].

The C.A.R. COVID Relief Hotline is intended to provide general answers regarding coronavirus-related federal and state relief programs available to REALTORS®. It is not intended as a substitute for individual legal, financial or tax advice. Advice in specific situations may depend on a wide variety of factors, and members who require review of a relief application or information about their specific legal or financial situation should consult the attorney, accountant or other advisor of their choice. These issues are beyond the scope of those provided by this Hotline. 



UPDATE: MARCH 28, 2020

Residential real estate now listed as an essential service

Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) updated its list of essential services during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis and expressly included residential real estate. Since Governor Newsom’s March 4, 2020 order incorporates this list, the order now includes residential and commercial real estate, including settlement services, as essential services in California. However, if a city or county has an order with a more restrictive standard regarding what qualifies as an essential service, or more restrictions on activities, those guidelines will still govern the activities of a licensee.

Read the full statement from C.A.R. here.



UPDATE: MARCH 27, 2020, 1:30 p.m.

President Trump signs $2 trillion stimulus package that includes REALTOR® relief

President Trump has signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act into law. Learn more about the financial relief options the CARES Act makes available to REALTORS® — including forgivable SBA loans and pandemic unemployment assistance — on our REALTOR® Relief page.

 

UPDATE: MARCH 27, 2020, 10:30 a.m.

Congress passes the CARES Act, relief on the way for REALTORS®

Congress has just passed the CARES Act, which now awaits the president's signature. For more information on the relief programs available to REALTORS® through this $2 trillion stimulus package, see our REALTOR® Relief page.



UPDATE: MARCH 26, 2020, 8 A.M.

C.A.R. President Jeanne Radsick gives an update on support for your transactions and providing relief

Read Jeanne's update on what C.A.R. is doing to push for relief for REALTORS® here.



UPDATE: MARCH 25, 2020

Senate passes $2 trillion aid package with REALTOR® relief.

The Senate has passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, a stimulus package that will provide direct financial assistance to small business owners and independent contractors. For information on provisions in the bill that will affect REALTORS®, as well as information on several financial assistance programs available now, see our new REALTOR® Relief page.

The CARES Act still needs to pass the House and be signed by the president before it becomes law.



UPDATE: MARCH 24, 2020

• Around the State: REALTORS® should conduct as much business as possible virtually
• The Market: C.A.R. currently forecasts home sales to decline in high single digits in 2020
• The Economy & Your Finances: Aid is on the way
• Health Check-Up: Covered California extends special enrollment period

Read the complete issue here.



UPDATE: MARCH 21, 2020

C.A.R. and NAR ask Congress for aid for REALTORS®

In response to Gov. Newsom’s Stay at Home order issued last week, C.A.R. has asked the California Congressional Delegation to provide forgivable SBA loans to self-employed, independent contractors, which includes the majority of C.A.R. members.

Because REALTORS® cannot conduct business under the Stay at Home order, C.A.R. members find themselves with no ability to earn a living and no safety net. And, as independent contractors, REALTORS® do not have access to the safety net of unemployment benefits afforded to millions of others during this crisis.

Both C.A.R. and NAR are requesting meaningful, long-term relief so that the real estate market can recover quickly.

 

UPDATE: MARCH 20, 2020, 5:30 p.m.

C.A.R. issues guidance on Governor's stay-at-home order

Yesterday Governor Newsom and the State Public Health Officer issued Executive Order N-33-20 requiring all Californians to stay home except as needed to maintain continuity of operations in 16 infrastructure sectors. This supersedes all existing local city and county orders that are less restrictive. The real estate industry is not exempt from this prohibition except as needed to maintain “continuity of operation … of … construction, including housing construction.” Therefore, REALTORS® should cease doing all

in-person marketing or sales activities, including showings, listing appointments, open houses and property inspections. Clients and other consumers are also subject to these orders and should not be visiting properties or conducting other business in person.

Read the full guidance here.



UPDATE: MARCH 20, 2020, 1 p.m.

C.A.R. releases February home sales and price pre-COVID-19 outbreak report

Before the coronavirus outbreak hit the state so severely, California’s housing market was getting a strong foothold, with home sales and prices posting healthy increases in February. A C.A.R. flash poll conducted between March 14-16 found that more than half (54 percent) of REALTORS® had clients who backed out from buying a home because of the coronavirus, and less than one-half (45 percent) had clients who backed out from selling a property.

Read the full release here.

Watch a video on the market outlook here.



UPDATE: MARCH 19, 2020, 7:30 p.m.

Governor issues statewide stay-at-home order to all 40 million residents

Governor Newsom's order, which goes into effect on Thursday night, March 19, asks residents to stay at home and only leave for essential services, to encourage social distancing and slow the spread of COVID-19. The order is in place "until further notice" and has no specified end date.

Essential services such as grocery stores, pharmacies, take-out and delivery restaurants, banks and laundromats will remain open. For more information, visit the California Coronavirus (COVID-19) Response website.



UPDATE: MARCH 19, 2020, 8:00 a.m.

C.A.R. President Jeanne Radsick gives an update on new member tools for the coronavirus pandemic



C.A.R. has also released a new press release: More California REALTORS® expect COVID-19 to impact housing market

 

UPDATE: MARCH 18, 2020

Congress Passes the Families First Coronavirus Act

On March 18, 2020, President Trump signed the Families First Coronavirus Act. The relief package provides for paid sick leave, expansion of family leave benefits, and other aid to eligible individuals and small businesses impacted by the coronavirus. Notably, the relief package includes support for workers who are self-employed, which offers many REALTORS® benefits that they are not eligible for under current California law. Specifically, eligible self-employed individuals may claim refundable tax credits against income and self-employment taxes for sick leave (which includes leave taken to care for a child due to school closure) and for family leave. C.A.R. will continue to provide updated information as new developments occur.

For more information, see NAR's resource on what REALTORS® need to know about the emergency coronavirus legislation.



UPDATE: MARCH 17, 2020, 6 p.m.

C.A.R. releases NEW coronavirus form

We know many of you are in the middle of, or about to enter into transactions that may be affected by the coronavirus situation. In response to this unprecedented crisis, we are pleased to inform you that C.A.R. has just released a new form called the Coronavirus Addendum/Amendment (Form CVA). It will be in zipForm® tomorrow.



UPDATE: MARCH 17, 2020, 4:00 p.m.

C.A.R. releases COVID-19 guide for open houses and showings

At C.A.R., we are trying to keep REALTORS® informed about how COVID-19 impacts you and your clients. Our biggest priority is making sure you are taking every precaution to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. Know that the decision to host an open house remains at the discretion of you and your seller. In addition, local government and health authorities may alter what is permissible in a given area at a given time. For example, in the Bay Area there should probably be no open houses held for the next three weeks. This guide will help you and your clients understand the environment around open houses.



UPDATE: MARCH 17, 2020, 3:36 p.m.

DRE cancels all real estate exams through April 7

The Department of Real Estate (DRE) is cancelling real estate salesperson and broker license exams in all exam centers from March 18, 2020 to April 7, 2020. This action is being taken to comply with multiple county public health agencies ordering residents to shelter in place to slow the spread of COVID-19.

Examinees affected by these cancellations will be notified by email and will be allowed to reschedule their canceled exam dates using DRE’s eLicensing system. Exam rescheduling fees will be waived for this cancellation event.

Examinees with questions or concerns regarding canceled exam dates can contact the Department’s Licensing program at (877) 373-4542



UPDATE: MARCH 16, 2020

C.A.R. releases first issue of new California Coronavirus Weekly Newsletter

This newsletter, which will be released every Tuesday beginning on March 24, is designed to keep you updated on the state of the coronavirus outbreak in California and its impact on the real estate market. 

• The Market: California housing market in flux
• Around the State: Community transmission on the rise
• Containment Efforts: Persons 65+ to self-isolate, schools and businesses close
• Health Check-Up: New travel guidelines and when to seek emergency medical attention

Click here to read the first issue.

 

UPDATE: MARCH 13, 2020

C.A.R. President Jeanne Radsick updates members on C.A.R.'s response to the coronavirus pandemic.

UPDATE: MARCH 12, 2020

The C.A.R. Spring Business Meeting and Legislative Day will NOT be held as scheduled from April 28 to May 1.

The Leadership of C.A.R. makes this decision following careful consideration, with the benefit of much thoughtful input from Directors and Committee Members, and with optimism that we will all continue to support each other during the difficult and uncertain times ahead.

We will provide further updates soon to let you know about the alternative plans we are developing so that the Association’s essential business activities and policy decisions can still be addressed by the Committees and the Board of Directors. These alternatives include conducting virtual meetings using video conferencing technology, rescheduling the meetings to take place in Sacramento at a later date, or perhaps a combination of virtual meetings online and rescheduled meetings in person.

Our number one concern is the health and safety of our members and staff who participate in the C.A.R. Business Meetings, and who volunteer or work on behalf of the Association throughout the year. If you have comments or questions, please contact us at any time.