LEGAL UPDATE 2026
with Vince MacIsaac
1/27/2026
For internal use only
Video from New! Year New Car Forms 01/07/25
Thank You Vince MacIsaac & First American Home Warranty for an Insightful 2026 Legal Update
On January 27, 2026, our agents had the opportunity to attend an extremely timely and valuable Legal Update for 2026, led by Vince MacIsaac, whose deep knowledge of California real estate law continues to be an indispensable resource for our market center.
We are incredibly grateful to Vince MacIsaac for taking the time to walk us through critical legal changes that will directly impact how we market properties, represent buyers and sellers, and manage transactions in the year ahead. His ability to translate complex legislation into practical, real-world guidance is something our agents truly value.
A special thank you as well to First American Home Warranty, and particularly Sandi Franco, for generously sponsoring lunch and supporting continued education for our agents. Partnerships like these make it possible for our associates to stay informed, compliant, and confident in a rapidly evolving legal landscape.
Key Takeaways from the 2026 Legal Update
Vince covered several important updates that every agent should be aware of:
Digitally Altered Images Disclosure
Any digitally altered photo, video, or visual marketing—such as virtual staging, greener grass, added fire in fireplaces, or removed objects—must now include a disclosure stating the image is altered, along with access to the unaltered version via link or QR code. This applies across websites, MLS listings, brochures, and all advertising platforms.
Landlord-Tenant Law Updates
Habitability standards now require landlords to maintain a working stove and refrigerator. New rules also address recall replacements, disaster remediation (such as ash and smoke cleanup), electronic handling of security deposits, and tenant protections tied to Social Security interruptions.
Buyer Representation Agreement Expansion
Buyer representation agreements are now required for all property types, not just residential one-to-four units, and must be signed before showing any property. Vince also clarified important timing rules around agreement duration and renewal.
New Disclosure Requirements
Updates include disclosures for tobacco smoke residue, ownership interests, referral compensation, and special relationships between agents and principals—consolidated into updated CAR disclosure forms.
Unsolicited Offer Restrictions in Fire Zones
In designated zip codes, buyers and sellers must certify that transactions were not the result of unsolicited offers, with required documentation attached to the deed.
Why This Matters
These changes reinforce what we already know: today’s real estate environment demands agents who are informed, ethical, and detail-oriented. Staying ahead of legal updates protects our clients, our transactions, and our professional reputations.
We sincerely thank Vince MacIsaac for sharing his expertise, and First American Home Warranty and Sandi Franco for their continued support of our agent community. Educational sessions like this are a powerful reminder of the strength of collaboration and ongoing learning within our industry.
If you missed the session or want a refresher, we highly encourage watching the full presentation and reviewing the provided legal guides.
Here’s to a smart, compliant, and successful 2026.
This blog post and the associated event recap are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to serve as legal advice. While the information shared reflects guidance presented during the January 27, 2026 Legal Update with Vince MacIsaac, laws, regulations, MLS rules, and enforcement practices may change and can vary based on specific facts and circumstances.
Agents and clients should not rely solely on this summary when making legal or transactional decisions. Always consult with your broker, legal counsel, MLS, escrow, or appropriate regulatory authority for advice specific to your situation.
Neither the brokerage, the speaker, nor event sponsors—including First American Home Warranty—assume responsibility for actions taken based on this summary. Attendance at the event or reference to its content does not create an attorney-client or advisory relationship.
For the most current guidance, refer to official California statutes, Department of Real Estate regulations, CAR forms, and MLS rules.
