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Remarks from C.A.R. President Heather Ozur.

As climate-related disasters like wildfires, floods, and extreme heat events become more frequent and severe, they’re reshaping California’s housing landscape. Recent events, including the 2025 Altadena and Pacific Palisades fires, underscore the urgent need to understand how these disasters are impacting the housing supply, affordability, and location displacement of Californians. This session will explore the evolving role of REALTORS® in supporting clients through climate-related displacement, including assisting climate migrants and navigating high-risk areas. Gain insights and tools to be part of the solution in building more informed, resilient, and adaptive communities. Speaker(s): Fernando Gaytan, Senior Attorney – Earth Justice Steve Lewis, Architect – ZGF Architects Desa Philadelphia Comms and Development Writer – USC School of Cinematic Arts Moderator(s): Cindy Diaz Telly

Fair Housing remains a critical issue in today’s evolving housing landscape. This session will explore the pressing challenges impacting fair housing access and advocacy at the National level and beyond. Panelists will also examine the broader policy landscape—such as recent Executive Orders and potential efforts to dismantle federal agencies like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau —and how these shifts may affect loan affordability and the enforcement of fair housing laws. Join us for a forward-looking discussion on why it is important to adhere to fair housing protections and protect and advance fair housing for all. Speaker(s): Alexia Smokler Fair Housing Policy & Programs Director – NAR Clemente Mojica Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services Inc. Laurie Benner National Fair Housing Alliance Moderator(s): Janet Dorsey Risk Management Director – Compass

Stay informed on the latest fair housing developments shaping California’s real estate industry. This session will focus on current statewide issues—from evolving fair housing regulations to market dynamics impacting access and equity, including source of income discrimination, ongoing appraisal bias cases, persons with disability, and the disproportionate impact of criminal history on housing opportunities. Learn how these trends affect your business, your clients, and your responsibilities as a REALTOR®. The session will conclude with practical information on down payment assistance programs and other resources to help first-time homebuyers successfully enter the market. Speaker(s): Amanda Byun Senior Counsel – C.A.R. Caroline Peattie Executive Director – Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California Marki Lemons-Ryhal Licensed Managing Broker, REALTOR® Moderator(s): Kama Burton

P.E. Moskowitz is a writer born and raised in New York City. Their writing has appeared in New York magazine, GQ, The Nation, and many other places. Their first book, How to Kill a City: Gentrification, Inequality and the Fight for the Neighborhood, explores gentrification in New York, Detroit, San Francisco, and New Orleans. For the book, Moskowitz embedded in each city and reported on the displacement crisis in each, and on the people fighting back against gentrification. Keynote Speaker: P.E. Moskowitz, Author

California continues to face a significant gap between the housing we need and the housing we have. This session takes a data-driven look at the root causes of our housing shortage and explores actionable strategies to close the gap. From innovative policy solutions and impactful litigation to strategic political advocacy, learn how REALTORS®, housing advocates, and community leaders can work together to advance fair, equitable, and lasting housing solutions. Let’s build momentum—together—for a more inclusive housing future. Speaker(s): Adam Briones, CEO – California Community Builders Oscar Wei, Deputy Chief Economist – C.A.R. Moderator(s): Marty Del Cid

Ensuring that cities and states follow through on their fair housing obligations and housing expansion commitments is critical to addressing California’s housing crisis. This session will spotlight the powerful role that litigation plays in holding jurisdictions accountable and enforcing compliance with state housing laws. Hear real-world examples, legal strategies, and the impact of ongoing efforts to break down barriers to housing development and promote equitable growth across the state. Speaker(s): Matthew Gelfand Attorney – Californians for Homeownership Tiena Johnson Hall, General Manager of the Los Angeles Housing Department (LAHD) Moderator(s): Vanessa Chavez

Technology is evolving fast—are you using it to its full potential? In this forward-thinking session, expert panelists will explore how REALTORS® can harness the power of AI and emerging tech tools to enhance their business and better serve clients. From practical applications that streamline your workflow to innovative ways technology can promote fair housing and expand access, you’ll gain valuable insights on staying ahead of the curve. Plus, get a glimpse into the future of real estate with thought-provoking perspectives on where tech and your practice intersect. Speaker(s): Marki Lemons-Ryhal, Licensed Managing Broker, REALTOR Michael Akinwumi, Chief AI Officer NFHA Moderator(s): Allen Okamoto

Leah Rothstein is the co-author of JUST ACTION: How to Challenge Segregation Enacted Under the Color of Law, which describes how local community groups can redress the wrongs of segregation. She has been a consultant to nonprofit housing developers, cities and counties, redevelopment agencies, and private firms on community development and affordable housing policy, practice, and finance. Closing Keynote Speaker: Leah Rothstein, Author