Frequently Asked Questions

The C.A.R. Leadership Academy is an exclusive, immersive program designed to help California REALTORS® enhance their leadership skills, industry expertise, and community impact. Through hands-on learning, professional development, and networking, participants will be prepared to take on leadership roles in the real estate industry and beyond.

The Leadership Academy is ideal for California REALTORS® with 5+ years of dues-paying experience who are passionate about advancing their careers, giving back to the community, and gaining valuable leadership experience. Whether you are a seasoned leader or looking to develop your skills, this program is an excellent opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Yes, all applicants must be dues-paying California REALTORS® in good standing for at least five (5) years to be eligible for the program.

Monetary Commitment: Tuition for the program is $1,000. Please note that tuition is non-refundable. Travel Costs: Participants are responsible for covering their own travel expenses to attend the in-person sessions. These sessions are scheduled alongside C.A.R.'s Winter, Spring, and Fall Business Meetings. It is advised to discuss these travel costs with your local AOR for any possible assistance.  C.A.R. will cover travel expenses for participants attending the Leadership EDGE Conference from October 20–22, 2026, including round-trip transportation (up to $350), a two-night hotel stay, and conference registration. Registration will be arranged by C.A.R. upon you acceptance into the program.

At this time, the $1,000 tuition must be paid by participants, but this covers only a small portion of the overall cost, as most of the program is sponsored by C.A.R.

Candidates are evaluated by a committee based on their professional background, state and local leadership experience, commitment to the real estate industry, and involvement in community service. A blind, thorough review of applications will be conducted to ensure a fair and comprehensive selection process.

The Leadership Academy maintains an exclusive environment with a maximum class size of 20 participants. This small size ensures personalized attention and a collaborative learning experience.

Participants can expect to enhance their leadership skills, gain exclusive insights from industry experts, expand their professional network, and make significant contributions to their communities and the real estate industry. The program is designed to foster personal and professional growth, and to provide a platform for impactful change. For more information, please visit the Home page.

Participants are expected to attend eleven training sessions throughout the year, with in-person meetings scheduled in conjunction with the 2026 Leadership EDGE Conference and the 2027 Winter, Spring, and Fall C.A.R. Business Meetings. Training sessions range from 2-5 hours for virtual sessions, and 8 hours for in-person sessions with a meal break. Attendance at all sessions is mandatory with one excused absence permitted under exceptional circumstances (such as medical or family emergencies). A make-up session may be provided for the excused absence. Punctuality is required at each session. We recognize that in-person sessions will occasionally conflict with other meeting obligations at the C.A.R. Business Meetings. It is expected that the participant communicates those conflicts in advance. In addition to the training sessions, 9 one-hour group coaching sessions are offered throughout the course of the program. Participants are expected to attend at least 5 of these coaching calls. Additional time commitments include meeting out of class time with your assigned Capstone Project group and occasional reflection and additional training assignments. Participants can expect to put in an average 6-8 hours per month during the course of the program.

While attendance is a critical part of the Leadership Academy, we understand that emergencies can arise. If you must miss a session, we encourage you to coordinate with the program facilitator and your capstone group to catch up on any missed material. Please be mindful that the Academy has a strict attendance policy. Attendance Policy: One excused absence may be granted under exceptional circumstances, such as medical issues or family emergencies. If an excused absence is granted, the participant may be provided with a make-up option to ensure they receive all the necessary training. Email the program facilitator to arrange for your absence.

Yes, participants who successfully complete the Leadership Academy will receive official recognition and a certificate of achievement from the California Association of REALTORS®.

Yes, current leaders are encouraged to apply. The Academy is designed to enhance existing skills and provide new perspectives, making it valuable for individuals at all stages of their leadership journey. If you will be Local President of your local association during the academy year, you're encouraged to wait and apply for the following year. Because attendance is mandatory, it can be difficult to balance the high demand of the Presidency with training in the Academy. Consider what commitments you may have to be adjust to participate fully in this experience for yourself.

Diversity refers to the presence of differences within a group, including race, gender, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, disability, and more. In the context of leadership, diversity fosters a wide range of perspectives and experiences that enhance decision-making and innovation. Equity ensures that all individuals have fair access to opportunities, resources, and support tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. It acknowledges that different people may require different levels of assistance to achieve success, and it seeks to remove barriers that prevent equal participation. Inclusion is the practice of creating an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to fully participate. An inclusive environment welcomes diverse perspectives, actively engages all voices, and ensures that everyone has a sense of belonging.

While prior experience with diversity and inclusion is valued, the Academy is open to candidates who are eager to grow in these areas and are committed to learning and practicing inclusivity.

Yes, applicants who are not selected are highly encouraged to reapply in future years!

References should be individuals who can offer insights into your professional qualifications, leadership potential, and commitment to the real estate industry. Including the Association Executive or President of your local association as a reference is encouraged if they know you. References will be asked questions about the applicant's leadership skills and capabilities via our online Kaleidoscope reference form. C.A.R. staff are not permitted to be references. If your reference doesn't receive an email from Kaleidoscope prompting them to fill out the reference form, have them email help@mykaleidoscope.com.(mailto:help@mykaleidoscope.com) (mailto:help@mykaleidoscope.com)You can also direct them here (https://help.mykaleidoscope.com/en/articles/10291655-submitting-a-contributor-form)for instructions on providing a reference.

Applicants must submit a completed application form, provide three references, and include a current headshot/photo which will be used in promotional materials should you be accepted into the program. Please note, your references will fill out a form with questions about your skills and experience. No letters are required. You will also need your Membership Number (M1 Number), which can be found here.(https://login.connect.realtor/#!/forgotmember)

While participation in the Academy is a significant leadership opportunity, it does not guarantee a future leadership position with your local association or C.A.R. The focus is on personal and professional development through leadership training, rather than on specific titles or roles.

The application for the Class of 2027 will open on April 27, 2026 and close on May 29, 2026. References have until June 4, 2026 to submit their reference forms.

Yes, you can log back into your account on Kaleidoscope and edit your application up until the May 29, 2026 deadline. Visit https://apply.mykaleidoscope.com/login,(https://apply.mykaleidoscope.com/login) enter your email and password you set when you created your application, and you will be able to edit the application from there. For more assistance logging into or editing your application, reach out to help@mykaleidoscope.com.(mailto:help@mykaleidoscope.com)