New California Law Makes It Easier to Add Smaller Units to One's Property
California Governor Jerry Brown recently signed two new laws, going into effect in 2017.
New theory of dual agency in California.
Maximum Conforming Mortgage Loan Limits Went Up in 2017
After years of no change to the baseline limits for Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac backed loans, the federal government announced a raise.
California Court Rules That Homeowners' Insurers Must Cover the Most Important Cause of the Loss
California insurers must cover the "efficient proximate cause."
Compromise a Fact of Life for Current Homebuyers
Few people get everything they want in a home.
Deduction for Private Mortgage Insurance Premiums Extended Through 2016
Set to expire in 2015, the PMI deduction gets one more year of life.
Home Prices Back to Peak Levels, Says Case-Shiller
House value indices show return to prices not seen since 2006.
Changes to Online Forms Found in Nolo's Book, For Sale By Owner in California
If you have purchased and are using For Sale by Owner in California, by George Devine, be sure to access its companion page.
New California Notary Certificates & Updates for California Deeds
Effective January 1, 2015, new language must appear at the top of a California notary certificate.
Federal "Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act" expires
Effective on December 31, 2014, the federal "Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act of 2009" (PTAFA) expired.
No Increase in Amount Family or Friends Can Gift You to Buy a Home in 2015
The gift tax exclusion remains at $14,000.
Home Buyers: Say Goodbye to the old HUD-1, GFE, and Truth-in-Lending Forms, Starting August 1, 2015
If you're among the lucky few who will pay all cash for your home, you can stop reading right now.
Home Price Gains Highest Since 2005
Selling a house? Take recent home appreciation levels into account.
If Your Home Is Under-Insured, Don't Expect a FEMA Bailout After a Disaster
Important reminder regarding maintaining sufficient homeowners' insurance.
Understanding New Know-Before-You-Owe Mortgage Forms
Federal requirements for mortgage forms that became effective in 2015 should make it easier to understand the obligation you're taking on.
Consider “Demand Surge” (Local Rise in Building Costs) When Insuring Against Disaster
Your homeowners' insurance may not be adequate if many houses in the area sustain major damage.
October 3, 2015 was the start date for mortgage lenders to begin using new, simpler forms created by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
People who live in condomiums, townhomes, or homes in other developments governed by a homeowners' association know that they have to abide by the community's internal rules and regulations.
If you'll be applying for a mortgage in 2014 or later, you will be entering a changed landscape -- and might, in fact, have more trouble qualifying for a loan than borrowers did in recent years.
New Mortgage Servicing Rules Became Effective in January 2014
Mortgage lenders have some New Year's resolutions of their own to follow!
Having Trouble Finding a Short Sale Home to Buy? There's a Tax Reason.
Finding an affordable home in the U.S. tends to be a challenge no matter where you're looking.
Useful Site for Determining Who Pays Transfer Taxes and Other Closing Costs in California
California counties vary in who is expected to pay for what.
New Michigan Law Expands Options for Family Cottage Transfers
PA 310 gives owners additional options for transferring family vacation property.
Tax Credit for Energy-Efficient Home Improvements Reinstated, Extended
The fiscal cliff deal brought back some useful tax credits.
Latest California Landlord-Tenant Laws and Forms
The 2013 editions of The California Landlord’s Law Book: Rights & Responsibilities and California Tenants’ Rights have been completely updated to reflect the latest California laws (including rent control rules), forms, and practices.
Homebuyers, Take Note: IRS Gift Tax Exclusion Remains at $14,000 for 2014
If you're getting help with the down payment from family or friends, keep a close eye on the IRS gift tax exclusion.
Real Estate "Broker" Term Can Be Used by Agents in Some States
What does your real estate agent's title really mean?