Have you ever wondered why a utility line cuts through a seemingly random portion of someone’s backyard or why a neighbor has a designated path leading to their property across another’s land? These are likely instances involving easements. Easements are legal...
Real Estate Law
What is an unlawful detainer lawsuit in California?
An unlawful detainer lawsuit is a legal action filed by a landlord to evict a tenant who is unlawfully staying in a rental property. This typically occurs when a tenant violates the terms of the lease agreement, fails to pay rent or continues staying in the property...
Drug lab disclosures are required for sales
In California, buying or selling a home involves numerous disclosures to ensure transparency and protect both parties. Among these disclosures, those related to methamphetamine contamination and the presence of drug labs have become increasingly significant....
Do you have to honor an existing easement?
When you’re purchasing a property, it’s important to learn as much as possible about the details of that property and what obligations you will have. For example, the property may have an easement, meaning that someone else is allowed to use that property in certain...
The risks of buying a home already occupied by a tenant
The California housing market is relatively competitive. There is a constant demand for housing and inventory levels cannot keep up with that demand. Prices increase in part because of how demand outpaces development. Those hoping to buy a home, including those who...
How might a tenant breach a lease? 3 kinds of violations
It seems like more people are wanting to rent rather than buy homes. As a landlord, this is great news to hear. However, you also know that you will likely have a rotation of tenants before someone stays long-term. While many tenants may leave because they’re looking...
What is a triple-net lease?
When signing a commercial lease, there are a few different ways for the lease to be set up. Both the person who is drafting it and the one who is signing need to be well aware of their obligations. In part, these are defined by whether or not it is a triple-net lease....
3 important facts to verify when signing a commercial lease
Signing a commercial lease can make a big difference to a company's future operations. The right location can help it connect with more consumers. There won't be a mortgage to worry about if the company fails, and moving to bigger or smaller facilities as the company...
What should landlords know about ADA compliance?
The Americans with Disabilities Act is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on disability in various public and private settings. The ADA primarily targets businesses and public spaces, but residential landlords should also know how this law impacts them....
Questions to ask and avoid when interviewing prospective tenants
What do you look for in a tenant for your residential property? Most landlords try to find renters who won’t cause any damage or disturb the neighbors. Of course, the ability to pay the rent on time, every time, is probably also a priority. Do you have a process to...