THE BOTTOM LINE – In California politics, nothing is ever “temporary” — especially when it comes to power. And this year’s Proposition 50 is exactly that — a fight over who controls the political map of the state. On paper, Prop 50 sounds procedural: it would temporarily pause the work of the independent Citizens Redistricting…
As if there are not enough penalties to dissuade landlords from improper rent hikes, these illegal rent increases may violate California Penal Code Section 496. We have always been proponents of legal rent increases, with the operative term being ‘legal’. Landlords who are overeager and raise rents beyond what is legally allowed, or rent out…
Inspirational Example – Email Opposing LA County’s Proposed ICE Eviction Moratorium Dear Honorable Los Angeles County Board of Supervisor members, So that you know from where I speak, I am a long-time Realtor and housing provider, a former elected City Councilmember in Pasadena, an appointed quasi-judge commissioner on the Assessment Appeals Board for LA County and…
The American Institute of CPA’s, seeing the problem, has suggested the IRS reinstate a prior contingency plan similar to what was done in the past when a budget crisis loomed. That plan would allow all IRS employees to continue to work with funds that the IRS holds over from one budget year to the next…
A few days after the September 11th attacks, the Environmental Protection Agency assured New Yorkers the air near Ground Zero was safe to breathe. Tragically, that wasn’t true. In the 24 years since, studies have linked toxic exposure in Manhattan to soaring cancer rates among first responders, residents, office workers and students. Thousands have died…
There are many times when both the IRS and taxpayers disagree with the findings or position of the IRS. In those instances mediation, also known as alternative dispute resolution, is an alternative path that can sometimes fast track resolution of tax issues. Mediation Might be Right for a Taxpayer if: The taxpayer wants to resolve…
In California, Senate Bills 721 and 326 represent transformative legislation aimed at reinforcing safety and structural integrity in multi-family and condominium properties. While these laws were enacted in response to a tragic incident, they also provide a crucial compliance pathway to protect building owners and homeowners associations (HOAs) from insurance cancellation, liability exposure, and financial penalties.…
The numbers no longer pencil out like they used to. Once seen as a golden opportunity for passive income, short-term rental properties are now facing mounting pressure from every direction. The most recent hit? California Senate Bill 584 (SB 584), the Laborforce Housing Financing Act, which imposes a new 15% state tax on short-term rentals,…
New SF legislation would ban natural gas in homes and businesses undergoing major renovations. Currently and until 2030, the law requires electric conversion only on new construction. California has mandated conversion of all gas appliances to electric. While the ban would impact only new construction and replacement of existing gas-based appliances when they break down…
Below are questions asked by rental property owners regarding California rent control laws, followed by answers provided by Attorney Richard Beckman. Question 1: Are we required to refund credit/background check fees that were paid to run a screening if the applicant does not meet the criteria and is denied? Answer 1: Under California Civil…