Consumer Watchdog sued the California Department of Insurance and Commissioner Ricardo Lara to protect California homeowners from hundreds of millions in surcharges that could soon appear on their insurance bills. The surcharges result from a decision reached by the Commissioner last summer to allow the insurance companies that comprise and operate the California FAIR Plan…
The FAIR plan, which is a state program to provide coverage to customers who can’t find it elsewhere, including in fire-prone areas, will raise limits for commercial properties such as condominiums, the California Department of Insurance said Friday in outlining an agreement with the program. However, it could take up to eight months before the…
The largest transfer of wealth in American history is already underway. According to Cerulli Associates, a leading global research and wealth management consulting firm, approximately $124 trillion is expected to change hands through 2048, with nearly $105 trillion transferring to heirs. A substantial portion of this wealth consists of highly appreciated real estate, including apartment…
In property management, it’s tempting to lean on zero-tolerance screening policies. They’re fast, efficient, and feel like a safe bet against discrimination claims. But relying solely on an algorithm creates a real problem. When we prioritize a rigid “yes or no” over an actual conversation, we aren’t just being efficient – we’re often creating a…
Maintenance requests are often the most frequent interactions residents have with property management. For many residents, the speed and fairness of these responses set the tone for their overall satisfaction. A quick, consistent, and respectful response can build confidence in the community and reassure residents that their concerns are being addressed. On the other hand,…
In property management, strong customer service is often praised as the key to successful leasing and resident retention. Leasing professionals are encouraged to be personable, attentive, and helpful in guiding prospects through the decision-making process. However, it is in these well-meaning interactions that one of the most common and costly fair housing risks can emerge:…
Emotional support animal (ESA) accommodation requests are one of the most common – and most misunderstood – issues housing providers face today. As these requests continue to increase across the country, so do concerns about fraud, particularly involving online ESA letters. The Financial and Operational Impact of ESA Fraud While ESAs are a recognized…
‘Groundbreaking’, ‘revolutionary’, and ‘game-changing’ are terms that get used more often than they likely should. Yet all these descriptions fairly communicate the impact vinyl plank floors have had on the multi-family industry. Much of the enthusiasm for vinyl plank floors has been due to their innovative design, which have effectively addressed many of the limitations…
As tax policy continues to evolve and has increasingly become focused on capital gains and real estate holdings, investors are wise to explore the tools available to help manage long-term financial planning. Among these tools, the Section 1031 Exchange remains a significant mechanism for those seeking to defer taxes and support the efficient transfer of…
When recession fears rise, budget cuts often follow—and education directors are being asked to make hard choices. Training programs frequently top the list of cuts, especially those perceived as non-essential or deferrable. At first glance, trimming fair housing training may seem like a logical decision. But beneath the surface, that cut often becomes a costly…