Blog
Proposed New Rules Could Create Restrictions on Housing Development in Santa Cruz County
The State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection recently proposed new regulations that could drastically affect landowners in Santa Cruz County, more specifically, those impacted by the CZU Lightning Complex fires that burned in Northern California starting August 2020. Read More
The Climate Crisis Could Pose Hikes to Homeowners Flood Insurance Costs
The Climate Crisis Could Pose Hikes to Homeowners Flood Insurance Costs Flood risk is not often top of mind for potential home buyers, real estate agents, insurance companies, and creditors. That may change thanks to a new study that examines the potential financial impact to homes due to flood risk, a topic that has garnered... Read More
When Your California Neighbor Injures or Destroys Your Tree
When you are confronted with neighborhood conflict, the best way to learn about your rights is to educate yourself and build a case. So, when it comes to under-standing your legal rights regarding your trees (and other landscape), it is imperative to first understand who owns the tree Read More
FHFA Extends Protection for Homeowners Amidst COVID-19 Pandemic
Homeowners impacted by the coronavirus pandemic can continue to breathe more easily, at least through the spring, thanks to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). The agency announced February 9 that it would extend foreclose and real estate owned (REO) eviction moratoriums, as well as the COVID-19 forbearance period. The current moratorium, which was set... Read More
How to Handle Neighborhood Noise
Noisy neighbors are one of the biggest problems affecting California communities. As individuals participate in the hustle and bustle of daily activities, most want to return home for a peaceful night of rest and relaxation. Unfortunately, neighborhood activities can interfere with these plans, causing resentment and anger among neighbors. Some activities are permitted, while others... Read More
Check These Areas That Often Fail a Home Inspection
By Maddi Arcurio – Marketing Coordinator, Communications at HomeLight If you’re planning on taking advantage of the seller’s market by listing your home this year, a little preparation will help you sell your home fast. While the market is hot, you don’t want to give prospective buyers any reason to pass on your house. So,... Read More
California Lawmakers Extend Relief to Vulnerable Tenants Until June 2021
California’s most vulnerable tenants may continue to stay afloat during the pandemic, thanks to recent actions taken by the state legislature. On Thursday, January 28, 2021, California lawmakers approved the use of $2.6 billion in federal stimulus money to pay off up to 80% of income-qualified tenants’ unpaid rent. Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to... Read More
Understanding Feedback Loops
Understanding Feedback Loops “Climate change is the defining crisis of our time, and it is happening even more quickly than we feared. But we are far from powerless in the face of this global threat.” – United Nations Schneider Estates, Inc. is committed to educating ourselves and our clients about the climate crisis. Climate change... Read More
Tackling a Neighborhood Problem
Being a homeowner comes with immense benefits: it’s an excellent long-term investment, it helps you build equity, and it provides you with federal tax benefits. However, homeownership can quickly become a hassle, especially when you encounter problems with one of your neighbors. Although no one wants to deal with such incidents, all homeowners are likely... Read More
Understanding and Executing Neighborhood Law: The Beginning of A Series
Welcome to the first of many installations in our newest series: Understanding and Executing Neighborhood Law. As a homeowner, you have been graced with the whole range of experiences that come with having neighbors! Although they can bring great joy through friendships, community events, and even play-dates, neighbors can also bring their own challenges, which... Read More