Many real estate agents rely on the traditional one-mile radius search to find comparable properties, but this method can lead to inaccurate pricing. Property values often change dramatically between neighborhoods, even within short distances. Learn why using tools like TopHap and MLS polygon searches can provide more precise comps and better property valuations.

Many people believe a room must have a closet to qualify as a bedroom, but that’s a common misconception. According to the International Residential Code (IRC), a bedroom is defined by safety, size, and accessibility requirements—not by the presence of a closet.

As extreme heat becomes a growing health risk, cities across the U.S. and Canada are pushing for air conditioning mandates in rental housing. With heat-related deaths rising and indoor temperatures becoming unsafe, lawmakers are debating new rules that would require landlords to maintain cooler living conditions—while balancing concerns over costs and energy use.

Sacramento’s rental market remains stable with strong demand, affordable rents, and solid investment potential driven by population growth and job opportunities.

Allowing pets in rental properties can attract more tenants and increase rental income, but it also comes with risks like property damage and tenant disputes. Learn the key pros and cons landlords should consider before going pet-friendly.

California landlords have the legal right to enter rental properties for inspections, repairs, showings, and emergencies—but must typically provide at least 24 hours’ notice. Understanding these rules helps maintain compliance while respecting tenant rights and privacy.

Senate Bill 721 requires regular inspections of balconies, decks, stairways, and other exterior elevated elements in California apartment buildings. Learn what property owners need to know about compliance, deadlines, and safety requirements.

A firsthand investigation into “legal” CPNs reveals a dangerous scam where consumers are sold stolen Social Security numbers and guided into potential fraud. Learn why CPNs are illegal and how these schemes can lead to serious consequences.

California’s Assembly Bill 12 (AB12), effective July 1, 2024, limits security deposits to one month’s rent for most landlords. While small landlords may qualify for a two-month exception, the law standardizes rules across furnished and unfurnished units and eliminates loopholes like separate “pet deposits” or last month’s rent charges.

Median rent prices have declined year over year for the 11th consecutive month, now sitting just below their 2022 peak. While rents are easing slightly due to increased housing supply, they remain significantly higher than pre-pandemic levels across many U.S. markets.

A practical legal Q&A for landlords covering eviction timelines, tenant property, recording laws, parking rules, pet policies, smoking restrictions, security deposits, out-of-state collections, and renters insurance requirements.

California’s AB 1482 rent cap law limits annual rent increases to 5% plus CPI or 10%, whichever is lower. For August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2025, the maximum allowable increase in Sacramento, Placer, Yolo, and El Dorado counties is 8.8%.

California rent prices declined across most major metro areas in December 2023, with Sacramento seeing the largest drop. Los Angeles was the exception, posting a year-over-year increase in median rent despite broader statewide cooling trends.

The VA has introduced a temporary rule allowing Veteran homebuyers to pay buyer-broker commissions under specific conditions, addressing industry changes following the NAR settlement. This update provides flexibility for Veterans navigating evolving real estate practices while maintaining safeguards within VA loan requirements.

Starting July 1, 2024, California law limits residential security deposits to one month’s rent, regardless of whether the unit is furnished or unfurnished. This update under AB12 replaces previous higher limits and includes specific exceptions for small landlords and service members.

A helpful June 2024 Q&A covering key landlord-tenant issues—from email communication in court to security deposits, eviction collections, month-to-month notices, and handling abandoned property. Learn practical insights for property owners and managers.

California’s multifamily rental market shows mixed trends, with Los Angeles rents slightly declining, San Francisco facing tenant retention challenges, and San Diego experiencing steady growth.

California lawmakers are advancing a new bill that could reshape rental policies by banning blanket no-pet rules. The proposal would eliminate pet rent, restrict pet-related questions on applications, and allow landlords to charge higher security deposits to offset potential pet damage.

California security deposit laws are evolving, with new limits under AB 12 taking effect in 2024. Learn how much landlords can charge, what deposits can be used for, and key compliance tips to avoid legal issues.

The proposed “Justice for Renters Act” could significantly reshape California’s rental housing market by repealing the Costa-Hawkins Act. This change may expand rent control, limit landlord flexibility, and impact property values, raising concerns about housing supply and market stability.