When California received $410 million in 2012 as part of a nationwide settlement with major banks accused of abusive foreclosures, Gov. Jerry Brown used $331 million to pay state agencies in housing and other programs to cover their deficits. Now a state appeals court has ordered the money be used for its original intent: to […]
Agent Accused of Price Gouging After Fires
Real estate agent Melissa Echeverria faces three misdemeanor charges for allegedly raising the monthly rent on property she owns in Novato, CA, by more than 10% following the devastating fires in Northern Bay Area counties last year. Gov. Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency on Oct. 9, 2017 due to the blazes, and price gouging […]
Disaster Fund to Help REALTOR® Family Fire Victims
You too can help! The devastating fires that raged through Northern California, killing 40 residents and destroying thousands of structures, and the wildfire in Southern California that destroyed numerous homes, were so severe that Gov. Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency just a few hours after the fires began. C.A.R.’s Disaster Relief Fund is […]
Gov. Brown Signs Bills to Cut Red Tape, Lower Construction Costs
In an effort to offer solutions to the affordability crisis in California, Gov. Jerry Brown signed a 15-bill package that “will help cut red tape and encourage more affordable housing, including shelter for the growing number of homeless in California,” he said. He added: “Today, you can be sure we got 15 good bills. Have […]
Converted Units Now Legal?
Thousands of guest houses across Southern California might be shedding their illegal status, thanks to a law that took effect in January. In an effort by municipalities to ease the housing crisis, thousands of back houses, converted garages and structures otherwise known as Granny Flats are now eligible for legal permits. Legislation signed by Gov. […]