Ready to sell your Newport Beach or Costa Mesa home? Discover 8 professional staging tips to attract more buyers, make a stunning first impression, and sell faster with Lucas Real Estate Group—your local legal and luxury real estate experts.
Why Mortgage Rates Didn’t Fall After the Fed Cut: What Newport Beach and Costa Mesa Buyers Should Know
When the Federal Reserve cut rates, many Newport Beach and Costa Mesa buyers expected mortgage rates to tumble—but they didn’t. Learn why rates barely moved, what it means for home buyers and sellers, and how Lucas Real Estate Group helps you navigate today’s market.
Newport-Mesa School Calendar and Important NMUSD Phone Numbers 2025–2026: Plan Ahead With Lucas Real Estate Group
📅 The 2025–2026 Newport-Mesa Unified School District Calendar is here!
At Lucas Real Estate Group, we know how important it is for families to plan ahead — from vacations to after-school activities to big moves. That’s why we’re sharing this year’s official NMUSD calendar as a community resource.
Check out all the key dates — from the first day of school on August 18, 2025 to the last day on June 4, 2026 — plus holidays, breaks, and conference weeks to help keep your family organized.
As neighbors, parents, and active community members, we’re proud to support local families both inside and outside of real estate.
When Are Sellers Exempt From Certain Disclosures in California Real Estate?
California law requires real estate sellers to disclose known material facts about their property, even when certain exemptions apply. While some sellers—like trustees, fiduciaries, or those involved in court-ordered sales—may be exempt from completing forms such as the Transfer Disclosure Statement (TDS), they are still obligated to disclose any defects that could impact the property’s value. Learn how exemptions work, when they apply, and why tools like the Exempt Seller Disclosure Form are essential for compliance. For trustees, explore our detailed guide to their specific disclosure requirements. Whether you’re selling in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, or other coastal Orange County communities, Lucas Real Estate ensures your transaction is smooth, compliant, and stress-free.
What Happens When a Tenant Moves Out Early? A Landlord’s Guide in California
What happens when a tenant moves out before their lease ends? In California, tenants remain responsible for unpaid rent and re-rental costs—but landlords must make reasonable efforts to find a replacement rather than simply charging the tenant for the full lease term. Under California Civil Code § 1951.2, landlords have a legal duty to mitigate damages by advertising the property, setting a fair market rent, and considering qualified replacement tenants. If a landlord rejects a viable tenant without good reason, the outgoing tenant’s liability may be reduced. A proactive approach can minimize downtime and financial loss for both parties.
Sustainable Home Features Newport Beach & Costa Mesa Buyers Want
Today’s buyers in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa are looking for homes that combine luxury and sustainability. From energy-efficient kitchens and EV-ready garages to drought-tolerant landscaping and eco-chic materials, green features add real value in Orange County’s competitive real estate market. Discover the top sustainable upgrades that make homes stand out — and why they matter for resale.
Ready to Buy in Newport Beach or Costa Mesa? Here’s How to See What You Can Afford in 7 Steps
Buying a home in Newport Beach or Costa Mesa is exciting—but figuring out how much you can truly afford takes more than a quick online calculator. From understanding your budget and DTI to planning down payments, jumbo loans, and California-specific property taxes, there are critical steps every Orange County buyer should take before starting their search. Our latest guide walks you through 7 smart steps to determine how much home you can afford in today’s competitive Newport Beach and Costa Mesa real estate market.
The So-Called “Mansion Tax” — How It Negatively Impacts Real Estate
Los Angeles’ so-called “Mansion Tax” isn’t just a L.A. problem—it’s a warning shot for property owners across Orange County. Branded as a luxury tax, Measure ULA has stalled high-value transactions, slashed property tax revenues, and deterred housing development. As similar ideas loom statewide, Newport Beach and Costa Mesa property owners, investors, and trustees need to stay informed—and protected.
Why You Shouldn’t Leave a Deceased Parent’s Home in Their Trust to “Avoid” Property Tax Reassessment
Thinking of keeping a deceased parent’s home in their trust to “avoid” reassessment? Don’t do it. This common myth can lead to massive tax bills, penalties, title issues, and even trustee liability. At Lucas Real Estate Group, we help clients across Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and Orange County navigate property transfers, Proposition 19, and trust administration — the right way.
What the 2025 Federal Tax Reform Means for Homeowners (aka The Big Beautiful Bill’s Impact on Real Estate)
The 2025 federal tax reform delivers major wins for homeowners, investors, and business owners — from increased SALT deductions and permanent mortgage interest deductions to restored bonus depreciation and preserved 1031 exchanges. But despite these changes, key homeowner benefits like the capital gains exclusion remain unchanged since 1997, fueling ongoing calls for reform. At Lucas Real Estate Group, we break down what this means for Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and coastal Orange County property owners.
