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Renters Beware – Scam “Leasing” Of Foreclosed Properties Is On The Rise

  • October 26, 2012
  • devinlucas

Renters beware.  A new rental scam is on the rise as foreclosures continue to flood the marketplace… rental properties being “leased” by sham “landlords” with no connection, whatsoever, to the property!  You, the renter, find a great rental property – perhaps on-line or driving by – you fill out your applications, pay a deposit, maybe even … Continue Reading

Save Water, Save Money, Upgrade Your Home, All For Free – The Weather-Based Irrigation Control Rebate Program From The Municipal Water District of Orange County

  • October 16, 2012
  • devinlucas

There are many energy-efficient rebate programs still out there.  While Congress let lapse a key federal tax rebate for all kinds of great energy-efficient upgrades, there are still many programs remaining that homeowners, landlords and businesses should jump on. One of the best programs (because it’s completely free for single-family residences), is to upgrade to a Weather-Based Irrigation … Continue Reading

HOA Investments – Can An HOA Buy A Mutual Fund Or Other Non-FDIC Security??? – Maybe… But It Shouldn’t

  • October 12, 2012
  • devinlucas

Can a California Homeowner’s Association (“HOA”) invest in mutual funds or other potentially “risky” investments (as opposed to traditional FIDC savings accounts, CD, etc.)?   This appears to be a hot topic right now, given the low/zero interest rates traditional FDIC investments are returning, with HOA Boards, and members alike, eager to get more return on … Continue Reading

Seriously, Change Your Air Filter Often When In Use

  • October 1, 2012
  • devinlucas

As I recently reminded myself… When running your Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning unit (your HVAC), check your filter more often.  Routinely check every 2-3 months, and more so in the hot summer and cool winter months. -Devin Lucas Author Devin R. Lucas is a Real Estate Attorney, Broker and REALTOR®, specializing in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa … Continue Reading

The Impact of California Budget Cuts on All Litigation Matters (Real Estate, Personal Injury, Business Disputes and Beyond)

  • September 27, 2012
  • devinlucas

As many litigators have no doubt noticed throughout Orange County and beyond, courtrooms are simply disappearing.  Departments are being consolidated, judges are being asked to take on more work, court staffs are being shuffled around, and so forth.  While Los Angeles County has made some recent headlines (150 more workers laid off last month), this … Continue Reading

East Side Costa Mesa Real Estate

  • September 10, 2012
  • devinlucas

Anyone looking for property in East Side Costa Mesa will have no problem finding the home of their dreams.  Unfortunately for buyers, home prices are on a significant incline.  As loans remain at record low rates, those with solid credit, income and lender approvals can lock-in unprecedented interest rates.  Even a “more expensive home” (compared with, say, a few … Continue Reading