California LLC owners: your $800 tax and Form 568 are due April 15, 2026. Avoid penalties and stay compliant—especially if you own real estate in Newport Beach or Costa Mesa.
As a Trustee, When Do You Have to Notify the County About a Death Involving Real Estate? A simple guide for children, heirs, and trustees handling a deceased parent’s home in California.
When a parent passes away, one of the most common questions trustees ask is: “When do I have to notify the county about the home?” In most cases, California law requires a Change in Ownership Statement within 150 days of death. California actually has multiple timelines—some with penalties if missed—and they apply even if the property stays in the trust and no sale is planned. In this guide, we break down the 150-day rule, the 90-day rule, and how Proposition 19 fits into the picture so you can protect your family’s property taxes and avoid costly mistakes.
Paint Colors That Help Homes Sell in 2026: Strategic Color Choices for Newport Beach & Costa Mesa Sellers
Paint color plays a powerful role in how buyers perceive a home. Learn which palettes help homes sell in 2026—and which choices can quietly hurt value—in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa.
2026 Home Color Trends: Elevated Palettes for Newport Beach & Costa Mesa Homes
Explore the 2026 home color trends shaping Newport Beach and Costa Mesa homes. Warm, coastal palettes that enhance livability, design, and resale value.
Compass + Coldwell Banker: What the World’s Largest Brokerage Means for Lucas Real Estate and Our Clients in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa & Orange County
Now part of the world’s largest real estate brokerage, we’re expanding our reach, resources, and network in Newport Beach and beyond—so our clients gain more opportunity, stronger execution, and even greater confidence in every transaction.
California Landlord–Tenant Update for 2026: New Refrigerator and Stove Appliance Requirements You Need to Know
Starting in 2026, California landlords must provide a working stove and refrigerator under AB 628. Learn how this impacts leases and habitability rules.
2026 IRS Gift & Estate Tax Rules: $15 Million Lifetime Exclusion Is Here — What Newport Beach Homeowners Need to Know Now
The rules have changed—and high-value real estate owners should pay attention.
With the new $15 million federal gift and estate tax exclusion for 2026, families owning coastal California real estate now have unprecedented flexibility in estate and tax planning. Here’s what this means for Newport Beach and Orange County property owners.
The Garn–St. Germain Act: How a Little-Known Federal Law May Let You Transfer Your Ultra-Low Mortgage Rate to Your Children
Many Newport Beach and Costa Mesa homeowners are sitting on historically low mortgage rates—and don’t realize a federal law may allow them to transfer property, and their low mortgage, to their children without triggering a refinance. The Garn–St. Germain Act of 1982 can protect certain family transfers, but only when done correctly. In this article, we break down what the law allows, where it doesn’t apply, and how local families are using it as part of smart real estate, tax, and estate planning.
6 Reasons Why December Might Be the Best Time to Buy a Home in Newport Beach & Costa Mesa
December can be one of the smartest (and most overlooked) months to buy a home in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa. With fewer buyers in the market, more motivated sellers, potential year-end tax advantages, and faster closing timelines, the holiday season may offer buyers a real edge. Here’s why December might be the perfect time to make your move.
2025–2026 California Property Tax Bills Are Out! Don’t Miss Your Deadlines (The County Will NOT Remind You!)
Property tax season is here again! Orange County has released the 2025–2026 secured property tax bills, and homeowners in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, and the surrounding coastal communities should review their bills now. The County won’t remind you if you miss a payment, and penalties can be steep—especially on high-value homes. Here’s what you need to know about deadlines, online payments, and why December 10 and April 10 are the real dates that matter.
