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.
All-Cash? All Eyes on You: What the New 2026 FinCEN Rule Means for Real Estate in Newport Beach & Beyond
Starting March 1, 2026, the U.S. Treasury’s new FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule will require escrow and title companies to collect and report detailed information on all-cash purchases by trusts and LLCs. Here’s what Newport Beach and Costa Mesa buyers and sellers need to know—and why expert guidance is essential.
8 Expert Home Staging Tips for Newport Beach & Costa Mesa Sellers
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.
