Considering a real estate option or lease-option in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, or Laguna Beach? Learn how California option agreements work, including option payments, disclosures, inspections, financing, and key risks for buyers and sellers.
Category
For Sale By Owner
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.
Can I Sell My House To My Child (Or Anyone) Below Fair Market Value? / Can I Do A Gift Of Equity?
Can I Sell My House to My Child Below Fair Market Value?
Yes — and in fact, many families are doing exactly that using a strategy called a gift of equity. This powerful estate planning tool allows parents to sell a home to a child at a discounted price, gifting the difference — often with no immediate tax consequences. But there are critical rules to follow regarding IRS gift limits, capital gains, property tax reassessment under Prop 19, and proper loan structuring if financing is involved.
Whether you’re in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, or anywhere in coastal Orange County, this guide breaks down everything you need to know — including real-world examples, IRS rules, and expert insights from Lucas Real Estate.
The Ultimate Home Seller Checklist: Newport-Mesa Edition
Thinking of selling your home in Newport Beach or Costa Mesa?
From pricing and preparation to marketing and negotiation, our Ultimate Home Seller Checklist walks you through every step of the process—backed by the local expertise of Lucas Real Estate Group. Whether you’re handling a trust sale, family transfer, or traditional listing, we help you maximize value while minimizing stress.
Navigating Commission Changes: Your Guide to Demystifying New Real Estate Dynamics Over Compensation
New Requirements for Buyer Representation Agreements and other pending changes to the industry.
Top 5 Home Renovations with the Best Return on Investment
The top five home improvements likely to supercharge your property’s resale value.
Intra Family Sale and/or Gifting of Real Estate in California (Propositions 13, 58, 193, 60 and 90 and new Proposition 19, aka Prop 19)
Lucas Real Estate – Attorney Devin Lucas and CPA Courtney Lucas – are experts in California intra family transfers using all aspects of Propositions 13, 58, 193 60 and 90 and new Proposition 19. Learn more about how Lucas Real Estate may help by clicking here. WARNING — CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 19 HAS UPENDED THIS ENTIRE … Continue Reading
Hiring a Contractor? – A Few Tips to Consider
Remodeling your Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Orange County or other California property? – Hiring a contractor is a significant decision, with quality and pricing varying dramatically, especially on any larger scale project. Check out this info graphic from the California Contractors State License Board and the California Association of REALTORS® for some good tips. -Devin … Continue Reading
Top 10 Home Projects to Recoup Costs at Resale
Even owners of the finest Newport Beach, Costa Mesa and Orange County properties will always have a list of desired improvements to their homes. The top 10 home projects to recoup costs at resale according to Remodeling Magazine and the National Association of REALTORS® Cost vs Value Report include: Entry door replacement; Manufactured stone veneer; … Continue Reading
Smart Home Technology
Attention Newport Beach, Costa Mesa and Orange County Home Sellers and Buyers, Smart Home Technology is in! Consumers of all generations value smart technology features in both their current homes and future homes. According to a recent ERA/HGTV survey, nearly half (46 percent) of consumers believe it is important that their current home or next … Continue Reading
