image of coastal home with "forming an LLC to hold real estate in California" as an overlay

Forming an LLC to Hold Real Estate in California

  • May 6, 2025
  • devinlucas

Thinking about forming an LLC to hold real estate in California? Discover why LLCs are a powerful tool for privacy, asset protection, estate planning, and tax flexibility—especially for high-value properties in Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Corona del Mar, and other Orange County coastal communities. This comprehensive guide from Lucas Real Estate Group covers everything from liability and tax benefits to Prop 19 strategies and long-term maintenance considerations.

Image of a home in background with text, "California Homestead exemption"

California Homestead Exemption: Protecting Your Home Equity in Newport Beach and Coastal Orange County

  • May 6, 2025
  • devinlucas

California’s homestead exemption—recently expanded and indexed for inflation—offers powerful legal protections for homeowners, especially in high-value areas like Newport Beach and Eastside Costa Mesa. In this article, the Lucas Real Estate Group breaks down the history of the homestead exemption, recent legal updates, and how to use it effectively as part of your real estate or estate planning strategy.

Prop 19 inflation adjustment info graphic with picture of house

Proposition 19 Update (2025): Intergenerational Transfer Cap Rises to $1,044,586

  • April 30, 2025
  • devinlucas

Proposition 19’s intergenerational transfer cap has been adjusted to $1,044,586 as of February 16, 2025, offering only modest relief for families hoping to preserve their property tax basis. For high-value areas like Newport Beach and Coastal Orange County, this minor inflation adjustment does little to mitigate the harsh tax implications of Prop 19. Learn what this means for your family and how Lucas Real Estate Group can help you plan strategically.

photo of couple with real estate agent at a kitchen table reviewing documents

The Ultimate Home Seller Checklist: Newport-Mesa Edition

  • April 16, 2025
  • devinlucas

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.

alarm clock and post it note infographic with "reminder" Attention California LLC Owners: Two Key Tax Reminders You Don’t Want to Miss

Attention California LLC Owners: Two Key Tax Reminders You Don’t Want to Miss – 1) Annual $800 Minimum Fee, and 2) Form 568 – Due April 15th

  • April 4, 2025
  • devinlucas

If you own a California LLC — even one with no income or used solely to hold real estate — you’re still required to file Form 568 and pay the $800 minimum annual franchise tax. This blog breaks down the two most critical filing requirements for LLC owners, especially those using an LLC for privacy, rental properties, or estate planning purposes. Don’t risk penalties or suspension — find out what’s due, when, and how to stay compliant.

infographic on "5 Stylish Tips to Elevate Your Small Outdoor Space in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa"

5 Stylish Tips to Elevate Your Small Outdoor Space in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa

  • March 31, 2025
  • devinlucas

Ready to refresh your outdoor space for spring?
Even the smallest patio or balcony can become a stylish retreat with a few thoughtful upgrades. From cozy furniture ideas to creating privacy with lush greenery, we’re sharing five easy ways to elevate your outdoor living—tailored for homes in Newport Beach, Eastside Costa Mesa, and the surrounding coastal communities.

Discover how to turn your space into a sunny sanctuary, whether you’re prepping to sell or simply soaking up the SoCal lifestyle.

Home Buyer’s Checklist: Touring Homes Like a Pro

  • March 31, 2025
  • devinlucas

Tour Homes Like a Pro: What Every Newport Beach Buyer Should Know
Ready to move beyond online listings and start touring homes in person? Whether you’re buying in Newport Beach, Eastside Costa Mesa, or surrounding coastal communities, this step-by-step checklist will help you evaluate properties with confidence. Learn what to look for — inside and out — and how to spot red flags before making an offer. Written by local real estate attorney and broker Devin R. Lucas, this guide blends real-world experience with professional insight to help you make smart, informed decisions in today’s competitive market.

Think Your Property Tax Bill is High? Check Out Orange County’s Biggest Bills!

  • March 12, 2025
  • devinlucas

Think Your Property Tax Bill is High? These OC Landowners Pay Millions!

Before you complain about your tax bill, consider this—Irvine Company alone pays $192 million in property taxes this year. Disney? $81.5 million.

The Top 20 taxpayers contribute nearly $500 million, funding schools, roads, and public safety. Yet, Orange County only gets 5 cents of every tax dollar, far less than LA (21 cents) and San Diego (12 cents).

“Without these contributions, many local agencies wouldn’t have the funds for public services,” says OC Treasurer Shari Freidenrich.

Want to see the biggest tax bills in OC? Read on.