A professional blog header featuring a blurred architectural building and legal documents with a fountain pen. Centered white serif text reads, "As a Trustee, When Do You Have to Notify the County About a Death Involving Real Estate?" beneath which is the Lucas Real Estate Group logo.

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.

  • February 13, 2026
  • devinlucas

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.

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6 Reasons Why December Might Be the Best Time to Buy a Home in Newport Beach & Costa Mesa

  • November 16, 2025
  • devinlucas

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.

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8 Expert Home Staging Tips for Newport Beach & Costa Mesa Sellers

  • October 8, 2025
  • devinlucas

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.

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When Are Sellers Exempt From Certain Disclosures in California Real Estate?

  • August 25, 2025
  • devinlucas

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.

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Sustainable Home Features Newport Beach & Costa Mesa Buyers Want

  • August 25, 2025
  • devinlucas

Today’s buyers in Newport Beach and Costa Mesa are looking for homes that combine luxury and sustainability. From energy-efficient kitchens and EV-ready garages to drought-tolerant landscaping and eco-chic materials, green features add real value in Orange County’s competitive real estate market. Discover the top sustainable upgrades that make homes stand out — and why they matter for resale.

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Kitchen Design Trends For Coastal Orange County: Create a Welcoming, Functional Space

  • June 18, 2025
  • devinlucas

A thoughtfully designed kitchen doesn’t just elevate your daily life—it elevates your entire home. In today’s market, smart design is smart investment. Connect With Us Whether you’re preparing your Newport Beach or Laguna Beach home for sale, upgrading an investment property in Costa Mesa, or simply elevating your forever home, today’s kitchen design trends blend … Continue Reading