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Understanding Key Property Management Terms with Natalie from Real Property Management Select

At Real Property Management Select, we strive to make property management simple and clear. Our very own Natalie has taken a creative approach to explain common property management and real estate terms through an interactive video, where she pulls cards with key terms and breaks them down for you. In this blog, we’re covering a […]

Realtor Commission Changes: What Homebuyers and Sellers Need to Know

As of August 17, 2024, the real estate industry in the U.S. is undergoing significant changes due to a legal settlement involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR). The lawsuit, which accused real estate agents of price fixing to maintain high commissions, has resulted in new rules that could reshape the way real estate transactions are handled. These changes are expected to bring greater transparency but also new challenges for both homebuyers and sellers. Here’s what you need to know.

 

How Commissions Worked Before

Traditionally, when selling a home, the seller would typically pay a commission of around 5% to 6% of the sale price. This amount was split between the listing agent (representing the seller) and the buyer’s agent. While the seller paid the commission out of their proceeds, this cost was often built into the home’s sale price, meaning buyers indirectly covered these fees through their purchase.

For example, on a $400,000 home, a 5% commission would amount to $20,000, split evenly between the two agents. While this model has been in place for decades, it has come under scrutiny for lack of transparency and inflated costs compared to international standards.

 

What’s Changing?

The most significant change is that listing agents are now prohibited from advertising compensation offers to buyer’s agents on any NAR-affiliated Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Additionally, buyers must now have a written agreement with their agent that clearly outlines the agent’s commission before viewing any property. This shift means that buyers and sellers will need to negotiate agent fees on a case-by-case basis, leading to a more complex transaction process.

Real estate commissions have always been technically negotiable, but the dynamics are shifting. Now, buyers will directly negotiate with their agents regarding compensation, a responsibility that previously fell on the sellers. This change could be particularly daunting for first-time homebuyers, who might already be struggling with high home prices and rising interest rates.

 

Potential Impact on Homebuyers and Sellers

The long-term effects of these changes are still uncertain, and opinions vary widely. On one hand, some industry experts predict a more competitive market, where commission rates could decline, ultimately benefiting consumers. Buyers may have more options and greater control over their costs, potentially leading to significant savings.

However, there are also concerns. The added complexity of negotiating commissions could lead to longer transaction times and increased confusion for buyers and sellers alike. First-time buyers, who often rely heavily on professional guidance, may find it challenging to afford quality representation if commissions are no longer covered by the seller.

Moreover, while the intention is to create a fairer and more transparent process, the new rules might inadvertently result in fewer agents in the market. Some agents may exit the industry due to lower earnings, while others might adopt a more à la carte pricing model, where buyers pay for individual services instead of a comprehensive package.

 

Navigating the New Landscape

For both buyers and sellers, understanding these changes and their implications will be crucial to navigating the new real estate landscape. Sellers might need to reconsider their strategies, possibly offering buyer incentives to ensure a smoother sale. Buyers, on the other hand, should be prepared to negotiate directly with agents and carefully review any agreements before signing.

As the industry adjusts to these new rules, Real Property Management Select remains committed to staying ahead of the curve. We continuously monitor industry developments to ensure that our clients receive the most up-to-date and relevant advice. Whether you’re buying, selling, or managing a property, our team is here to guide you through these changes with expertise and dedication.

For stress-free property management that keeps you informed and in control, follow Real Property Management Select or hire our services today. Let us help you navigate the evolving real estate market with confidence.

Insurance Commissioner Implements Protections for California Homeowners Affected by Wildfires

As of August 8, 2024, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has enacted a critical one-year moratorium aimed at protecting over 185,000 California homeowners from insurance cancellations and non-renewals due to recent wildfire emergencies. This order is a significant step in safeguarding those impacted by the Park, Borel, and Gold Complex fires, which have devastated large areas in Northern and Central California.

Overview of the Moratorium

The new moratorium applies to residents within the designated ZIP Codes affected by the fires. This protection ensures that homeowners in these areas are not at risk of losing their insurance coverage for one year from the date of the Governor’s emergency declarations. Importantly, this moratorium applies regardless of whether the homeowner suffered a direct loss from the wildfires.

Commissioner Lara’s initiative is part of a broader effort to address the escalating impacts of climate change on California’s communities. “Homeowners plagued by devastating wildfires deserve the peace of mind that their home and future will remain covered by insurance as they recover and rebuild,” Lara said.

The Department of Insurance will also have staff on the ground in wildfire-affected areas, assisting survivors with claims and providing protection against potential fraud and abuse.

Affected ZIP Codes

The moratorium is in effect for the following areas:

Gold Complex Fire (Effective July 26, 2024):

– 95983, 96103, 96105, 96106, 96109, 96114, 96118, 96122, 96124, 96126, 96129, 96135

Park Fire (Effective July 26, 2024):

– 95915, 95926, 95928, 95929, 95938, 95942, 95943, 95951, 95954, 95963, 95969, 95973, 95978, 96007, 96020, 96021, 96022, 96035, 96055, 96059, 96061, 96063, 96071, 96075, 96076, 96080, 96088, 96090, 96092

Borel Fire (Effective July 30, 2024):

– 93203, 93205, 93220, 93226, 93238, 93240, 93241, 93260, 93283, 93285, 93306, 93307, 93308, 93501, 93518, 93519, 93531, 93561

These ZIP Codes represent areas either directly within or adjacent to the fire perimeters, highlighting the extensive reach of these protections.

Looking Forward

Commissioner Lara’s actions reflect a commitment to finding proactive solutions in response to the growing threat of wildfires in California. Since taking office in 2019, Lara has worked to protect nearly 4 million homeowners through similar initiatives. This latest moratorium is part of a series of reforms designed to improve the sustainability and availability of insurance for all Californians, particularly those facing increasing climate-related risks.

Residents in the affected ZIP Codes are encouraged to stay informed about their rights and protections under this moratorium. The Department of Insurance remains committed to supporting homeowners as they navigate this challenging time.

For more information on this and other protections, visit the California Department of Insurance website.

Navigating the complexities of property management, especially with ever-changing regulations and protections, can be overwhelming. At Real Property Management Select, we take the stress out of managing your property by keeping you informed and ensuring your investments are safeguarded. Stay ahead of the curve with our expert team by your side, delivering seamless, stress-free property management that gives you peace of mind.

Reminder: New Rent Caps in Effect Under AB 1482

As of August 1, 2024, the updated rent caps under AB 1482, the California Tenant Protection Act of 2019, are now in effect. These new limits, based on the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures for all California counties, will govern how much landlords can increase rents over the next year. It’s essential for both tenants and landlords to be aware of these changes to ensure compliance and understanding of their rights and responsibilities.

Key Changes to Rent Caps

For San Francisco, the maximum rent increase for units covered under AB 1482 is now set at 8.8%. This cap is valid from August 1, 2024, to July 31, 2025, and reflects a combination of a 5% base increase plus a 3.8% adjustment based on the regional CPI. 

Understanding AB 1482

AB 1482 was enacted to provide statewide tenant protections, including limits on rent increases and just cause eviction requirements. The law aims to offer stability and predictability for tenants while ensuring landlords can maintain reasonable returns on their properties.

Key Provisions:

– Rent Increase Limit: Annual rent increases are capped at 5% plus the local CPI, or 10%, whichever is lower. 

– Just Cause Eviction: Landlords must provide a valid reason for terminating a tenancy, categorized as either “at-fault” or “no-fault” causes.

– Notice Requirements: Landlords must notify tenants in writing about the just cause and rent cap protections.

Units Covered and Exemptions

AB 1482 applies to most rental units in California, but there are specific exemptions:

– Units built in the past 15 years.

– Deed-restricted affordable housing.

– Certain dormitories.

– Owner-occupied properties with two units, where the owner lives in one of the units.

Eviction and Rent Increase Guidelines

For a tenancy to be terminated, landlords must have a valid “just cause,” such as non-payment of rent or lease violations. In cases of “no-fault” evictions, such as owner move-ins or substantial renovations, landlords are required to provide relocation assistance.

Rent increases are limited to no more than 5% plus the local CPI, with the current allowable increase in San Francisco set at 8.8%. No more than two increases are permitted within a 12-month period.

Compliance and Legal Advice

While the Rent Board provides information and guidance, it does not have enforcement powers. Tenants and landlords may need to seek legal advice or assistance from tenant advocacy organizations for disputes or enforcement actions related to AB 1482.

Staying updated with the latest changes under AB 1482 is crucial for both landlords and tenants to ensure compliance and protect their rights. At Real Property Management Select, we are committed to keeping you informed and helping you navigate these regulations effectively.

Real Property Management Select is dedicated to providing comprehensive property management services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in managing your rental properties effectively and efficiently.

The 15 Most Expensive Housing Markets in the U.S.: Real Estate with the Highest Average Home Prices

The most expensive housing markets in the U.S. have average home prices that are almost three times the national average.

Home prices may have peaked in the summer of 2022, but the most expensive housing markets in the U.S. remain shockingly high.

The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index is up 6.29% since April of last year. The 20-city index, which measures only the very largest metro housing markets, is up 7.2% over the same period.

Both indexes have risen approximately 8.65% and 8.55% respectively over the past three years, but experts see mounting evidence that the recent increase in home prices may already be coming to an end.

After nine months of steadily increasing housing prices in the U.S., price growth has now decreased for the second month in a row according to the Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price NSA Index.

Despite some recent relief, the most expensive housing markets in the U.S. remain exceedingly costly by historical standards and are not expected to get much cheaper anytime soon.

To understand what average home prices look like in the nation’s most expensive housing markets, we turned to the latest data from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Their cost of living index measures prices in 265 urban areas for housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous goods and services (such as getting your hair done or going to a movie).

Signs of inflation abound, but home prices are what really stand out. This year, the increase slowed greatly. As of the beginning of 2024, the average price of a home in the U.S. was $508,666, up from $500,584.

Most Expensive Housing Markets in the U.S.

With C2ER’s data, we identified the 15 most expensive housing markets in the U.S. — and the premiums home prices command relative to the national average. (Spoiler alert: the 15 U.S. cities with the highest average home prices have an average home price of $1.34 million, or 2.7 times the national average.)

Here are the U.S. cities with the highest average home prices. For good measure, we’ve also included data on median household incomes, average rents, related housing costs, and other pertinent information.

Data Source: C2ER’s Cost of Living Index, 2023 Third Quarter Data, published October 2023. Index data is based on average prices of goods and services collected during the first three quarters of 2023, with index values based on the new weights for 2023. Population data, household incomes, home values, poverty rates, and other demographic information are from the U.S. Census Bureau.

  1. Oakland, California

– City population: 430,531

– Median household income: $93,146 (U.S.: $74,755)

– Average home price: $920,364 (U.S.: $508,666)

– Premium to U.S. average: 77%

Oakland, neighboring Berkeley and within commuting distance to San Francisco, attracts foodies, culture seekers, and nature lovers. Oaklandites pay 77% more than average for housing-related expenses. The Port of Oakland is the busiest port in Northern California. Despite robust public transportation options, transportation costs for Oakland residents are 44.6% higher than average.

  1. Bethesda, Maryland

– City population: 68,522

– Median household income: $158,720

– Average home price: $1,017,353

– Premium to U.S. average: 91.4%

Bethesda, an upscale D.C. suburb, is home to the National Institutes of Health and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. While healthcare costs are 5.8% lower than the national average, residents pay a 91.4% premium for housing.

  1. Arlington, Virginia

– City population: 234,000

– Median household income: $132,380

– Average home price: $1,057,671

– Premium to U.S. average: 103%

Arlington, home to the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery, boasts an average home price exceeding $1 million. Housing-related expenses are more than twice the national average, with mortgage payments topping $5,000 a month.

  1. Seattle, Washington

– City population: 749,267

– Median household income: $115,409

– Average home price: $1,068,450

– Premium to U.S. average: 109.2%

Seattle’s booming tech scene and limited housing inventory have driven prices up. While prices have cooled over the past year, Seattle remains one of the priciest markets with housing costs 109.2% higher than the national average.

  1. San Diego, California

– City population: 1,381,182

– Median household income: $100,010

– Average home price: $1,092,324 

– Premium to U.S. average: 110.9%

San Diego offers an ideal climate and outdoor activities but at a high cost. Average home prices exceed $1 million, and rent averages $3,210 a month, significantly higher than the national average.

  1. Boston, Massachusetts

– City population: 649,768

– Median household income: $86,331

– Average home price: $999,000 

– Premium to U.S. average: 112.8%

Boston’s high concentrations of universities, hospitals, and tech companies make it an appealing place to live. However, average home prices are almost twice the national average, with principal and interest payments on mortgages doubling the U.S. average.

  1. Queens, New York

– Borough population: 2,278,029

– Median household income: $80,577

– Average home price: $1,097,857 

– Premium to U.S. average: 129.5%

Queens has become trendier, driving prices up. The average home price is nearly $1.1 million, and housing-related costs are 129.5% greater than the U.S. average. Renters also face steep costs with average rents of $3,424 per month.

  1. Los Angeles, California

– City population: 3,822,224

– Median household income: $76,135

– Average home price: $1,279,270

– Premium to U.S. average: 133.3%

Los Angeles is known for its glamor, but high living expenses, especially in housing, make it one of the most expensive U.S. cities. The average home price is $1.28 million, with median home values and rents significantly higher than the national average.

  1. Washington, D.C.

– City population: 671,803

– Median household income: $101,027 

– Average home price: $1,220,500 

– Premium to U.S. average: 135%

Washington, D.C., has an average home price of $1.22 million, making housing costs 2.35 times the national average. While groceries and utilities are slightly above the national average, transportation expenses are relatively affordable.

  1. Orange County, California

– County population: 3,151,184

– Median household income: $106,209

– Average home price: $1,464,488

– Premium to U.S. average: 159.7%

Orange County, with several large municipalities and smaller enclaves like Newport Beach, has an average home price of over $1.46 million. Housing costs are 159.7% higher than the national average, although healthcare costs are lower.

  1. San Francisco, California

– City population: 1,537,618

– Median household income: $139,873

– Average home price: $1,401,754 

– Premium to U.S. average: 174.9%

San Francisco’s tech-driven growth has made it one of the most expensive housing markets in the U.S. Average home prices are $1.4 million, with median home values and rents significantly higher than the national average.

  1. Brooklyn, New York

– Borough population: 2,590,516

– Median household income: $73,951

– Average home price: $1,344,600 

– Premium to U.S. average: 176.5%

Brooklyn, a metropolis in its own right, has average home prices of $1.34 million and housing-related expenses almost triple the national average. Median home values are also significantly higher than the U.S. median.

  1. Honolulu, Hawaii

– City population: 343,437 

– Median household income: $82,006

– Average home price: $1,506,727 

– Premium to U.S. average: 196%

Honolulu’s tropical climate and geographic isolation contribute to its high housing costs. Average home prices are over $1.5 million, and renters pay an average of $

3,100 per month, making it one of the most expensive housing markets in the U.S.

  1. Manhattan, New York

– Borough population: 1,636,142

– Median household income: $91,496

– Average home price: $2,085,739 

– Premium to U.S. average: 229.4%

Manhattan, synonymous with high living costs, has average home prices over $2 million and housing costs 229.4% higher than the national average. Renters pay $5,300 per month on average, highlighting the borough’s extreme cost of living.

  1. San Jose, California

– City population: 982,740

– Median household income: $136,807

– Average home price: $2,062,343 

– Premium to U.S. average: 242%

San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, tops the list with average home prices of over $2 million. Housing costs are 242% higher than the national average, driven by the city’s tech industry growth and limited housing inventory.

These 15 cities demonstrate the extreme housing market variances in the U.S., reflecting economic disparities, regional desirability, and local housing policies. For those considering a move, understanding these costs is crucial for financial planning and quality of life assessment.

At Real Property Management Select, we are dedicated to providing you with the latest insights and data to help you navigate the complex real estate landscape. Whether you’re looking to invest in property or manage your existing investments, our expertise can guide you through the most challenging markets. Contact us today for personalized advice and support tailored to your real estate needs.

 

The Best and Worst Times to Sell or Buy a House in 2024

One of the most common questions in real estate is: When is the best and worst time to sell or buy a house? The answer is complex, influenced by location, market conditions, personal preferences, and goals. However, there are general trends and patterns that can guide you in making an informed decision. Let’s explore the best and worst times to sell or buy a house in 2024, based on historical data, expert opinions, and future projections.

Best Time to Sell: Spring 

Spring is the Peak Season for Sellers

According to Zillow, the best month to sell a house in the US is May, with an average premium of 5.9% over the median sale price. Here’s why spring is advantageous:

– High Demand: Home buyers are eager to find their dream home before summer.

– Favorable Weather: Longer days and better weather enhance curb appeal.

– Family Moves: Families prefer to move during this time to settle before the next school year starts.

 

Location-Specific Considerations

The ideal time to sell can vary based on location and property type:

– Ski Resorts: Winter may be better for selling properties in ski resorts.

– Beach Houses: Summer might attract more buyers for beachfront properties.

 

Worst Time to Sell: Winter 2024

Winter is the Slowest Season for Sellers

Zillow reports that December is the worst month to sell a house in the US, with an average discount of 3.3% below the median sale price. Here’s why winter poses challenges:

– Low Buyer Motivation: Fewer buyers are willing to move during holidays and cold weather.

– Less Curb Appeal: Dull landscapes and shorter days can make homes less attractive.

– Holiday Distractions: Potential buyers are often preoccupied with holiday plans.

 

Exceptions to Consider

Certain properties might still perform well in winter:

– Cozy Cabins: Winter can be a good time to sell a cozy cabin or holiday home.

 

Best Time to Buy: Fall 2024

Fall is the Optimal Season for Buyers

According to Realtor.com, October is the best month to buy a house in the US, with an average discount of 6.1% below the median listing price. Here’s why fall is beneficial:

– Seller Flexibility: Sellers are more willing to negotiate and lower prices after the summer rush.

– Increased Inventory: More options are available with less competition.

– Better Deals: Buyers can take their time to compare and find the best deals.

 

Location and Property Type Factors

The best time to buy can vary based on specific circumstances:

– College Towns: Avoid fall if buying in college towns due to higher demand.

– Tourist Destinations: Prices may still be high in popular tourist areas.

Worst Time to Buy: Spring 2024

Spring is the Toughest Season for Buyers

Realtor.com indicates that April is the worst month to buy a house in the US, with an average premium of 4.1% above the median listing price. Here’s why spring is challenging:

– High Seller Confidence: Sellers are less flexible with pricing.

– Limited Inventory: More competition among buyers leads to bidding wars.

– Market Frenzy: The peak selling season results in higher prices and more pressure.

 

Potential Exceptions

In some markets, spring might still offer good opportunities:

– Rural Areas: Lower supply and demand can make spring a viable time to buy.

– Niche Markets: Specialized markets may not follow general trends.

Understanding the best and worst times to buy or sell a house can help you make more informed decisions in the real estate market. While these general trends provide a helpful starting point, always consider local market conditions, your personal circumstances, and specific property types. At Real Property Management Select, we are here to help you navigate the real estate landscape and make the best choices for your needs.

Stay updated with us for more insights and tips on managing your real estate investments effectively.

Navigating Insurance Challenges in Sacramento

California’s rental housing owners are facing unprecedented insurance challenges due to significant shifts in the insurance market. These changes include reduced availability of insurance options and increased premiums. According to the California Apartment Association (CAA), understanding these complexities is crucial for navigating this turbulent environment.

The Challenges

Several notable challenges in the California insurance marketplace include:

Natural Disasters: Extreme weather events cause severe property damage. The frequency and severity of these catastrophes continue to rise, with global insured losses from natural disasters expected to exceed $100 billion.

Inflation: Inflation has significantly impacted commercial and personal property insurance, leading to higher premiums and claims expenses. It has also increased property replacement cost valuations.

Reinsurance Capacity Challenges: As natural disasters become more severe and inflation remains high, property reinsurers face increased claims and reduced profitability. This has led some reinsurers to reduce capacity for catastrophic exposures and increase primary insurers’ premiums.

Multiple Agents: Limited carriers and the need for creative shopping can lead to multiple agents working on the same location(s), potentially blocking each other from carriers. Agent selection is crucial in this market to avoid inadvertent blocking.

Broker of Record Letters: A “broker of record” (BOR) letter designates a specific broker as the official representative of the insured for a particular policy or set of policies. Once signed, this letter can prevent other brokers from negotiating or placing coverage with insurers, limiting the insured’s options.

Strategic Steps for Landlords

Despite these challenges, rental housing owners can take strategic steps to protect their interests:

Maintain Property Conditions: Keep your property in good condition and promptly address building issues. Provide all relevant loss control documentation, safety upgrades, and mitigation strategies to your agent when shopping.

Work with a Knowledgeable Broker: Choose a broker who can navigate this insurance environment successfully and explain the implications of signing a BOR letter.

Analyze Catastrophe Exposure: Implement adequate mitigation and response measures if your property is located in a disaster-prone area.

Insure to Value: Review the replacement cost of your property. Inflation necessitates higher replacement cost valuations. Ignoring this could result in a coinsurance penalty at the time of loss. Consider the deductible amount you are comfortable with.

Start Early: Begin the process early, as most insurance carriers start accepting new business submissions 90 days before the current effective date. Provide your information early to increase your chances of receiving a quality quote.

 

Navigating the current insurance crisis requires rental housing owners to be informed and strategic. By understanding market dynamics and potential pitfalls, you can make more informed decisions and better safeguard your properties. Real Property Management Select is here to keep you updated through these challenging times, ensuring you have the resources and guidance needed to secure the best possible coverage.

 

Disclaimer: Information used for quotation purposes ONLY and does not contemplate coverage bound.

Top 10 Reasons Homeowners in Sacramento Love Our Property Management Service

Owning a rental property can be a rewarding investment, but managing it can come with its own set of challenges. At Real Property Management Select, we pride ourselves on offering services that alleviate these challenges and enhance the homeowner experience. Here are the top 10 reasons why homeowners in Sacramento love our property management service:

  1. Comprehensive Tenant Screening

Finding reliable tenants is crucial for a successful rental property. Our thorough screening process includes background checks, credit assessments, and employment verification to ensure you get the best tenants. This helps minimize risks and ensures consistent rental income.

  1. Effective Marketing and Advertising

We leverage our expertise in digital marketing to advertise your property across multiple platforms, including major rental websites, social media, and our website. Our strategies are designed to attract high-quality tenants quickly.

  1. Responsive Maintenance and Repairs

We understand that timely maintenance and repairs are essential for tenant satisfaction and property value. Our network of trusted vendors allows us to address issues promptly, keeping your property in top condition and your tenants happy.

  1. Transparent Financial Reporting

Stay informed about your property’s financial performance with our detailed monthly statements and annual summaries. We provide easy-to-read reports that include income, expenses, and maintenance costs, so you always know where your money is going.

  1. Proactive Property Inspections

Regular inspections are key to maintaining your property’s condition and identifying potential issues before they become costly problems. Our team conducts thorough inspections and provides detailed reports to keep you informed.

  1. Legal Compliance and Risk Management

Navigating the complex landscape of rental laws can be daunting. Our team stays up-to-date with local, state, and federal regulations to ensure your property is compliant. We handle all legal aspects, including lease agreements, eviction procedures, and security deposit management, reducing your risk of legal disputes.

  1. Personalized Customer Service

At Real Property Management Select, we believe in building strong relationships with our clients. Our personalized approach means you’ll have a dedicated property manager who understands your needs and goals, providing you with tailored solutions and peace of mind.

  1. Maximized Rental Income

We use market analysis tools to set the optimal rental price for your property, ensuring competitive rates that maximize your income while keeping vacancy rates low. Our dynamic pricing strategy adjusts to market conditions, helping you get the most out of your investment.

  1. Stress-Free Rent Collection

Collecting rent on time can be a hassle. Our automated systems ensure timely rent collection and disbursement, providing you with consistent cash flow. We also handle late payments and enforce lease terms, so you don’t have to.

  1. 24/7 Emergency Support

Emergencies can happen at any time. Our 24/7 emergency support line ensures that urgent issues are addressed immediately, minimizing potential damage and ensuring tenant safety and satisfaction.

Choosing Real Property Management Select means choosing a partner dedicated to the success and well-being of your rental property. Our comprehensive services and commitment to excellence make us the preferred choice for homeowners in Sacramento.

New Law Limiting Security Deposits in Effect as of July 1, 2024, Sacramento

As of today, July 1, a new California law limiting security deposits to one month’s rent for both furnished and unfurnished units is now in effect. According to Mike Nemeth, Marketing and Communications Director for the California Apartment Association (CAA), this legislation, AB 12 by Assemblyman Matt Haney, D-San Francisco, was signed into law by Gov. Gavin Newsom in October 2023.

Previously, landlords could charge up to two months’ rent for an unfurnished unit and three months’ rent for a furnished one, except for tenants who were service members. The new law marks a significant change from these previous regulations.

The legislation includes an exception for certain small landlords. Property owners with no more than two residential rental properties, collectively including no more than four dwelling units offered for rent, may still collect up to two months’ rent as a security deposit. To qualify for this exception, the owner must hold the property as a natural person, a limited liability company (in which all members are natural persons), or as a family trust. This small-landlord exception does not apply when the tenant is a military service member.

“It’s crucial for landlords across California to understand and comply with these updated security deposit regulations,” said Whitney Prout, Executive Vice President of Legal Affairs for the California Apartment Association. “We strongly encourage all CAA members to review our updated security deposits background paper, which reflects the changes brought by AB 12. This resource is designed to help our members navigate this significant change and ensure they’re operating within the bounds of the new law.”

Stay updated with us on the latest regulatory changes and best practices in property management to ensure you’re always compliant.

Bill Won’t Require Small Landlords to Accept Pets in Sacramento

A recent legislative effort aimed at eliminating no-pet policies in rental housing will be amended to exempt smaller buildings, following advocacy by the California Apartment Association.

Assembly Bill 2216: Key Provisions and Amendments

Assemblyman Matt Haney’s Assembly Bill 2216 (AB 2216) initially proposed prohibiting landlords from rejecting tenants based on pet ownership. However, following discussions, the bill will now include a carve-out for buildings with 15 or fewer units, ensuring that owners of these smaller buildings won’t be mandated to accept pets.

Summary of Amendments:

  1. Exemption for Small Buildings: Properties with 15 or fewer units will not be required to accept pets.
  2. Pet Acceptance in Larger Buildings: Owners of larger buildings will be required to allow tenants to have at least one common household pet.
  3. Pet-Related Charges:

   -Liability Insurance: Property owners can require pet owners to carry liability insurance and include the landlord as an additional insured.

   – Pet Rent: No pet rent for the first pet; $50 per month for each additional pet.

   – Pet Deposit: A pet security deposit up to 50% of one month’s rent, capped at $1,000.

  1. Restricted Species: The bill focuses on “common household pets,” excluding unusual or exotic animals.
  2. Landlord Rules: Landlords can set specific standards and rules for pets, including leash requirements, cleanup policies, licensing, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering requirements.
  3. Implementation Date: The operative date is delayed to April 1, 2025.
  4. Use of Pet Deposits: Landlords can use pet deposits specifically for professional carpet cleaning.
  5. Impact on Existing Leases: The bill will not affect leases or renewals entered into before January 1, 2025.

Legislative Progress

This morning, AB 2216 won passage on the Assembly floor with a 43-8 vote. The state Senate will soon integrate the amendments.

Detailed Amendments Overview

Detailed Amendments Overview Table

Discover more about the evolving rental market regulations and how they impact your property management strategies. For professional property management services, trust Real Property Management Select. We offer tailored solutions to ensure stress-free management of your investment properties.