Incorrect Deeds
A small error in a deed’s Grantee name can cloud your church’s title for years. Learn how incorrect deeds happen and why it matters when selling or financing your property.
Blog
Churches and For-Profit Tenants: How Leasing Affects Your Exemption
When a church leases space to a for-profit tenant, its property tax exemption is suddenly at risk. Here’s how California’s Church, Religious, and Welfare exemptions differ, and what leasing to the wrong tenant can cost your congregation.
Residential and Commercial Eviction Limitations and Moratoriums During the COVID-19
The following information was provided by the California Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency. California Eviction Moratorium rules during COVID‑19 created a complex mix of statewide protections and local moratoriums that affected both residential and commercial landlords. This guidance is directed to landlords regarding eviction of tenants during the COVID-19 pandemic and to local jurisdictions considering instituting restrictions or moratoriums on residential or commercial evictions as a means of offering relief to individuals or business affected by the pandemic. The California Eviction Moratorium created overlapping statewide and local rules that […]
Commercial Property Disclosures in California: What Sellers Must Reveal
Selling commercial or church property in California means disclosing far more than most sellers realize. Here’s what the law requires, why an “as-is” clause won’t shield you from a hidden defect, and how a failure to disclose becomes actual fraud.
Overhanging Trees
California laws on overhanging trees and neighbor disputes for church property owners. Learn your rights and limitations when trimming encroaching branches and roots, liability for tree damage under Booska v. Patel, and your duty to maintain trees on your property.
What is a Power of Attorney
Although many have heard the term, it is important to understand what a power of attorney is. A power of attorney is important and comes in many different forms as part of estate planning. Understanding the limitations of each and how power of attorney best fits your needs now and in the future is vital. Defined: The California Probate Code Section sets forth the different types and limitations of a power of attorney. At its core, a Power of Attorney allows you to appoint an “attorney-in-fact” or agent, to act […]
Principal and Agent in Real Estate
Understanding the principal and agent relationship in real estate transactions. Learn about agency duties, scope of authority, fiduciary obligations, and how these rules apply to church property sales in California.
Removing Fixtures: Rules for Church Tenants
Removing fixtures at the end of a lease is one of the most common landlord-tenant disputes — a tenant installs a projector or new carpet, then wants it back. Here’s how California law decides who actually owns it.
Holding Title to Real Property
Holding title to real property isn’t one-size-fits-all — how you take ownership affects what happens when you sell, when you die, or when a co-owner wants out. Here’s a plain-language guide to the main ways California recognizes.