Cell Towers at Churches
Considering a cell tower lease at your California church? Learn the key risks — from lost tax exemptions to UBIT — before you sign.
Author Archives: admin_rcb
Conflicts of Interest in Church Governance
Understand what conflicts of interest look like in church leadership, and how a clear disclosure policy protects both the board and the congregation.
Special Use Appraisals: Rules for Valuing Church Property
Special use appraisals exist because churches and other nonprofit properties can’t be valued like ordinary real estate. Here’s how the appraisal methods actually work, who’s qualified to perform one, and what they cost.
Homeowner’s Exemption in California
Homestead Exemption rules in California provide homeowners with a reduction in assessed value and protection for home equity from judgment creditors. The California Constitution provides for a Homeowners’ Property Tax Exemption which is a $7,000 reduction of the taxable value of your principal residence. Upon qualification, this can amount to a cost saving of approximately $70 each year on your property taxes. In addition to this cost savings, the primary benefit is the protection it provides from a judgment creditor. For statutory homestead exemption amounts, see California Code of Civil […]
What Is Probate
In simplified terms, probate is the legal process of settling the financial affairs of a deceased individual after they die via court supervision; i.e. the distribution of their assets and payment of their debts. On average, probate in California takes about twelve to eighteen months. However, if problems arise, the process can much longer. The Will:Often, this entire process pivots on the existence of a Will, if it can be located, its contents, and its validity will dictate the parties and actions to be taken. In short, a Will is […]
First Right of Refusal: 5 Hidden Risks for Churches
Tenants often ask for a First Right of Refusal in a lease. It sounds harmless, but it can depress a property’s appraised value, scare off buyers, and create legal disputes over price. Here’s what churches need to know before granting one
Recovering Attorney’s Fees in California
California follows the “American Rule” — each side generally pays its own attorney’s fees unless a statute or contract says otherwise. Here’s when you can recover yours.
Statute of Frauds in California Real Estate
California’s Statute of Frauds requires certain real estate agreements to be in writing to be enforceable. Here’s what it covers and where the exceptions apply.
What Is Escrow? 5 The Process Explained
What is escrow? It’s the neutral third party that holds documents and funds until both sides of a property sale meet their conditions. Here’s how the process actually works, from opening escrow to closing.
What Defines a Church?
What defines a church matters more than most congregations realize — the answer changes depending on whether the IRS, the courts, or your local zoning code is asking. Here’s how each one actually decides.