In California, creating a valid will requires that the person making the will (the testator) meets specific legal standards. One of the most fundamental requirements is that the testator has the mental capacity to understand what they are doing. This can become...
Ask the Realtor
Ask the Realtor
Ash the Realtor – Suburban boom or mountain bust? Why our real estate market is lagging
As remote work and lifestyle shifts continue, 2024 is seeing a noticeable trend: Americans are moving from cities to the suburbs or secondary markets. Factors driving this migration include more flexible work-from-home options, lower taxes and affordable housing...
Estate Planning – The importance of formality in family loans: A cautionary tale
In the world of estate planning, intrafamily loans can be powerful tools for transferring wealth to the next generation. However, a recent case highlights the importance of treating these loans with the same formality as third-party transactions to avoid unintended...
Ask The Realtor – Unlocking the benefits of open houses for buyers and sellers
Open houses have been a staple of the real estate market for decades. They conjure up images of curious neighbors and casual "lookie-loos," but their role in today’s market has evolved. With the nationwide changes to real estate practices implemented on Aug. 17, 2024,...
Ask the Realtor – Mountain home market poised for change: Interest rates, elections, local trends
The San Bernardino Mountains real estate market is on the cusp of potential transformation, with several factors converging to create a unique landscape for buyers and sellers alike. As interest rates for conventional 30-year fixed mortgages hover between 6.125 and...
Estate Planning – What happens to your debt when you die?
When you or a loved one passes away, what happens to the debt left behind? Understanding how debt is managed after death is crucial for ensuring your estate plan is properly prepared. Your financial obligations can have a significant impact on your family and, without...





