All About Money
Why have a living trust?
One of the first things George and I did after having children was create a living trust. This is a legal document similar to a will. Both outline exactly what your wishes are in regard to your dependents, your heirs and your assets. A primar...
The Mills Act and historic preservation
The Mills Act is a California program that allows owners of qualified historic homes to receive a property tax reduction. Cities utilize the Mills Act to encourage historic preservation. Each local government establishes its own criteria. And...
The dirty secret of major real estate websites
The dirty secret of major real estate websites: This may come as a surprise. When you complete your contact information when accessing real estate web sites such as Realtor.com and Zillow you generally aren’t getting in touch with the actua...
First Time Buyer Woes
Dear Phyllis, We have been married for five years and managed to save over $50,000. Although, we haven’t started a family, we really want to purchase in La Crescenta because of the school district. With a starter home going for well ov...
Just Listed: 917 E Mendocino St Altadena, apartment building
We just listed a five-unit apartment building comprised of five one bedroom, one bath units in at 917 E Mendocino St Altadena. It’s situated in one of Altadena’s most desirable neighborhoods, ½ mile from Altadena Town and Country Club....
How to Plan Your Retirement Move
Ideally you have been planning the financial aspect of retirement for years. Deciding where to live is another matter. Obviously the amount of equity in your home will impact where you relocate. The good news is that Southern California re...
Uncooperative Sellers
Ask Phyllis is a blog series of frequently asked real estate questions. Have a question about real estate? Email us here Dear Phyllis, We made an offer for $25,000 over asking price which the seller accepted. We initially met the sell...
A first time home buyer begins to settle in
My youngest daughter works in Beverly Hills and the daily commute from La Canada is overwhelming. Because rents are astronomical we tackled the rent versus buy dilemma. Tenants have little security over rent increases, or worse notice to vacate...
