Tustin Litigation & Appeals Law Blog

Those who are not citizens of the United States may be eligible to buy a home or other real property in California. However, the process of doing so depends on a person's status within the country. As a general rule, a permanent resident goes through the same process of getting a home loan as a citizen. The permanent resident is also likely to qualify for FHA or other government loans.

To qualify for a home loan, a permanent resident would need to show proof of income and payment of United States taxes. Generally, he or she would need at least two years of tax returns as well a credit history of at least two years. Those who live in another country qualify for foreign national loans as opposed to conventional or government-backed mortgages. Furthermore, these loans are only available for investment purposes and require down payments of 25 percent.

Buyers in California cities and other hot markets throughout America are becoming bolder in their efforts to buy a home. One Oakland real estate agent said that homes are coming on and off the market within hours. On average, homes in the United States lasted 81 days after being listed in 2017. However, in San Francisco, homes were only available for an average of 43 days.

During the months of April and May, homes in San Francisco were on the market for only 41 days on average. While larger markets have seen competition increase, homes in smaller cities have also become increasingly sought-after. For instance, 80 percent of homes in Akron, Ohio, sold for more than the list price as bidding wars broke out. Those who have studied home sale trends say that a lack of supply is what is driving the prices of homes higher and getting them off the market faster.

As a business owner, you may encounter a customer or client who enters your establishment with a dog on a harness. This may be upsetting to you or to other employees or customers, particularly if you are running a food establishment, displaying breakable items or have small children on the premises. You may be tempted to ask the person to remove the dog from your building, but before you do this, it would be wise to consult with a legal professional about the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Animals, especially dogs, often receive training to provide services to people with certain disabilities. Most well-known, perhaps, are those dogs that assist people with visual impairments. The Department of Justice requires all business owners to welcome service dogs into their establishments. However, for some, the definition of a service dog is blurry.

Los Angeles has emerged as the leading market in the state for luxury residential real estate. In 2017, home prices set records. The top 10 home sales that year exceeded $5.4 million. Both domestic and international buyers have been choosing the Los Angeles area as their ideal location for primary or secondary residences. In 2016, the California Association of Realtors estimated that only 13 percent of luxury homebuyers sought property purely as an investment.

Southern California entices foreign and domestic luxury homebuyers. The year-round pleasant weather, beautiful beaches, fine dining and professional sports attract people for the regional lifestyle. Diverse luxury properties from beachfront estates to horse ranches also present something for every type of buyer. The strong economy of the region offers convenience to tech moguls and the international business elite. Millionaires created by the domestic technology industry and Southeast Asian business people can live close to the West Coast's largest port and the entertainment industry.