Architectural Standards for HOAs in California

HOA lawyer
A major task of an HOA is to enforce standards and guidelines for the architecture of the homes overseen by the association. Courts in California have recognized that critical functions of an HOA include: Preserving the aesthetic quality of properties Maintaining property values Upholding standards for the character of a neighborhood so that it is
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Using Mediation to Resolve an HOA Dispute

HOA dispute
There will come a time when a dispute will arise between a homeowner’s association (HOA) and one or more homeowners. These disputes can be costly, especially if one party decides to file a lawsuit and take the matter to court. One way to try to keep a dispute out of court is to participate in
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Guidelines for 2020 Opening of Community Association Pools

HOA pools
Many homeowners and community associations have swimming pools as shared amenities for members, and the pool opening is something that many people look forward to. However, 2020 has been an uncertain year, and the COVID-19 pandemic has changed many regular practices, including the opening of some swimming pools. As of June 5, 2020, shared pools
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California Rules Limiting HOA Restrictions of Noncommercial Signs

yard signs
As the 2020 presidential election draws near, and the support for social justice reform movements is ever-increasing, many people want to express their beliefs and support by posting signs in their yard or around the exterior of their homes. However, an 86-year-old Florida man recently faced a struggle with his HOA for displaying the message
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Requirements for HOA Use of Pesticides

HOA lawyer
When you are part of a homeowners association (HOA) or another community association, you likely expect that the common areas and shared grounds will be properly maintained, including landscaping. However, some chemicals that landscapers might use include toxic chemicals that present health risks, such as Roundup, which is the subject of many current lawsuits. Is
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Real Estate Law FAQ

real estate FAQ
Real estate is an often lucrative investment, and there is always a lot at stake when it comes to real estate transactions or projects. To protect your assets and your best interests, you should always seek the guidance of an experienced real estate lawyer in Los Gatos. Below are a few of the question we
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Resolving an Easement Dispute with Your Neighbor

easement dispute
Many easements exist out of convenience or even necessity for neighboring property owners. Many easements run with the property, meaning they persist after a property is sold to a new owner. Often, this is when an easement dispute arises. Imagine you have a shared driveway with your neighbor that splits off and leads to each
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Drafting Your Commercial Lease

commercial lease
Investing in commercial property can be a lucrative venture. However, you want to make sure that you find the right tenants who will pay rent on time, take care of the space, and more. In order to protect your rights as a commercial landlord, you want to have a commercial lease that addresses all necessary
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ELECTION BY ACCLAMATION: IS IT PERMITTED?

Election Acclamation
By: Rosalia Burgueño Tapia Occasionally, a homeowner association (HOA) is faced with the situation of having an uncontested election.  In such a case, must the HOA still go through the formalities of an election?  Some say yes, and some say no.  Current law seems to require a vote, even if uncontested.  SB 1128 would have
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The Business Judgment Rule Requires Informed, Reasoned and Good Faith Decision-Making

Business Owner
By Grant Turner, Esq. To paraphrase the famous quip, “good judgment comes from experience, and experience comes from poor judgment.” Such witticism is embodied in the legal doctrine known as the Business Judgment Rule. Since Lamden v. La Jolla Shores Clubdominium Homeowners Assn. (1999) 21 Cal.4th 249, the Business Judgment Rule has been used to
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