California Legislative Update: What SB 493 Could Mean for Rental Housing Providers

Contact Your Assembly Member and Urge Them to Vote “No” Many California rental housing providers may not realize that emergency price-gouging laws can restrict rents during a declared emergency. Under California Penal Code Section 396, when a qualifying emergency is declared, businesses generally may not increase prices for specified goods and services by more than… Read More

Six Things I Learned from Small Claims Court

Recently, I had the opportunity to defend one of my security deposit deductions in small claims court. While I have been managing property for more than 20 years, I don’t often find myself in court over security deposits. Most disagreements are resolved through communication and compromise. In this case, however, a former tenant sued over… Read More

How  San Francisco Landlords Should Vote in the June 2026 Election

These recommendations for the June 2, 2026 election reflect a political philosophy centered on property rights, economic growth, housing stability, and opposition to policies that landlords believe increase the cost and risk of operating rental housing in San Francisco. For many landlords, especially small property owners, these endorsements are not simply partisan choices — they… Read More

Proposed Rental Application Legislation Could Create New Risks for Housing Providers

California continues to move toward increased regulation of the rental application process, with recent legislation and proposals aimed at making tenant screening more “fair” and accessible. While the intent may be to reduce costs and barriers for applicants, housing providers should be aware of the unintended consequences and growing risks these policies create. Recent changes,… Read More

Don’t Ignore Hoarding — Address It Compassionately

As a landlord or property manager in San Francisco, you may encounter a tenant whose unit shows signs of hoarding or excessive clutter. While it can be tempting to avoid the topic — hoping it will “just take care of itself” — ignoring the issue isn’t a viable option. Not only can hoarding lead to… Read More

Building Better Tenant Relationships Through Communication

A Long-Term Relationship Worth Investing In A tenant relationship can be one of the longest professional relationships you’ll have — sometimes lasting for years. That’s why it’s worth approaching tenant communication the way we approach any long-term partnership: with clarity, patience, and mutual respect. When tensions arise or misunderstandings occur, the key is not just… Read More

Update on Section 721 Building Facade Inspections

SB 721 Inspection Deadline Postponed: What San Francisco Landlords Need to Know About Deck and Balcony Compliance If you own a multi-unit residential building in San Francisco, there’s important news about SB 721, California’s law requiring inspections of elevated balconies, decks, and walkways. The original January 1, 2025 deadline for the first round of inspections… Read More

California Rent Control Update: New Allowable Rent Increase Amounts Published

Dear Landlords, As a reminder, California’s statewide rent control law (AB 1482) applies to most multi-family residential properties built more than 15 years ago that do not fall under local Rent Control. The law limits how much you can increase rent annually and restricts certain evictions. 🔺 New Allowable Rent Increase: Effective August 1, 2025… Read More

Why Budgeting Isn’t Optional–It’s Your Safety Net

Dear San Francisco Landlords, In a city where both charm and challenges are abundant, owning and managing property requires more than quick fixes and market savvy—it demands smart, long-term budgeting. Whether you own a 3-unit Edwardian or a 20-unit building in the Mission, budgeting is the difference between being prepared and being blindsided. When budgeting,… Read More

Navigating Neighbor Access for Property Repairs in San Francisco

As a San Francisco investment property owner, maintaining your property is essential for preserving its value and ensuring tenant satisfaction. However, when repairs require access to a neighboring property, navigating the legal and logistical considerations can be challenging. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth process.Understanding Your Rights and ResponsibilitiesSan Francisco has… Read More

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