Qualified Personal Residence Trusts in California: The Smart Strategy That Can Backfire

Qualified Personal Residence Trusts in California: The Smart Strategy That Can Backfire

By Dustin MacFarlane, California State Bar Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Trust & Probate Law Sacramento, California PRIMARY KEYWORDS: California QPRT, Qualified Personal Residence Trust California, estate planning Sacramento, irrevocable trust California,... Read more »
When smart leaders with good intentions still fail the IRL ethics test

When smart leaders with good intentions still fail the IRL ethics test

In the feast or famine world of real estate, it can be easy to myopically focus on the bottom line (closing the deal and your commission). But a recent deep dive into... Read more »
The Smart Way To Handle Shared Inheritance: Buying Out Your Sibling When You Inherit a House

The Smart Way To Handle Shared Inheritance: Buying Out Your Sibling When You Inherit a House

A home that is inherited by more than one child is a great opportunity for the next generation, but it can also be a source of friction if not handled with care.... Read more »
Judge recommends dropping CT Realtors, Smart MLS, WeSERV from Zea suit

Judge recommends dropping CT Realtors, Smart MLS, WeSERV from Zea suit

The rules in question relate to the mandatory display of a listing broker’s contact information on the listing page in an IDX display, the commission lawsuit mandate for buyer agency agreements and... Read more »
From COLD To SOLD: 9 Smart Fixes For Stagnant Listings

From COLD To SOLD: 9 Smart Fixes For Stagnant Listings

If you’re wondering how to get a listing sold without immediately reducing the price, you’re not alone. As days on market continue to stretch and expired listings rise, many agents are asking... Read more »
Is Using Your 401(k) to Buy a Home in 2026 a Smart Move or a Trap?

Is Using Your 401(k) to Buy a Home in 2026 a Smart Move or a Trap?

Let’s cut straight to the chase: using your 401(k) to buy a home in 2026 is generally a risky move that can jeopardize your long-term financial security, and I strongly advise against... Read more »
How to Avoid Hiring a Private Fiduciary: Smart Strategies to Limit Estate Representative Powers and Preserve Your Family’s Wealth

How to Avoid Hiring a Private Fiduciary: Smart Strategies to Limit Estate Representative Powers and Preserve Your Family’s Wealth

Published January 12, 2026 | Original Source: CEB Articles Who This Guide Is For If you’re a parent with minor children planning your estate, you face a unique challenge: How do you... Read more »
A Beginner’s Guide to Smart and Safe Charitable Giving

A Beginner’s Guide to Smart and Safe Charitable Giving

Introduction: Giving with Confidence Giving to charity should be rewarding, not risky. This guide empowers you to donate with confidence, ensuring your generosity supports legitimate, effective organizations and is shielded from common... Read more »
Smart Ways to Secure a Lower Mortgage Rate in 2026

Smart Ways to Secure a Lower Mortgage Rate in 2026

Getting the best deal on your mortgage rate isn’t just about good luck; it’s about smart planning and proactive steps you start taking today. To get a lower mortgage rate in 2026,... Read more »

Is House Hacking Still a Smart Strategy in 2026? What Lenders Now Look For

House hacking—or buying a property and renting out part of it to offset the mortgage—is a strategy that has gained traction in recent years. For first-time homebuyers, this offers several advantages, including... Read more »