Author: shoffman

SDCBA: An Essential Resource for Local Attorneys

Posted on April 26, 2024 by - Uncategorized

At Hoffman & Forde, we take pride in the fact that each of our attorneys is a member of the SDCBA. Their longstanding and steadfast commitment to this organization sends a powerful message about the immense value the San Diego County Bar Association holds within the legal community

SDCBA is acknowledged as the anchorage point of San Diego’s legal landscape, and the association has done this by developing and upholding excellent legal standards as well as by sustaining an overwhelmingly fair justice system for all attorneys and the common public.

This article examines two important things – SDCBA’s instrumentality and its benefits to the community.

Recognizing the San Diego County Bar Association

Established in 1890, the SDCBA has a long tradition of upholding the principles of professionalism, justice, and legal services through the provision of affordable legal services. It is simply a professional association established to support and empower attorneys in San Diego and in the process enriches the lives of the community.

Key Services Offered by the SDCBA

  • Lawyer Referral and Information Service (LRIS) – by connecting residents of San Diego and competent attorneys, this program fills the gap by assuring that their rights are represented.
  • Continuing Legal Education (CLE) – the SDCBA provides extensive training programs accommodating to the lawyers who wish to stay informed of recent judicial updates and to maintain the superior standard of competence.
  • Public Service Initiatives – service Delivery Centers is devoted to enriching the lives in the community by means of volunteer free legal help, educational programs and constant support for the numerous legal aid organizations.
  • Professional Ethics Resources – the SDCBA offers lawyers the resources and advice which they need to handle their ethical practice and maintain the standards of professional responsibility until the highest level.

 

Why the SDCBA Matters

SDCBA stands out by being one of the major institutions that are connecting legal professionals and the community of San Diego. Its contributions benefit both legal professionals and the public by:

  • Preserving the highest professional ethics and values of lawyers in the legal field.
  • Proper support of lawyers to accumulate their knowledge and keep it up to date through consistent training.
  • Enabling the public to obtain legal advice and representation from appropriate qualified attorneys and legal scholars.

 

Conclusion

The San Diego County Bar Association serves as a pillar or cornerstone in our society. By recognizing the hard work and dedication of lawyers in San Diego, we send a message that the flourishing of a quality legal system is paramount.

Need Legal Advice?

If you are facing a legal situation in San Diego County, the resources offered by the SDCBA can be a valuable starting point.

Additionally, Hoffman & Forde, Attorneys at Law, is here to assist you with your legal needs. Contact us today for a consultation at (619) 546-7880 and our intake specialist will converse with you and collect the essential information needed to assess your matter.

San Diego Home Prices Rising Fastest in Nation

Posted on April 12, 2024 by - Residential Real Estate

Home for sale with a sold sign in front.

San Diego Home Prices Top National Charts, but Market Shows Signs of Shift

Understanding the Current San Diego Housing Market

 

Rising Prices Amidst Slowing Sales – What Does it Mean for You?

Let’s delve deeper into this seemingly contradictory situation.

Reasons Behind Rising Prices

  • Limited Inventory – A lack of available homes for sale continues to be a major factor driving up prices. This creates a competitive environment where buyers compete for a limited pool of properties.
  • Nationwide Trend – The December data reflects a broader national trend of rising housing prices, although San Diego’s increase is steeper.

Signs of a Shifting Market

  • Slowing Sales – Despite rising prices, the number of homes sold in San Diego County significantly dropped in 2023. This suggests a potential cool-down in the market.
  • Rising Interest Rates – Higher borrowing costs are likely discouraging some potential buyers, leading to a slowdown in sales activity.

What Does This Mean for You?

  • Homeowners – If you’re considering selling your home, current market conditions could be favorable.
  • Buyers – The market may be becoming more competitive, so be prepared to act quickly on potential properties. Consulting with a real estate professional can be crucial for navigating the market effectively.

Looking Forward

The housing market is constantly evolving. While San Diego currently experiences rising prices, experts suggest market conditions are likely to change. Stay informed and consider seeking professional guidance to make informed decisions about buying or selling a home in San Diego.

Need Legal Advice?

Need legal advice specific to your situation? Schedule a consultation with us at (619) 546-7880 and our intake specialist will converse with you and collect the essential information needed to assess your matter.

Important Legislation Effective 2024

Posted on March 14, 2024 by - Law

A row of colorful houses with different architectural styles, lined up side-by-side. There are trees with green leaves in front of the houses.

Selling A CA Home In 2024? Know The New Disclosure Law (AB 968)

As 2024 unfolds, if you’re a California resident involved in buying or selling a single-family home, there’s a new law you need to be aware of. This blog post specifically focuses on Assembly Bill (AB) 968, which introduces important disclosure requirements for sellers that take effect on July 1, 2024.

What Does AB 968 Mean For You As A Seller?

This law applies to you if you’re selling a single-family home and accept an offer within 18 months of buying the property yourself. In such cases, you’re now required to disclose the following information to potential buyers:
  • Details of any major changes made to the property – this includes room additions, structural modifications, alterations, or repairs done by a contractor since you became the owner.
  • Contractor information – this includes the names and contact details of any contractors involved in the mentioned modifications, as provided to you by the contractor.

Alternative Fulfillment

Instead of providing individual details for each modification, you can offer a comprehensive list of all contractor-performed modifications, including their contact information.

Permit Disclosure

  • If you have copies of any permits obtained for the work done – you must provide those copies to the buyer.
  • If you didn’t receive permit copies from the third party who did the work – you can fulfill the requirement by informing the buyer that:
    • Permit information might be available from the third party.
    • Providing the contact details of the third party.

Impact on “Flippers”

If you buy a property, renovate it, and resell it quickly, you’re considered a “flipper.” As of July 1, 2024, you’re legally obligated to disclose the details mentioned earlier regarding any modifications made during your ownership.

Need Legal Advice?

Unsure about your obligations under AB 968? Please schedule a consultation with us at (619) 546-7880. Our experienced intake specialists will collect the relevant information needed to determine how we can assist.