With the term “estate planning” we usually think of mature individuals who have a lot of assets to be concerned with. This perception, however, is not entirely accurate. Estate planning is not just for older adults with substantial assets. Young people require estate planning as well, even though they may not have as many assets […]
Read more...Author: hamlincody
Drafting A Successful Contract
What does it take to draft a successful contract? Here’s a Venn diagram that summarizes what’s needed. Think about it. Suppose the Parties agree they want to develop property, but don’t realize the zoning allows only agricultural land. Even if they have compatible goals and expectations, they’re living in Fantasyland. The property will remain agricultural […]
Read more...5 Tips for Becoming a Successful Commercial Lessor
Owning and leasing commercial property can be profitable and rewarding, or a mental and financial drain. Lessors and real estate investors know that, when done correctly, a commercial rental property can offer significant opportunities for cash flow and long-term appreciation. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a first-time lessor of a commercial property, it […]
Read more...Real Estate Matter/Object Lessons
A friend’s son came to see us for help in dealing with his commercial landlord. Our client had spent over six figures renovating hotel rooms and raising the revenue from zero to a substantial sum. After he completed his renovations and brought the hotel to profitability, the landlord gave him a thirty-day notice to quit. […]
Read more...Why You Need a Commercial Real Estate Lawyer
Whether you are entering into your first commercial real estate transaction, or are an experienced real estate developer, it is important to consult with a qualified commercial real estate attorney for guidance prior to signing a contract. Most especially in California, what can initially seem like a fairly simple transaction can be filled with hidden […]
Read more...Marnie Cody on Dealing with Regulators
Marnie Cody is a partner in Hamlin | Cody, a California law firm. Marnie has been practicing out of home law since 1990. She has represented many billboard companies in real estate and land use matters and condemnation proceedings. She likewise advises real estate developers about out of home law. Insider talked with Cody on […]
Read more...Women in Billboard Law
Billboard law is a unique practice area. The history of out of home advertising and the existence of billboards has traveled a long and winding road beginning with what some recall as the wide-open unregulated way to what now seems like a roadblock at every turn. From a real estate perspective, building, maintaining and operating […]
Read more...How Do I Know If I Need a Living Trust?
When people think about estate planning, the first thing that comes to mind is a last will and testament. While this document is useful for communicating your final wishes regarding the disposition of property, it may not be enough. A will can be sufficient for a smaller estate, or one without any unique circumstances. But […]
Read more...Timing is Everything
So often we see people spend time, effort and money on a commercial real estate project after a problem arises. The truth is, some tend to try and do a transaction themselves to save money. They may think that the project is straightforward and doesn’t merit attorney involvement, or they just really don’t have the […]
Read more...Why Consider Mediation?
None of us ever plan to be involved in a business or real estate dispute. These problems can be stressful, time-consuming and costly. In the heat of the moment, some may think that the only answer is to head to court for litigation. In many cases, however, mediation can provide a simpler and more cost-effective […]
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