Resource library
Clarity starts here.
Practical, plain-language resources organized by where you are, buying, selling, investing, or simply researching a property, so you can approach your next real estate decision prepared.
For Buyers
Know before you buy.
Start with the official side of buying — loan limits, financing basics, and your own financial footing.
California DRE — Homebuyer resourcesThe Department of Real Estate's consumer information on licensing, agency relationships, and your protections when buying a home.FHA loan limit lookupLook up the current FHA lending limits by county to understand what loan programs may fit your price range.California first-time homebuyer programsCalHFA's down payment assistance and first-time homebuyer loan programs for California buyers.AnnualCreditReport.comThe only official source for free credit reports from all three bureaus, a smart first step before applying for a loan.Mortgage & loan educationThe Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's plain-language guides on mortgages, closing costs, and comparing lenders.HUD homebuying programsFederal resources for buyers, including FHA loan basics and local homebuying assistance programs.
For Sellers
Prepare with confidence.
From who represents you to how your property is recorded and insured, the official sources sellers rely on.
California DRE — Seller & consumer resourcesConsumer guides from the Department of Real Estate covering agency, disclosures, and what to expect in a transaction.County recorder resourcesYour county recorder's office maintains deeds and property records. Here is the Los Angeles County recorder as an example of what's available.Property owner alert programsMany county recorders offer free fraud-alert services that notify you when documents are recorded against your property. Orange County's program is one example.Homeowners insurance resourcesThe California Department of Insurance's residential insurance guide, coverage types, deductibles, and shopping smart.California FAIR PlanThe state's insurer of last resort for properties that have trouble finding coverage in the standard market.IRS — Publication 530Tax rules for homeowners, from deducting mortgage interest to what you can and can't count as buying costs.
For Investors
Do the diligence.
The official sources behind a disciplined investment, zoning, entity records, financing, and landlord rules.
City & county zoning / planning departmentsEvery city and county planning department sets zoning and land-use rules. The League of California Cities directory helps you find each city's site.California Secretary of State — business searchLook up LLCs and corporations, verify entities, and file business formations for your investing activity.HUD / FHA multifamily resourcesFederal programs, financing, and guidance for multifamily and rental housing properties.Landlord / tenant resourcesThe California courts' self-help center, statewide rules and guidance on leases, notices, evictions, and repairs.State housing & property-use resourcesThe Department of Housing and Community Development publishes policy, funding, and rental resources across California.
General Property Resources
Look up any property.
The records and research tools I use to understand a property, from taxes and parcels to permits and zoning.
County assessor property searchA directory to every county assessor's official property search, with values, ownership, and parcel details.Property tax informationHow California property taxes are assessed and calculated, from the State Board of Equalization.FEMA flood map service centerCheck any address for its official flood zone designation before you buy, insure, or invest.Parcel & property record lookupFind your county's website and jump to the assessor, recorder, and planning offices that hold its property records.Building & permit informationCalifornia's building standards and code information, useful background when reviewing additions, remodels, and permits.
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