Entries by Garmo & Garmo, LLP

Leasing Historical or Heritage Properties in California: Unique Considerations

California’s landscape is dotted with buildings that tell stories – structures significant for their architecture, age, or connection to pivotal events and cultural narratives. Leasing one of these historical or heritage properties presents a distinct opportunity to occupy a space with character and significance, far removed from the uniformity of modern construction. Whether you are […]

Impact of Urban Renewal Projects on Commercial Property Sales in California

Walk through many downtown areas or former industrial zones across the Golden State, and you’ll witness transformation firsthand. Urban renewal projects, from revitalized waterfronts in San Diego to transit-oriented hubs near BART stations in the Bay Area, are actively reshaping California’s cities and towns. These initiatives promise economic growth, improved living standards, and modernized infrastructure. […]

How Divorce Affects Your California Estate Plan

Why do you need a California estate plan? Imagine this: after finalizing a difficult divorce, you start rebuilding your life, focusing on new routines and future plans. However, amidst the adjustments, a vital set of documents sits untouched – your estate plan, drafted during your marriage. Statistics show divorce is a common reality, yet many […]

What Does NNN Mean for Commercial Real Estate in California?

Commercial real estate transactions involve a variety of lease agreements, each with its own set of terms and conditions. One of the most prevalent, yet often misunderstood, types of lease is the “NNN” lease, also known as the triple net lease. The term “NNN” can seem like jargon, but it’s essential for anyone involved in […]

The Benefits of a Living Trust Over a Will for California Families

Planning for the future is a fundamental responsibility, and a key aspect of that planning involves ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you’re gone. You have two primary options for estate planning: a will (aka Last Will and Testament) and a living trust. Both documents serve the core purpose of estate […]

What are the Three Primary Types of Commercial Property Leases?

A commercial lease is a legally binding agreement between a landlord and a business tenant for the use of a property for business purposes. Unlike residential leases, commercial leases are highly negotiable and can vary significantly in their structure and financial implications. These leases typically have longer terms, more complex provisions, and fewer consumer protections […]

Understanding the Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax

The Generation-Skipping Transfer Tax (GSTT) is a complex federal tax that can significantly impact how you transfer assets to grandchildren or other “skip persons.” This tax applies to transfers that skip a generation, such as gifts from grandparents to grandchildren, and is designed to prevent wealthy families from avoiding estate taxes by skipping generations. The […]

Title Issues that are Unique to Commercial Property Transactions

Commercial real estate transactions in California represent significant investments and opportunities, characterized by a higher degree of complexity compared to residential property deals. These transactions often involve intricate legal and financial considerations, including zoning laws, environmental regulations, and complex title issues. Title companies play a crucial role in these transactions, conducting thorough title searches to […]

Zoning Appeals and Zoning Use Changes for Commercial Property Owners in California

California’s zoning laws and regulations can pose major challenges for commercial property owners looking to develop, expand, or repurpose their properties. These laws and regulations might not always align with your business needs and appealing denials or requesting zoning use changes often involves dealing with complex legal and bureaucratic processes. A single misstep on your […]