An interesting article recently appeared on the newly created National Apartment Association’s (NAA) green web site www.naahq.org/green that shows how implementing environmentally conscious practices may well become a necessity for the apartment industry. Since 2007, local, state and federal levels of government have mandated environmental regulations specifically affecting the multifamily housing industry. The American Climate Security [...]

I read an article in San Francisco Business Times (Feb. 13, 09 issue) by Mark Calvey and thought you’d be interested. While the feds are working out a stabilizing plan for the US banking industry, Wells Fargo, BofA, Citigroup Inc. and JPMorgan Chase are agreeing to halt foreclosures. This moratorium will remain in effect until [...]

The California legislature made a change that makes court costs increase this year for unlawful detainers, making commercial and residential leasing more of a challenge in regard to affordability. Economic pressures stir these kinds of changes and everyone makes adjustments to weather them until we reach more stability. As costs are passed on to tenants, [...]

Learned something new while reading an old article I had lying around. In an article written by Casey Ross at the Boston Globe, Photovoltaics was explained. The article describes photovoltaics as the most promising and popular form of solar energy. Photovoltaics is sunlight converted into electricity. Very different from solar power. Sunlight is made of small [...]

According to the California Apartment Association a lawsuit was recently filed by a 7-year-old girl in regard to the second hand smoke that she encountered in the common areas of her apartment complex. Through much back-and-forth in the legal system, the issue comes down to this young girl being able to prove that she was [...]

Rich Arzaga Founder and CEO Cornerstone Wealth Management, Inc. (A Registered Investment Advisor) T. 925.824.2880 www.cornerstonewmi.com While the financial planning industry tends to shy away from comprehensive advice on real estate investing, Rich Arzaga is an advocate for these investors. He provides options and solutions that honor client interests and guides them to achieve their [...]

While I was on the East Bay Economic Development Alliance’s website, I ran across an incredibly useful list of links for Green Building information in the East Bay. Thought I’d share it here: Alameda County Green Business Program Website: http://www.greenbiz.ca.gov   Alameda County Revolving Loan Fund Website: http://www.StopWaste.Org   City of Berkeley Website: http://www.cityofberkeley.info/sustainable   [...]

With green legislation on the horizon, a Dec 2, 2008 article written by Matt Hudgins for the National Real Estate Investor caught my eye. Slower returns on investment and serious credit shortages are challenges for both developers and multi-family housing property owners, especially those hoping to effect energy-efficient property upgrades this year. Along with conventional [...]