Take advantage of the opportunity to save money and help the environment when you buy new household appliances. In addition to rebates offered by SDG&E, you may be eligible to receive rebates through California’s “Cash for Appliances� Rebates. Read More.

Recently two individuals entered a Coronado real estate brokerage requesting to see high-end real estate in excess of $12 million. When asked to provide proof of funds, the individuals produced two bank statements identifying three accounts with an approximate value of $12,647,397.00. When asked to provide identification, both individuals claimed that their driver’s licenses had been stolen. One individual did produce an out-of-state Criminal Offender Identification card.

The REALTOR® advised the potential clients that appointments would have to be made and verification of funds prior to any showings for the requested properties. The potential clients left the REALTOR®â€™s office without incident. The REALTOR® proceeded to the bank to verify the funds. Unfortunately, the bank statements were fraudulent, and although the account numbers did exist, they were not registered to the potential new clients nor did the accounts have the funds as represented.

SDAR would like to remind all agents to exercise caution when meeting with potential clients. If you suspect any criminal activity, contact the local authorities. If you suspect real estate fraud, contact SDAR so we may share this important information with the real estate community.

Telephone solicitations are a mainstay of a REALTOR®’s business. However, whether it’s calling an individual who was referred to you or soliciting a list of homeowners by cold calling, REALTORS® must be mindful of any applicable do-not-call rules. For a detailed Q&A visit C.A.R.’s Legal Section at www.car.org.

Distressed homeowners no longer have to pay California state income tax on debt forgiven in a short sale, foreclosure, or loan modification.  Enacted into law April 12, Senate Bill 401 generally aligns California’s tax treatment of mortgage debt relief income with federal law.  Read More.

E-signatures on third-party documents, including real estate contracts, are now being accepted by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). Real estate professionals can use DocuSign to get real estate contracts and other documents signed electronically, and their buyers can apply for FHA insurance with confidence. (SDAR members receive a discount when they use DocuSign.) Read More.

Sandicor has launched has its redesigned homepage (www.sandicor.com). Using primarily membership feedback and requests, relevant changes have been made to provide members with a website that is intuitive, easy to navigate and provides effective information.