All Forum Posts by: Catherine Decker

Thanks, @Matthew Paul. Appreciate it. I will see about getting the property surveyed. I should do that anyway.

I am actually looking at developing the property in a way that respects nature so I might do a "pocket neighborhood" or a "Mews" style development. Am planning to rent to people with tiny houses as a way to off-set my holding costs. Property currently has a big Victorian house on it with several out-buildings - so it's a bit like a time-capsule and a village already. It's a really nice place.

Now, back to finding a lawyer!

Thanks, @David Dachtera! Appreciate the support. I would put up a fence, but that would be a pretty expensive approach. The property is really big. Did I mention that it's almost 3 acres?

Still looking for that real estate lawyer in CA!

Cheers.

I got a template form for a Joint venture from UpCounsel. You might take a look at what they have to offer. I found it a helpful starting point for a Joint Venture on a specific project.

@James Mc Ree - Love the advice. I was, in fact planning to introduce myself and talk about plans, etc. I just wanted to know where I stand legally. It's a really big property, and eleven gates seems like A LOT of access, so we'll see how it all shakes out.

@Chris Mason Yes, I wanted to make sure there isn't any "implied consent" or grandfathered rights etc... I would really just like to put a barrier up across each of the gates. There are 11 gates! Ack!

Hoping an attorney will see my post and respond. I don't want a hostile relationship with neighbor (s) - though I know asserting ones property rights can be a tad tricky, especially if the neighbors are accustomed to no one being there. (I am not currently living there, though I frequently on site as are several workers who are cleaning it up!)

Thanks, Chris!

@Chris Mason The only easement is with the County or Transit Authority for drainage on a portion of the property which runs along the edge of the property just below the fence line. No right-of-way easements or anything pertaining to accessing the property by neighbors.

Thanks, @Derek Jones. I had thought of that and know that's an option. I will probably do that, but I would like to know what my legal standing is with regards to this "easement" that is being used. (by some, not all. And maybe even only by one).

Well - let's hope this isn't too complicated.

I just acquired a large parcel in Sacramento, CA that is adjacent to several houses in a subdivision. Many of the houses have gates in their fences that open onto my property. Earlier this week, I caught a neighbor actually cutting down trees on my property! He has clearly done it several times before. The trees weren't diseased, he just didn't like them. Of course, I asked him to stop. My property has been badly neglected for several years, so neighbors probably are used to coming and going (it's 3 acres), but I would like this to stop. There are no fewer than 11 gates that open onto my property. (Don't worry, the trees were big oleander bushes and not the fabulous heritage oaks, but still....)

Would like any lawyerly advice on this topic. I know I need to act quickly. I have only owned the property for 4 weeks, so this is a new issue and I don't want to sit on it. I also don't want the neighbors doing any more damage nor do I want them to be accessing my property.

Any advice from attys in California or those familiar with situations like this?

Woohoo! Super excited to hear from so many knowledgeable folks in the industry. Also great opportunity to network with some fellow investors. Thanks for the info!

@Ryan Flamm Thanks for that. I suppose I wasn't clear - this isn't a rental property. It's a rehab of a Victorian that we will sell. (or I may buy out my partner).

What I need to know is the best way to structure the distribution of profits - or how much the project management of the rehab should be worth? It's a historic house - think "Rehab Addict" so it's pretty significant in terms of vendors, quality control etc.

Thanks again.