Entries by Michael Repka

Real Estate Game Plan

January 26, 2015 in , , , /by

  Real estate has traditionally been one of the best ways to build true wealth. The combination of security, leverage, and tax advantages are virtually unmatched in the investment world, yet people devote far more time and energy to developing a long-term strategy for managing their stock portfolio than they do in developing a long-term […]

Savvy Use of the 1031 Exchange

July 27, 2014 in , , /by

“In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Benjamin Franklin, 1789 Could Mr. Franklin have been half wrong? The answer is yes for individuals willing to make systematic and disciplined use of tax deferred exchanges pursuant to Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code. Why 1031 Exchanges are Popular […]

More Reason to Love Thy Neighbor

March 27, 2014 in , , /by

Shared Fence & Boundary Responsibility Neighbors, whether you love them or hate them, you have to get along with them. This statement is especially true for those of us who share fences with our neighbors. According to California Civil Code §841, adjoining neighbors with properties contiguous with each other must equally share the responsibility of […]

Preserve charm or enhance home value?

January 27, 2014 in , , /by

Silicon Valley has charming neighborhoods, and there is an understandable desire to retain the charm and feel of the community. To preserve this appeal, some neighborhood associations enact building restrictions aimed at curbing new construction, especially larger or multi-floor properties. These new restrictions, however, can have an impact on local housing values and appreciation rates. […]