Let’s Talk Self-directed IRAs
by Tina Triano, Esq.
As a Certified Estate Adviser, many of my clients consult with me regarding strategies to reduce their income taxes. I often find many clients with untapped or under-utilized resources hiding away in their retirement accounts. Money that they never thought could be accessed while they are still ...read more.

Builder “Incentives”
by Tina Triano, Esq.
[archive] It’s that time again when homebuyers hope that they will get a good deal from a builder. Watch out. One contract I reviewed recently was so one-sided I had to call the builder’s sales manager to discuss countering some of the terms. The manager proceeded to say that the contract was ...read more.

Short Sales in a Nutshell
by Tina Triano, Esq.
[archive] In my spare time, I provide counseling to homebuyers on behalf of American Home Buyers Alliance, a nonprofit organization that provides free counseling and home buyer grants in Silicon Valley. It is almost impossible to read any media publication without seeing an article ...read more.

What is a Conforming Home Loan Anyway?
By Marc Hopkins
[archive] There has been a lot of talk lately about conforming loans, especially with groundbreaking new changes made in the loan limits. But what are they and why should people care? ...read more.

Think –
Before You Add Someone Onto Title
by Tina Triano, Esq.
[archive] In preparing estate plans, it is not unusual for me to find older individuals who, for one reason or another, have placed one of their children or a new spouse onto the title of their real estate. Many individuals believe there is little harm in this procedure, but it can become a large problem after your death. ...read more.

Know What 'No' Means
By Marc Hopkins
[archive] You applied for a loan and were told that you do not qualify. What should you do? The biggest mistake that most people make is accepting that answer and giving up. A no answer may be the end of that road, but it does not mean it can’t be the beginning of a new one. ...read more.

Potential Problems with Real Estate Title
by Tina Triano, Esq.
[archive] In the years that I have been preparing estate plans, I have had the same problem arise several times. I recently re-encountered this problem again just a few weeks ago. A client, the sole beneficiary of a trust, came to discuss the sale of a house. His parents, both deceased, ...read more.

I Should Refinance When…
By Marc Hopkins
[archive] Whether the market is going up or down, I am constantly asked if it is the right time to refinance. It is a very individual decision, but there are some key indicators to help you decide. All loans and personal circumstances are different, so, while these are good guidelines, ...read more.