California real estate: buy or sell with a local AXEN agent
California has more required seller disclosures than most states, escrow-run closings and a property tax system built on your purchase price. Here is what is the same everywhere in California, and our local guide for each city.
California cities we cover
Each guide covers the local neighborhoods, costs and rules for that city.
What every California buyer and seller should know
Disclosures
Most sellers of 1 to 4 unit homes must give a Transfer Disclosure Statement and a Natural Hazard Disclosure, which shows flood, fire and earthquake zones.
Transfer tax
Counties charge a documentary transfer tax, usually $1.10 per $1,000 of price, and some cities add their own.
Property tax
Under Proposition 13 the base tax is 1% of your purchase price plus local voter-approved charges, and the assessed value can rise at most 2% a year.
Supplemental tax bill
After you buy, the county reassesses the home and sends a one-time supplemental bill. Budget for it.
Escrow closings
A neutral escrow company holds the money and papers, and a title company insures the title.
Safety items
Sellers must certify smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and a braced water heater.
AXEN Realty in California
Every AXEN agent in California works under a licensed managing broker: Kristen Boano (license 01997200). See every state on the state brokers page.
Buying? Start with the home buying guide and get pre-approved.
Selling? Read the home selling guide and get your home value.
Moving here? Read buying in a new state.
California real estate questions
What is a supplemental tax bill in California?
After a sale, the county reassesses the home at the purchase price and bills the difference for the rest of the tax year. It comes separately from your regular bill.
What disclosures do California home sellers have to give?
Most sellers of 1 to 4 unit homes must give a Transfer Disclosure Statement and a Natural Hazard Disclosure, plus other forms depending on the home and area.
What is Mello-Roos?
A special tax that pays for roads, schools and services in some newer California communities. It shows on the tax bill, so ask for the full bill before you buy.
Does it cost anything to talk to an AXEN agent in California?
No. Talking with an AXEN agent about buying or selling in California is free.