SB-1123: How California Cities Implement

SB 1123 (effective 1 July 2025) builds on SB 684 by expanding ministerial, CEQA-exempt subdivision approvals to additional zones, supporting cities’ efforts to streamline Housing development.

SB-684 and SB-1123: Explained in Detail

California Senate Bill 684 (2023), effective 1 July 2024, is a major state Law aimed at addressing the Housing shortage by streamlining small-scale, for-sale Housing development through ministerial approval of certain subdivisions and related projects containing 10 or fewer parcels and 10 or fewer dwelling units.

SB-4 streamlines zoning and land-use approvals but does not alter or exempt projects from existing subdivision requirements under the Subdivision Map Act, ensuring compliance remains required.

If a project creates new legal parcels (tract/parcel maps), they must still file a map.

The California Map Act and the Subdivision Map Act:

Understanding a Century of Land Use Evolution

California-CEQA, Housing Accountability, and State Overrides Under AB-130 and SB-131

On 30 June 2025, Governor Newsom signed AB 130 and SB 131, two major budget trailer bills that together represent the most substantial CEQA reform in over 50 years.

Playing “Spin Doctor” In Real Estate

(what it means, how it shows up, and how to spot it)

Playing “Spin Doctor” in Real Estate Lending

(What it is, how it shows up, and how to counter

Federal Securities Law Exemptions

(Plain English for Private Lenders & Investors)

Accredited vs Non- Accredited Investors (Federal and California):

Accreditation is about People or entities that meet income, net worth, or professional sophistication requirements and demonstrate their ability to manage risk and financial loss.

Licensing Real Estate Loans in America:

The Hidden Patchwork Behind America’s Lending Laws

Private-Party Investors in Real Estate Lending: Technical Read

The Sophisticated Playbook for Trust Deeds, Mortgages, and Promissory Notes

Real Estate Lending: Understanding Private Party Investors In Trust Deeds - Quick Read

What Every Lender, Trust Deed Buyer, and Mortgage Investor Must Know

When the Lowest Rate Isn’t the Best Option:

A Borrower’s Guide to Bank Mortgages vs. Private Money

When Banks Say “No,” Private-Party Lending Can Say “Let’s Look Closer”

Visit Dan Harkey’s Website

www.danharkey.com Where economics meets real life.

Can a Church Corporation or a nonprofit 501 (c) (3) sue a municipality in California for discrimination for failure to abide by:

SB-4, SB-1037, AB-1893, AB-712, and SB-808 come into Play in the development approval process if the city, Such as San Diego, refuses to approve the project (ministerially), subject to state mandates.

Reverse Mortgages and Probate After the Death of the Borrower

If probate takes longer than 6 months, the reverse mortgage doesn’t automatically “go delinquent, “which should reassure homeowners and heirs that delays won’t cause immediate default.

Reverse Mortgages Are Due Upon The Death of The Borrower!

Disclaimer (general information, not legal advice): Questions about “fraud” turn on intent, what was communicated (or concealed), what documents were signed, and which program (HECM/FHA vs. proprietary) applies. If there’s a real situation behind your hypothetical, it’s worth speaking with an estate/probate attorney and (for HECMs) a HUD-approved reverse mortgage counselor promptly.

Reverse Mortgages: An Excellent Retirement Strategy for Some Homeowners

Turning Home Equity into Retirement Flexibility—Without Monthly Payments

SB-4: California Church Corporations and Nonprofit Low-Cost Housing Building Opportunities.

Are there legal remedies available to the church or nonprofit if a municipality refuses to cooperate and comply with state mandates?