Orange County Real Estate Blog

Straight answers from Dar Mardan, Realtor® + CPA, on selling, buying, taxes, Prop 19 and downsizing in Newport Beach, Irvine and across Orange County.

Buyer Closing Costs in Orange County: A Line-by-Line Guide

Photo: Ariel Blanco on Unsplash What closing costs does a buyer pay in Orange County?In Orange County, California, buyers typically pay lender fees, the lender's title policy, half the escrow fee, recording fees, prepaid interest, insurance and tax impounds, and some HOA charges. Most buyers know th

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Moving to Orange County: A Relocation Guide for Home Buyers

Photo: David deLeon on Unsplash What should you know before moving to Orange County?Orange County, California offers coastal and master-planned living with a median price above $1.2 million as of August 2026, widespread HOAs, toll-road and airport access, and a DMV to-do list within 10 to 20 days. P

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Can You Sell Mom's House in a Living Trust Without Probate?

Watch the full breakdown in the video above. Can you sell Mom's house in a living trust without probate in California?Yes. If the house is titled in the trust, the successor trustee can list and sell it with no judge and no probate. The trouble starts when the deed never made it back into the trust.

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