On June 2, 2026, San Diego voters rejected an annual Empty Homes Tax on non-primary residences left vacant for >182 days in a calendar year.
Had it passed, qualifying residences would have faced an $8K charge in the first year and a $10K charge in later years.
The proposal also targeted empty residences owned by corporate entities, adding annual surcharges ranging from $4K to $5K on those homes if approved.
Even though it failed, the measure stood out for proposing a non-primary-home tax with a simplified implementation structure in San Diego locally.
The failed San Diego proposal may still be watched as a blueprint for similar empty-home tax measures elsewhere, despite voters declining it recently.
Category: Latest Posts
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San Diego: Empty Homes Tax Fails | If You Think It’s Expensive To Hire A Professional; Wait Till You Hire An Amateur!
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San Diego, CA Tax Risks Explained | If You Think It’s Expensive To Hire A Professional; Wait Till You Hire An Amateur!
San Diego's mix of biotech, defense, tourism, military households, and self-employment often creates complex tax situations, leaving residents owing both federal and California income taxes.
Common trouble spots include underestimated quarterly payments, equity compensation that exceeds withholding, payroll taxes at small businesses, and residency or multi-state filing issues.
For San Diego taxpayers, the federal tax agency and California's state tax agency can both pursue balances, so coordinated responses matter when liabilities overlap.
California's state system can place liens, levy bank accounts without court judgment, garnish ~25% of disposable wages, and keep collecting far longer than federal rules.
Both systems offer relief pathways, including payment plans, hardship status, and compromise options, making early, informed handling the best way to keep problems manageable. -
Top Cities Where Homebuyers Find Lower Prices Now
Home sellers nationwide are lowering asking prices as the housing market cools, with median listing prices per square foot falling 1.8% year-over-year in August, marking the 10th consecutive month of decline. Prices dropped most in pandemic boomtowns like Austin (-8.1%) and Tampa (-5.6%), while some markets like Providence saw increases. Elevated mortgage rates and increased inventory are driving sellers to reduce prices to attract cautious buyers.
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San Diego Housing Market: Steady Climb Ahead | If You Think It’s Expensive To Hire A Professional; Wait Till You Hire An Amateur!
San Diego’s housing market is set for a steady climb over the next couple of years, with prices expected to keep rising through late 2026—just at a pace that feels a bit more balanced than the rapid spikes we’ve seen before. Buyer interest remains strong, fueled by San Diego’s unbeatable lifestyle and some relief in mortgage rates, so we can expect a healthy level of sales activity to continue. With limited inventory, homes that are priced right are still moving fast and selling close to their asking price in most neighborhoods. High-end and move-up buyers will continue to shape the market, especially in the mid-to-upper segments as we head into 2026. As always, having the right guidance is key—remember, if you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait till you hire an amateur.
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Rancho Cucamonga – Most Affordable Homes of August 2026 | If You Think It’s Expensive To Hire A Professional; Wait Till You Hire An Amateur!
Curious about the most budget-friendly homes available in Rancho Cucamonga for August 2026? Here’s a quick look at the top 15 listings, all organized by price. Whether you’re starting your search or looking to make a smart move, these properties range from $299,995 up to $454,900. I always say, 'If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait till you hire an amateur!' When navigating options like Listing CV26146461 at $299,995 or CV26166781 at $429,900, it pays to have the right guidance. Let’s make sure your next step in Rancho Cucamonga is both affordable and informed.
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San Diego – Most Expensive Homes of August 2026 | If You Think It’s Expensive To Hire A Professional; Wait Till You Hire An Amateur!
A glimpse into San Diego’s luxury real estate: here are the city’s most expensive homes listed in August 2026. From the top-tier $12,500,000 property (Listing SDM250029683) to impressive offerings like SDM260006443 at $9,995,000 and SDM260009922 at $5,250,000, this lineup showcases what true exclusivity looks like. Each property on this list represents not just a home, but a statement—whether it’s NDP2606551 at $4,500,000 or SDM260007304 at $3,250,000. Navigating the upper echelon of San Diego’s market takes experience and a keen eye for value. Remember: if you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait till you hire an amateur!
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Rancho Cucamonga – Most Expensive Homes of August 2026 | If You Think It’s Expensive To Hire A Professional; Wait Till You Hire An Amateur!
Curious about Rancho Cucamonga’s luxury real estate market? Here’s a look at the most expensive homes listed for August 2026, with prices reaching as high as $3,995,000. These properties represent the pinnacle of what the city has to offer, and each listing showcases the kind of premium investment opportunities that serious buyers are searching for. As someone who knows how important it is to have a true professional guide you through top-tier transactions—remember, "If you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait till you hire an amateur!"—I keep my eye on every notable listing. Whether you’re comparing options or just staying informed, these homes set the standard for luxury in Rancho Cucamonga.
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Buy and Sell a Home Simultaneously: Strategies for Success
Navigating the process of buying and selling a home at the same time can feel like a balancing act. If you sell first, you’ll know exactly what you can spend, though you might need to arrange a short-term housing solution. Buying before you sell gives you more time to find the right place, but there’s a chance you’ll juggle two mortgages. Contingent offers can help lower your risk, yet some sellers may hesitate to accept them. In my experience, success comes down to thoughtful planning and staying adaptable—because hiring a true professional means fewer costly surprises along the way.
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What’s the best housing market in Southern California?
When it comes to the best housing markets in Southern California, Irvine stands out, ranking 10th in the nation for real estate and local economics. Other strong performers in our region include Ontario, Murrieta, San Diego, and Chula Vista, each offering their own unique opportunities. On the other end, Palmdale finds itself ranking lowest locally and ninth-worst nationally. These rankings remind us just how important it is to have the right guidance on your side—after all, if you think it’s expensive to hire a professional, wait till you hire an amateur!
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Lower Fees Lead to More Homes and More Revenues
I've always believed in the value of expertise, and here's a clear example: modest reductions in one-time impact fees across California cities could be a real game-changer. In Los Angeles and San Diego alone, these cuts could unlock more than 8,300 new homes. What's even more compelling? The initial lost revenue is projected to be recovered within just 4 to 7 years, thanks to increased property and sales taxes. When professionals approach challenges with strategic solutions, everyone stands to benefit—reminding us that sound decisions tend to pay for themselves over time.
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