Monday, June 6, 2011

Carbon Monoxide Detectors in the Home

California residents must have carbon monoxide detectors in their homes as of July 1, 2011.
Who is impacted? This timeline applies to single-family homes, inclucing individually-owned condominiums, (owner or tenant occupied) that have appliances that burn fossil fuels or homes that have attached garages or fireplaces. Types of fossil fuels include coal, kerosene, oil, wood, fuel gases, and other petroleum or hydrocarbon products, which emit carbon monoxide as a byproduct of combustion.

For all other types of housing, such as apartments and hotels, detectors should be in place as of January 1, 2013.

How much does a CO detector cost? Approximately $20 to $60. If you own rental property, this is a critical, low cost item your property must have.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Is telecommuting in your future?

Having spoken with a realtor friend in Incline Village, she shared with me an interesting thought. If you've ever thought about leaving the Bay Area (or wherever you live) in favor of a more desireable location like Incline Village Nevada, you may be able to save money on your income tax. Here's how. Nevada does not have a state income tax. So if you telecommute, you may be able to bypass paying state income taxes. Let's say you work in the Bay Area and telecommute. If your paycheck comes from a corporate office outside of California, you can have them mail your check directly to you in Nevada. If however your check from a California company, you're out of luck in that you still will be charged a state income tax. Note: All tax related issues should be confirmed with your CPA since I am not a licensed tax person. But it may well be worth your time to investigate. You may abe able to make California money while living a higher quality of life in a less expensive location! If you'd like a personal introcution to my friend in Incline Village, please let me know and I'll be happy to connect you.