Hope Leitner, Realtor®, CRS

Consumers cannot be forced to waive right to make critical or disparaging statements about a business. This law prohibits a contract or proposed contract for the sale or lease of consumer goods or services from including a provision waiving the consumer’s right to make any statement regarding the seller or lesser or its employees or agents, or concerning the goods or services. It imposes civil penalties upon any person who violates the provisions of the law, of $2,500 for the initial violation and $5,000 for each subsequent violation, as well as an additional penalty of $10,000 if the violation was willful, intentional, or reckless in actions that may be brought by the consumer, the Attorney General, or a district attorney or city attorney. It does not prohibit or limit a person or business that hosts online consumer reviews or comments from removing a statement that is otherwise lawful to remove. Assembly Bill 2365 codified as Civil Code 1670.8. Effective January 1, 2015. ...

Focus on the positive and remain consistent in working toward your goals.  Let's make 2015 a good year!    Here Are 12 Steps to a Positive New Year! Stay Positive.   You can listen to the cynics and doubters and believe that success is impossible or you can trust that with faith and an optimistic attitude all things are possible. Take a morning walk of gratitude.   I call it a "Thank You Walk." It will create a fertile mind ready for success. Zoom Focus.   Each day when you wake up in the morning ask: "What are the three most important things I need to do today that will help me create the success I desire?" Then tune out all the distractions and focus on these actions. Talk to yourself instead of listen to yourself.   Instead of listening to your complaints, fears and doubts, talk to yourself and feed your mind with the words and encouragement you need to keep moving forward. Don't chase dollars or success.   Decide to make a...