Plain-English coverage of the laws, market data, and operational decisions that shape rental property in Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties.
The Tenant Protection Act controls how covered rentals can raise rent and end tenancies. Here is who's in, who's out, the 5% + CPI formula, and the just-cause categories.
Read article →Typical rent ranges by property type, the Capitola-specific premiums that move price, seasonal swings, and the comp methodology Solaris uses to price your home.
Read article →The deposit cap dropped from 2x/3x to one month's rent in July 2024. Here's the cap, the small-landlord exemption, refund timelines, and allowable deductions.
Read article →Legally defensible screening criteria for 2026: credit, income, Fair Chance Act, pets and assistance animals, FCRA compliance, and written adverse action notices.
Read article →California's Source of Income protections mean you can't simply say no. Here's how the Santa Cruz and Santa Clara County Housing Authorities work, with honest pros and cons.
Read article →City of Santa Cruz, City of Capitola, unincorporated zones in Aptos and Live Oak, plus TOT and business license requirements as of June 2026.
Read article →