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The Daily Insight

What happens when a property is sold in California?

Author

James Craig

Published Feb 28, 2026

When a unit is sold that is occupied by a renter in California, the renter still has many tenant rights that must be honored and respected. Simply selling the property does not usually justify an immediate eviction of a tenant. First and foremost, the lease must be honored.

When to give notice of intent to sell in California?

For example, in California a landlord must deliver a written notice of intent to sell the property 120 days before showings can begin. Then, landlords can give tenants a 24-hour written or oral notice before a showing.

How much tax do you have to pay when selling real estate in California?

The State regulations regarding withholdings on real property sales is a little different from the Federal withholding of foreigners under the FIRPTA guidelines. For the State, the law is written such that all real property being sold requires the payment of tax at the close of escrow in an amount equal to 3.33% of the Sales Price.

When does a California landlord have to rent out a property?

In some situations, California landlords decide to rent out their properties until they are able to find a buyer. When a unit is sold that is occupied by a renter in California, the renter still has many tenant rights that must be honored and respected.

What are client papers and property in rule 3-700?

Specifically, rule 3-700(D) then defines “client papers and property” as including: “correspondence, pleadings, deposition transcripts, exhibits, physical evidence, expert’s reports, and other items reasonably necessary to the client’s representation, whether the client has paid for them or not; . . . . “4

What happens to security deposit when property is sold?

The sale of the property also does not change the tenant’s right to a refund of his or her security deposit. For month to month leases, the renter will have fewer rights than with a longer lease. The new owner can decide to terminate the lease.