CAS Bar Property Law

Question 1

What is California's community property system?

Accepted Answer

Property acquired during marriage is presumed equally owned by both spouses

Answer

All property is separately owned regardless of marriage

Answer

Only real property is community property

Answer

Community property only applies upon divorce

Question 2

What disclosures must a seller make when selling residential real property in California?

Accepted Answer

A Transfer Disclosure Statement covering known material defects and property conditions

Answer

No disclosures are required in as-is sales

Answer

Only structural defects must be disclosed

Answer

Disclosures are optional and determined by the listing agent

Question 3

What is the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and how does it affect real property?

Accepted Answer

It requires environmental review before approving development projects that may significantly impact the environment

Answer

It only applies to federal lands in California

Answer

It exempts residential construction from environmental review

Answer

It applies only to projects in coastal zones

Question 4

What is Proposition 13's impact on California property taxes?

Accepted Answer

It limits property tax to 1% of assessed value and restricts annual assessment increases to 2%

Answer

It eliminated property taxes entirely

Answer

It doubled property tax rates

Answer

It only applies to commercial properties

Question 5

What is a lis pendens in California real property law?

Accepted Answer

A recorded notice that litigation is pending that may affect title to the property

Answer

A type of property lien

Answer

A zoning change notification

Answer

A foreclosure notice

Question 6

Under California law, what rights does a tenant have regarding habitability?

Accepted Answer

The right to a dwelling that meets basic health and safety standards, with remedies including rent withholding

Answer

No right to habitability unless the lease specifically provides it

Answer

Only the right to hot water and electricity

Answer

Habitability rights apply only to tenants with written leases