Do I Need to Homestead My Property?

What is a homestead?

A Homestead is a special provision in California to allow homeowners to protect their property
from forced sale to satisfy their debts within certain limits. It does not protect the homeowner
against trust deeds, mechanics liens or prior-to-filing liens. The Declaration of Homestead is the
form that must be acknowledged and recorded to protect the resident.

What property does it cover?

1. House and adjoining property
2. Condominiums and town homes
3. Farms
4. Life Estates

You may have only one homestead at a time.

How much does it protect me for?

1. Head of households: $75,000
2. Persons who are mentally or physically disabled, or those who are over the age of 65: $100,000
3. Any resident who does not qualify for one of the above: $50,000

Are there any requirements to be met to make the homestead valid?

1. A statement showing the claimant is the head of the family and stating the name of the
   spouse
2. A statement showing that the claimant is residing on the property and claims it as his or
   her homestead
3. A description of the premises and an estimate of cash value
4. The declaration of homestead may need to contain a statement as to the character of the property, and that no former declaration has been made.