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Thursday, November 6, 2014
Free Tax Workshop November 12th in Manchester
Friday, October 17, 2014
Trade Your S Corporation For An LLC
Trade Your S Corporation For An LLC
October 2014By MaryLiz Geffert
Published in the New Hampshire Business Magazine
Every business owner is looking for ways to save money and make more. In NH, that can be accomplished by converting an S corporation with NH shareholders to a limited liability company (LLC). In summer 2013, the NH Department of Revenue Administration issued a ruling allowing that conversion with no taxes due. Also, if the equity of the resulting LLC is not freely transferable shares, NH owners of the LLC will not owe NH interest and dividends tax on future LLC distributions paid to them.
Every business owner is looking for ways to save money and make more. In NH, that can be accomplished by converting an S corporation with NH shareholders to a limited liability company (LLC). In summer 2013, the NH Department of Revenue Administration issued a ruling allowing that conversion with no taxes due. Also, if the equity of the resulting LLC is not freely transferable shares, NH owners of the LLC will not owe NH interest and dividends tax on future LLC distributions paid to them.
In NH, businesses face two layers of state income tax: the Business Profits Tax and Business Enterprise Tax, and the Interest and Dividends tax. The Business Profits Tax, set at 8.5 percent of a business's income, applies if annual gross receipts exceed $50,000. The Business Enterprise Tax is set at 0.75 percent of the company's enterprise value tax base, or total compensation paid out, including dividends and interest.
Granite Staters must pay a 5 percent Interest and Dividends (I&D) tax on distributions or dividends paid by corporations (including S corporations) and LLCs. There is one exception: If the equity of an LLC is not freely transferable, then the I&D tax doesn't have to be paid on distributions to the LLC's NH owners. LLC equity is con- sidered not freely transferable ifit cannot be transferred without prior approval from the LLC owners or if transfer causes the LLC to be dissolved. Because of this exception, many NH businesses prefer organizing as an LLC to enjoy a single layer of NH tax.
Adding to an LLC's allure is that federal law imposes only one layer of tax at the owner level on income of S corporations and most LLCs. Federal tax law allows considerable tax-flexibility to LLCs, which are taxed only at the owner level by default, unless it elects to be taxed as a corporation by checking a box on the simple form. Rulings issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in 2005 and 2008 enhanced this flexibility by permitting S corporations to convert to LLCs without owing tax on conversion so long as there was no change in ownership or economic position of the owners. A simple form is filed with the IRS within 75 days of conversion.
Those IRS rulings created increased interest for S corporations to convert to LLCs in NH to avoid paying the state's I&D tax. But businesses were concerned the NH Department of Revenue Administration would consider these conversions to be tax events, resulting in businesses paying more in Business Profits Tax and Business Enterprise Tax and, for S corporations that own real property, a transfer of real property on which Real Estate Transfer Tax would be payable.
The July 26, 2013 Declaratory Ruling from the Department of Revenue Administration alleviated these concerns. It is now fairly secure that conversion of a NH S corporation to a NH LLC taxed federally as an S corporation will not subject the S corporation, the resulting LLC or the owners to any additional NH taxes.
M.L. Geffert is a member of the Corporate Department at the law firm of McLane, Graf, Raulerson & Middleton, Professional Association. She can be reached at maryliz.geffert@mclane.com or 603-334-6929. The McLane Law Firm is the largest full-service law firm in the state of New Hampshire, with offices in Concord, Manchester and Portsmouth as well as Woburn, Massachusetts. - See more at: http://www.mclane.com/resources/article-detail.aspx?id=1063&utm_source=Mondaq&utm_medium=syndication&utm_campaign=View-Original#sthash.M5zyyyj8.dpuf
Monday, September 15, 2014
October 9th - The New Hampshire Eviction Seminar
The New Hampshire Eviction Seminar
The Yard Restaurant, Manchester, NH
1211 South Mammoth Road
Manchester, New Hampshire 03109
United States
Map and Directions
Thursday, October 09, 2014 9:00 AM - 12:15 PM (Eastern Time)
The Yard Restaurant, Manchester, NH
1211 South Mammoth Road
Manchester, New Hampshire 03109
United States
Map and DirectionsAttorney Fred K. Mayer III will be the featured speaker at this three-hour New Hampshire Landlord and Tenant law seminar. Attorney Mayer will take you through the entire eviction process, from preparation of eviction notices and demands for rent through post-eviction issues, such as landlord storage obligations and security deposit disputes.
Cost: $149 (only $129 if you register before September 20, 2014).
October 1st - Landlord Training Workshop
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Sunday, September 7, 2014
Vote Sept 9th - This is our best opportunity for legislative influence
Howdee everyone,
Well this is it. It’s time to vote & this is where we can make a strong influence on what lies ahead legislatively.
Included below:
1. Generality of party platforms
2. HB1409 Anti-Discrimination voting record
3. SB176 Lead Law voting record
4. Friendly/Unfriendly legislators
5. How to get voting records so you can be even more informed.
1. Generality of party platforms
If you’ve been involved legislatively then you know that there is a tone in the legislature that is set by simply who is elected. It is critical that we all get out & vote now to assist in setting the basic tone of the legislature so that the elected legislature will be more receptive to our position on future legislation.
There is a generality that says democrats are less landlord/property rights/business friendly and republican are more landlord/property rights/business friendly.
This link lists the entire House voting records for HB1409 which was a strongly anti-landlord/property rights/business bill.
You may remember the bill as the house voted on it was still an extremely negative bill for landlord/property rights/business. Please note that 86.88% of democrats voted for the bill, 94.49% of republicans voted against the bill. Also we only “lost” that vote by 6 votes 147 to 141.
That means if only 4 of the yeas were converted to nays the bill would have lost in the House.
We feel this is a dramatic demonstration of how important your vote is now.
2. HB1409 AntiDiscrimination voting record
Attached is an Excel file with the entire house voting record for HB1409 so you can look up the legislator running in your local election to get a better idea of whether to vote for or against them.
(FYI by the time HB1409 went through the Senate it was converted to a recommendation for a study committee and ALL 24 senators voted for it).
3. SB176 Lead Law voting record
Also in the same document is the entire voting record for 2007 SB176 which put in place the “New Lead Law” that many property owners have suffered with and a good many have lost their properties over.
4. Friendly/Unfriendly legislators
As well, included below in the body of this email, are some notes we have collected on legislators we have found to be landlord/property rights/business friendly or unfriendly and why we believe so. We do our best to base this assessment on voting records and facts of their participation.
There are more notes I would be happy to give you individually that are based on referral by others we know to be “friendly” or “unfriendly” but for which we only have a referral or little personal experience.
5. How to get voting records so you can be even more informed.
Goto NH General Court
- In “State Legislation Dash Board” box click Voting Records.
- In either House or Senate click the year you want then click Search.
- In Bill No(s) select the bill number you want then click Search.
- Click View Votes for full detail (note there could be a history of votes with different amendments).
Please make a positive difference. We need everyone to be proactive. Do a little review of the enclosed notes, possibly a little more of your own the get out and vote!
Love & Light,
Nick Norman
Director of Legislative Affairs
Landlord/Property Rights/Business Friendly Legislators
Senator David Boutin - Worked hard to put HB1409 Anti-discrimination to study commission instead of adoption into law with out a large vetting process.
Representative Shawn Jasper - Shawn is a strong supporter of property rights.
Representative Mark Warden - Mark is a realtor; a landlord; a member of RPOA Rental Property Owners; has sponsored pro-landlord bills; very instrumental in fighting HB1409 anti-discrimination; worked hard to oppose anti-landlord bills; helps sponsor and decide on new pro-landlord bills; has been extremely helpful in advising us in support of our legislative effort.
Representative Steve Beaudoin - Steve is a landlord; a member of RPOA Rental Property Owners; has sponsored pro-landlord bills; very instrumental in fighting HB1409 anti-discrimination; worked hard to oppose anti-landlord bills; helps sponsor and decide on new pro-landlord bills; has been extremely helpful in advising us in support of our legislative effort.
Representiative Warren Groen - Warren is a landlord; a member of RPOA Rental Property Owners; worked hard to oppose anti-landlord bills.
Representative Laura Jones - Laura has helped in our meetings to plan proposing new pro-landlord legislation and very helpful to our legislative effort in general.
Representative Susan Demers – Susan fought for 7 day storage on abandoned personal property.
Representative Mike Silva - Mike strongly opposed HB1409.
Representative Robert Rowe – Robert strongly opposed HB1409.
Landlord/Property Rights/Business UnFriendly Legislators
Representative Betsy DeVries - A few years back Betsy sponsored several bills that would have hurt the landlord business.
Representative Mary Till - During HB1409 discussions she was approachable but even after much explaining couldn't seem to understand our arguments and voted for HB1409 Anti-discrimination.
Running for US Congress – Frank Guinta - Frank Guinta as Mayor of Manchester,NH sent letter to state supporting the new lead law which dropped BLL (poisoning level) from 20 to 10ug/dl.
Running for Representative Concord area – Dan Feltes - Dan has long been one of the main voices from NHLA, the main tenant advocacy group of NH, for those of you that know think of electing Elliot Berry, it would have the same effect. Dan was one of the authors of HB1409 Anti-discrimination.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
August 2014 - Schedule of Landlord Meetings and Training Classes
August 2014 - Schedule of Landlord Meetings and Training Classes
Aug 8th 10am - 12Noon, Somersworth NH
Join Nick Norman, Legislative Director for the RPOA if you are interested in moving NH's Landlord/Tenant Laws more to our favor. For directions, contact nicknorman@yahoo.com if you are interested in attending.
Aug 13th 7:00pm - 9:00pm Landlord Boot Camp
This event will cover how to advertise your rental, screen for good tenants, record keeping,as well as the leasing and eviction process
Location: Community Room, 50 Queen City Ave, Manchester, NH
For more info call 603-232-9195
Aug 4th - 27th Lead-Edu Classes, Manchester NH
New classes are being offered in RRP Initial Certification, Lead Abatement, as well as RRP Refresher Certification!!
To register, call or email Ben at 603-203-6430 or Ben@KKirkwood.com
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
LEAD-EDU has added New Classes for Lead Paint Certification
| MANY NEW CLASSES ADDED, including RRP Refresher!! |
We have recently added classes for RRP Initial Certification, Lead Abatement, and also RRP Refresher Certification!!
The EPA is requiring that all contractors working on pre-1978 properties containing lead paint obtain RRP EPA/HUD Lead Paint Certification. Many of you received this certification in 2009 and need the refresher course. Check your expiration dates.
This includes landlords, renovation contractors, window replacement workers, property maintenance workers, painters, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, siding contractors and anyone else that may be disturbing lead paint in a child occupied facility and/or pre-1978 building.
The current fine for working without this certification is $37,500 per violation!!
Don't Let This Happen to You!! Sign up or get renewed now!
Many Lead Abatement classes have also been added!
CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR NEW DATES!!
To register Click Here or contact Ben at 603-203-6430
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Monday, July 21, 2014
Landlord Boot Camp - August 13th
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Sunday, July 13, 2014
Legislative Update,7-13-2014= Governor signed HB590 Unauthorized Practice of Law
This Legislative Update has been provided by Nick Norman, Director of Legislative Affairs for the RPOA
Howdee everyone,
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!!!
I will be doing more coordinating of volunteers for next season soon & we need more volunteers for the legislative effort in general and more core team volunteers. We only need 15 minutes per week per person during the busy times to make this legislative effort extremely effective.
Please contact Nick at nicknorman@yahoo.com to help out.
I also am coordinating a Property Rights Friendly and Property Rights Unfriendly legislator list. We hope this will be helpful as we approach time to vote for a new legislature. Please also contact me if you have specific factual information to add to the list regarding any specific candidates for election.
Important Updates:Governor has signed HB590which allows an LLC etc, to be represented by a member of an LLC in district court (for evictions and small claims). (You will no longer be required to hire an attorney).
Action items this week:None; Enjoy this gorgeous weather.
Hearings this week:None
Hearings next week:None scheduled so far
Further below is:Bills Updated Status summary:
Full details on all bills above
(Which includes property owner position, contact info, talking points, and more)
Love & Light,
Nick Norman
RPOA Director of Legislative Affairs
==============================
We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. Its not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
==============================
Bills Updated Status summary:
HB590, Unauthorized Practice of Law
Title: relative to the unauthorized practice of law.
Property Owner Position: For
House Status: CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
Senate Status: CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
==============================
Full details on all bills above:HB590, Unauthorized Practice of Law
05/22/2014 at 03:00 PM LOB 208
Title: Title: relative to the unauthorized practice of law.
Summary: Allows a person who is not authorized to practice law but who is a member, or employee of a limited liability company, corporation, or partnership, which has 5 or fewer members, to represent the entity on civil matters (like evictions & small claims) in the circuit court of New Hampshire.
Property Owner Position: For
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB590
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
HB 590 would amend RSA 311, the statute that enables the Supreme Court of the State of New Hampshire to regulate the practice of law within the state. Under current law, any person may represent him or herself, or be represented by a person of good character. All citizens are presumed to be of good character unless demonstrated otherwise. However, no person shall be commonly permitted to practice as an attorney in court unless he or she has been permitted to do so by the court. (Current requirements are graduating from an accredited law school, which generally is a three year program on a full time basis and passing the New Hampshire Bar Exam, unless allowed to practice based upon reciprocity).
Basically, someone of good character can represent another person in court, but may not hold him or herself out as an attorney unless that person has been admitted to practice law in this state.
HB 590 changes the above to clarify that person of good character who is a member or employee of a limited liability company (an LLC), corporation, or partnership which has 5 or fewer members, shall, with the proper written authorization from the organization be authorized to represent the organization in Circuit Court. However, there needs to be a new authorization for each appearance in court.
The bill, as amended, does not address properties held in a trust or an estate. Also, a corporation has officers and shareholders and not members as does an LLC. I would think that the Courts would allow a corporation with 5 or fewer shareholders to make use of this bill, but not trusts or estates.
This bill is useful to the all businesses, including landlords, who are organized in LLC's, partnerships or corporations. It avoids the necessity to hire an attorney for evictions, collection suits both in small claims and circuit court level, other cases brought for and against the business person in circuit court.
Most likely the authorization will have be given by the majority of the members of the LLC or shareholders of the corporation. The acting or managing partners/members will likely have to give it for the partnership/LLC.
This allows any person of good character to represent the business in court with the proper authorization. Note however, it does not, however, change any of the evidence required to prove a case. (The employee may not have personal knowledge that a tenant is behind in rent, but may have only been told that by the employer, which is hearsay and not admissible.)
We plan to propose a clarifying amendment to address corporations(not having members), trusts and also family LLC partnerships with more than 5 family members.
Being that different circuit courts presently interpret this situation differently from court to court, the bill would add clarity for circuit court judges.
=====================
Howdee everyone,
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!!!
I will be doing more coordinating of volunteers for next season soon & we need more volunteers for the legislative effort in general and more core team volunteers. We only need 15 minutes per week per person during the busy times to make this legislative effort extremely effective.
Please contact Nick at nicknorman@yahoo.com to help out.
I also am coordinating a Property Rights Friendly and Property Rights Unfriendly legislator list. We hope this will be helpful as we approach time to vote for a new legislature. Please also contact me if you have specific factual information to add to the list regarding any specific candidates for election.
Important Updates:Governor has signed HB590which allows an LLC etc, to be represented by a member of an LLC in district court (for evictions and small claims). (You will no longer be required to hire an attorney).
Action items this week:None; Enjoy this gorgeous weather.
Hearings this week:None
Hearings next week:None scheduled so far
Further below is:Bills Updated Status summary:
Full details on all bills above
(Which includes property owner position, contact info, talking points, and more)
Love & Light,
Nick Norman
RPOA Director of Legislative Affairs
==============================
We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. Its not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
==============================
Bills Updated Status summary:
HB590, Unauthorized Practice of Law
Title: relative to the unauthorized practice of law.
Property Owner Position: For
House Status: CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
Senate Status: CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
==============================
Full details on all bills above:HB590, Unauthorized Practice of Law
05/22/2014 at 03:00 PM LOB 208
Title: Title: relative to the unauthorized practice of law.
Summary: Allows a person who is not authorized to practice law but who is a member, or employee of a limited liability company, corporation, or partnership, which has 5 or fewer members, to represent the entity on civil matters (like evictions & small claims) in the circuit court of New Hampshire.
Property Owner Position: For
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB590
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
HB 590 would amend RSA 311, the statute that enables the Supreme Court of the State of New Hampshire to regulate the practice of law within the state. Under current law, any person may represent him or herself, or be represented by a person of good character. All citizens are presumed to be of good character unless demonstrated otherwise. However, no person shall be commonly permitted to practice as an attorney in court unless he or she has been permitted to do so by the court. (Current requirements are graduating from an accredited law school, which generally is a three year program on a full time basis and passing the New Hampshire Bar Exam, unless allowed to practice based upon reciprocity).
Basically, someone of good character can represent another person in court, but may not hold him or herself out as an attorney unless that person has been admitted to practice law in this state.
HB 590 changes the above to clarify that person of good character who is a member or employee of a limited liability company (an LLC), corporation, or partnership which has 5 or fewer members, shall, with the proper written authorization from the organization be authorized to represent the organization in Circuit Court. However, there needs to be a new authorization for each appearance in court.
The bill, as amended, does not address properties held in a trust or an estate. Also, a corporation has officers and shareholders and not members as does an LLC. I would think that the Courts would allow a corporation with 5 or fewer shareholders to make use of this bill, but not trusts or estates.
This bill is useful to the all businesses, including landlords, who are organized in LLC's, partnerships or corporations. It avoids the necessity to hire an attorney for evictions, collection suits both in small claims and circuit court level, other cases brought for and against the business person in circuit court.
Most likely the authorization will have be given by the majority of the members of the LLC or shareholders of the corporation. The acting or managing partners/members will likely have to give it for the partnership/LLC.
This allows any person of good character to represent the business in court with the proper authorization. Note however, it does not, however, change any of the evidence required to prove a case. (The employee may not have personal knowledge that a tenant is behind in rent, but may have only been told that by the employer, which is hearsay and not admissible.)
We plan to propose a clarifying amendment to address corporations(not having members), trusts and also family LLC partnerships with more than 5 family members.
Being that different circuit courts presently interpret this situation differently from court to court, the bill would add clarity for circuit court judges.
=====================
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Apartment prices are up, availability is down
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to:jstergios@comcast.net If you prefer not to receive future e-mails of this type, click here |
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Monday, July 7, 2014
==Legislative Update July 7, 2014 == Contact Governor to approve HB590 Unauthorized Practice of Law; minor updates;
This Legislative Update is provided by Nick Norman, Director of Legislative Affairs for the RPOA
Howdee
everyone,
The legislative season is essentially over with only a few things being wrapped up. If things are normal over the summer there will be little activity so these updates will be likely much less frequent.
Nick needs your Help
We need more volunteers for the legislative effort in general and more core team volunteers. We only need 15 minutes per week per person during the busy times to make this legislative effort extremely effective.
Please contact Nick Norman at nicknorman@yahoo.com to help out.
I also am coordinating a Property Rights Friendly and Property Rights Unfriendly legislator list. We hope this will be helpful as we approach time to vote for a new legislature. Please also contact me if you have specific factual information to add to the list regarding any specific candidates for election.
Important Updates:
None
Action items this week:If you have not done so already write and/or call the Governors office asking the governor to pass HB590which allows an LLC etc, to be represented by a member of an LLC in district court (for evictions and small claims). (You will no longer be required to hire an attorney).
Governor's office is 271-2121
You can e-mail the governor by going to the following website:
http://www4.egov.nh.gov/governor/goveforms/comments.asp
See more info in Summaries & Full Detail for each category further below. (includes property owner position, contact info, Talking points, and more).
(to jump right to bill detail, use Control-F, Find).
Hearings this week:None
Hearings next week:None scheduled so far
For minor updates see Bills Updated Status summary below.
Further below is:Bills Updated Status summary:
Full details on all bills above
(Which includes property owner position, contact info, talking points, and more)
Love & Light,
Nick Norman
RPOA Director of Legislative Affairs
==============================================
We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. Its not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
==============================================
Bills Updated Status summary:We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. It’s not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
SB368, Increase Max Fine Re: Lead Remediation
Title: increasing the maximum fine for lead remediation.
Property Owner Position: Against
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
SB267, Extend Effective Date Integrated Land Permits
Title: extending the effective date for integrated land development permits.
Property Owner Position: You Decide
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
==============================================
Full details on all bills above:SB368, Increase Max Fine Re: Lead Remediation
04/29/2014 at 10:30 AM LOB 202
Title: Title: increasing the maximum fine for lead remediation.
Summary: The current maximum fine, pursuant to the New Hampshire on lead paint, RSA 130-A is $2,000 for each violation of the law. This bill would increase the fine to $5,000. Violations of the law include failure to allow inspections, failure to remediate if an order is issued, failure to relocate a tenant in certain circumstances and more.
Property Owner Position: Against
Subject: SB368
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/SB0368.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
You decide talking points on this one.
=====================
SB267, Extend Effective Date Integrated Land Permits
04/10/2014 at 10:30 AM LOB 305
Title: Title: extending the effective date for integrated land development permits.
Summary: Extends the effective date from January 1, 2015 to July 1, 2017 for integrated land permits. This is related to RSA 489 titled Integrated Land Development.
Property Owner Position: You Decide
Subject: SB267
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/SB0267.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
None developed so far.
=====================
The legislative season is essentially over with only a few things being wrapped up. If things are normal over the summer there will be little activity so these updates will be likely much less frequent.
Nick needs your Help
We need more volunteers for the legislative effort in general and more core team volunteers. We only need 15 minutes per week per person during the busy times to make this legislative effort extremely effective.
Please contact Nick Norman at nicknorman@yahoo.com to help out.
I also am coordinating a Property Rights Friendly and Property Rights Unfriendly legislator list. We hope this will be helpful as we approach time to vote for a new legislature. Please also contact me if you have specific factual information to add to the list regarding any specific candidates for election.
Important Updates:
None
Action items this week:If you have not done so already write and/or call the Governors office asking the governor to pass HB590which allows an LLC etc, to be represented by a member of an LLC in district court (for evictions and small claims). (You will no longer be required to hire an attorney).
Governor's office is 271-2121
You can e-mail the governor by going to the following website:
http://www4.egov.nh.gov/governor/goveforms/comments.asp
See more info in Summaries & Full Detail for each category further below. (includes property owner position, contact info, Talking points, and more).
(to jump right to bill detail, use Control-F, Find).
Hearings this week:None
Hearings next week:None scheduled so far
For minor updates see Bills Updated Status summary below.
Further below is:Bills Updated Status summary:
Full details on all bills above
(Which includes property owner position, contact info, talking points, and more)
Love & Light,
Nick Norman
RPOA Director of Legislative Affairs
==============================================
We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. Its not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
==============================================
Bills Updated Status summary:We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. It’s not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
SB368, Increase Max Fine Re: Lead Remediation
Title: increasing the maximum fine for lead remediation.
Property Owner Position: Against
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
SB267, Extend Effective Date Integrated Land Permits
Title: extending the effective date for integrated land development permits.
Property Owner Position: You Decide
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
==============================================
Full details on all bills above:SB368, Increase Max Fine Re: Lead Remediation
04/29/2014 at 10:30 AM LOB 202
Title: Title: increasing the maximum fine for lead remediation.
Summary: The current maximum fine, pursuant to the New Hampshire on lead paint, RSA 130-A is $2,000 for each violation of the law. This bill would increase the fine to $5,000. Violations of the law include failure to allow inspections, failure to remediate if an order is issued, failure to relocate a tenant in certain circumstances and more.
Property Owner Position: Against
Subject: SB368
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/SB0368.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
You decide talking points on this one.
=====================
SB267, Extend Effective Date Integrated Land Permits
04/10/2014 at 10:30 AM LOB 305
Title: Title: extending the effective date for integrated land development permits.
Summary: Extends the effective date from January 1, 2015 to July 1, 2017 for integrated land permits. This is related to RSA 489 titled Integrated Land Development.
Property Owner Position: You Decide
Subject: SB267
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/SB0267.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
None developed so far.
=====================
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Legislative Update 6/25/2014 - Contact Governor to approve HB590 Unauthorized Practice of Law
This Legislative Update is provided by Nick Norman, Director, Legislative Affairs for the RPOA
Howdee
everyone,
The legislative season is mostly over with only a few things being wrapped up. If things are normal over the summer there will be little activity so these updates will be likely be much less frequent.
The legislative season is mostly over with only a few things being wrapped up. If things are normal over the summer there will be little activity so these updates will be likely be much less frequent.
HELP NEEDED
We need more volunteers for the legislative effort in general and more core team volunteers. We only need 15 minutes per week per person during the busy times to make this legislative effort extremely effective.
Please contact Nick Norman at nicknorman@yahoo.com to help out.
I also am coordinating a Property Rights Friendly and Property Rights Unfriendly legislator list. We hope this will be helpful as we approach time to vote for a new legislature. Please also contact me if you have specific factual information to add to the list regarding any specific candidates for election.
Important Updates:None
Action items this week:
If you have not done so already write and/or call the Governors office asking the governor to pass HB590 which allows an LLC etc, to be represented by a member of an LLC in district court (for evictions and small claims). (You will no longer be required to hire an attorney).
Governor's office is 271-2121
You can e-mail the governor by going to the following website:
http://www4.egov.nh.gov/governor/goveforms/comments.asp
See more info in Summaries & Full Detail for each category further below. (includes property owner position, contact info, Talking points, and more).(to jump right to bill detail, use Control-F, Find).
Hearings this week:None
Hearings next week:None scheduled so far
Further below is:Bills Updated Status summary:
Full details on all bills above
(Which includes property owner position, contact info, talking points, and more)
Love & Light,
Nick Norman
RPOA Director of Legislative Affairs
==============================================
We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. Its not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
==============================================
Bills Updated Status summary:We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. It’s not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
HB1111, Insurance Not Canceled After Claim
Title: clarifying the term "valid claim" for property insurance.
Property Owner Position: For
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
HB1272, Excluding Fraternity Rental to Member from RSA540.
Title: excluding certain leases by fraternal or social organizations from the definition of tenancy.
Property Owner Position: LimitedImpact; You Decide
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED WITH AMENDMENT
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
==============================================
Full details on all bills above:HB1111, Insurance Not Canceled After Claim
04/01/2014 at 02:20 PM LOB 101
Title: Title: clarifying the term "valid claim" for property insurance.
Summary: Does not allow insurance companies to cancel policy after a claim.
Property Owner Position: For
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB1111
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/HB1111.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
This bill amends current law which prohibits an insurance company from not renewing a homeowners insurance policy if the homeowner made one valid claim within the previous year or policy period. The bill adds the following: "Inquiries about coverage do not constitute a valid claim."
Although the bill effects homeowners policies and not commercial policies, it may effect our membership who have owner occupied units, such as duplexes. The problem with the bill is that it is unclear if it opens the door to non-renewal if the homeowner inquires about coverage and does not file a claim, which does not appear to be the intent of the bill. It maybe covered elsewhere in the statute, and common sense would say that an inquiry without a claim should not be grounds for the non renewal of a policy.
=====================
HB1272, Excluding Fraternity Rental to Member from RSA540.
04/22/2014 at 10:10 AM SH 100
Title: Title: excluding certain leases by fraternal or social organizations from the definition of tenancy.
Summary: This is a one line bill that would exclude residential units owned and rented by a fraternal or social organization to a member from being a residence under RSA 540.
Property Owner Position: Limited Impact; You Decide
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB1272
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/HB1272.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
Some of our members felt they were against this bill. Why should these organizations be exempted from the laws we have to follow?
=====================
We need more volunteers for the legislative effort in general and more core team volunteers. We only need 15 minutes per week per person during the busy times to make this legislative effort extremely effective.
Please contact Nick Norman at nicknorman@yahoo.com to help out.
I also am coordinating a Property Rights Friendly and Property Rights Unfriendly legislator list. We hope this will be helpful as we approach time to vote for a new legislature. Please also contact me if you have specific factual information to add to the list regarding any specific candidates for election.
Important Updates:None
Action items this week:
If you have not done so already write and/or call the Governors office asking the governor to pass HB590 which allows an LLC etc, to be represented by a member of an LLC in district court (for evictions and small claims). (You will no longer be required to hire an attorney).
Governor's office is 271-2121
You can e-mail the governor by going to the following website:
http://www4.egov.nh.gov/governor/goveforms/comments.asp
See more info in Summaries & Full Detail for each category further below. (includes property owner position, contact info, Talking points, and more).(to jump right to bill detail, use Control-F, Find).
Hearings this week:None
Hearings next week:None scheduled so far
Further below is:Bills Updated Status summary:
Full details on all bills above
(Which includes property owner position, contact info, talking points, and more)
Love & Light,
Nick Norman
RPOA Director of Legislative Affairs
==============================================
We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. Its not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
==============================================
Bills Updated Status summary:We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. It’s not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
HB1111, Insurance Not Canceled After Claim
Title: clarifying the term "valid claim" for property insurance.
Property Owner Position: For
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
HB1272, Excluding Fraternity Rental to Member from RSA540.
Title: excluding certain leases by fraternal or social organizations from the definition of tenancy.
Property Owner Position: LimitedImpact; You Decide
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED WITH AMENDMENT
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
==============================================
Full details on all bills above:HB1111, Insurance Not Canceled After Claim
04/01/2014 at 02:20 PM LOB 101
Title: Title: clarifying the term "valid claim" for property insurance.
Summary: Does not allow insurance companies to cancel policy after a claim.
Property Owner Position: For
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB1111
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/HB1111.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
This bill amends current law which prohibits an insurance company from not renewing a homeowners insurance policy if the homeowner made one valid claim within the previous year or policy period. The bill adds the following: "Inquiries about coverage do not constitute a valid claim."
Although the bill effects homeowners policies and not commercial policies, it may effect our membership who have owner occupied units, such as duplexes. The problem with the bill is that it is unclear if it opens the door to non-renewal if the homeowner inquires about coverage and does not file a claim, which does not appear to be the intent of the bill. It maybe covered elsewhere in the statute, and common sense would say that an inquiry without a claim should not be grounds for the non renewal of a policy.
=====================
HB1272, Excluding Fraternity Rental to Member from RSA540.
04/22/2014 at 10:10 AM SH 100
Title: Title: excluding certain leases by fraternal or social organizations from the definition of tenancy.
Summary: This is a one line bill that would exclude residential units owned and rented by a fraternal or social organization to a member from being a residence under RSA 540.
Property Owner Position: Limited Impact; You Decide
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB1272
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/HB1272.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
Some of our members felt they were against this bill. Why should these organizations be exempted from the laws we have to follow?
=====================
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
LEAD-EDU Offering July 7th Class in Manchester
| EPA/HUD Certified Lead Paint Safety RRP Training |
|
REMODELERS, RENOVATORS, PAINTERS,BUILDERS! Have you heard of the EPA Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule?
It affects all of you!
The EPA is requiring that all contractors working on pre-1978 properties obtain RRP EPA/HUD Lead Paint Certification.
This includes landlords, renovation contractors, window replacement workers, property maintenance workers, painters, plumbers, electricians, carpenters, siding contractors and anyone else that may be disturbing lead paint in a child occupied facility and/or pre-1978 building.
The current fine for working without this certification is $37,500 per violation!!
Don't Let This Happen to You!! Sign up now!
NEW CLASS ADDED
JULY 7TH IN MANCHESTER!!
To register Click Here or contact Ben at 603-203-6430
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| Connect with us via social media for more updates and info! |
   |
Friday, June 13, 2014
Legislative Update 6/14/2014 - HB1274 Becomes Law & Urge the Governor to pass HB590
This Legislative Update is provided by Nick Norman, Director, Legislative Affairs for the RPOA
Howdee
everyone,
Important Updates:
HB1274, Quarterly/Semi-annual Rent signed by Governor and becomes new law.
This is an important win for many of us especially for student housing because it allows landlords to legally require rent in payments 3 months or longer and many students pay a large amount of rent at one time with the financial aid package. In more rare cases you can use this for a tenant that wants to handle an application defect by prepaying a large portion of rent.
Action items this week:
Write and/or call the Governors office asking the governor to pass HB590 which allows an LLC etc, to be represented by a member of an LLC in district court (for evictions and small claims). (You will no longer be required to hire an attorney).
Governor's office is 271-2121
You can e-mail the governor by going to the following website:
http://www4.egov.nh.gov/governor/goveforms/comments.asp
See more info in Summaries & Full Detail for each category further below. (includes property owner position, contact info, Talking points, and more).
(to jump right to bill detail, use Control-F, Find).
Hearings this week:
None
Hearings next week:
None scheduled so far
Further below is:
Bills Updated Status summary:
Full details on all bills above
(Which includes property owner position, contact info, talking points, and more)
Love & Light,
Nick Norman
RPOA Director of Legislative Affairs
==============================================
We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. Its not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
==============================================
Bills Updated Status summary:
We only list the committee reports on the most important bills affecting the real estate business. If you want to get the committee report on one of the other bills contact me & I will show you how to get them on line. It’s not terribly hard to get but not straight ahead either.
HB227, Casualty Insurance Carriers File Retention & amendments
Title: relative to property and casualty insurance.
Property Owner Position: You Decide
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED WITH AMENDMENT
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
HB421, Real Estate Brokerage Regulation
Title: relative to regulation of real estate brokerage and sales by the real estate commission.
Property Owner Position: LimitedImpact; You Decide
House Status: CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
Senate Status: CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
General Status: Passed
HB590, Unauthorized Practice of Law
Title: relative to the unauthorized practice of law.
Property Owner Position: For
House Status: CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
Senate Status: CONFERENCE REPORT ADOPTED
General Status: Passed
HB1274, Quarterly Semi-annual Rent
Title: (New Title) relative to the payment of rent and security deposits.
Property Owner Position: For
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED WITH AMENDMENT
Senate Status: PASSED / ADOPTED
General Status: Signed by Governor
SB306, NH Study Commission on Foreclosure Law
Title: establishing a commission to study New Hampshire mortgage foreclosure law, new federal regulations, and fair foreclosure practices.
Property Owner Position: LimitedImpact; You Decide
House Status: PASSED / ADOPTED WITH AMENDMENT
Senate Status: CONCURRED
General Status: Passed
==============================================
Full details on all bills above:
HB227, Casualty Insurance Carriers File Retention & amendments
03/18/2014 at 01:00 PM LOB 101
Title: Title: relative to property and casualty insurance.
Summary: This bill expands the list of things that an insurance company must retain for the year of the claim and the five years thereafter to include debt and bank card information.
The second section deals with rebating commissions.
The third section adds a provision that if there is an audit regard premiums, that has to be completed within 120 days of the cancellation of the policy, and any refund due must be sent out within the 120 days. A fine of $1,000 per day can be imposed on any company that violates this provision, unless notice of a dispute is sent in 120 days.
The balance of the bill, which was proposed by the NH Dept of Insurance, is amendments to regulatory system for insurance and adjusters. The bill appears to be consumer friendly, which as buyers of insurance, landlords would want.
Property Owner Position: You Decide
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB227
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/HB0227.html
Analysis Stated in Bill: This bill makes certain changes in the laws relative to property and casualty insurance.
This bill was requested by the insurance department.
Notes:
This is a complicated bill that would need lots of study to respond intelligently. We feel our time is better spent on bills directly affecting our business. You decide if this affects you enough to pursue it further.
Talking Points:
none developed so far.
=====================
HB421, Real Estate Brokerage Regulation
05/23/2014 at 02:30 PM LOB 204
Title: Title: relative to regulation of real estate brokerage and sales by the real estate commission.
Summary: Changed a lot of the wording around to be more clear – addressed disciplinary actions by Board, increased credit requirements from 9 to 12 hours.
Property Owner Position: LimitedImpact; You Decide
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB421
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/HB0421.html
Analysis Stated in Bill: This bill makes various changes to the real estate practice act and regulation by the New Hampshire real estate commission, including the investigation and prosecution of unlicensed practice.
Talking Points:
The first part of the bill attempts to modify who is exempt from needing a license to sell or lease real estate. We are not sure if they intended to amend the statute to the extent that we are reading it. It seems that the owner of real estate has to be licensed but not his employees. This is problematic for those of us who rent our own property.
The rest of the bill is wording changes that appear to be just for clarification, and one provision dealing with Continuing education of the brokers and salespeople increasing credit requirements from 9 to 12 hours.
=====================
HB590, Unauthorized Practice of Law
05/22/2014 at 03:00 PM LOB 208
Title: Title: relative to the unauthorized practice of law.
Summary: Allows a person who is not authorized to practice law but who is a member, or employee of a limited liability company, corporation, or partnership, which has 5 or fewer members, to represent the entity on civil matters (like evictions & small claims) in the circuit court of New Hampshire.
Property Owner Position: For
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB590
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/HB0590.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
HB 590 would amend RSA 311, the statute that enables the Supreme Court of the State of New Hampshire to regulate the practice of law within the state. Under current law, any person may represent him or herself, or be represented by a person of good character. All citizens are presumed to be of good character unless demonstrated otherwise. However, no person shall be commonly permitted to practice as an attorney in court unless he or she has been permitted to do so by the court. (Current requirements are graduating from an accredited law school, which generally is a three year program on a full time basis and passing the New Hampshire Bar Exam, unless allowed to practice based upon reciprocity).
Basically, someone of good character can represent another person in court, but may not hold him or herself out as an attorney unless that person has been admitted to practice law in this state.
HB 590 changes the above to clarify that person of good character who is a member or employee of a limited liability company (an LLC), corporation, or partnership which has 5 or fewer members, shall, with the proper written authorization from the organization be authorized to represent the organization in Circuit Court. However, there needs to be a new authorization for each appearance in court.
The bill, as amended, does not address properties held in a trust or an estate. Also, a corporation has officers and shareholders and not members as does an LLC. I would think that the Courts would allow a corporation with 5 or fewer shareholders to make use of this bill, but not trusts or estates.
This bill is useful to the all businesses, including landlords, who are organized in LLC's, partnerships or corporations. It avoids the necessity to hire an attorney for evictions, collection suits both in small claims and circuit court level, other cases brought for and against the business person in circuit court.
Most likely the authorization will have be given by the majority of the members of the LLC or shareholders of the corporation. The acting or managing partners/members will likely have to give it for the partnership/LLC.
This allows any person of good character to represent the business in court with the proper authorization. Note however, it does not, however, change any of the evidence required to prove a case. (The employee may not have personal knowledge that a tenant is behind in rent, but may have only been told that by the employer, which is hearsay and not admissible.)
We plan to propose a clarifying amendment to address corporations(not having members), trusts and also family LLC partnerships with more than 5 family members.
Being that different circuit courts presently interpret this situation differently from court to court, the bill would add clarity for circuit court judges.
=====================
HB1274, Quarterly Semi-annual Rent
04/01/2014 at 10:00 AM SH 100
Title: Title: (New Title) relative to the payment of rent and security deposits.
Summary: This bill allows a landlord to collect 3 month's or more rent at move in. This greatly affects college communities and tenants overcoming an application default by prepaying rent. In Durham, Dover, Keene, etc., you have landlords routinely taking a full semester's rent up front. The bill was intended to legally allow this kind of option.
There is also the situation where someone with bad credit has a tax refund, personal injury settlement or other lump sum and the landlord might be willing to take a chance on the tenant if the landlord were permitted to due so under the law. There is an amendment which would allow landlords to require 3 months or more rent to be paid up front. With the amendment (passed by House Judiciary committee) landlords would be allowed to legally handle these situations.
Property Owner Position: For
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: HB1274
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/HB1274.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
As amended by the house, this bill allows a landlord to enter into a residential lease requiring a tenant to pay rent either quarterly or longer without violating the security deposit statute where a landlord can not ask for more than one month's rent.
We think the bill is excellent because it accommodates many tenant situations listed below where either a tenant has come into a considerable sum of money or need to overcome a bad credit, bad landlord reference or lack of employment or other application default by prepaying the rent. It rarely happens, but some people when they receive their tax refund or other lump settlement etc. want to prepay ahead when they are moving into a new apartment. Prepayment of rent should be just that and not considered a security deposit.
The bill merely clears up an ambiguity for landlords who want quarterly or longer payments. This is very important in student housing.
There is an amendment proposed by NHLA that would limit this to prepayment of 4, 5, or 6 months rent.
NHLA’s objections to the present language are “that allowing rent to be collected in three-month installments could be enforced selectively against "undesirable" tenants, and that tenants paying a year's rent could stand to lose big time if the property owner went bankrupt or were foreclosed upon.”
Below is a letter we will send to the Senate Judiciary Committee. You can pick from it for your talking points.
===
To: Senate Judiciary Committee
Re: Proposed Amendment to HB 1274
From: The Rental Property Owners Association
Date: April 13, 2014
We are sending you this memo to give you our thoughts and position in regard to the proposed amendment to HB 1274 that was recently submitted by NHLA.
HB 1274 was originally sponsored in the House because RSA 540-A:6, one of the statutes governing security deposits for residential housing, specifically states: “ A landlord shall not demand or receive any security deposit in an amount or value in excess of one month’s rent or $100, whichever is greater.”
Security Deposit is defined in RSA 540-A 5(II) as “All funds in excess of the monthly rent which are transferred from the tenant to the landlord for any purpose.” These two sections together prohibit any landlord who owns a building other than one five units or less and lives in one of the units, from taking any funds from any tenant in excess of one month’s rent and a security deposit greater than one month’s rent.
The above was enacted so that people with limited financial means would not be forced out of the apartment rental market if they did not have three month’s rent. (Massachusetts allows landlords to charge three month’s rent, first and last month’s rent and one month as security deposit).
There are a number of circumstances where it is in the interest of both the landlord and the tenant that the tenant pays more than one month’s rent. These situations, as testified to during the hearing before your committee on the bill, include:
1. Students living in fraternity or sorority houses where they receive financial aid or other funding by the semester or year. It also protects the landlord from having to evict someone in the middle of a semester due to non-payment.
2. Students living in private housing who receive financial aid by the semester or year.
3. People who have or are facing foreclosure, with terrible credit, but have saved a lump sum to find other housing.
4. People who have bad credit but have a lump sum for any reason, such as a large tax return, a workers compensation settlement for a permanent injury, or from a car accident, which resulted in lost income causing the bad credit.
5. People who are retired and plan to travel but want to make sure that the rent is paid while they are away.
6. Affluent people who want to pay rent quarterly or less often.
7. Businesses renting apartments for employees.
8. People who have just moved into the area and have not yet secured employment.
9. People who have lost their jobs & have a good amount of savings but for some reason have to move.
If a landlord accepts more than one month’s rent and one month as security deposit, under current law, the landlord can be subject to a fine of $1,000 plus $1,000 per day for each day the landlord does not return the funds to the tenant after the tenant obtains a court order under RSA 540-A.
HB 1274 as amended by the House, if it became law, would allow the tenant to pay and the landlord to require payment either quarterly or less often (longer time spans) in circumstances such as those enumerated above. The bill was amended in the house to address concerns that if landlords were allowed to collect two month’s rent, they would be able to circumvent the current restrictions of RSA 540-A.
Under the provisions of HB 1274 as amended by the House, a landlord would be able to accommodate a tenant in categories enumerated above by legally being able to accept an amount equal to four month’s rent, one month as security deposit and three months as rent or more. The number of people who can actually do this and are willing to do this is very limited. Therefore, landlords could not demand quarterly payment of rent, or less frequent payments, for most of the apartments in the state. Otherwise, the landlord would have large numbers of empty apartments, and no funds to pay mortgages, taxes, insurance, utilities and all the other costs of property ownership.
The proposed amendment to HB 1274 would only allow tenants to pay and landlords to accept payment of rent every four, five or six months. Although the amendment does not seem to change the bill that radically, it actually would seriously reduce the effectiveness of the bill. Examples of this are:
A. Semesters are not always four months, particularly during the summer. At best, the summer programs run June, July and August. Any student who rents for just the summer may have more difficulty finding housing if the proposed amendment is adopted.
B. People who have financial issues would have to pay five month’s rent under the proposed amendment, four months as rent and one month as security deposit. With the median rent for a two bedroom apartment in four of our counties running over $1,000 per month, as reported by the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority, this means people who already are struggling would have to find $5,000 or more rather than $4,000, a 25% increase. Many of those people may need that extra money for other necessities, such as a deposit for utilities.
C. The most common way this bill could assist tenants is in the case where a tenant has bad credit or landlord reference or unstable seasonal income or someone moving into the area that has not secured employment yet or any other default on their rental application that is preventing them from being approved for an apartment. To defeat these valid objections for getting approved sometimes tenants will prepay their initial rent. The most common amount they can afford is 3 months plus security deposit. In most cases they don’t have more than that much saved. The proposed NHLA amendment would require no less than four months plus security which would prohibit a landlord from giving these tenants “a chance.”
We also want to reiterate the point made by Sarah Mattson in her testimony before you at the committee hearing on the bill in regard to discrimination. If a landlord has a different rental policy for different people, that clearly would be discrimination. The landlord would be clearly subject to a complaint to the Human Rights Commission and a discrimination suit. The only way the higher “move in” cost provision of this bill could be used is if the landlord’s policy affected everyone who applied for an apartment (which is not feasible), or if someone had bad credit or bad rental history, which is a valid reason for not accepting a tenant.
Based on the above, we request that you do not adopt the amendment, or at least allow rent to be collected every three, four, five or six months.
===
=====================
SB306, NH Study Commission on Foreclosure Law
04/01/2014 at 11:30 AM LOB 302
Title: Title: establishing a commission to study New Hampshire mortgage foreclosure law, new federal regulations, and fair foreclosure practices.
Summary: This bill would establish a commission to study New Hampshire foreclosure law, Federal Regulations, and Fair Foreclosure Practices. The commission is as with all commissions, would then report back to the legislature its findings and recommendations, including aligning NH law with the federal regs.
Property Owner Position: LimitedImpact; You Decide
Link to Committee Info:
Email to Committee:
To:
Subject: SB306
Link to Bill Text: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/legislation/2014/SB0306.html
Analysis Stated in Bill:
Talking Points:
This bill does not change any existing laws. Until we see what the commission recommends, and how it would effect us, we recommend no action.
=====================
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