Can AB 2016 Be Used for Condos in California?

Yes, AB 2016 can be used for condos in California — but only if the inherited condo meets specific requirements: it must be a single-unit residential property not held in a trust and located in California. While AB 2016 was designed to simplify the transfer of certain inherited properties without full probate, condo owners must still meet all eligibility criteria.

Table of Contents

• What is AB 2016 and how does it apply to condos?

• Can you use AB 2016 for a Los Angeles condo?

• How to check if your inherited condo qualifies

• Limitations of AB 2016 with condos

• When probate is still required for condos

• Pasadena + LA County condo-specific examples

• Who to contact for AB 2016 condo transfers

What is AB 2016 and How Does It Apply to Condos?

AB 2016 (effective January 1, 2025) allows certain heirs to bypass probate court and transfer ownership of real estate with a simplified affidavit process. It typically applies to properties that meet three key standards:

1. The fair market value is under $184,500 (excluding mortgages and liens).

2. The property is a single-unit residential dwelling.

3. No formal probate has started.

Condos fall into a gray area — they must still qualify as single-unit residences and not be part of a trust or LLC. If your inherited condo fits these conditions, AB 2016 may apply.

Can You Use AB 2016 for a Los Angeles Condo?

Yes — if the inherited condo in LA meets the state’s AB 2016 requirements, you can file an affidavit to transfer title without full probate. In Los Angeles County, the local probate court accepts AB 2016 affidavits if the value and structure meet the state guidelines. However, it’s important to work with a probate-savvy real estate team familiar with these nuances.

How to Check If Your Inherited Condo Qualifies

To know for sure, here’s what to check:

• ✅ Property must be in California

• ✅ Condo must be valued under $184,500 (as of 2025 threshold)

• ✅ Must be a single residential unit (not duplex/triplex)

• ✅ You are the rightful heir with no probate objections

• ✅ No title complications or other legal claims

Limitations of AB 2016 With Condos

While the law simplifies title transfers, condo associations and mortgage lenders can complicate things. Here are common issues:

• HOA approval delays

• Shared walls or ambiguous legal parcel descriptions

• Outstanding HOA liens or assessments

• Discrepancies in legal ownership chain

When Probate is Still Required for Condos

AB 2016 won’t work if:

• The condo is in a trust

• The deceased had multiple heirs with disputes

• The property value exceeds the threshold

• There are unresolved debts tied to the estate

Pasadena + LA County Examples

We recently helped a client in Pasadena file an AB 2016 affidavit for a 1-bed condo near Lake Ave. Because the unit was well below the value threshold and had no liens, title was transferred in 60 days — no court needed.

By contrast, a similar unit in Los Angeles (Mid-Wilshire) required full probate due to HOA litigation and title issues.

Who to Contact for AB 2016 Condo Transfers

Need help figuring out if your condo qualifies? The Borges Real Estate Team specializes in inherited properties across LA and Pasadena. We’ll review your situation and walk you through the best option — without pressure.

👉 Connect with us here