Business purpose loans are nontraditional mortgage loans where a borrower uses loan proceeds for a non-consumer purpose. A non-consumer purpose means any loan in which the proceeds are NOT primarily used for personal, family, or household use. There is a common misconception that the primary question in making these loans is whether the property used as collateral is “owner-occupied.” But, the more important question is whether the loan’s purpose is truly a “business purpose,

Some may know that I’ve recently embarked on an exciting new journey south of the border as co-owner of Geraci LLP, alongside my partner, Anthony Geraci. Anthony founded the firm in California in 2007, focused exclusively on legal services for the private lending community. Joining forces with him has given me the opportunity to grow professionally in a vibrant, forward- thinking sector — one that feels increasingly different from the legal environment I’ve known for over two

September 21, 2025 By Jasmine Daya, Partner & COO, Geraci LLP After more than 20 years as a civil litigator in Canada, focusing primarily on personal injury and insurance disputes, I am proud to now call California my second home and to be firmly entrenched at Geraci LLP, where my passion for advocacy and protecting clients continues to drive everything I do. At Geraci LLP, we have always stood for one thing: protecting private lenders and investors. Now, we’re taking that co

Your insurance company may offer a low payout hoping you’ll accept quickly. Jasmine Daya shares how to evaluate these offers — and when to push back. Should I Accept a Low Settlement Offer From My Insurance Company? By Jasmine Daya, Esq. – Geraci LLP You finally hear from your insurer. But their offer is a fraction of what it will cost to repair or rebuild. You’re frustrated, confused, and wondering —  should I take the money or fight? Here’s what I tell every homeowner in th

When your insurer goes silent, you may be dealing with delay tactics or bad faith. Jasmine Daya explains what steps to take if your claim is ignored. What Should I Do If My Insurance Company Is Not Responding to My Claim? By Jasmine Daya, Esq. – Geraci LLP You’ve submitted your property damage claim. Maybe even uploaded documents and photos. But weeks have passed  and your insurance company has gone silent. What now? First, know this: You’re not alone. Insurers often use stra

California law allows homeowners to sue insurance companies for wrongful denial or delay. Jasmine Daya of Geraci LLP explains when and how you can take legal action. Ask Jasmine Daya: Can I Sue My Insurance Company for Denying My Claim in California? By Jasmine Daya, Esq. – Geraci LLP Yes, in California, you  can  sue your insurance company if your property damage claim was wrongfully denied or delayed without cause. In fact, under California law, you may be entitled to addit

Homeowners in Riverside and San Bernardino counties face rising insurance denials after storms, wind and fire. Learn how to challenge your insurer legally and protect your claim. Fighting Denied Insurance Claims in the Inland Empire: A Legal Guide for Homeowners By Jasmine Daya, Esq. – Geraci LLP The Inland Empire, especially Riverside and San Bernardino counties, has seen an increase in severe wind events, wildfire risk, and sudden downpours over the last five years. With th

Denied or delayed claim? Learn the time limits (statute of limitations) for suing an insurance company in California before you lose your right to compensation. How Long Do I Have to Sue an Insurance Company in California? By Jasmine Daya, Esq. – Geraci LLP If your insurance company wrongfully denied or delayed your property damage claim, you have a limited time to act. Waiting too long can cost you your entire case — even if the insurer was clearly in the wrong. California S

If your fire damage claim was denied in Los Angeles County, you still have options. Learn the legal steps to challenge a denial and protect your rights. Denied Insurance Claim After Fire in Los Angeles? Here’s What to Do By Jasmine Daya, Esq. – Geraci LLP Los Angeles County is no stranger to wildfires. Between the Santa Monica Mountains, the San Gabriel Valley, and hillside communities across the region, thousands of homes are vulnerable every year. If you’ve suffered propert

A denied insurance claim isn’t the end of the road. Learn 5 steps to fight back and recover what you’re owed under California law — with legal help from Geraci LLP. How to Get Your Insurance Company to Pay After a Denied Claim By Jasmine Daya, Esq. – Geraci LLP If your insurance company has denied your claim — or simply refused to move forward — you may feel powerless. But the truth is, you’re far from out of options. California law provides strong protections for property ow

Insurance companies have legal duties in California. When they delay or deny valid claims without cause, it may be bad faith. Learn your rights and how to respond. Bad Faith Insurance in California: What Homeowners Need to Know By Jasmine Daya, Esq. – Geraci LLP Your homeowners insurance policy is more than a contract — it’s a promise. And under California law, insurers must handle claims with good faith and fair dealing. When they don’t, you may be entitled to more than just

California wildfires cause extensive smoke damage, yet insurers often deny related claims. Learn when smoke is covered and how to respond if your insurer refuses to pay. Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover Smoke Damage in California? By Jasmine Daya, Esq. – Geraci LLP Smoke damage is one of the most common — yet most frequently denied — types of property claims after a wildfire in California. Many homeowners are shocked to learn that even with a valid policy, their smoke-relat

Roofing damage after storms or fire can trigger complex denials by insurers. Learn how California homeowners can challenge these denials and protect their rights. By Jasmine Daya, Esq. Roof damage is one of the most frequent triggers for propertyinsurance disputes in California, but also one of the most misunderstood. If your homeowners insurance claim for roof damage was denied or undervalued by your insurer, you have options. At Geraci LLP, we’re frequently brought in to he

Insurance companies deny property claims for many reasons, from policy wording to “wear and tear” exclusions. Learn the top reasons and how you can respond with legal support. By Jasmine Daya, Esq. Understanding  why  your insurer denied your property damage claim is almost as important as knowing  what  to do next. At Geraci LLP, we’ve identified the most common denial reasons and prepared strategic responses you can take as a California homeowner. Top reasons for denials Ex

After a wildfire in California, homeowners may face smoke, structural and debrisflow damage and insurers may delay or deny claims. Learn your rights and legal options. By Jasmine Daya, Esq. The aftermath of wildfires in Southern California presents unique hazards: smoke intrusion, structural damage, debris flows, and water damage from fire suppression. For homeowners, the risk of a delayed or denied insurance claim rises dramatically. At Geraci LLP, we’re deeply familiar with

Understand California’s timelines: when insurers must respond, when delays may trigger badfaith liability, and how to protect your property damage claim after wildfires or storms. By Jasmine Daya, Esq. One of the most asked questions from homeowners that have filed a property damage claim in Southern California is:  “How long can my insurer sit on my claim before I lose rights?”  The answer is: it depends, but it’s critical to act proactively. Here’s what you need to know. Wh

Homeowners in California whose insurance claims are denied face critical choices. Learn the 5‑step legal response strategy and how Geraci LLP can help you fight back. By Jasmine Daya, Esq. At Geraci LLP, we see far too many homeowners in California shut out when their insurers deny perfectly valid claims. If your homeowners insurance claim has been denied, especially after wildfire, smoke, wind or water damage, you still have rights. This post walks you through  what to do ne