California § 2985.3 - Every seller of improved or unimproved real property under a real property sales

Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 2985.3 — Every seller of improved or unimproved real property under a real property sales, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 2985.3. Every seller of improved or unimproved real property under a real property sales

Every seller of improved or unimproved real property under a real property sales contract, or his assignee, who knowingly receives an installment payment from the buyer under a real property sales contract at a time when there is then due any payment by the seller, or his assignee, on an obligation secured by an encumbrance on the property subject to the real property sales contract, and who appropriates such payment received from the buyer to a use other than payment of the amount then due on the seller’s or assignee’s obligation, except to the extent the payment received from the buyer exceeds the amount due from the seller or assignee, is guilty of a public offense punishable by a fine not exceeding ten thousand dollars ($10,000), or by imprisonment pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 1170 of the Penal Code, or in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment.

Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About California § 2985.3

What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 2985.3 cover?

Section 2985.3 ("Every seller of improved or unimproved real property under a real property sales") is part of the Public Contract Code - PCC, the codified statutory law of California. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite California § 2985.3?

A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 2985.3" (California). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of California law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the California official source linked on this page or consult a licensed California attorney.

How does California § 2985.3 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in California can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in California.