Lisa Mailhot | January 13, 2025
Buyers
The recent LA wildfires have caused an unimaginable loss, destroying over 2,000 structures and displacing thousands of residents. With the economic toll potentially exceeding $57 billion, the community faces an overwhelming challenge. Over 456,000 homes in the LA and Riverside metro areas remain at risk, underscoring the scale of this disaster.
Amid the chaos, real estate agents are stepping up to support displaced families by providing temporary housing options and leveraging their networks. Josh Altman shared,
"Starting yesterday, my phone has been ringing non-stop with people looking for housing options."
Similarly, Nick Segal of Carolwood Estates noted his team’s quick response:
“As a company, we’ve created a short-term lease list… we’ve already got 30 opportunities.”
Real estate professionals are not just finding homes—they’re also coordinating resources like transportation and supplies for those in need. These efforts highlight the industry’s role in community resilience during a crisis.
The sudden influx of displaced residents is reshaping the housing market. Many homeowners, seeing the increased need, are transitioning their properties from "for-sale" to "for-rent" to address the demand for temporary housing.
“This demand will likely drive lease prices up,”
as explained by Altman. Communities like Brentwood and Santa Monica are already experiencing surges in rental activity as families seek stability while rebuilding. These shifts are expected to impact the market for years to come.
In times of crisis, access to resources is critical. Below are some links to support individuals and families impacted by the wildfires:
These organizations are offering shelter, supplies, and other essential aid to those in need.
Rebuilding homes, schools, and communities will be a monumental task. As Paul Salazar noted,
“It’s not like it’s one big piece of land where a developer can buy everything and build…we’re talking about everybody independently owning parcels and hiring architects to build custom homes.”
The logistics of recovery, from construction delays to navigating local infrastructure, will take years to resolve.
Despite the challenges, the spirit of community remains strong. Agencies, first responders, and countless volunteers are working tirelessly to support displaced families and plan for a brighter future.
The resilience and unity of the community in the wake of this tragedy are truly inspiring. If you’re considering moving to a stable and welcoming neighborhood, let’s connect. Together, we can find the right home for your next chapter.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is repealing the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule, a policy designed to address housing discrimi… Read more
Thinking about paying your mortgage with a credit card? While it might sound convenient, there are risks and rewards to consider. In this blog, we dive into why it's b… Read more
Discover the prime time to list your home for sale in Orange County with insights from Zillow's latest report. Late May emerges as a golden window, promising significa… Read more
Mortgage rates are falling, but is it enough to jumpstart homebuyer demand? Inventory is growing, but pending sales remain sluggish. Explore the latest housing market … Read more
Soaring property taxes in states like New York, Illinois, and Texas are pushing retirees to more tax-friendly areas in the South and West. With affordability and quali… Read more
Thinking of selling your home—or just want to enjoy it more? 2025 home renovation trends focus on comfort, electrification, and curb appeal. From kitchen remodels to b… Read more
Want to sell your home for top dollar? Staging isn’t just about making a space look pretty—it’s a powerful marketing tool that can dramatically impact how buyers perce… Read more
Zombie foreclosures are seeing a modest rise, with over 7,000 vacant pre-foreclosure homes across the U.S. Explore what zombie foreclosures are, why they’re increasing… Read more
The Palisades real estate market is heating up as wildfire-affected lots hit the market, with experts predicting up to 750 listings in the coming years. With land pric… Read more
Let's find a time that suits you best to chat about your goals, show you how we work, and figure out how we can help you the most