Blog > WILDFIRE Edition: February's Newsletter is a MUST READ!
Here comes another newsletter, fresh from our inbox to yours, serving as a stark reminder of just how quickly January passed us! Perhaps it was the burst of motivation that comes with the new year that made the first month zoom by, or maybe it was the weeks of relentless wildfires we experienced in SoCal...Regardless the reason, we expect February to follow suit since it only has 28 days!
We both have family and friends that were affected by the wildfires fires last month, and it’s safe to say that you might know someone who was affected as well. First off, we are so sorry if you experienced any threat, evacuation, or loss of property due to the fires. More than anything, we are glad you are safe. In response to the fires, however, we have filled this newsletter with several resources: some for victims, preventative tips for everyone, and all for you to share. Please utilize these resources and don’t wait for the disaster to happen to get yourself and your family prepared.
Most of us are simply unaware of the free resources at our fingertips, so we hope this month is informative to you. Know that we are always here for you when emergencies like fires come up. Call us whenever you need advice, assistance, or even a place to evacuate.
In this month's newsletter you'll find...
- Our Current Inventory — Check out our most recent listing & sales activity.
- Downloadable Quick Info Sheets — Safety info that's easy to read, understand, & share!
- Keeping/Finding Fire Insurance — Navigating the hardship of homeowners insurance in CA.
- The REALTOR® Report — Things CA homeowners should know: Wildfire Edition.
- San Diego Museum Month — 70+ museums, historic sites, gardens, zoos, aquariums & more at 1/2 price!
- Holidays & Happenings — Beyond our county that may affect & or include you!
- Local Market Statistics — San Diego's market based on last month's statistics.
- Punny I'm Home — Our spin-off of a knock knock... Who's there?
Recent Sales
Click on any of the headings below for an easy read and downloadable PDF. Stay safe and stay informed, friends!
Protect Yourself From Scam Artists Following Wildfire Damage
Prepare for Flood, Mudslide, or Other Insurance Claims Related to Wildfire
After several years of record-breaking wildfires, many insurance companies have responded by getting out of California. They either increase their premiums extensively (some jumped 55% in just one year) for existing customers or quit giving out new policies. Many homeowners are worried about losing their coverage. The truth is the recent fires in January will impact many of us, if they haven't already. It's important we stay informed on what to do if we lose our home's coverage.
Click for a PDF with 8 tips to maintain your current fire insurance, or find a new one.
Take Your Old Tax Base With You: Did you know that CA Prop 19 allows victims of wildfires or natural disasters to transfer the property tax base of their damaged house to a replacement home anywhere in CA? This applies even if you buy your replacement property before you sell your old home; you have two years to sell the original home and transfer that tax base.
DOI Moratorium: Did you know that the Department of Insurance issued a mandatory one-year moratorium for cities at/or surrounding the recent wildfires? This means that insurers are not allowed to cancel or non-renew any property in the protected zip codes. Check to see if this applies to your zip code with the link below. Please note, that although these zip codes are protected, the insurers can still increase annual premiums like they have been doing in the past few years.
Click here for the list of protected zip codes.
Property Tax Extension: Did you know that California property tax deadlines are extended without penalty/interest until April 10th, 2026, for the L.A. communities affected by wildfires? Homeowners who were victim to the wildfires should also have their damaged/destroyed property reassessed and property taxes adjusted downward, based on its current state. Do this as soon as possible!
Mortgage Obligations: Did you know you should still pay your mortgage even if your home is no longer standing? If your property is destroyed, contact your lender as soon as possible to seek relief. Sometimes they offer disaster forbearance (a hold on your mortgage payments) and other repayment plans. Whatever you do, don't stop paying your mortgage!
FEMA: While FEMA doesn’t help with mortgage payments, it does provide other support like temporary housing, repairs, and other disaster-related needs.
Starting now, you can pick up a Museum Month pass at any San Diego Public Library! Present your pass for half price admission for up to four people at 70+ museums around San Diego County all 28 days of February. Don't know where to start? Check out the neighborhood guides on the SD Museum Council website, featuring a list of museums in: Balboa Park, Downtown, Liberty Station, North County, East County, La Jolla, South Bay, Coronado, and other neighborhoods too! Don't be afraid to go adventure somewhere new! Visit the San Diego Musuem Council Website for more info.
This data is pulled from last month and based on all residential sales in San Diego County.
Punny, I'm Home!
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Jim & Jennie
License ID: 01879102 & 02163353
License ID: 01879102 & 02163353