California

California Governor Gavin Newsom’s Mismanagement has Santa Ana winds forcing wildfires to a new catastrophic level. January 8, 2025, marks one of the worst wildfire emergencies in Los Angeles’s Pacific Palisades neighborhood. The Palisades Fire was amongst its most destructive fires historically.

Fire Progression and Impact

Size and Containment:

• In no time, the Palisades Fire has expanded to consume over 15,832 acres without containment.

Destruction:

• This fire burned at least a thousand structures and broke the Sayre Fire (2008) and Bel Air Fire (1961) records.

Casualties:

• There have been five confirmed deaths as well as many casualties, such as a firefighter aged twenty-five years who suffered serious head injuries.

Evacuations:

• Around 70,000 residents have been required to leave their homes by law, and shelters are being used to house them.

Contributing Factors:

Weather Conditions:

• Strong Santa Ana winds, with gusts of more than 100 mph and very dry conditions, have spread the fire far more quickly and hampered efforts at containment.

Power Outages:

• Due to the fires, approximately 400,000 customers in Los Angeles County and surrounding areas have no electricity.

Community and Culture:

Historic Sites:

• This includes Will Rogers State Historic Park, which has lost its Stables and Will Roger’s house, and Topanga Ranch Motel in Topanga State Park.

Educational Institutions:

• Palisades Charter High School and Palisades Elementary School suffered severe damage, which disrupted education for many learners.

Entertainment Industry:

• The Critics’ Choice Awards and several movie premieres are some cultural events postponed or canceled due to this predicament.

Emergency Response:

Government Action:

• Governor Gavin Newsom declared an emergency and obtained federal support against these flames.

Firefighting Efforts:

• Over 1,400 firefighters are fighting the firestorm with help from other states’ resources.
• Harsh weather conditions led to an array of problems.

https://youtu.be/BeaHDHYJAqA?si=7frG0Hq1odigks7U

• This discussion was modified 1 week, 2 days ago by  Gustan Cho.

California Governor Caught Plotting Against Trump to Use Tax Dollars Inappropriately. With only 2 weeks to go before Former President Donald Trump takes office, blue state governors are gearing up for how to go to battle over Trump’s immigration policies, that is the number one item on these big state agendas. Why are they so concerned with Trump’s plan to remove the criminal illegal migrants from their states? Why are they coming out publicly opposing Tom Homan, Trump’s new border czar? Well we may have some answers after an internal memo was leaked to politico from an insider on California Governor Gavin Newsom’s team, from his office. Detailing how Gavin Newsom plans to fight Donald Trump’s mass deportations, and using tax dollars to do it!

https://youtu.be/lSiGW3czdbg?si=H4Ra2RhnVDR-96Te

California, the largest state in the Nation have many new laws for 2025. Don’t red states have enough laws? California has a history of enacting laws that are not only many but also span several themes. The state’s laws appear to have been passed to support its heavily liberal political climate.

This section will provide a brief look into the interplay between California’s new laws and that of the red state political environment:

Laws Passed By California For 2025

Amendments to Environmental Policies:

California is one of the states leading in new environmental protection laws, such as stricter emission limits and policies meant to promote solar and wind energy usage.

Healthcare Initiatives:

Laws in these states may focus on increasing access to free and cheap healthcare, increasing mental health assistance, or addressing public health disasters.

Social Justice Movements:

These laws usually seek to address the factors that make houses expensive, such as racial discrimination and worker rights.

Technology and Privacy:

California pioneered the development of privacy laws and was the first state to develop consumer protection laws that addressed data protection.

Red States Different Laws

Focus on Different Issues:

The governance style of red states differs from that of Democratic states as they focus on tax cuts, gun rights, and limited government.

Simplicity in Regulation:

Most red states maintain their business-friendly nature by decentralizing government control, including fewer regulations and laws.

Cultural and Social Policies:

Usually, red states are more focused on advocating social conservatives, which leads to legislation concerning education, health care, and family policies being implemented.

Legislative Dynamics

Diversity of Approach:

The varying legislation’s participation is due to a state’s political, cultural, and economic context. For example, California laws tend to be liberal, whereas laws from Red states tend to be conservative.

Public Demand:

The state laws reflect citizens’ needs and wants, thus varying focus and values.

On one side, you have California, which constantly implements new laws about all social, economic, and environmental issues; on the other, you have Red states, which prefer a more stringent legal framework focused on easing regulations. Although there may be extreme variations in the laws across the US, the laws of each state can be justified and are suited to its needs.

https://youtu.be/oQL5k49UA80?si=C2ysmI0HMPolpO1B

• This discussion was modified 3 weeks, 4 days ago by  Gustan Cho.

A wildfire recently broke out near me in Orange County, and I could see the giant smoke plume from my place in Irvine for several days. It reminded me just how real the threat of wildfires can be here in California. If you’re not from the area, you’ve probably at least seen all the news about wildfires across the state.

While wildfires are something to be mindful of, there are plenty of ways to lower the risks—especially for homes in fire hazard zones. If you’re looking to buy a home, it’s good to understand where these zones are and what steps you can take to keep your property safer. Not all homes are at the same level of risk, but knowing about these zones can help you make more informed decisions.

What Is a Wildfire Zone?

Certain areas in California are marked as “Fire Hazard Severity Zones.” This means the area has a higher chance of wildfires because of things like weather, dry vegetation, and terrain. You might expect these zones to be mostly in rural places, but even some urban neighborhoods are at risk. Knowing if a house is in one of these zones is key.

Important Things to Know as a Homebuyer:

1. Check the Fire Risk: Before you get too excited about a house, find out if it’s in a high-risk wildfire zone. You can check using CAL FIRE’s map or ask your realtor for more information. This will help you understand what extra steps, like special insurance, might be needed.
2. Get the Right Insurance: Not all homeowner’s insurance covers wildfire damage, especially in high-risk areas. You might need to add more coverage to fully protect your home. Also, homes in wildfire zones usually come with higher insurance premiums, so keep that in mind when budgeting.
3. Look for Fire-Resistant Features: Some homes are built using materials that can resist fire, like concrete or metal roofs. When viewing homes in wildfire zones, ask about the building materials and whether the owner has made any upgrades to improve fire safety.
4. Defensible Space Around the Home: One way to help keep a home safe from wildfires is to have “defensible space.” This means keeping the area around the house clear of things like dry brush, dead leaves, or other stuff that can easily catch fire. When you’re checking out homes, see if the current owner has kept up with this—and be ready to do the same if you move in.
5. Community Efforts Matter: Some neighborhoods have strong community efforts to reduce wildfire risks. They might have a fire-safe council, evacuation plans, or firebreaks in place. Living in a community that takes fire prevention seriously can make a big difference in reducing your overall risk.
6. Be Ready for Evacuations: If you buy a home in a wildfire zone, there may be times when you have to evacuate, especially during fire season. It’s a good idea to learn the local evacuation routes and be prepared in case you need to leave quickly. This is especially important if you have pets or kids.

The Bottom Line

Buying a home in a wildfire zone doesn’t have to be a dealbreaker—but you do need to make sure you’re fully informed. Things like having the right insurance, keeping defensible space, and being ready for emergencies can make a big difference in staying safe and protecting your home. Staying aware of the risks and taking precautions can help you feel confident in your home-buying decision.

Have more questions about buying in these areas? Feel free to reach out—I’d be happy to help guide you through the process!

https://chadbushre.com/

California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoes bill that would have given undocumented immigrants access to home loans. Can you please explain the $150,000 Housing Grant Bill to undocumented immigrants in California?

https://www.foxla.com/news/newsom-vetoes-bill-housing-loans-illegal-immigrants

• This discussion was modified 4 months ago by  Gustan Cho.

foxla.com

Newsom vetoes controversial bill that would have given housing loans to illegal immigrants

California Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a controversial bill that would have given hundreds of thousands of dollars in housing loans to illegal immigrants.

California to set aside $300 Million for illegal immigrants to buy homes. Many see this as another example of Democrats prioritizing illegal immigration over the needs of taxpaying citizens, further burdening Californians. With California’s housing costs among the highest in the nation, this program is seen as fiscally irresponsible, potentially leading to bankrupting the state. Gavin Newsom and the Democrats are totally out of control. Why would anyone want to live in California?

https://youtu.be/BmCJ31MBjGU?si=-SHG3iIxIQJTW0_R

How does Proposition 19 in California work? How does the Proposition 19 Property Tax Rule Benefit Homeowners buying a new house? What are the eligibility requirements for PROP 19 in California?

If you lend in California? Are you aware of Prop. 19 Property Taxes? Do you qualify FHA loans, based on Prop. 19 property taxes? When a senior over age 55 sells her home, and purchases her next home, she can carry her current base property tax rate to her new house, thereby helping a lot to qualify for the loan. There is a calculation and explanation at this government. I will most certainly qualify for Prop. 19. The lender will also have to gross up my non-taxable part of my social security income in order to make the income better. This is legally allowed. 33% of my social security income is non-taxable, therefore, this percentage can be grossed up by 1.25% (I think this is the percentage). This makes a difference. Normally, lenders qualify by taking 1.25% property tax in calculations, however, that amount is very high and when it gets added to monthly payment, then the DTI is not met. For example, on a $615,000 home, with a loan of $304,000, the property tax (1.25%) is $651 per month. With Prop. 19 calculations, it comes to only $482.33. This makes a big difference in cases like mine who is trying to qualify for the highest price home possible based on my income. Last question – does the house I am purchasing have to meet FHA loan criteria? Before I go further, I was wondering if you are aware of Prop. 19 and grossing up income? I will try calling you next week.

• This discussion was modified 4 months, 3 weeks ago by  Dawn.

I often get asked about what it’s really like to live in Southern California. Sure, the traffic and cost of living come up a lot, and they’re worth considering. But there’s so much more to this area that makes it an incredible place to call home. Here are some of the reasons why I think Southern California is a great place to live:

1. The Weather Is a Major Perk

One thing I really appreciate about living here is the weather. It’s almost always sunny, and the temperatures are generally mild. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, whether it’s at the beach, on a hike, or just out in your backyard, the weather here makes that easy.

2. A Diverse, Vibrant Culture

Another thing that stands out to me is the diversity. Southern California is a mix of different cultures, and you can see that in the neighborhoods, the food, and the overall vibe of the place. It’s not just about where you live, but also about the variety of experiences you can have every day.

3. Endless Outdoor Activities

If you’re into outdoor activities, this place has it all. You’ve got beaches, mountains, deserts—all within a short drive. Whether you’re into surfing, hiking, or just taking a walk in a park, there’s always something to do, and the weather means you can do it pretty much year-round.

4. Plenty of Job Opportunities

The job market is strong here, especially if you’re in tech, entertainment, healthcare, or education. There are a lot of opportunities for growth, and being close to major universities and research centers only adds to that. It’s a good place to be if you’re looking to advance your career.

5. Quality Education

Southern California also has a lot of great options when it comes to education. Whether you’re thinking about schools for your kids or looking into higher education yourself, there are plenty of quality public schools, private schools, and universities to choose from.

6. Convenient Location

One thing I’ve come to really appreciate is how close everything is. You can spend the morning at the beach, the afternoon in the mountains, and still be back home for dinner. And if you need to travel further, the major airports are easily accessible.

Conclusion

Living in Southern California has its challenges, no doubt. But when you look at the big picture—the weather, the culture, the outdoor activities, the job opportunities, and the education—it’s easy to see why so many people choose to make this their home. These are just a few of the reasons I think it’s a great place to live.

One of the greatest things about Southern California is the diverse climate, which varies significantly depending on where you are—whether it’s the beach, the mountains, or the desert. This variety makes it possible to enjoy a wide range of activities all year long. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in different regions and how the weather shapes the lifestyle here.
The Coast: Beaches and Coastal Cities

Along the Southern California coast, including cities like Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and San Diego, you’ll experience mild, Mediterranean-like weather. Summers (June through September) are warm, with average daytime temperatures ranging from the high 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. Winters (December through February) are cooler but still mild, with temperatures typically in the 50s to low 60s.

Summer: The coast is perfect for beach activities like surfing, swimming, and beach volleyball. The ocean breeze keeps temperatures comfortable, even on the hottest days.

Fall: Early fall is a great time for outdoor dining and coastal hikes, with warm days and cooler evenings.

Winter: Winters are mild, making it a great time for beach walks, coastal bike rides, and enjoying quieter beach towns without the summer crowds.

Spring: Spring brings blooming wildflowers along the coast and is ideal for whale watching and outdoor festivals.

2. The Mountains: San Gabriel, San Bernardino, and Beyond

The mountain regions of Southern California, including areas like Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, and the San Bernardino Mountains, experience more significant seasonal changes. Summers are generally mild to warm, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s during the day, but nights can be cool, dropping into the 40s. Winters can be cold, with temperatures often below freezing, and snowfall is common, especially in higher elevations.

Summer: The mountains offer a cool escape from the hotter inland areas. It’s a perfect time for hiking, camping, and mountain biking, with beautiful, clear days.

Fall: Fall in the mountains is stunning, with colorful foliage and crisp air—ideal for scenic drives and hikes.

Winter: Winter is ski season in places like Big Bear and Mountain High, where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.

Spring: Spring thaw brings flowing rivers and waterfalls, making it a great time for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the blooming wildflowers.

The Desert: Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, and Anza-Borrego

Weather Overview: Southern California’s desert regions, including Palm Springs, Joshua Tree, and Anza-Borrego, experience extreme weather variations. Summers are very hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 100°F, especially in July and August. Winters, however, are mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures in the 60s to 70s and cooler nights.
Seasonal Highlights: Summer: The desert’s extreme heat makes summer best for early morning hikes or evening stargazing. Many people also take advantage of the numerous resort pools and spas.

Fall: Fall brings cooler temperatures, making it a prime time for hiking in Joshua Tree or exploring the vast landscapes of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.

Winter: Winter is ideal for all outdoor activities in the desert—hiking, rock climbing, and off-roading. The mild temperatures and clear skies are perfect for exploring.

Spring: Spring in the desert is known for its stunning wildflower blooms, particularly after a rainy winter. It’s also a great time for camping and photography.

Inland Valleys: Riverside, San Fernando, and the Inland Empire

Weather Overview: The inland valleys, including areas like Riverside, San Fernando, and the broader Inland Empire, experience hotter summers and cooler winters than the coast. Summer temperatures often reach into the 90s or higher, while winters are cool, with temperatures in the 40s and 50s.
Seasonal Highlights: Summer: Despite the heat, summer evenings are warm and ideal for outdoor barbecues, concerts, and nighttime events. Many homes and venues are equipped with pools, making it a popular activity.

Fall: Fall brings relief from the summer heat, making it a great time for outdoor festivals, hiking, and exploring local farms and orchards.

Winter: Winters are cooler, but still pleasant for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and visiting local markets.

Spring: Spring is one of the best times to enjoy the inland valleys, with mild temperatures and blooming gardens. It’s also a great season for wine tasting in the Temecula Valley.

Conclusion

Southern California’s diverse climates mean that no matter what time of year it is, there’s always something to do and enjoy. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach, hitting the slopes in the mountains, exploring the desert landscapes, or enjoying the vibrant life in the inland valleys, the weather here plays a huge role in making these activities possible. It’s one of the many reasons why Southern California is such a fantastic place to live.
So, what’s your favorite activity in Southern California, and how does the region’s weather make it even better? I’d love to hear how others take advantage of the different climates and seasons!

• This discussion was modified 4 months, 4 weeks ago by  Gustan Cho.

From what I understand, average home prices in Los Angeles and Orange County California is $1.5 million. If a recent college graduate from University of California Los Angeles with a $80,000 a year salaried professional job and his fiance who is a registered nurse making $70,000 a year got married, can they qualify and get pre-approved for a mortgage to purchase an average 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, one car garage house in either Los Angeles or Orange County, California? What will be a strategy for them to become first-time homebuyers. Are they priced out of the housing market? Do they need to rent? They each have a $800 per month car payment.

What type of down payment assistance mortgage programs are available in California.

The state of California economy is on the verge of crash and burning 🔥. California Governor Gavin Newsom is one of the most incompetent next to Kamala Harris politicians in the WORLD 🌎. Newsom increased the minimum wage to $20 dollars per hour for fast food workers. Restaurant owners had to increase menu prices by 8% due to the labor laws of California. Next week, Gavin Newsom set up a secret council that will be voting on another 3% increase on wages on top of the $20 dollar an hour for fast food workers. Gavin Newsom’s bright idea backfired on the incompetent Governor because thousands of restaurant owners fired tens of thousands of fast food works. Thousands of restaurants also laid off workers and replaced them with robots and technology. Thousands of restaurants also went out of business or had to file bankruptcy. California’s ridiculous strict environmental and red tape in zoning and building codes is steering home builders and developers from building new homes. This is creating a shortage of homes and skyrocketing home prices making homes unaffordable. California is losing tens of thousands of residents and businesses Fleeing the state.

https://youtu.be/LyKN2pOP2qA?si=umZ5T9vf5gEbmGHK

We all know that tens of thousands of people are moving out to California. What are the biggest reasons people are moving out of California?

Is it possible to become a first-time homebuyer in California? What is it with California that people want to live in that state? California has high crime rates, double the home prices than other states, high cost of living, high cost of goods and services, high regulations, and high unemployment rates. What makes people want to stay in California?

The value of investing in real estate, including buying a house in California, can depend on various factors and it’s hard to make a blanket statement without considering all of them. However, here are some general considerations:

1. **Market Trends:** As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the housing market in California had been experiencing significant growth for many years, with prices increasing steadily. Some areas, such as San Francisco or Los Angeles, had seen especially high appreciation. It’s important to monitor the latest trends, as the market can fluctuate.

2. **Location:** The potential for return on investment can greatly depend on the specific location within California. Properties in or near major cities or in desirable communities tend to hold value well and may offer higher potential returns. However, they can also come with higher initial investment costs.

3. **Rent Potential:** If you’re planning to rent out the property, it’s crucial to consider the rental market in the area. Some parts of California have a strong rental market with high demand, which could provide a good source of income.

4. **Long-term Investment:** Typically, real estate should be viewed as a long-term investment. In the short term, fluctuations in the market can occur, but over the long term, real estate generally tends to appreciate in value.

5. **Taxes and Regulations:** California has higher property taxes and stricter regulations for landlords compared to many other states. These should be factored into your considerations.

6. **Economic Stability:** California has a strong and diverse economy, which can support the long-term growth of property values.

7. **Other Financial Considerations:** Buying a house involves significant costs beyond the purchase price, such as maintenance costs, insurance, property taxes, and potentially homeowner association fees.

It’s also important to consider your financial situation, your investment goals, and your risk tolerance. Real estate can be a good investment, but it also comes with potential risks and costs.

Please note that while these points may serve as a general guide, you should consult with a financial advisor or real estate professional who can provide advice based on the current market conditions and your individual circumstances.

California has 30 million passengers which costs $8 billion dollars to maintain the roads Californians drive. With so many Californians driving electric cars the gas tax money in California is drying up. California is now planning on taxing motorists 30 cents per mile to cover the shortage of the gas tax.

https://youtube.com/shorts/_UDPa2BMS1M?si=LgSyC2kW48ymueN_

California is one of 9 community property states. Nonborrowing spouse’s debts count on government loans. Government loans are FHA, USDA. and VA loans.

California is facing a severe housing inventory shortage despite high rates, soaring inflation, and Californians fleeing the liberal state. Read this informative article by Sarah Wu

https://gustancho.com/california-facing-housing-shortage/

Want to share my thoughts and prayers for all Californians and wish them all a wonderful, safe, fun, and very Merry Christmas with the exception of the very few demons 😈

I am interest in buying a single family house in California. I got pre-approved in 2019 in Placer County California which is near Sacramento. However, home prices have gone up and mortgage rates are double the rate it was in 2019. How can I shop for the best mortgage rates in California?

Sylvester Stallone makes it official. Sylvester Stallone and his family are fleeing the state of California and will set their home in Florida. Never in history so many Californians are fleeing California than ever before. Skyrocketing crime rates, Clownshow politics, high taxes, ridiculous home prices, and hemorrhaging economy. California is losing so many residents they are losing congressional seats due to losing population. With an incompetent governor and unaffordable Housing, people are fleeing to Texas and Florida as well as dozens of other blue states.

https://youtu.be/Ilk8vBJXAQE?si=ir5Pg8md28ycCi7E