How to Obtain Insurance for Investment Properties in Long Beach, CA: Requirements & Considerations

Types of Insurance Graph

Investing in real estate in #LongBeach, California, can be a lucrative venture, but securing the right insurance coverage is crucial to protect your property, tenants, and financial interests. In recent years, insurance companies have tightened their requirements, making it more challenging for investors to obtain affordable policies—especially for older properties or those needing upgrades.  The importance of keeping up with market insurance demands cannot be stressed enough--it may make the difference between getting your property sold, or purchasing if you're a buyer.

Whether you're insuring a single-family rental, duplex, triplex, or fourplex, this guide breaks down what you need to know about insurance requirements, property conditions, and upgrades to ensure your investment stays protected.

1. Types of Insurance for Investment Properties

Before diving into insurer requirements, let’s cover the main types of insurance you’ll need as a Long Beach property investor:

• Landlord Insurance (DP3 Policy) – Covers property damage, liability protection, and loss of rental income.

• Hazard Insurance – Protects against fires, storms, and other natural disasters (often required by lenders).

• Flood Insurance – Required in FEMA-designated flood zones, especially in coastal areas of Long Beach.

• Earthquake Insurance – Recommended due to California’s seismic activity; not included in standard policies.

• Umbrella Insurance – Provides additional liability coverage beyond your landlord policy.

Now that you know the basics, let’s look at the current insurance requirements for investment properties.

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2. Property Condition Requirements: What Insurance Companies Expect

Insurance companies assess risk factors before issuing a policy. If your Long Beach rental property doesn’t meet specific safety and structural requirements, you may face higher premiums, limited coverage, or even denial of insurance.

Here are the key factors insurers evaluate:

Aging Properties: How Old Is Too Old?

• Homes over 30 years old often require additional inspections and upgrades before insurers will issue coverage.

• Properties 50+ years old may need full system replacements (roof, plumbing, electrical) to qualify for standard policies.

• Historic homes (like those in Belmont Heights or Bluff Park) may need specialized coverage due to costly restoration expenses.

Roof Condition & Age

• Many insurers require roofs to be less than 20 years old and free of leaks or major damage.

• Wood shake or older tile roofs may be ineligible for coverage without reinforcement or replacement.

Plumbing & Electrical Systems

• Galvanized steel or polybutylene pipes (common in pre-1980s homes) are often rejected due to corrosion risks.

• Knob-and-tube wiring or outdated electrical panels (such as Zinsco or Federal Pacific) are flagged as fire hazards and must be upgraded.

Foundation & Structural Integrity

• Properties with cracks, settling issues, or signs of water intrusion may require inspections before obtaining coverage.

• Homes in liquefaction zones (such as parts of Downtown Long Beach) might need earthquake retrofitting.

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3. Required & Recommended Upgrades to Qualify for Insurance

If you're buying an older rental property, proactively upgrading key systems can make insuring it easier and more affordable. Here’s what to focus on:

✅ Replace the Roof – If it's older than 20 years, consider installing a new composite shingle or Class A fire-rated roof.

✅ Upgrade Plumbing – Swap out old pipes with PEX or copper to prevent leaks and burst risks.

✅ Update Electrical – Install a modern 200-amp panel and replace aluminum or outdated wiring with copper.

✅ Seismic Retrofits – Bolting the foundation and reinforcing cripple walls can help qualify for earthquake insurance discounts.

✅ Fire Safety Measures – Install hardwired smoke detectors, CO detectors, and fire-resistant materials to improve insurability.

✅ Gated or Secured Entry – Reducing liability risks (such as installing security cameras or controlled access gates) can lower premiums.

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4. How to Find the Best Insurance for Your Long Beach Investment Property

Given California’s increasing wildfire, flood, and earthquake risks, many national insurers have pulled out or raised rates significantly. To get the best coverage:

• Work with a Local Insurance Broker – They have access to specialty insurers that still cover Long Beach rentals.

• Bundle Policies – Combining landlord, flood, and umbrella insurance may qualify you for discounts.

• Choose a Higher Deductible – Opting for a $2,500-$5,000 deductible can help lower your monthly premium.

• Ask About Risk Mitigation Discounts – Installing a security system, fire sprinklers, or impact-resistant windows could save you money.

   

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Investment in Long Beach

Securing comprehensive insurance is essential for any Long Beach current or potential real estate investor. With stricter requirements and rising costs, staying ahead with proactive property upgrades and working with a knowledgeable insurance agent can make all the difference. If you're submitting an offer now on a property, it's essential that you already contact an insurance broker for an initial estimate, even before you submit the offer.

By ensuring your rental meets modern safety standards, you’ll not only secure better insurance rates but also increase property value and attract quality tenants.

Need Help Finding the Right Insurance Policy?

If you're an investor navigating the insurance market, reach out to a local Long Beach real estate or insurance expert for personalized guidance. Protect your investment—before disaster strikes!

 

 

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

How to Choose the Right Residential Investment Property in Long Beach

Belmont Heights Spanish Style Duplex

Long Beach, California, is a goldmine for real estate investors seeking rental income and long-term appreciation. With its diverse neighborhoods, strong rental demand, and coastal charm, this vibrant city offers lucrative opportunities—but only if you pick the right property. Whether you're considering a single-family home, a duplex, a triplex, or a fourplex, this guide will help you make a savvy investment decision.

1. Location, Location, Location

Not all Long Beach neighborhoods offer the same return on investment. Some key areas to consider:

• Downtown Long Beach – A hotspot for young professionals, with high rental demand and proximity to restaurants, nightlife, and the Metro Blue Line.

• Belmont Shore & Naples – Higher-end beachside properties with premium rental rates. Great for short-term or high-income tenants.

• Bixby Knolls – A suburban feel with charming historic homes, attracting families and long-term renters.

• Zaferia & Eastside – Up-and-coming areas with more affordable multi-family units and strong appreciation potential.

2. Property Type: House, Condo, or Multi-Family?

Your choice of property type will impact your cash flow, financing options, and management responsibilities.

• Single-Family Homes: Easier to manage and attract long-term tenants, but higher per-unit costs and lower overall cash flow.

• Condos: Lower maintenance but come with HOA fees that can eat into your profits. Best for investors who prefer a hands-off approach.

• Duplexes, Triplexes, and Fourplexes: Multi-family units offer higher rental income, better financing terms (still eligible for residential loans), and reduced vacancy risks. Ideal for house-hacking or scaling your rental portfolio.

3. Cash Flow vs. Appreciation

Are you investing for monthly income or long-term value growth?

• Cash Flow: Look for properties where rental income exceeds mortgage, taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. Multi-family properties tend to outperform single-family homes in this category.

• Appreciation: Choose areas with rising property values, like Belmont Heights or Bluff Park. Other areas such as Wrigley and North Long Beach also hold opportunity. Long Beach real estate has historically appreciated well, making it a solid long-term investment.

4. Rental Market Trends & Tenant Demand

Before you buy, analyze Long Beach’s rental market:

• The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $2,000/month, while multi-unit properties can generate $4,000+ in combined rent.

• High demand from college students (CSU Long Beach), professionals, and coastal lifestyle seekers keeps occupancy rates strong.

• Rent control laws exist in Long Beach, so factor in annual rent increase limits when calculating returns.

5. Financing & Loan Options

If you're house-hacking (living in one unit while renting the others), you may qualify for:

• FHA Loans (3.5% down for owner-occupied duplexes, triplexes, or fourplexes)

• VA Loans (0% down for qualifying veterans)

• Conventional Loans (Higher down payments but no mortgage insurance)

Investors purchasing purely for rental income typically need 20-25% down and should shop for competitive interest rates.

6. Property Management: DIY or Hire a Pro?

Managing tenants, repairs, and legal compliance can be time-consuming. If you’re not local or prefer a hands-off approach, hiring a Long Beach property management company (typically charging 8-10% of rental income) can be a smart move.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

Investing in #LongBeach real estate can be incredibly rewarding if you choose wisely. Do your research, run the numbers, and pick a property that aligns with your investment goals. Whether it’s a charming Belmont Heights bungalow, a high-yield duplex near Downtown, or a beachside fourplex, your next great investment is waiting.  To find properties, go to my website link below and click on the property search.

Ready to Invest in Long Beach Real Estate?
If you’re serious about finding the perfect rental property, let’s talk! Reach out to me today for expert insights and property recommendations.

See Also:  My related post about property insurance for investment properties.

 

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Look at These Homes On the Market in East Long Beach

Welcome to #eastLongBeach. The homes shown here are newly remodeled and waiting for buyers to enjoy their many features. If you are ready to buy and looking for a move-in ready experience, you might find what you are looking for here. These homes are in single family neighborhoods which include parks, schools and local area shopping.

The home at the right is offered at $1,449,000, is over 2500 sq.ft, has upstairs and downstairs remodeled bedrooms, new windows, new paint, tankless water heater, finished garage, and central air and heat are just some of the features.  This home includes kitchen appliances in an open remodeled kitchen. There are certain showing conditions in order to see this home, including lender pre-approval, so please contact  me if you are looking for that larger home with 5 bedrooms and  bathrooms per the listing.

 

 

Another lovely home in a residential neighborhood of single family homes, offered at $1,225,000. Are you looking for additional work space? You will find it here in addition to the 3 bedrooms and  two baths in the 1200+ square foot home. There are new appliances, a fireplace, ceiling fans, central AC and heating, remodeled bathrooms, a detached finished garage that has the work from home or studio additional space that also includes a bathroom.

 

The home also includes all new landscaping, exterior painting, new roof, marble kitchen island, recessed lighting, and a long driveway for plenty of parking.

Please contact me for showing instructions!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
This four bedroom, two  bath home features over 1500 sq. ft. in east Long Beach.  This newly remodeled contemporary open floorplan features both electric and  gas fireplaces, inside stackable laundry space, central air and heat, and walk-in pantry. A long gated drive allows for more parking and privacy in the back yard. Kitchen appliances, recessed lighting and quartz counters.  Please contact me for how to be represented on this and other properties.  Listed at $1,335,000.

 Listings courtesy of Keller Williams Pacific Estate, K. Reid.

 

Let me put my 30 years of experience to work for you!  Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

What If You're a California Listing Agent and You're Thinking About Representing the Buyer?

In California residential real estate, a dual agent—one who represents both the buyer and the seller—must navigate a minefield of fiduciary obligations and potential liabilities. Also, two agents working under same broker are also dual agents in a transaction. Below is a summary of the key liabilities and legal responsibilities:

Key Fiduciary Duties and Liabilities

1. Fiduciary Duty to Both Parties
A dual agent owes each party the duties of loyalty, confidentiality, honesty, and full disclosure. This means the agent must:

• Disclose Material Facts: Inform both the buyer and seller of any information that could affect their decisions.
• Avoid Conflicts of Interest: Balance competing interests without favoring one party over the other.

  

  Agent standing across from seller, buyer behind.
  

   
  

• Obtain Informed Consent: Secure written consent from both parties acknowledging the dual agency relationship.

2. Strict Disclosure Requirements
Under California Civil Code §2079.13, dual agents are required to provide a clear, written disclosure of their dual role. Failure to disclose—or inadequate disclosure—can lead to:

• Legal Claims: Breach of fiduciary duty, misrepresentation, or fraud.
• Disciplinary Action: Potential sanctions by the California Department of Real Estate.
  

3. Liability for Associate Actions
If the dual agent’s salespersons or broker associates act negligently or breach their duties, the supervising agent (and by extension, the brokerage) may be held liable under the principle that the duty owed by an associate is equivalent to that owed by the principal broker.

4. Negotiation and Confidentiality Pitfalls
The dual agent must be careful during negotiations:

• No Secret Profits: The agent must not use confidential information from one party to benefit the other.
• Neutrality in Negotiations: The agent should present offers and counteroffers without bias, ensuring each party gets a fair deal.
• A dual agent may not reveal to either party facts relating to the financial position, motivations, bargaining position or other personal information that may impact price, in addition to the restrictions already mentioned.
  

Dual agency in California residential transactions is legally permissible only when both parties are fully informed and provide written consent. A failure to adhere to strict disclosure and neutrality requirements can expose the dual agent to significant legal liabilities—including breach of fiduciary duty, misrepresentation, and potential disciplinary actions. By understanding and rigorously following these guidelines, a dual agent can mitigate risks and help ensure a fair transaction for both buyer and seller.

 

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

What If You're a California Buyer And You're Thinking about Using the Listing Agent?

In California residential real estate transactions, using a dual agent—where one agent represents both the buyer and the seller—comes with several risks for both parties. Also, when agents from the same brokerage are working with different parties to a single transaction, each agent is considered a dual agent, even if each individual agent communicates and works exclusively with a single party. A dual agent owes equal fiduciary duties to both parties to a transaction. Here’s what you need to know:

Agent With Buyer and Seller

Risks for Buyers and Sellers When Using a Dual Agent in California

1. Conflict of Interest

A dual agent has a fiduciary duty to both the buyer and seller, making it difficult to advocate fully for one party’s best interests. This can result in:

• The seller not getting the highest possible price.
• The buyer not securing the best deal.

2. Limited Advocacy and Negotiation

Since the agent must remain neutral, they cannot aggressively negotiate on behalf of either party. This may lead to:

• Buyers overpaying for a property.
• Sellers accepting lower offers than they might have with an independent agent.

3. Reduced Confidentiality

A dual agent has knowledge of both parties’ financial situations, motivations, and negotiation strategies. While legally required to maintain confidentiality, the risk remains that sensitive information may be inadvertently used to the disadvantage of either party.

4. Potential Legal Issues

California law allows dual agency, but it requires full disclosure and written consent from both the buyer and seller. Failure to do so can lead to legal disputes, lawsuits, or even the cancellation of the transaction.

5. Ethical Concerns and Perceived Bias

Some buyers and sellers feel that a dual agent cannot be truly impartial, potentially leading to distrust in the process. This can complicate the transaction and create unnecessary tension.

How to Protect Yourself in a Dual Agency Transaction

• Understand your rights: California law requires disclosure of dual agency relationships—make sure you’re fully informed.
• Request transparency: Ask your agent how they plan to handle negotiations fairly.
• Consider hiring a real estate attorney: Legal guidance can help protect your interests.
• Explore alternative representation: If you’re uncomfortable with dual agency, you can choose separate agents for better advocacy. When one agent  represents only the buyer, the buyer is then not using the listing agent who already represented the seller.

In California, dual agency—where a real estate agent represents both the buyer and the seller in a transaction—is legal but subject to stringent regulations to protect all parties involved. Here's an overview of the legal framework governing dual agency in the state:​

Legal Framework for Dual Agency in California

1. Definition and Legality

Under California law, dual agency occurs when a real estate agent or brokerage represents both the buyer and the seller in the same transaction. This arrangement is permissible provided that specific legal requirements are met. 

2. Fiduciary Duties

Real estate agents owe fiduciary duties to their clients, including loyalty, confidentiality, and full disclosure. In a dual agency scenario, fulfilling these duties becomes complex, as the agent must balance the interests of both parties without favoring one over the other. 

3. Disclosure Requirements

California Civil Code mandates that agents provide a written disclosure to both the buyer and the seller when entering into a dual agency relationship. This disclosure must outline the potential conflicts of interest and the implications of such an arrangement. Both parties must give their informed written consent for the dual agency to proceed. 

4. Limitations on Information Sharing

A dual agent is prohibited from sharing certain confidential information between the parties without express consent. For example, the agent cannot disclose to the buyer that the seller is willing to accept a lower price, nor can they reveal to the seller that the buyer is willing to pay more. This ensures that both parties' bargaining positions are protected. 

5. Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to properly disclose a dual agency relationship can lead to significant legal consequences, including the forfeiture of the agent's commission, rescission of the transaction, and potential disciplinary action by the California Department of Real Estate.

6. Recent Trends and Considerations

Recent trends indicate a rise in dual agency arrangements in California, particularly in markets like Los Angeles. While this can offer benefits such as streamlined communication, it also raises concerns about impartiality and the potential for conflicts of interest. Both buyers and sellers are advised to carefully consider these factors and ensure they are fully informed before consenting to a dual agency arrangement. ​

Understanding these legal aspects is crucial for anyone involved in California real estate transactions.

 

 

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

What Are Current Rebuilding Requirements in California?

Defensible Space Around Property

If you sell your California residential property or buy a new one, the seller and buyer will be responsible for disclosing and reviewing the current information about fire zones and the proximity of that property to fire zones per State Fire Marshal mapping. In Los Angeles County, Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHSFZ)requires fireproofing based on current standards for rebuilds. Actually, every homeowner no matter their location, should review these standards for home protection:

• Class A Roofing - Includes clay tile, asphalt shingle, concrete tile,  steel, slate tile. No wood shake.  Use concrete stop in clay tiles to prevent intruding embers.
• Use roof and ridge vents. Any vents should have screens (1/8") to prevent ember intrusion. 
• Roof gutters must have screens, spark arrestors in chimneys when burning solid fuel.
• Exterior walls: 1-hour rated made of stucco, brick, fiber cement siding--wood siding doesn't comply.
• Doors: Fire retardant wood or non-combustible for garage doors; other exterior doors to have 20-minute rating-metal, glass and solid hardwood, layer of tempered glass over glazing.
• Windows: One pane of double paned windows to be tempered.
• Decks, stairs, risers to be non-combustible materials, fiber cement, concrete/stone patio walkways.
• Defensible space: No vines or climbing plants, leave a clear 5 feet perimeter around house, remove dead vegetation 100 feet from structure, hedges no higher than 8 feet. Plant removal:  no Juniper, Italian Cypress, Bougainvillea, Wisteria, Eucalyptus, Pampas grass, and others. Remove fuel ladders by separate higher and lower plantings with at least a 2 foot space.
•  
• A final word on Smoke Cleanup: 
• Replace air filters, get ducts cleaned, and check for any exterior equipment damage.
• Use portable air cleaner with HEPA filter for as long as possible.
• Replace insulation in vented spaces. Smokey smell will return in hot months.
• Debris cleanup: use water, not a blower. Review local agency restrictions.
• Water:  remove all filters and clean/check all equipment.
• Under sink systems:  Drain multiple times, change filter.
• Whole house systems should be checked by a maintenance company.
  

See prior post.

This list is not all-inclusive of all activities a homeowner may have to take, please consult your local area County or City requirements.

*Information and illustration from Joseph Spierer Architects.

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

About Rebuilding After the California Fires

Aerial photo of some rebuilds

Over the years, fires have affected large areas in Southern California and Northern California, causing many people to decide what they will do next. Some will rebuild, others will sell their lots and relocate to another area. 

As an example, the Malibu Woolsey fire in November of 2018 burned down approximately 500 houses: the rebuild stats as of January, 2025 show that so far 363 single family homes were approved by the planning authority, 296 houses have obtained permits, and out of the 500 or so homes, seven years post-fire, a total of 182 homes have actually been rebuilt.   

Aerial photo after fire

In the current burn areas of Pacific Palisades and Altadena/Pasadena, many people have already taken the initial steps of filing insurance claim, contacting their mortgage professional, dealing with tax assessor to reassess at lower value and/or postpone property tax bill, are going through lot cleanup, developing erosion control of the lot, and considering temporary housing on the lot. Owners should also find out if they are in a Coastal Zone or other plan overlay which affects their rebuild.  If your rebuilt stays within 110% of approved size, the property is exempt from CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) and CCC (California Coastal Commission).  Other protection are in place for price gouging, property tax payments, unsolicited offers for amounts less than market value.   City of Los Angeles has approved numerous time deadlines and certain exemptions, such as 7 years to obtain permits and construction completion within following 3 years after permits issued. 

A. Budgeting for rebuild: In the Palisades, an average rebuild sq.ft. price estimate is within $600-$800, with "soft" costs addressing structural engineer, civil engineer, soil, Title 24--California's Building Energy Efficiency Standards--and landscaping. 

The timelines involved for surveys, permits, engineer, building and safety reviews, rebuild plans, rebuild design (you may or may not hire an architect) can take up to 2 years. 

B. In Altadena, the EPA started removal at the end of January, and continued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at no cost to the owner. Private cleanups by owners may cost up to $127,000. A majority of the debris removal should be done by June 30 2025.

Important Questions: What are building regulation requirements for new builds? Various regulations put in place starting in 1963 resulted in more stringent rules for fireproofing. 

See next post for more information on current building requirements. *

*Information and photos in this post from Joseph Spierer Architects presentation 1-27-2025.

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Top 10 Reasons Homeowners Should Sell Their Residential Property in the 2025 Long Beach, California Market

 

Craftsman Bungalow style homes

Selling your home is a significant decision, and the current Long Beach market in 2025 presents several compelling reasons why homeowners may want to take the leap. Whether you're considering relocating, downsizing, or capitalizing on current market conditions, here are the top 10 reasons to sell your residential property this year.

1. Rising Home Equity

Homeowners in Long Beach have seen a steady increase in home values over recent years. If you've built significant home equity, 2025 might be the right time to capitalize on your investment. Selling while property values are still high allows you to maximize your returns before any market shifts occur.

2. High Buyer Demand in Long Beach

The Long Beach housing market remains competitive, with a high demand for properties in desirable neighborhoods. With many buyers looking to settle in this coastal city, selling your home could be an opportunity to get multiple offers and potentially sell at a premium price.

3. Interest Rate Considerations

While interest rates may be rising in 2025, or staying the same, they’re still historically low compared to past decades. This makes homebuying attractive for potential buyers in Long Beach, driving demand for properties. If you sell now, you can take advantage of favorable conditions for both you and the buyer.

4. Relocation for Job or Lifestyle Change

Whether for work, family, or lifestyle reasons, many homeowners in Long Beach decide to relocate. Whether you’re moving to another city, state, or seeking a new neighborhood in Long Beach, selling your property is often necessary to facilitate your next chapter.

5. Downsizing to a Smaller Home

If your children have moved out, or you simply want a more manageable living space, 2025 is a great time to downsize. The Long Beach area offers many smaller homes and condos that could provide you with lower maintenance costs while still offering access to the community you love.

6. Changing Family Needs

Your growing family or lifestyle changes might require a new type of home. Whether you're looking for more space or specific features such as a larger yard, more bedrooms, or proximity to schools, selling your current property to upgrade is an excellent reason to enter the market in 2025.

7. Capitalizing on Rising Rents

With rising rents in Long Beach, many homeowners are selling and moving into rental properties that better suit their financial or lifestyle needs. By selling your home now, you may find a more affordable option in terms of monthly payments or expenses. Please contact me for a list of rental properties.

8. Tax Benefits of Selling

In 2025, there may be certain tax incentives for sellers in Long Beach, including exemptions on capital gains tax under specific circumstances. Don't forget about Proposition 19 benefits for transfer of property tax base. Consulting a tax advisor can provide insight into how selling your home can benefit your long-term financial goals.

9. Avoiding Future Maintenance Costs

Older homes often require expensive repairs and updates. If you’ve been putting off necessary repairs, selling your home before significant maintenance costs pile up might be a wise decision. In a strong market like Long Beach’s, you can probably sell quickly and avoid the hassle and costs of further home improvements.

10. Taking Advantage of Competitive Market Conditions

2025 is expected to be a competitive year for sellers in Long Beach. With multiple buyers looking for homes, particularly in desirable neighborhoods like Belmont Shore or Naples, you may be able to sell at a higher price than expected. In the lower priced areas, under $900,000, buyers are actively looking.

The increased competition from buyers can work in your favor, especially if your home is well-maintained and staged.

To look for your next property, or to see what it selling in your current area, go to my site which explores properties on one of the largest comprehensive MLS's in the country at Property Search

 For a market value analysis for your property and what potential net proceeds might be from a sale, please contact me, I'm available in person or for online help.  Just call, email me or text. And check out the Market Reports on my website below, reports have detailed information concerning various neighborhoods and property types. Check back because it's periodically updated with new reports.

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

Beware of Rental Scams

Rentals are in much demand, especially for those who have so unfortunately lost their homes in the wildfires and are searching for satisfactory accommodations.

Rental scams have been operating for years, and have gradually become more sophisticated. Some scammers have used active for sale listings that originate from one of the MLS sites, and copy the photograph and address and place it on one of the social media platforms. If a property searcher is at all knowledgeable about the market, they will know that an upgraded1200 sq. ft. house with a $400/month asking price in Los Angeles County raises a red flag.

But still, people unfortunately get taken before they figure out that their deposit money has disappeared into the hands of someone not responding to email or phone calls.

It's very important to not get caught up in a message designed to create urgency, and it's someone you don't know.

1. Email addresses and phone numbers are available on the internet, so beware if you receive an unsolicited message about a property. Look at a phone's area code, and if the sender's email address is made up of  long string of characters that tries to look like it's from a company, avoid responding  to it and delete.

2. Be wary of wire transfer requests for money, cryptocurrency or gift cards as forms of payment. Also be wary if they request a payment through payment apps like Apple Pay, CashApp, PayPal and Zelle, per the Federal Trade Commission. Those are forms of instantaneous payment to the receiver, and you may not be able to get it back. People posing as listings agents or landlords may not in fact be who they say they are.

3. If they refuse to meet you in person to see the property, that is another red flag.  If it's not really a true listing, then they don't have the ability to show it. Request a virtual tour or have a friend or family member see the property for you if you cannot be present yourself. It's also advisable to take someone with you if you do have an appt. to the the property.

4. Back to my earlier comment, be suspicious of an extraordinarily low price posted by someone you don't know. It may be far too good to be true, and it may be one of those "borrowed" listings.  One listing I had was one of those that  got posted as a rental and I didn't find out until I started getting calls for it by people asking about the "for rent" listing. One lady actually drove by my listing and called me, when she realized this was a property for sale, not for rent, just to verify--that's how I found it it was being scammed.

It's a time to be careful, and not lost money on top of all the other problems people are experiencing right now.

If you would like a copy of the recent orders about enforcement of the Governor's rental requirements, please contact me.  If you would like a list of properties in the area that are for rent or lease, I can help you.

 

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996

How to Fire Harden Your Home, No Matter Where You Live

Damage to house in Altadena

The most recent fires have once again brought up the issue of the vulnerability to fires. Although living near hills, mountains, areas with high vegetation are very often in the high risk fire zones, an event like this could happen in the city as well. The high winds fire events (winds of 80-90 mph in Altadena) in early January quickly consumed neighborhoods and business districts--property owners should  think about the three ignition sources which are embers (airborne wood carried by wind), surface fires (ground debris, shrubs), and crown fires (spread in the tops of trees). According to www.firewise.org, studies have shown that homes ignite due to the condition of the home and everything around it, up to 200 feet from the foundation.

That means when it comes to fire safety, you have to consider every inch of your house as a potential
vulnerability. But there are steps you can take today to protect your home and your family to make sure
each and every part of your home is “hardened” in preparation.

FIRST, ADDRESS THESE VULNERABILITIES:
• Consider re-roofing a roof built with shingles or wood. Use materials with a Class A fire rating,
such as composition shingles, tile or steel.
• Inspect for and cover up any gaps in the roof to prevent falling embers from entering the house.
• Cover up any open vents, including chimneys, with 1/8” mesh to keep out falling embers. Move
any combustible items away from the vents, both inside and outside.
• Consider remodeling wooden walls with ignition resistant materials such as stucco, fiber cement or fire-retardant-treated wood.
• Cover up rain gutters with screens to prevent leaves from accumulating.
• Ensure that the only plants within 20 feet of the house are small, well-pruned plants with high moisture content. Ideally, there should be no vegetation within five feet of the property.
• Install multi-paned, tempered glass to reduce the chance of windows breaking due to the heat of a fire, which then creates opportunities for embers to enter the house.
• Make sure the home’s address is clearly visible from the street, which will make it easier for emergency vehicles to find the house.
• Purchase at least one fire extinguisher for the house — two if there is a detached garage.

STAY ON TOP OF ONGOING MAINTENANCE:
• Regularly clean out rain gutters.
• Remove dead plants or dry leaves from the property and regularly trim trees that come close to the house.
• Clean outdoor decks to remove leaves that get trapped between deck boards.
• Check fire extinguishers annually to be sure they have not expired.
• Ensure the driveway and local access roads are in good condition.

PHOTO:  This house, for unknown reasons, was the only one on the street to burn, but note that many other homes nearby on adjacent streets were lost, including a school. The neighborhood was a stone's throw from Eaton Canyon.  It was next to the house I grew up in years ago, which did not burn. As you can see, the area has a great deal of vegetation including pine trees and deodar trees. Per the LA County survey photo of my former home, there was no apparent fire damage and was catalogued as "no damage". Photo courtesy of Pasadena News photographer who took photos of other burning structures the next morning after it started and who sent it to me.

Sources: University of California Cooperative Education, Wildfire Preparation & Recovery; CAL Fire, Hardening Your Home. California Association of Realtors.

 

Julia Huntsman, REALTOR, Broker | http://www.abodes.realestate | 562-896-2609 | California Lic. #01188996