Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

  • California homeowners could be on the hook for $1,000 or higher surcharge if FAIR Plan runs dry

    Fire insurance costs in California have surged, prompting homeowners to rely on the FAIR Plan, a government-backed insurer. Concerns about FAIR's financial stability have grown, with estimates suggesting potential surcharges of $1,000 to $3,700 for policyholders due to significant wildfire damages. FAIR currently has around $200 million in cash and $2.5 billion in reinsurance, but…

  • Assembly Bill 2424: Major Foreclosure Changes Ahead

    Assembly Bill 2424: Major Foreclosure Changes Ahead

    California's Assembly Bill 2424 will dramatically change foreclosure procedures. Lenders must notify third parties like family members or housing counselors about default notices during foreclosure.

  • USAA leaders discuss rising insurance costs in California

    USAA's outgoing CEO Wayne Peacock and incoming CEO Juan Andrade discussed rising insurance costs in California due to inflation, climate change, and wildfire risks. Peacock mentioned that expensive real estate and properties in fire zones complicate pricing. Andrade pointed out reinsurance costs driven by climate risk. New regulations from the California Department of Insurance aim…

  • Mortgage Calculator: Buying a Home in California

    Mortgage Calculator: Buying a Home in California

    The median home price in California is $749,000. A 20% down payment of $149,800 results in monthly payments of $3,926.

  • Happy Lunar New Year

    Happy Lunar New Year

    恭喜發財. Wishing you prosperity. Lunar New Year, is the most important celebration observed in China, with cultural and historic significance.The New Year celebration is centered around removing the bad and the old, and welcoming the new and the good. Traditional activities include reunion dinner, cleaning houses, visiting family members, setting off firecrackers and fireworks, and…

  • Effective Refinancing Options for California Homeowners

    Effective Refinancing Options for California Homeowners

    Refinancing can help lower monthly mortgage payments in California’s competitive housing market. A rate and term refinance can reduce payments by securing a lower interest rate or adjusting the loan term.

  • California Expands ADU Options to Boost Housing

    California Expands ADU Options to Boost Housing

    California’s SB 1211 boosts affordable housing by expanding ADU options on multifamily properties, setting a national exampleSB 1211 allows up to 8 detached ADUs per multifamily property, increasing affordable housing potential.

  • The 1st Cost Making California Homebuying Expensive

    The 1st Cost Making California Homebuying Expensive

    Rising climate risks in California are driving home insurance costs to new highs, affecting housing stability. Sellers in high-risk areas are advised to offer financial credits or make climate-resilient upgrades to attract buyers.

  • Where to Get a Non-QM Loan

    Where to Get a Non-QM Loan

    Check if you meet the typical requirements: 620+ credit score, stable income, and consistent employment history. Look for lenders or mortgage brokers who work with non-QM wholesale lenders; they can connect you with options.

  • Orange County Housing Market: Trends and Forecast 2025

    The Orange County housing market in late 2024 shows rising median sale prices and increased home sales, with attached homes up 9.5% and detached homes up 33.3% year-over-year. Despite a slight 0.7% decrease in attached home prices, detached homes have risen by 5.9%. Inventory remains low at 2.4 months, indicating a seller's market. Homes are…

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