Rebuilding LA After the Fires

Is it better to sell your burned lot or rebuild and stay? Hear real numbers, real strategies, and a creative “land contribution” model that lets homeowners keep upside without writing massive checks up front.In this episode, Jan, Dylan, and Conor discuss:The founding of Village Rebuild and its mission to help restore the Pacific Palisades communityTheir real estate backgrounds and how the fires motivated them to shift into rebuilding homesThe three different rebuilding models they offer: GC services, spec development, and land contribution partnershipsHow the land contribution model helps homeowners rebuild even when insurance proceeds are delayedKey Takeaways: Village Rebuild was created by two real estate professionals who wanted to help restore the Palisades responsibly. Their goal is to rebuild homes while preserving the character and architectural diversity of the community.The company offers multiple development pathways to meet homeowners where they are financially and emotionally. This flexibility allows families to rebuild even when insurance payouts or construction capital are uncertain.The land contribution model allows homeowners to retain equity in their property without funding the entire rebuild themselves. By contributing the land to the project, they become partners in the development and share in the eventual outcome.Rebuilding costs vary widely depending on lot complexity and design requirements. Custom homes can range from roughly $600 to $800 per square foot, depending on finishes, terrain, and architectural goals.“If you're going to do it, our advice is to get started.” – Dylan Hart“I think what a lot of people don't talk about is how encouraging it has been. I think a lot of the subcontractors are willing to really lend advice.” – Conor O’DonovanAbout the Guests:Dylan Hart is a co-founder of Village Rebuild, bringing real estate private equity and development experience along with deep roots in the Pacific Palisades community, where he was born and raised. He previously worked at Caruso Affiliated on the redevelopment of Palisades Village and the Rosewood Miramar Beach hotel, helped launch a $225 million cannabis-focused real estate platform at Subversive REIT LP, and later served as Vice President of Acquisitions at Avenue Capital Group. Dylan holds a bachelor’s degree in real estate from NYU and an MBA from Columbia Business School, and serves as a Pacific Palisades neighborhood Block Captain.Conor O’Donovan is a co-founder of Village Rebuild, where he leads investment structuring and development integration to deliver high-quality homes that preserve the Palisades community. Previously, he worked on the real assets team at ICONIQ Capital and earlier at Goldman Sachs and Eastdil Secured, focusing on real estate acquisitions, development, and capital markets. Over his career, he has executed more than $8 billion in transactions across multifamily, industrial, and office properties, and holds a finance degree from Loyola Marymount University.Connect with Dylan Hart:Website: https://www.villagerebuild.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dylan-hart-34a682b4/ Connect with Conor O’Donovan:Website: https://www.villagerebuild.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conortodonovan/ Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Francine PobleteAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Geoffrey von Oeyen is an award-winning architect and Associate Professor of Practice at the USC School of Architecture. A graduate of Stanford University, the University of Cambridge (Fulbright Scholar), and the Harvard Graduate School of Design, he previously worked for seven years with Frank Gehry in Los Angeles before founding Geoffrey von Oeyen Design and Von Oeyen Architects. His work focuses on innovative, resilient architecture, and in recent years, he has become a leading voice in wildfire-resistant design following the total loss of a family home in the 2018 Woolsey Fire.In this episode, Jan and Geoffrey discuss:Geoffrey’s personal experience losing a newly completed Malibu home in the 2018 Woolsey FireWhy wildfire is no longer a fringe issue but an urban and global realityThe role of IBHS and the Wildfire Prepared Home certification in rebuilding safer homesPractical strategies for hardening existing homes, from landscaping to vent protectionKey Takeaways: Wildfire is no longer a rare event affecting isolated communities. It is an urban challenge that demands new thinking about how we design neighborhoods, homes, and public policy.Homeowners already have access to actionable tools like the IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home checklist. From defensible space to ember-resistant vents, small changes can dramatically improve survivability.Resilient rebuilding is not just about individual homes. Fire-resistant construction protects entire neighborhoods by preventing structure-to-structure ignition.New building technologies, such as insulated concrete panel systems, offer promising alternatives to traditional stick-frame construction. These systems can improve fire resistance, seismic performance, and long-term durability.“The most important takeaway is that this is the future. This is the world we live in.” – Geoffrey von OeyenConnect with Geoffrey von Oeyen:Website: https://www.vonoeyen.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffrey-von-oeyen-584a889/Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Francine PobleteAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Amy Bach is a nationally recognized insurance consumer advocate and attorney who has been championing policyholders’ rights since 1985. She co-founded United Policyholders in 1991 and serves as its Executive Director and primary spokesperson, leading programs such as Roadmap to Recovery™, Roadmap to Preparedness, and Advocacy and Action to help individuals navigate insurance and disaster recovery. Amy is an expert on insurance claims, coverage, law, and public policy, currently serving her second term on the Federal Advisory Committee on Insurance and as an official Consumer Representative to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners. She also sits on the Fire Victim Trust Oversight Committee and the Redwood Credit Union Services Group Associate Board, and is widely featured in national media. An accomplished author, her works include The Disaster Recovery Handbook and WISE UP: The Savvy Consumer’s Guide to Buying Insurance, and her honors include NAPIA Person of the Year and Money Magazine’s “Money Hero.”In this episode, Jan and Amy discuss:The founding of United Policyholders and its role as a consumer advocacy nonprofitValuation disputes between homeowners and insurers over rebuild costsThe emotional and practical imbalance between individuals and insurance companiesBuilding fire-resilient homes to improve future insurabilityKey Takeaways: A large majority of fire survivors discover they do not have enough dwelling coverage to rebuild their homes. In the LA fires, underinsurance rates appear significantly higher than in previous wildfire disasters.Disputes over reconstruction cost estimates are increasing as material prices, labor shortages, and economic conditions drive rebuilding costs upward. These disagreements complicate the claims process and can affect how quickly homeowners move toward resolution.Smoke contamination claims are occurring at unprecedented levels due to the materials that burned and heightened health awareness. Homeowners are pushing back more forcefully when insurers declare homes safe prematurely.Insurance markets in California are under strain, creating tension between consumer protections and insurer participation. Policymakers are exploring reforms while advocates warn about access and affordability risks.“We empower the insured with information so that people can make good decisions, be their own best advocates, and get what they paid for.” – Amy BachConnect with Amy Bach:Website: https://uphelp.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-bach-8a76842/ Help library for LA wildfire-impacted households: https://uphelp.org/disaster-recovery-help/2025cawildfires/ Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Francine PobleteAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Jennifer Gray Thompson is a nationally recognized leader in wildfire recovery and resilience, and a fierce advocate for disaster survivors. Named a Forbes 50 Over 50 Impact Leader, she is the founder and CEO of After the Fire USA, a survivor-led, survivor-focused nonprofit advancing equitable recovery from megafires nationwide. After the 2017 North Bay Fires, she transformed a small local effort into a national model supporting communities after catastrophic fire. Jennifer was instrumental in delivering more than $6 billion in federal tax relief for disaster survivors. A former high school teacher and public administrator, she designs survivor-centered recovery systems, advises federal policy, and hosts the How to Disaster podcast, spotlighting leaders who know how recovery actually works.In this episode, Jan and Jennifer discuss:How mega fires have increased dramatically and reshaped disaster recovery in the U.S.The mission of After the Fires USA is to support local leaders after disastersWhy collaboration between jurisdictions and leaders is essential in LA’s recoveryThe limits of philanthropy versus the role of federal disaster fundingKey Takeaways: Mega fires are becoming more frequent and complex, requiring new models of coordination and leadership. Communities must rely on collaboration rather than waiting for a single hero or agency to solve recovery.Philanthropy can help with targeted needs, but it cannot replace federal disaster funding at the scale required. Public systems must function properly for recovery to be equitable and complete.Building back to wildfire-prepared standards, including Zone Zero defensible space, is essential for future insurability and safety. These measures are practical and can still be implemented in ways that are visually appealing.Trauma significantly affects how survivors make decisions in the first year after a disaster. Understanding this emotional reality is key to providing ethical support and avoiding exploitation.“There is no one group or person; no one is a hero or a savior. The community itself is the hero and savior.” – Jennifer Gray ThompsonConnect with Jennifer Gray Thompson:How to Disaster PodcastWebsite: https://www.howtodisaster.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HowtoDisasterPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/howtodisasterApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-disaster/id1556177625Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qf4grpRpMbegzl56vM4fMAudible: https://www.audible.com/podcast/How-to-Disaster/B08JJQ4MWCAfter the Fire USAWebsite: https://afterthefireusa.orgYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@afterthefireusaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterthefireusaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/afterthefireusaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AfterTheFireUSAConnect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Francine PobleteAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Shah was co-head of Cityview’s development and acquisitions in the Western US. He has 27 years of experience in real estate investment, development, design, construction, and asset management. Previously, Devang was the principal of Marketcents Inc., an independent project management firm, serving as an owner’s representative to investment firms, builders, and developers. Prior to that, he worked as Vice-President at RCLCo, LLC, a national independent real estate consulting firm. Today, Devang is applying his deep industry expertise through Genesis Builders to help homeowners rebuild faster, safer, and more affordably in wildfire-affected communities like Altadena.In this episode, Jan and Devang discuss:The origin story behind Genesis Builders after the January 7 wildfiresPre-approved home designs and streamlined permitting in AltadenaFire-resistant building standards and insurance-driven construction requirementsADUs as a cost-effective add-on during the rebuilding processKey Takeaways: By leveraging long-standing subcontractor relationships and economies of scale, Genesis Builders can lower per-square-foot costs compared to traditional custom homes. This makes rebuilding achievable even for homeowners with limited insurance proceeds.Pre-approved plans significantly shorten the approval process, allowing homeowners to move from decision to completed home in roughly 16 months. This speed is critical given insurance “loss of use” time limits.Fire resistance is a central design priority, with homes exceeding California Chapter 7A requirements and aligning closely with insurance-backed wildfire safety standards.ADUs become far more affordable when built alongside the primary residence, since many soft costs are already absorbed. This has led to strong adoption of ADUs among rebuilding homeowners.“You could be nine months in with a permit in hand and realize you can’t even afford the home. With ours, architectural and structural is already included.” – Devang ShahConnect with Devang Shah:Website: http://www.genesisbuildersla.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devang-shah-re/ Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Francine PobleteAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Sue Kohl is President of the Pacific Palisades Community Council and a local realtor serving as Assistant Manager at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. A top producer since 1989, she’s recognized as one of the best Realtors in Pacific Palisades, and has been effectively representing both sellers and buyers in sales and purchases of single-family homes and condominiums. Sue lost her own home in the January 2025 Palisades Fire. She's now navigating the rebuilding process firsthand while helping her community recover. Sue brings both personal experience and professional insight into what it takes to rebuild LA after the fires.In this episode, Jan and Sue discuss:The mission and structure of the Pacific Palisades Community CouncilInsurance struggles, rebuilding costs, and utility infrastructure issuesEfforts to underground power lines and modernize infrastructureCity governance, emergency orders, and the role of local leadership in recoveryKey Takeaways: The Pacific Palisades Community Council serves as the voice of the community, advocating to the city and state government on residents’ behalf.The community faces high costs and technical hurdles in efforts to underground utilities for future safety.Concerns over housing density remain high due to evacuation and accessibility issues during emergencies.Sue emphasizes the importance of preserving the Palisades’ character and community feel, even amid redevelopment.“The main mission of the Community Council is really to be a voice for Pacific Palisades. A voice gathering info from the residents, a voice providing information for the residents, and most importantly, a voice in which we communicate to civic and government leaders.” - Sue KohlConnect with Sue Kohl:Website: https://pacpalicc.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suekohl/ Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Francine PobleteAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Leo Marmol, FAIA, is the Founder of the architect-led design-build practice Marmol Radziner, established in 1989 with Ron Radziner, FAIA. With a guiding hand in every project from concept to completion, Leo works closely with studio directors and construction teams to ensure seamless design execution. A passionate advocate for architectural preservation, he frequently lectures on architecture and historic restoration and has led tours showcasing Southern California’s mid-century Modernist treasures. A graduate of California Polytechnic State University with a degree in Architecture and a minor in Philosophy, Leo was named a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects in 2007 and inducted into the Interior Design Hall of Fame in 2009.In this episode, Jan and Leo discuss:How Marmol Radziner evolved from a small partnership to one of Los Angeles’s most respected architecture firmsThe challenges of rebuilding homes in fire zones and the complexities of California’s approval processThe impact of bureaucracy, CEQA, and NIMBYism on California’s housing crisisHow leadership, legislation, and community action can drive more attainable and sustainable housing developmentKey Takeaways: Bureaucratic inefficiency and overregulation severely delay construction and drive up housing costs.Community support for density and sustainability is essential to solving California’s housing crisis.The expedited permitting process for fire rebuilds proves that faster, more efficient systems are possible.Real change requires political diversity, professional expertise, and the courage to streamline housing policy.“Housing is a fundamental need. I think it is a human right. We are failing to provide our children the opportunity to have economic growth and afford housing.” - Leo MarmolConnect with Leo Marmol:Website: https://www.marmol-radziner.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-marmol/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leonardo_e_marmol/ Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Kimberlina Whettam is a seasoned real estate development leader with a proven track record guiding projects from concept through completion. She specializes in due diligence research, entitlement management, public hearings, and development permits, leveraging her strong government and industry relationships to secure timely, cost-effective approvals. Previously, she served as Chief Planning & Environmental Deputy for Los Angeles City Councilmember Jack Weiss, where she launched the city’s Green Building Incentive Program and secured community support for the Van Nuys Airport Masterplan. Kimberlina’s company, Kimberlina Whettam & Associates (KW&A), is managing several projects in the fire zones.In this episode, Jan and Kimberlina discuss:The role of permit expediting and land use consulting in LA developmentHow executive orders changed rebuilding timelines after the firesThe challenges of non-conforming structures and rebuilding policiesShifts in development activity, tariff and cost implications, and investment trends across LAKey Takeaways: Ministerial approvals now make the permit process much faster than before.Policies were updated so homeowners can rebuild their non-conforming houses without losing what they had.Unlike single-family homes, commercial projects have not yet been granted the same streamlined path.Development has slowed in LA due to several factors, like homeowner sentiment, environmental concern, and new policies affecting developers, among others.“I feel really confident that this is happening and it will happen, and to get in the game, to get in there and start pushing, push, push, push, all of us pushing. It's gonna happen. We put a man on the moon. We can do this.” - Kimberlina WhettamConnect with Kimberlina Whettam:Website: https://www.kwhettam.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlina-whettam-174b05205/ Resources & Contacts:Christopher Carlin [email protected]  & [email protected] Case Study 2.0: XTEN Architecture Scott Utterstrom [email protected] Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Randy Balik brings over 25 years of expertise in demolition, remediation, and environmental services. Randy is the executive vice president and co-owner of OFRS, an industrial and commercial remedial construction company that is now providing its services to areas affected by the wildfire in the Pacific Palisades. Randy’s work after the fires has been featured in the L.A. Business Journal and the L.A. Times. Randy has served on the boards of the Professional Environmental Management Association (PEMA), where he was President, and the Western States Petroleum Association Associates (WSPA Associates), where he is now Chairman Emeritus.In this episode, Jan and Randy discuss:Randy’s career in environmental science and oil field reclamation, and how he got involved in residential work after the firesKey contaminants: asbestos, heavy metals, arsenic, and dioxinsCosts, permitting, and insurance challenges in rebuildingThe future of communities like the Palisades and their recoveryKey Takeaways: Randy emphasizes that OFRS approaches residential fire cleanup with the same precision as industrial projects, ensuring every property undergoes full soil sampling and remediation for safety.The most concerning long-term risks stem from metals like lead, arsenic, and chromium, which can persist in the soil even after standard debris removal.While the price tag for comprehensive cleanup may seem high, many homeowners can leverage insurance to cover much of the cost, ultimately buying peace of mind.Beyond the cleanup itself, Randy points out that slow permitting processes and inadequate environmental testing remain two of the biggest barriers to safe and timely rebuilding.“I really do hope Palisades comes back, and to come back, that's going to take some smart decisions by both existing property owners rebuilding and developers coming in. Don't be afraid of it. You know, spend a little bit of money. Make sure you know what's there. Be safe about it, and let's move forward. I believe the Palisades can come back very strong if people make the right decisions, and that includes our public agencies, supporting the effort.” - Randy BalikConnect with Randy Balik:Website: https://www.ofrsinc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-balik-898bbb4/  Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Kennedy Zak is an award-winning journalist at the Los Angeles Business Journal, bringing deep expertise in economics, housing, local government, and wildfire recovery—especially her powerful series on the Altadena and Pasadena fires. With bylines across outlets like the Glendale News-Press, Burbank Leader, Dallas Morning News, and Annenberg Media, she blends nimble reporting with thoughtful insight. Zak’s storytelling highlights how financial hardship, policy shifts, and community resilience intersect—a perspective rooted in rigorous reporting and local context. Whether unpacking insurance shortfalls or examining recovery systems in crisis, she brings clarity, compassion, and a sharp lens to the evolving challenges of Southern California.In this episode, Jan and Kennedy discuss:Kennedy’s journey into journalism and her focus on real estate and housing in LASouthern California’s affordability crisis and generational housing challengesInsurance shortfalls are hitting homeowners after the Altadena and Pasadena firesCost-cutting rebuilds solutions like economies of scale, modular housing, and AI designHow community leadership, partnerships, and government shape recoveryKey Takeaways: Kennedy Zak uses her journalist’s perspective to connect the dots between finance, politics, and community issues in the housing crisis. Her reporting highlights how these forces intertwine to shape Los Angeles’ future.The Altadena and Pasadena fires exposed billion-dollar insurance gaps, leaving families with staggering rebuild shortfalls of $300,000 to $900,000 each. This financial strain has become one of the greatest obstacles to recovery.Cutting-edge building methods are offering hope—modular construction, AI-driven design, and bulk neighborhood contracting are helping bring per-square-foot costs down. These approaches could redefine what affordable rebuilding looks like.Surprisingly, neighbors have emerged as the most trusted leaders in recovery efforts. Community-driven organizing has proven just as critical as institutional guidance in keeping rebuilding momentum alive.Moving forward, collaboration between public agencies, private finance, and local organizations may be the key to success. Creative solutions like rebuilding credit lines and hybrid housing models could fill critical gaps while addressing LA’s broader housing needs.“Home ownership currently in LA County is at a 53-year low, and only about 45% of residents own the home that they're living in. A lot of the people I've been speaking with, that is their focus. But I do know that there's a lot of lots being built and people who just want to cut their losses and move on, rather than go through this kind of uncertain process.”- Kennedy ZakKennedy Zak’s wildfire articles:https://labusinessjournal.com/featured/homes-made-by-robots/ (August)https://labusinessjournal.com/real-estate/research-fire-displacement-hits-westside-oc/  (August)https://labusinessjournal.com/real-estate/builder-altadena-residents-unite /  (August)https://labusinessjournal.com/real-estate/case-study-2-0-mission-to-rebuild/  (July)https://labusinessjournal.com/featured/how-effectively-will-calassist-help/  (June)Connect with Kennedy Zak:Website: https://www.kennedyzak.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennedy-zak-0a03aa1a9/ Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Salvador Carbajal is the founder of S-AC Design Group and S-AC Builders, leading every stage from concept to construction. Since launching his firm in 2020, he has completed over 200 architectural projects and 40 construction builds, specializing in custom single-family homes, multifamily residences, and ADUs. Beginning his career with one of the nation’s top general contractors, Salvador managed high-rise developments from the ground up—experience that shaped his seamless design–build approach. Through S-AC Design Group, he crafts spaces with a strong design–lifestyle connection, while S-AC Builders ensures flawless execution in-house. His mission is simple: create high-quality, meaningful spaces that bring visions to life.In this episode, Jan and Salvador discuss:The differences between "like-for-like" rebuilds and full new builds in Los Angeles County and CityKey permitting process timelines and requirements for Altadena and Pacific PalisadesHow to assemble the right team for a smooth construction projectStrategies to avoid costly change orders and budget overrunsThe benefits of working with experienced architects, engineers, and contractorsKey Takeaways: In Altadena, “like-for-like” rebuilds can move quickly, with approvals often secured in just two months. By contrast, full new builds typically face a much longer timeline, averaging around eight months before permits are granted.Pacific Palisades, under LA City jurisdiction, allows greater design flexibility for “like-for-like” projects. The added advantage of the coastal exemption can significantly shorten the overall approval process.Working with a seasoned architectural firm and a skilled general contractor is essential. Their expertise not only speeds up the permitting process but also helps navigate complex construction challenges.A detailed, line-by-line bid from your contractor is a safeguard against unwelcome surprises. This level of transparency can greatly reduce the risk of mid-project change orders that inflate costs.Opting for a flat lot can save both time and effort during construction. Hillside lots, while often scenic, introduce additional complexity and longer timelines, especially for new builds.“Choosing a general contractor is very important, and choosing a good architect or designer who knows what they're doing is important — even speed is important for you, then that's something to consider.” - Salvador CarbajalConnect with Salvador Carbajal:Website: https://s-acm.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sac_designbuild/ Email: [email protected] Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresEmail: [email protected] Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Teresa Fuller is a top-producing real estate agent in the Pasadena area with over two decades of experience. A former corporate sales and marketing professional, she’s been a full-time Realtor since 2002 and brings hands-on expertise as a successful investor, renovator, and restorer of historic homes. Teresa is known for her sharp negotiation skills, standout property marketing, and results-driven approach. Her listings have been featured in the LA Times Hot Property, Haute Living, and earned the Dwell designation. Formerly Sotheby’s Pasadena’s #1 agent, she now leads at Compass. A proud Altadena resident, Teresa has served her community through multiple boards and local organizations, blending business savvy with deep civic engagement.In this episode, Jan and Teresa discuss:The dual market of standing structures and lot sales post-wildfire in AltadenaCurrent buyer trends and developer activity in the fire zonePricing pressures, market absorption, inventory shifts, and how these factors contribute to a buyer’s marketThe future of architectural design, green space, and modular development in AltadenaThe importance of commercial corridors and defensible space planning for long-term revitalizationKey Takeaways: Teresa Fuller brings a rare perspective to Altadena’s recovery—she endured a standing structure loss, lost a commercial building, and has been personally displaced. Her first-hand experience equips her to guide clients through every stage of the rebuilding process with empathy and precision.The post-fire real estate landscape in Altadena has split into two distinct and evolving markets: one for vacant lots and another for surviving structures. Each comes with its own set of challenges, pricing dynamics, and buyer types.Due to an influx of available lots and a slowdown in sales, pricing has faced notable downward pressure. This shift has turned the area into a competitive buyer’s market, particularly for those looking to build from the ground up.A new wave of interest is reshaping the local market, ranging from aspiring first-time home builders and architectural collectives to retirees downsizing into custom homes. These diverse buyers are helping drive Altadena’s transformation forward.Looking ahead, Teresa envisions a revitalized Altadena defined by thoughtful design, sustainability, and community-centered development. Solar integration, modular homes, and creative use of green and defensible space will all play a role in shaping its future identity.“So I have a total loss, a standing structure, and a lease loss. So personally, I really have experienced the gamut of what the Eaton fire can bring. And I’ve personally experienced the gamut of what needs to be solved to move forward, so I feel that I and my team are uniquely qualified to understand and help people through the process.” - Teresa FullerConnect with Teresa Fuller:Website: https://www.compass.com/agents/teresa-fuller/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-fuller-b253602b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teresafullerrealestate/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@teresafullerrealestate Connect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ Email: [email protected] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefiresShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

Welcome to Rebuilding LA After the Fires, the podcast that explores how Los Angeles recovers from devastating wildfires. In each episode, you'll hear from Jan Brzeski, a leading expert in real estate private credit, as he sits down with developers, community leaders, and other real estate professionals to uncover what it really takes to rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and lives. If you're looking to understand what's next for LA, you're in the right place.In this episode, Jan discusses:The devastating impact of wildfires on Pacific Palisades and Altadena, destroying over 10,000 structuresJan’s professional background in real estate lending and what led him to launch this podcastThe mission of the show: uncovering what it takes to rebuild communities after massive destructionThe real estate professionals and roles most affected and involved in the rebuilding effortsWhat listeners can expect in terms of show format, publishing schedule, and engagementKey Takeaways: Rebuilding more than 10,000 structures across Southern California is a massive undertaking expected to span at least a decade. Jan is stepping up to help guide stakeholders through the challenges ahead.This podcast delivers practical insights straight from the people on the ground—developers, investors, legal experts, and homeowners—all navigating the complex process of rebuilding after devastation.Interestingly, Jan estimates that around 50% of the destroyed lots may not be rebuilt by the original owners, but rather by developers and investors who see opportunity amid the ruins.With each interview, Jan digs for the hard-to-access but absolutely vital information that can shape smarter strategies for those involved in recovery efforts.Rather than waiting for clarity, this podcast aims to be part of the solution, laying the groundwork to piece together a clearer, more informed picture of LA’s rebuilding journey.“The podcast is the first step in really understanding who's out there, who's willing to talk about what's happening, and I think we need to map out the territory. The way I look at it is, there's just so much uncertainty right now. We need to start mapping pieces of that picture so that we can see it—see the bigger picture more accurately.” - Jan BrzeskiConnect with Jan Brzeski:Website: https://scipfinance.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbrzeski/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RebuildingLAafterthefires Show notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.