The other day, I met Saul and Leslie at my open house. They arrived with their parents, casually introducing themselves as first-time homebuyers. As we chatted, their story unfolded—they weren’t just searching for a new home; they had lost theirs in the recent Altadena fire.
Like many others affected by the disaster, they faced overwhelming challenges. Navigating complex permit issues, coping with high rental costs, and questioning whether homeownership was possible left them feeling uncertain about the future.
However, what started as a simple conversation led to real solutions. We explored ways to help their parents recover essential permits for their 1925-built home. Then, I introduced them to a financing option they never knew existed—the FHA 203(h) Disaster Loan.
Locating Permits for Homes Built Before 1930
One of their biggest hurdles was the lack of official permit records for their parents’ historic home. This issue is common for properties built before the 1930s, as modern record-keeping systems were not in place at the time. Unfortunately, many insurance companies require original permits as part of the rebuilding process.
If you’re in a similar situation, here are a few steps that can help:
- Check with the LA County Assessor’s Office – Not just the building department.
- Find your district office – Enter your address on the LA County Assessor’s website.
- Request all permits and property records – Use the Tax Agent Form.
- Send someone on your behalf – If you can’t go in person, you can fill out a Tax Agent Form to authorize a family member or representative.
Knowing where to look can save fire victims weeks—or even months—of frustration.
FHA 203(h) Disaster Loan – A Path to Homeownership
As we continued talking, I introduced Saul and Leslie to the lender at my open house, Sheila Howard, Golden Coast Finance. That conversation changed everything. Saul and Leslie learned about the FHA 203(h) Disaster Loan Program, designed specifically for fire victims who want to buy a home instead of renting.
Who Qualifies?
✔ Homeowners who lost their primary residence in a federally declared disaster
✔ Those who want to buy or rebuild instead of renting
✔ Borrowers with at least a 580 credit score
Why This Program Helps:
✅ 100% Financing – No down payment required
✅ Flexible Approval – Designed for disaster victims
✅ Simplified Process – Less paperwork, easier qualification
✅ Option to Buy or Rebuild – Whichever fits your needs best
✅ Extended Timeline – Apply within 12 months of the disaster declaration
Many fire victims don’t realize that some insurance companies may allow funds originally meant for rent to go toward a home purchase. That’s a conversation worth having—rebuilding can take years, and in many cases, a mortgage payment could be lower than rent.
More Than Just Selling Homes – Providing Real Solutions
If you’re struggling with financing, insurance, rebuilding, or knowing where to start, please don’t hesitate to reach outI’m not just here to help you buy or sell a home. I’m here to connect you with resources, professionals, and support that can make this journey easier.
Contact Me Anytime:
Robbyn Battles
📧 [email protected]
📞 818-388-1631
🌐 TheHouseAgent.com
I’ll continue sharing helpful updates, and if you need assistance right now, reach out. You’re not alone in this.