Why I No Longer Want to Buy a House in California… For Right Now, At Least
By Des Armstrong

Let’s talk about the dream of owning a home in California. You know, the house with the sunshine pouring in through massive windows, a backyard big enough for family barbecues, and maybe a lemon tree to flex on Instagram. Sounds nice, right? But let’s get real—California’s housing market has become more of a gamble than a guaranteed investment. And with insurance companies pulling out of the state like it’s on fire (literally and figuratively), I’m stepping back from the homeowner dream—for now.

The House (and Insurance) of Cards

If you’re paying attention, you’ve noticed a disturbing trend: insurance companies are leaving California faster than people leave parties when the lights come on. Why? Wildfires, floods, and earthquakes have turned the Golden State into a high-stakes disaster zone. Insurers can’t keep up with the claims, and the state’s strict regulations make it hard for them to raise premiums to match the risks. The result? Many have stopped offering coverage altogether or jacked up prices to insane levels.

Now imagine buying your dream home, only to find out you can’t get affordable insurance—or any insurance at all. You’re essentially betting on Mother Nature’s good mood, and let’s face it, she hasn’t been very chill lately.

The Real Cost of Homeownership

It’s not just the insurance drama. Inflation has made rebuilding costs skyrocket, so even if you do get coverage, the premiums will likely feel like a second mortgage. And then there’s the housing market itself. With interest rates climbing, monthly mortgage payments are becoming less about stability and more about survival. If you’re already juggling bills, a $5,000-a-month payment for a modest home might not feel like the “American Dream” after all.

Why I’m Sitting This One Out

California is my home, but I’m not about to sink my hard-earned money into a house that comes with more red flags than a toxic relationship. Between the skyrocketing costs, the insurance chaos, and the unpredictability of natural disasters, buying right now feels more like a financial liability than a legacy.

But Let’s Not Throw the Whole State Away

Now, I’m not here to rain on your parade if you’re still considering buying a house in California. Despite the chaos, there are still some pros to owning property here—even in today’s economy:

1. Long-Term Equity Growth

   • California’s real estate market has historically seen strong appreciation over time. If you can hold onto your property long enough, chances are good you’ll come out ahead when the market swings back up.

2. Tax Advantages

   • California offers significant property tax protections under Proposition 13, keeping your annual tax increases low—even as your property’s value grows.

3. Lifestyle and Opportunities

   • Let’s be real—there’s nowhere like California. From the beaches to the mountains to the tech and entertainment industries, owning a home here means living in one of the most vibrant and opportunity-rich states in the country.

4. Rent vs. Buy Debate

   • With rent prices hitting the stratosphere, buying could still make sense if you’re planning to stay put for a while. Locking in a fixed mortgage could shield you from the endless rent hikes.

5. Creative Solutions

   • Many homeowners are finding ways to offset costs with ADUs (accessory dwelling units) or short-term rentals. California’s strong demand for housing could make this a viable income stream.

My Final Thoughts

I’m not saying I’ll never buy a house in California—just not right now. For me, the risks and costs outweigh the benefits. But if you’re in a financial position to weather the storms (literally and figuratively), there’s still potential to make it work. As for me? I’ll be keeping my options open and watching the market like a hawk. The dream isn’t dead—it’s just on hold.

In the meantime, I’ll be focusing on stacking my cash, exploring other investments, and keeping my peace of mind intact. And that, my friends, is the real dream.

—This Breezy leaving you with the truth and a burn—stay reckless, Breezy out!