How do we move forward?
As a local builder who’s children are at school in Malibu, who’s friends have lost their homes, and who has survived two devastating fires, we extend our deepest sympathies in the wake of these tragic events.
Our hearts go out to our neighbors, friends and residents who have suffered loss and heartbreak, and we wish everyone strength and unity as we collectively move forward. This is a time of heartbreak but also resilience, and we want you to know you do not face this challenge alone.
TOP 12 MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
1. Should we sell or should we build?
For most this is an incredibly emotive decision and not one that should be made lightly.
Some homeowners will find it more rewarding to rebuild, while others decide selling is simpler and far less stressful. One option we do recommend to local homeowners experiencing loss and considering a sale is to consider a joint venture with us, rather than selling the land off cheaply.
A joint venture can be a great way to maximize the value in your property and transform it into a lucrative opportunity, especially if you’re underinsured, or the costs of rebuilding appear to be too expensive.
As local contractors and developers, we can walk you through both options, ensuring you make an informed decision that fits your family’s short term and long term needs.
Ready to explore your best path? Contact us to discuss your next move.
2. HOW CAN WE VALUE OUR LAND?
Fair value depends on factors like lot size, market conditions, zoning, and the extent of wildfire damage. We can provide a ballpark estimate for you, especially if you are based in the Palisades or Malibu.
Curious about your property’s value? We’re offering free consultations.
3. What is a Joint Venture and how does it work?
In simple terms, a joint venture is when you partner with a developer to build on your property. This approach can allow you to retain ownership of your land and avoid selling predatory developers who try and take advantage of distressed properties.
Our process is extremely straight-forward — you bring the land and we handle the rest.
Interested in exploring a lucrative joint venture? Learn more here.
4. If we build, what’s next? How do we start?
The first thing to do is to find an Architect that has extensive knowledge of your local planning authorities fire rebuild code, the next is to get your permits submitted. During this process you can also work on getting your site cleared and decide on whether you are going to keep the same footprint, add 10% of the building size, or build bigger.
We can help guide you through this process and advice on how these decisions will affect your budget and timeline.
For a free consultation please contact us.
5. How do we choose an architect?
Possibly the most important first step it to pick an architects with local experience, and a portfolio matching your style, and familiarity with L.A. wildfire safety codes.
Strong communication and a proven track record in your local area are also key. Racing Green work with an extensive network of vetted architects across the Palisades, Malibu and Altadena / Pasadena who understand how to get permits issued fastest in their designated city of expertise. We strongly suggest you do not employ and architect who doesnt have recent experience and examples of approved plans in your area. Their connections and knowledge of the city can save you years of unnecessary delays.
6. How do we choose a contractor?
Whoever you use, ensure they are licensed, insured and bonded with a solid reputation and confirmed experience of building within your area, preferably also with experience in building on burn lots.
Please be extra careful when picking your contractor as the fires have attracted a lot of inexperienced contractors into the field, without the necessary knowledge or experience to get you through the process on budget, or to code.
Always ask for references, check their track record on similar projects, and ensure they’re transparent about costs and timelines.
At Racing Green we have extensive experience with Fire Rebuilds, having built multiple homes following on from the Wolsey Fires in Malibu in 2018. Furthermore we have a full time staff of over 30 skilled tradesmen ensuring we can build faster, and more reactively then the competition.
7. Are there options for financing?
Absolutely, Racing Green can put you in contact with the same lenders we use for our developments.
We can direct you to different lenders who can provide a range of options from traditional mortgage loans to specialized construction loans, as well as state or federal grants (especially for wildfire recovery). Each has unique qualification criteria and interest rates. We can help you explore what fits your rebuild goals and budget.
Ready to discuss financing? Contact Parabol Capital for the best financing options available.
8. How long does it take to build a new house in Pacific Palisades?
A typical custom home can take 12–18 months from planning to completion, but wildfire rebuilds may require additional steps like debris removal or specialized inspections. With proper planning and local expertise, you can streamline the timeline.
Ask us about fast-tracking your project—we have a plan.
9. How much does it cost to build a new hoME?
Typical costs can vary dramatically dependent on whether your foundations can be reused, site conditons such as Hillside locations, or if you want to change the overall design and footprint of the home.
We can advice you on costs and budgets and how the above affects both of these and your timeline to completion.
Let’s discuss your budget and goals—request an estimate.
10. How quicky can we start and how long will it take?
Getting started and having your plans submitted is key to this question. City backlogs will affect your timeline dramatically and so getting your applications to the front of the cue is imperative, as is working with an architect and builder who has extensive experience with expediting and fire rebuilds.
At Racing Green we rebuilt multiple homes after the Wolsey Fire so are experienced in navigating the protocols and loopholes in the getting the permits and building them. Typically, for experienced processors, permits will take c.9months to clear and builds will take 12-24 months dependent on the size and complexity of the home.
11. Can you deal with our insurance claim?
Racing Green have a long history of dealing with Insurance Adjusters and fighting for our clients to ensure they win the best case scenario. Having a contractor on board who understands the cost implications of rebuilding burn lots and the price hikes that unfortunately come with material shortages and increased demand in the face of national disasters such as these is key in ensuring you are safeguarded properly.
12. How do I find a contractor with no additional unexpected costs?
At Racing Green we start with a detailed scope of work, clear contract terms, and a transparent budgeting process.
Proper planning and open communication will always minimize surprises, establish realistic budgets and keep costs in check.