Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.

  • 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…

  • 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.

  • City of Concord Launches ADU Rebate Program

    The City of Concord has introduced a rebate program offering up to $15,000 to property owners for building accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Funded by a $277,226 grant from the California Housing Finance Agency, the program aims to boost housing production, including low-income options. Applications are accepted until September 30, 2026, on a first-come, first-served basis.…

  • How Much Is $200K House Coverage in California?

    How Much Is $200K House Coverage in California?

    In California, the average cost of home insurance for a $200K house is $1,359 annually.Wildfires and earthquakes in California drive higher home insurance premiums due to increased risk exposure.

  • 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.

  • FAIR Plan coverage caps at $3 million: Here’s why experts are worried about Bay Area housing market

    Concerns are rising about the California FAIR Plan's $3 million coverage cap as wildfire victims turn to it for insurance. With estimated losses from recent wildfires in Los Angeles County reaching $30 billion, many Bay Area homes, averaging over $2 million, may not be adequately covered. Experts warn this could slow the housing market, as…

  • 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 Leads in Single-Family Rental Price Hikes

    California Leads in Single-Family Rental Price Hikes

    California cities lead the nation in single-family rental price increases in Q3 2024. Nationwide single-family rents ↑ 3%, but California saw higher surges in rental prices.

  • New California Laws Impact Landlords’ Rental Practices

    New California Laws Impact Landlords’ Rental Practices

    California's new renter's rights laws require landlords to adjust practices for compliance and avoid legal disputes. AB 2801 restricts security deposit deductions and requires photo documentation of unit condition at key stages.

  • Regulations target insurance crisis

    California property owners are not legally required to have insurance, but many do to protect against risks like wildfires. With increasing wildfires, insurers are hesitant to provide coverage. The state's insurance commissioner has proposed allowing insurers to use computer modeling for premiums and requiring coverage in high-risk areas. While some support this, Consumer Watchdog criticizes…

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