When the wildfires swept through Los Angeles, devastating neighbourhoods and leaving a trail of destruction, local realtor Johny Pach found himself not just selling homes but fighting to protect them.
Known for his high-energy approach to real estate, Johny’s world turned upside down as the blazes edged dangerously close to properties he once showcased to eager buyers.
But beyond the flames, Johny witnessed something extraordinary – a community coming together, both agents and clients offering support and a renewed sense of purpose.
In part two of this exclusive interview, he opens up about the emotional toll of the fires, how they’ve reshaped the local property market and the powerful lessons learned about resilience, both personal and professional.
How have the recent fires impacted your day-to-day work as a realtor?
The recent fires in LA have had a profound impact on us, bringing a wave of challenges and emotions. From the terrifying mandatory evacuations to new fires erupting seemingly everywhere – often just a stone’s throw from where I live and where my Compass office is located in Beverly Hills – it’s been a nerve-wracking time. At one point, the smoke was so thick that we had to wear masks just to breathe, adding to the overwhelming sense of anxiety.
But beyond the physical discomfort, it was an incredibly sad period. Many of my clients reached out daily, displaced by the fires and scrambling to find temporary housing, purchase new properties, and, in many cases, seeking donations of clothes and food to help them through the crisis. The personal toll on everyone has been significant, but it’s also been a time of coming together to support those in need.
What challenges are your clients facing in the current real estate market due to the fires?
Given the current situation with the LA fires, my clients are facing several unique challenges in the real estate market. Many clients have been displaced due to evacuation orders or property damage.
They’re often looking for quick solutions, whether that means finding rental properties or purchasing homes in areas not affected by the fires.
The fires also led to concerns about how properties near affected areas will fare in terms of value. Buyers are hesitant to invest in areas that may be prone to future fire risks, while sellers may be worried about the impact of recent events on their property’s market price.
For those looking to purchase homes, securing insurance in fire-prone areas is becoming more difficult, and the cost of premiums is rising. Lenders may also be wary about financing homes in these regions, creating additional hurdles for buyers who need approval.
Clients are often dealing with the emotional aftermath of the fires – whether that’s the trauma of losing their homes or the anxiety of living in areas at risk. This emotional stress can make it harder for them to focus on long-term investments or make decisions in a market that’s already unstable.
There’s a noticeable shortage of rental properties as many people displaced by the fires are urgently seeking a place to stay. This has led to increased competition, driving up rental prices and making it even harder for clients to find temporary housing.
One of the most common forms of price gouging during the LA fires occurred in the rental market. When entire neighborhoods were evacuated or homes were damaged or destroyed, displaced residents found themselves scrambling for temporary housing. This demand for short-term rentals or temporary accommodations in areas that were unaffected by the fires often led to rental price hikes.
In some cases, landlords raised rent prices by more than 10% (which is the legal threshold in California during a state of emergency), taking advantage of the desperation of displaced individuals and families.
In many cases, my role has shifted from just helping people buy or sell properties to being more of a guide – offering support and resources to those who are dealing with the aftermath of such a devastating event. It’s a delicate time for both buyers and sellers, and finding the right balance of urgency and patience is key.
Have you noticed a shift in buyer or seller behaviour since the fires?
Yes, there’s been a shift in buyer and seller behaviour since the LA fires, with both groups adjusting to the reality of the crisis and its aftermath.
Buyers have become more cautious, especially when considering properties in fire-prone areas. The recent fires have made many people more conscious of the risks associated with living near areas that are susceptible to wildfires. Some buyers are opting for homes in less vulnerable locations, which has shifted interest away from certain neighbourhoods. On the flip side, this caution has led to greater demand in areas that are considered safer, further from fire zones, or with better infrastructure for fire prevention.
Buyers are now more focused on how well properties are equipped to handle emergencies. Features like fire-resistant materials, defensible space (buffer zones around homes) and proximity to fire stations or evacuation routes have become increasingly important. Buyers may also be asking about a property’s fire history or the availability of insurance. This focus on fire preparedness has become a major factor in decision-making.
For some buyers, the fires have created a sense of uncertainty, causing them to put their home-buying plans on hold or delay decisions. The disruption caused by the fires and the ongoing risk of wildfires has made some people hesitant to make large investments, especially when the future of property values and the overall stability of neighbourhoods can feel uncertain.
For sellers, the fires have introduced new challenges. In some cases, sellers in areas that were affected by the fires (even if their property wasn’t damaged) have found it harder to sell, as buyers are hesitant about the risks of living in high-risk zones. This has led to a slower market in certain neighbourhoods.
Sellers are now facing increased pressure to disclose any potential fire risks, as well as information about fire damage or the rebuilding process. Homes that are located in fire zones or near burned areas may require more effort to sell, and some buyers may be asking for reduced prices due to these concerns.
Some sellers in fire-prone areas may be adjusting their pricing to reflect the current market’s hesitations. Buyers’ concerns about fire risks and insurance premiums are pushing prices down in certain areas. This is especially true for homes in neighborhoods that have seen multiple fires over the years.
Some buyers are leaning toward fixer-upper properties or homes in need of renovation, as they may feel more confident in purchasing homes that have been rebuilt or newly renovated with fire-resistant materials. This could be an opportunity for buyers who are interested in homes with modern updates, but it also highlights that the market for homes requiring significant work might see a boost.
“Many people who were displaced by the fires are still searching for temporary accommodations, which has driven up demand for rental properties.”
Many people who were displaced by the fires are still searching for temporary accommodations, which has driven up demand for rental properties. Renters are more likely to seek places further from fire-prone zones, leading to a potential shift in rental demand as well. As a result, rental prices in safer areas have increased due to this influx of displaced residents.
Some buyers are showing more interest in areas that have strong community resilience and infrastructure designed to withstand disasters. People are considering things like fire-resistant building codes, access to emergency services, and whether a community has established evacuation plans or disaster response systems.
The emotional toll of the fires has also shifted the mindset of both buyers and sellers. Displaced homeowners may be more motivated to sell, either to start fresh or because they’re overwhelmed by the devastation. Buyers, on the other hand, may be more inclined to purchase homes that feel safer or are already equipped with emergency features, as they seek peace of mind.
How are you adapting your business strategy to navigate this difficult situation?
It’s been a difficult time for everyone, but I’ve had to adjust my approach in several ways to navigate these challenges. First and foremost, I’ve focused on helping clients feel safe and confident in their choices. A lot of buyers are more cautious now, especially when it comes to homes in fire-prone areas. So, I’ve been emphasizing properties with fire-resistant features, defensible spaces, and proximity to emergency services. I also make sure to educate buyers on things like fire insurance, which has become a big concern for many.
In addition to that, I’ve been focusing more on areas that are further away from high-risk zones. People are definitely leaning toward neighborhoods that feel safer, so I’ve shifted my attention to these areas, while also highlighting communities that have strong fire-preparedness measures in place.
Another thing that’s really changed is helping displaced clients find housing. A lot of people were suddenly in need of temporary rentals or even longer-term homes. So, I’ve been working closely with clients to find places for them to stay while they recover, which has meant expanding my efforts into the rental market. It’s about providing that extra level of support right now.
With sellers, it’s a bit trickier. If they’re in a fire-prone area or have been impacted by the fires, it’s taking more time and communication to reassure potential buyers. Sellers are also facing more pressure to disclose fire risks, which can impact pricing. So, I’m helping them navigate these challenges and adjust expectations where needed.
“I’ve also become more flexible with transaction timelines. If someone’s been affected by the fires, I understand that their priorities and circumstances may have changed. So, if a client needs more time or has to adjust their plans, I’m there to support them without putting additional pressure on the deal.”
I’ve found that staying connected with clients on a personal level has been crucial. Not only do they need help with real estate, but many are dealing with a lot of emotional stress from the fires. I try to check in with them regularly and offer resources, whether it’s finding temporary housing, referring contractors for fire repairs, or even just offering emotional support. It’s really about being there for them as a trusted advisor, not just as an agent.
Lastly, I’m putting more focus on my community. There’s been so much outpouring of support from locals, so I’ve been involved in local relief efforts and offering assistance wherever I can. People are looking for agents who not only know the market but also care about the community, especially during such tough times.
Overall, it’s all about adapting and being there for my clients—not just to help them buy or sell, but to guide them through this incredibly challenging situation. Real estate is about more than just transactions, especially in times like these.
What resources or support have been most helpful to you during this time?
During times like this, having a strong support network is absolutely essential. One of the most helpful resources has been local government and emergency services. They’ve provided crucial updates on evacuation zones, air quality reports, and fire risk assessments. Staying informed through official channels has allowed me to keep my clients in the loop and offer them accurate information when they need it most.
Another resource that’s been a huge help is technology. Tools like our COMPASS CRM platform have made it easier to update listings, track changes in the market, and stay connected with clients, even when things are chaotic. For example, I’ve been able to quickly update property details to highlight fire safety features or make changes to listings based on what’s happening in real-time. Our technology has also allowed me to hold virtual showings, which has been a lifesaver for buyers who may be stuck in evacuation zones or unable to travel.
“Networking with other agents has been incredibly valuable, too.”
Networking with other agents has been incredibly valuable, too. The real estate community in LA is really tight-knit, and we’ve been sharing resources and advice on how to best support clients during this time. Whether it’s referring clients to trusted contractors for fire-related repairs or discussing strategies for handling insurance claims, collaborating with fellow agents has made the process a lot smoother.
On a more personal level, community support has been essential. I’ve been involved with local organizations and relief efforts, and it’s been inspiring to see the outpouring of help from neighbors, businesses, and community leaders. Being able to contribute in small ways has given me a sense of purpose and helped me build even stronger relationships with my clients, who are going through a lot of uncertainty.
Lastly, mentorship and guidance from more experienced agents and brokers have been incredibly helpful. This is a tough time for everyone, and having someone to talk to, ask for advice, or bounce ideas off of has made a big difference. Whether it’s about adjusting strategies or understanding the emotional needs of clients during such a stressful time, having that mentorship has kept me grounded.
Overall, it’s been a combination of staying informed, leaning on technology, collaborating with colleagues, engaging with the community, and seeking mentorship that has allowed me to navigate this challenging period. It’s all about staying adaptable and being there for my clients, but also remembering to take care of myself and my network during this time.
Johny Pach is a luxury realtor with Compass in Beverly Hills
