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s the Pacific Palisades community rebuilds from last month's devastating fire, a new landscape is emerging in the world of real estate. Celebrity agent Josh Altman reports a surge in interest among displaced residents seeking refuge in seven specific areas: Santa Monica, Brentwood, Beverly Hills, Lower Bel-Air, Newport Beach, Scottsdale, and Las Vegas.

    "It's not just about where they're moving to," Altman explains, "it's what we know they're buying. And right now, it's all about the deals getting done." He reveals that his team receives multiple inquiries daily from families seeking homes in Santa Monica and Brentwood, with requests pouring in every hour of the day.

    The fire has triggered an unprecedented market shift, with home values skyrocketing at a pace more aggressive than during the COVID-19 pandemic or when interest rates were at 2%. "Comps are no longer relevant," Altman notes. "We're navigating a new market where only recent sales matter."

    Altman's data suggests that families are prioritizing stability for their children, with many seeking out schools in their desired neighborhoods. He shares the story of a public school in Newport Beach that has received 76 new applications from Los Angeles families in just 10 days.

    While it's too early to determine if these moves are permanent, Altman believes that many displaced residents will choose not to return to the Palisades. "I still think 70% won't come back," he says. "There's a whole new group of people who will be moving in."

    As the community rebuilds, Altman is left wondering about the future of the Palisades' real estate market. "What's the value of land that won't be rebuilt?" he asks. "Who will be the first to take an offer when we can close deals again? And how will this affect sales in the area?" Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the Pacific Palisades will never be the same.