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alifornia's state leadership has been criticized for their response to the devastating wildfires, but real estate expert Mauricio Umansky believes they can "step up" to help rebuild the state. With estimated damages exceeding $100 billion, Umansky predicts a long and challenging road ahead for residents. "We need help from absolutely everybody," he said on Varney & Co., emphasizing that rebuilding will require a massive effort.

    Umansky's company, The Agency, has over 50,000 listings in the Los Angeles area, giving him a unique perspective on the crisis. He believes state and city leaders must contribute to disaster relief efforts but expressed doubt about their ability to do so effectively. "They've proven time and again that they don't have the means or brainpower to tackle this," he said.

    Umansky advocates for establishing a task force with experts who can guide the rebuilding process, ensuring that leaders listen and act on advice. The Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, Kenneth Fire, Hurst Fire, and Lidia Fire have burned over 27,000 acres and destroyed 10,000 homes in the Los Angeles area, claiming seven lives and three more fire-related deaths.

    A new analysis by JPMorgan estimates that economic losses from the wildfires could reach up to $50 billion, making it the most costly disaster in California's history. Umansky remains optimistic about the state's ability to rebuild, saying, "I'm hoping and praying for the rebuilding of these communities...that we figure out how to do it."