I lived in LA for a decade and we have many friends, family, clients and community members suffering and send our sincerest condolences to all of those experiencing and affected this tragedy. 

Our plan is to live in one side and update the other side before renting out again.

Quote from @Kristi Kandel: Helping LA Communities Rebuild After WildfiresWhen Hurricane Ian hit Fort Myers Beach in 2022, it changed our lives forever.

You may also want to consider purchasing multi-unit properties and live in one of the units.

Live way below your means and save the majority of your income.

Virtually everyone lives somewhere especially true for those that pay taxes (in CA property and income tax).  

Live in one unit - It's a great strategy when using a bank for financing as the down payment and interest rates are more favorable to owner occupants.  

Thanks, Dan Audino Have you considered a live and flip?

., appliances, HVAC) into shorter-lived categories.

I have heard good things about Ohio, Indiana, etc.5 - Due to high interest rates flipping has become highly risky and most businesses have dried up.6 - Co-living and Assisted living seems to be popular right now.So - really depends on your market, your strategy, and your timeline.