@Kingston Yi Something else to look into is the difference between custodial and checkbook control. 

Secure contracts with sellers at lower market pricing, then connect with cash purchasers eager to pay more, earning from the difference.

Different company?

I have rentals in BC (and AB-which is quite different). 

And others have pointed out that building in flood zones can be much more expensive with special permits, requirements like living area starting above base flood elevation, probably more than the $25K difference in the lot that's not in a flood zone.  

Maybe if you gave better advice the response would have been different.

The real estate outfit I met with out of state says that they have California investors, and they tell a different story.

If a storm is deemed a catastrophe that is a different story.  

Every situation and investor is different in my experience.

I am always happy to send you a few different options on anything you have!