Governor Gavin Newsom, LA28 Chairperson Casey Wasserman, Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, and NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson have released a public service announcement (PSA) through the LA Rises initiative. The PSA warns fire victims in Los Angeles about predatory real estate speculators. It highlights protections under Governor Newsom’s recent executive order that bans unsolicited, undervalued offers for three months in fire-affected communities.
Earvin “Magic” Johnson stated, “Too many of you are getting hit up out of the blue by people making unasked-for, lowball offers on your property. You do not need to take these offers. This is your land, and you know what it’s worth.” He added that such offers are illegal due to the executive order and can be reported to law enforcement agencies like the LA District Attorney or the California Attorney General.
The PSA features Magic Johnson urging homeowners to be cautious of predatory investors and understand their rights under the new order. The video stresses protecting communities from displacement and ensuring families receive fair treatment during recovery.
LA Rises is a recovery initiative co-chaired by Johnson that brings together private sector leaders to support rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles. It also provides communication efforts with information, timelines for rebuilding, and available resources.
The Governor’s executive order aims to protect those impacted by fires from opportunistic investors seeking fast cash for destroyed properties. The order makes unsolicited undervalued offers unlawful for three months in affected areas and directs relevant agencies to provide public resources on homeowners’ rights.
Violating a Governor’s order during a state of emergency is a misdemeanor in California and can lead to prosecution by the Attorney General or local district attorneys. Residents are encouraged to report low-ball offers using resources such as:
California Attorney General’s Office:
– Report violations at oag.ca.gov/report
– Phone: (800) 952-5225
LA District Attorney’s Office:
– Phone: (800) 380-3811
Complaints can also be submitted via the California Department of Real Estate’s LA WildFire Updates page. Additional information and resources are available at CA.gov/LAfires.
Governor Newsom has issued several executive orders following the Los Angeles firestorms aimed at aiding recovery, creating temporary housing, and protecting survivors from exploitation.
