"Round One" - San Jose, CA
Short Update:
- We’re doing OK. Ready to settle back somewhere.
- We found a place in Santa Cruz. Moving on Saturday
- I’ve focused on housing primarily the last week. Next, we’ll move on to other issues like what to do with our house in Boulder Creek
- I might have evidence of a scam. In conversation with a contractor, I found out that he gave the previous owners a report (that they asked for). In the report, he told the homeowners that the retaining would fail. While I did a ton of due diligence before we bought, including talking to engineers and contractors, we didn't speak to this specific contractor. By chance I found him. Prior owners failed to disclose the report they received. We’re following up with attorneys to see if there is recourse.
Other observations:
I feel like “round one” is coming to a close. We haven’t had to look for a rental since Sam was born. I forgot how stressful and challenging it is, especially with two dogs. Our goal was to stay in Santa Cruz since Melissa’s work is there, my motorcycle community is there and the spiritual community we are joining is there. Generally, we like the vibe. Living in San Jose for the better part of two weeks I was reminded of the difference in attitude and culture in Silicon Valley. We’ve grown accustomed to a slower pace. Age certainly is a part of this. Yea, I’m slowing down.
We found what I think is a good landlord. In the Bay Area / Santa Cruz rentals are hard to find. This gives landlords a tremendous amount of power. We've experienced three scammers. One tried to get me to wire $4000.00 to his account to hold a rental. I never met him nor had a direct conversation. All was over email and text. Others were running similar scams. I virtually looked at about 50 listings from East Palo Alto to Watsonville. Our new landlord treated us with dignity and respect. Sometimes my more financially independent friends ask me how they can serve the under-resourced. One simple and just way is to be a fair and decent landlord.
I’ve been completely overwhelmed by the care we’ve received from our communities. Our extended network of friends from all sectors has supported us. We’re beyond grateful. In the next few weeks, I hope to reflect more on our challenges. Facing financial crisis and homelessness is a visceral experience. We had a strong community around us. Others, particularly immigrants, may not have that level of support. I can’t imagine what it would be like to face this without the love and support of the community.
“Round Two” and the following will be different challenges as we look at our financial future and finalize the close-out at our Boulder Creek home. I also need to discuss our situation with an attorney. For now, as scripture instructs us, we’ll focus on today. Tomorrow has its own set of problems.
Here is a very interesting article on housing that resonates with our current challenges: https://apple.news/AGtgljWc5SDaQzzijuSS2aw
Much love and gratitude,
- John and Melissa Liotti
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