Hi All,

Our moderate 5.2 quake from the other day is adding up to big bucks. Today Press Democrat's front page said they anticipate the costs from this earthquake will be around $50 million.

Meanwhile some insurance companies are taking a leave on writing new homeowners policies for 30 days in the Napa, Sonoma and Solano County area's. While it is not unusual for them to stop writing after a 5.0 or greater, it is unusual at this time because in comparing it with the Bolinas quake of last year, I am not aware of any insurance moritoriums for that quake.

What else happens following a quake? Well, mortgage companies put a stay on loans until 30 days have elapsed or more. You can just imagine how much difficulty that creates for the buyers and sellers. I'd hate to be ready to relocate to a new area and find that my loan was help up because of an earthquake. If one is in the affected area, new inspections are required before the loan will be approved. Not great for sure.

From North of the Golden Gate...Petra Challus