Nine months after the Palisades and Eaton fires, the choice of whether to sell or stay has bewildered many homeowners.

In Malibu, the situation is even more dire as international buyers and developers have snapped up properties while residents struggle with costly regulations.

Two brothers from New Zealand bought up $65 million worth of burned-out lots on the beach this year. Real estate agents who spoke with my colleague Jack Flemming said they’ve noticed a surge in interest from Europe, Canada and Asia.

Now, locals are worried that the city may never fully get back on its feet and property values will suffer.

And as rebuilds get costlier, locals told The Times they are concerned that by the time Malibu eventually gets back on its feet, it won’t feel the same. Lifelong residence

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