Wildfire Worries

Dear Wildfire Worries,

Wildfires on a property aren’t necessarily a bad thing. They are part of a healthy ecosystem. Unfortunately, they can be seen as an eyesore on a property and can be perceived to decrease the value. However, wildfires do more for the wildlife habitat and ecosystem than spending millions of dollars on habitat enhancements would. When a wildfire comes through the forest canopy, more springs/water will typically start to flow, and the amount of vegetation that grows the following year is incredible. Does a property not touched by a wildfire hold more value at the time of the transaction? Yes, but remember, the perceived damage from a fire is temporary, whereas the benefits to that ecosystem are long-term; plus, you won’t have to worry about that area burning again anytime soon.