Climate change is no longer a future threat—it's a present reality affecting property values, insurance costs, and investment returns. Savvy investors integrate climate risk into every decision.
Flood Risk Rising
100-year floodplains now flood every 25-30 years in many areas. FEMA maps lag current risk by 10-20 years. Properties in flood zones face 50-70% higher insurance costs. Resale values decline 10-15% as buyers account for risk.
Wildfire Exposure Expands
15 million U.S. homes face significant wildfire risk. Insurance becoming unavailable or unaffordable in high-risk areas. California, Colorado, and Pacific Northwest seeing largest impacts.
Investment Strategies
Use climate risk modeling tools (First Street Foundation, Climate Check) before acquisitions. Avoid properties in 100-year floodplains or extreme fire zones. Budget 20-30% higher insurance costs in moderate-risk areas. Consider climate-resilient markets: Great Lakes, Pacific Northwest valleys, inland Northeast.