Serial Squatter Nightmare |Overvalued Housing Markets|CA Business News

CALIFORNIA — This week in California business news, the most overvalued housing markets in the Golden State; the nightmare "serial squatter" that took advantage of state law; and the top date spots.

Additionally, a brand that became synonymous with surf culture for a generation is closing all of it's California locations after declaring bankruptcy.

Check out this week's top headlines for California business news on Patch:

• These CA Housing Markets Are Among America's 5 Most Overvalued
• The 'Serial Squatter' Who Tormented Malibu's Elite: Report
• America's Best Date Spot Is This CA Restaurant: Yelp Ranking
• Granada Hills Man Guilty In $17M Sham Hospice Medicare Fraud
• Popular CA Surf & Skate Brand To Shutter All 124 Stores
• How New Tariffs Could Impact Prices In California
• SoCal Bar Fills Void For Women's Sports Entertainment

Quote Of The Week

“I realized that she had started doing it when she first landed in New York City 20 years ago. She’s been doing this her whole life.” - Natasha Honan, landlord in Point Dume.

The Bottom Line

• Researchers analyzed how President Trump's offshore wind energy freeze could affect projects in California.
• Following devastating wildfires in Southern California, Los Angeles' City Attorney announced she is investigating 900 price-gouging complaints.

Freebie of the Week

Members of Burger King's Royal Perks loyalty program will feel the love on Valentines with a buy one get one free Whopper deal.

More Restaurant News

Dickey's Barbecue Pit To Celebrate Grand Opening Of New Location

The event will feature barbecue food, deals and giveaways, including a grand prize drawing for a family four pack to Disneyland.

Jimmy John's Opens New Location In Chula Vista

The sandwich chain opened at a shared location with Dunkin' in Chula Vista.

Agua Caliente Casino Debuts New Menu At Water's Café

The popular casino eatery has added everything from "guilty pleasures" to farm fresh meals.

More Business News

Workday Lays Off 1,750 Workers As Part Of AI Pivot

The business and HR software company announced significant cuts just a day after reports came out that Salesforce was doing the same.

Tenants Displaced By Palisades Fire Get Eviction Protections

Those living in the city of LA following January's wildfires will benefit from more lax housing laws following a City Council vote.

Walgreens Closes San Leandro Store

The closure is one of 8 planned in California, according to the company.

Pedego Bikes Temporarily Closing Livermore Location

The e-bike retailer said it is searching for a new location in town, but will continue to take appointments.

Pleasanton Downtown Announces 2025 Lineup

From BMX shows to Porsches to concerts to pub crawls 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year in town.

Mayor Creates SFPD Hospitality Task Force

San Francisco has been the slowest major American city to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Affordable Dog, Cat Clinic Planned At ABC Recovery Center Feb. 14, 15

The low-cost spay and neuter clinic for dogs and cats is part of the Mission Of C.A.N. in Coachella Valley, supported by Fantasy Springs.

Wildomar Walmart Plans May Push Forward At Planning Commission Meeting

The proposed Walmart store would be built at the southwest corner of Monte Vista Drive and Bundy Canyon Road in Wildomar.

4 New Stores Slated For Promenade Temecula Mall, Spring & Summer, 2025

Promenade Temecula Mall announces two new stores this summer: Garage and Aerie, while a new play place and juice bar are also "coming soon.'

Irvine Wife, Ex-Husband Arrested In $5M Fraud Cause: Police

The pair used the money to support a lavish lifestyle, which included purchasing luxury cars, jewelry, real estate and travel, police say.