We actually lived in the area for close to 10 years. I know a lot of
people wouldn't even think about earthquake at all. Some think that FEMA
would bail them out should major disaster strike, so they won't even bother
with Earthquake insurance on a house worth half to one million. Earthquake
would strike here someday much like snow would fall on the North.
Incidentally, I learnt that earthquake magnitue is more of log scale -
every increment causes a 30 fold increase in released energy. A major
one is something of 7 or above. Think about the last one that's about 6,
and then multiply that by 30, and with epicenter right in the neighbourhood.

Anyway, here comes more questions/comments:

1. I still haven't heard anything about post-tension. Did some digging
on newsgroup. This technique seems like a routine on modern building.
But it sounds like people here think wood-frame 2-3 storeys are safer?

2. The tile roof looks pretty, but are they safe? Which material is safest,
affordable and reasonably durable?

3. Any other features to avoid/desire, e.g. chimney, number/size of windows?
Would Singles Family House be better than Townhouse (due to connected walls
etc, if something bad happens next door, it would likely affect us also)?

Thanks,
Raymond