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The Buyer Wish List: What Makes a Property Irresistible in 2025
Real Estate, Selling, Buying, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Selling, Buying, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

The Buyer Wish List: What Makes a Property Irresistible in 2025

Buyer expectations are changing fast — and the homes that meet those expectations are the ones selling the fastest. From flexible floor plans to sustainable design and connected communities, I’m seeing these trends firsthand at my open houses every week.

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Your Guide to Buying a California Beach House as an Out-of-State Buyer
Real Estate, Buying, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Buying, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Your Guide to Buying a California Beach House as an Out-of-State Buyer

California’s coastline continues to draw second-home buyers from across the country, offering a unique combination of investment potential and an unmatched coastal lifestyle. But buying a California beach house from out of state requires more than just spotting the perfect listing online. It takes strategy, preparation, and the right local guidance.

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The Hidden Dangers of Mispricing Your Home in San Diego County
Real Estate, Selling, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Selling, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

The Hidden Dangers of Mispricing Your Home in San Diego County

When it’s time to sell your San Diego County home, there’s one mistake that can cost you more than any other: mispricing your property. Whether you’re aiming high and “testing the market” or pricing too low in hopes of a fast sale, the consequences can be costly and frustrating. Here’s what every homeowner needs to know about why pricing your home correctly is absolutely critical in today’s market.

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San Diego’s Crown Jewel | Theories Behind the Origin of “La Jolla”
La Jolla, Local History, Real Estate Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 La Jolla, Local History, Real Estate Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

San Diego’s Crown Jewel | Theories Behind the Origin of “La Jolla”

La Jolla, one of the most picturesque and prestigious coastal communities in Southern California, is known for its breathtaking ocean views, elegant homes, and vibrant local culture. But beyond its beauty and charm lies a centuries-old question: Where did the name “La Jolla” come from?

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The California Coastal Commission: What San Diego Residents Need to Know
Real Estate, Environment Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Environment Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

The California Coastal Commission: What San Diego Residents Need to Know

Living along San Diego’s coastline offers unmatched beauty and lifestyle benefits—but it also means navigating the rules of the California Coastal Commission (CCC). Created by voters in 1972 and made permanent by the California Coastal Act of 1976, the CCC is tasked with protecting California’s 1,100-mile shoreline, balancing environmental preservation, public access, and coastal development.

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1031 Exchanges: A Smart Strategy for San Diego Real Estate Investors
Money and Market News, Real Estate, Investing, Taxes, Buying, Selling Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Money and Market News, Real Estate, Investing, Taxes, Buying, Selling Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

1031 Exchanges: A Smart Strategy for San Diego Real Estate Investors

In San Diego’s luxury real estate market, where property values are among the highest in the nation, smart tax strategies can make a big difference. One of the most effective tools available to investors is the 1031 exchange. Named after Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code, this strategy allows you to defer capital gains taxes when selling one investment property and reinvesting in another of “like-kind.”

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Proposition 19: Key Facts for San Diego Homeowners and Real Estate Investors
Real Estate, Money and Market News, Taxes, Senior Living, Investing, Buying, Selling Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Money and Market News, Taxes, Senior Living, Investing, Buying, Selling Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Proposition 19: Key Facts for San Diego Homeowners and Real Estate Investors

California Proposition 19, passed by voters in 2020, brought major changes to the state’s property tax laws. For homeowners in San Diego County—especially those buying or selling high-value homes—understanding Prop 19 is essential for making informed financial decisions.

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Honored to Be a Panelist at the 2025 San Diego Military Summit
Real Estate, Veterans, Events Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Veterans, Events Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Honored to Be a Panelist at the 2025 San Diego Military Summit

Excited to share that I’ll be a panelist at this year’s San Diego Military Summit! 🇺🇸 I’ll be diving into life after service, breaking down VA homeownership benefits, and sharing how real estate can empower our veteran community.

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10 Reasons | Why Selling Your San Diego Home Without a Realtor Can Cost You Time, Money, and Results
Real Estate, Money and Market News Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Money and Market News Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

10 Reasons | Why Selling Your San Diego Home Without a Realtor Can Cost You Time, Money, and Results

Tempted to try selling your San Diego home yourself? Many homeowners think they can save on commission by skipping a Realtor, but the reality is that most FSBO sellers end up wasting valuable time, losing money, or even failing to sell their home at all. Here are the top 10 reasons why it pays to work with a local expert—and what you risk if you go it alone.

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Investing in Your First Rental Property: A Smart Start in Luxury Real Estate
Real Estate, Money and Market News, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Money and Market News, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Investing in Your First Rental Property: A Smart Start in Luxury Real Estate

Real estate has long been regarded as one of the most reliable and rewarding paths to building long-term wealth—and for good reason. Whether you’re looking to generate passive income, diversify your investment portfolio, or build equity through appreciation, owning a rental property is a strategic move.

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Landscaping as Leverage: What Charlie Munger Would Say About San Diego Curb Appeal
Real Estate, Home and Garden Trends, Money & Market News, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Home and Garden Trends, Money & Market News, Investing Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Landscaping as Leverage: What Charlie Munger Would Say About San Diego Curb Appeal

When it comes to real estate wisdom, few voices carry as much weight as Charlie Munger’s. As the late Vice Chairman of Berkshire Hathaway and Warren Buffett’s closest confidant, Munger was not only a master of investing but also a deep thinker on human behavior, design, and value creation. One of his lesser-known yet profoundly insightful views involves something surprisingly down-to-earth: landscaping.

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Get More as a Homebuyer: How the BRBC Transforms Your Real Estate Experience
Real Estate, Contracts, Buying Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Contracts, Buying Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Get More as a Homebuyer: How the BRBC Transforms Your Real Estate Experience

Buying a home in Southern California is an exciting adventure, whether you’re searching for a stylish coastal retreat or a luxurious estate nestled in one of our beautiful communities. But in a market this dynamic, having a true expert by your side makes all the difference. As a Luxury Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, I believe every buyer deserves not just representation—but VIP service and advocacy at every step. That’s exactly what you receive when you choose to work with me and sign the BRBC agreement.

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Rancho Santa Fe: Where California’s Legacy Meets Timeless Luxury
Real Estate, Rancho Santa Fe, Neighborhood Profiles Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Rancho Santa Fe, Neighborhood Profiles Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Rancho Santa Fe: Where California’s Legacy Meets Timeless Luxury

Nestled in the rolling hills just a few miles inland from the Pacific Ocean, Rancho Santa Fe stands as one of the most prestigious and historic communities in the United States. Known for its sprawling estates, equestrian lifestyle, and unmatched privacy, Rancho Santa Fe offers a rare combination of heritage and high-end living.

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Discover Dixon Trail by KB Home: Escondido’s Fire-Safe, Energy-Efficient New Construction Community
Real Estate, New Construction, Neighborhood Profiles Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, New Construction, Neighborhood Profiles Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Discover Dixon Trail by KB Home: Escondido’s Fire-Safe, Energy-Efficient New Construction Community

If you’re in the market for a new home in Southern California—whether you’re a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or simply searching for a safer, smarter way to live—Dixon Trail by KB Home in Escondido, CA deserves your attention. This thoughtfully designed community blends modern construction with advanced wildfire resilience, energy-efficient features, and personalized design options, all nestled in a scenic North County location.

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How to Upgrade a Home to Be ADA Accessible: A Guide for Luxury Homeowners
Real Estate, Home and Garden Trends, Senior Living Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Home and Garden Trends, Senior Living Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

How to Upgrade a Home to Be ADA Accessible: A Guide for Luxury Homeowners

Whether you're preparing to age in place or want to enhance the inclusivity of your luxury property, understanding essential ADA modifications can help you create a functional, stylish, and accessible living space. In this blog post, we’ll explore a few ideas for upgrading your home to improve accessibility while maintaining its sophisticated design and appeal.

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San Diego’s Real Estate Market is Shifting: What a Buyer’s Market Means for You
Money & Market News, Real Estate, Buying, Selling Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Money & Market News, Real Estate, Buying, Selling Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

San Diego’s Real Estate Market is Shifting: What a Buyer’s Market Means for You

After years of steep competition and soaring prices, the San Diego real estate landscape is entering a new phase—a buyer’s market. This transition presents new opportunities, but also new challenges depending on which side of the transaction you’re on. Here’s what this means for you, whether you’re looking to purchase a new home or preparing to sell.

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Choosing the Perfect New Home Windows: A Guide to Window Materials
Home and Garden Trends, Real Estate Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Home and Garden Trends, Real Estate Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Choosing the Perfect New Home Windows: A Guide to Window Materials

When purchasing a new luxury home or renovating your current one, selecting the right windows is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Windows not only influence the aesthetic of your home but also affect energy efficiency, security, and the overall ambiance of your living spaces. Whether you're focused on style, sustainability, or functionality, choosing the right window materials can significantly impact your home's luxury appeal.

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The Top Plants That Can Hurt Your Property Resale Value And What to Plant Instead
Real Estate, Home and Garden Trends, Fire Safety Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Real Estate, Home and Garden Trends, Fire Safety Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

The Top Plants That Can Hurt Your Property Resale Value And What to Plant Instead

In San Diego’s luxury market, a home's landscaping isn't just scenery — it's a statement. Buyers at the high end expect more than just beauty; they want smart, sustainable design, low maintenance, and fire-conscious plantings that complement Southern California’s climate.

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History + Legacy of Berkshire Hathaway
Money and Market News, Real Estate Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Money and Market News, Real Estate Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

History + Legacy of Berkshire Hathaway

As a luxury realtor proudly affiliated with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, I often reflect on the extraordinary legacy that supports our brand. When clients ask why they should choose to work with us, I do not just talk about our unmatched market knowledge and commitment to excellence—I share the remarkable story of Berkshire Hathawayitself. Understanding the company’s history helps explain the values and vision that continue to guide us today.

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