explore, Grow, & Thrive

Real Estate Tips
Money + Market News
Cities + Neighborhoods
Experiences
Home + Garden
Local Spotlight
Bring Your Dog
History
Wildlife
Is My Black Walnut Tree Killing Other Plants? What San Diego Homeowners Need to Know
Home and Garden Trends Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Home and Garden Trends Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Is My Black Walnut Tree Killing Other Plants? What San Diego Homeowners Need to Know

“Is my black walnut killing other plants?” The short answer: Possibly—yes. Here’s what you need to know about this majestic tree, the natural toxin it releases, and which plants thrive in harmony with it.

Read More
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.

Read More
Crane Flies in San Diego: The Harmless, Horrifying Insect That Just Will Not Go Away
Wildlife, Environment, Home and Garden Trends Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Wildlife, Environment, Home and Garden Trends Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Crane Flies in San Diego: The Harmless, Horrifying Insect That Just Will Not Go Away

Let’s be honest: if you have lived in San Diego County for any amount of time, you have probably had a run-in with a crane fly—and you probably did not enjoy it.

Read More
Choosing the Right Fence for Your San Diego Luxury Home: Styles, Pros & Cons
Home and Garden Trends, Home Design Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Home and Garden Trends, Home Design Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Choosing the Right Fence for Your San Diego Luxury Home: Styles, Pros & Cons

Whether you’re seeking elegance, privacy, security, or a blend of all three, the right fencing can elevate your property’s curb appeal while offering long-term functionality. But not all fences are created equal. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most popular fencing options for luxury properties in San Diego, including cost, customization, installation, maintenance, and how they affect your home’s privacy and value.

Read More
Upgrade Your Home and Health: Why a Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System is a Must for San Diego Luxury Homes
Home and Garden Trends, Home Design Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Home and Garden Trends, Home Design Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Upgrade Your Home and Health: Why a Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System is a Must for San Diego Luxury Homes

When it comes to luxury living in San Diego, attention to detail is everything—from custom kitchen finishes to spa-like bathrooms and state-of-the-art appliances. But one essential upgrade that often goes overlooked is your home’s water quality. If you want pure, great-tasting water straight from the tap, a reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration system is an investment that delivers long-term health benefits, convenience, and even cost savings. Here’s why an RO system is the smart choice for your San Diego dream home.

Read More
Guardians of the Coast: The Storied Legacy of Camp Pendleton and Its Influence on North County Coastal Living
Local History, Places To Know Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Local History, Places To Know Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Guardians of the Coast: The Storied Legacy of Camp Pendleton and Its Influence on North County Coastal Living

Spanning over 125,000 acres of coastal terrain, Camp Pendleton is not only the largest Marine Corps base on the West Coast, but also one of the last great open-space preserves in Southern California.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
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.

Read More
The Beavers of Camp Pendleton: A Natural Marvel in Southern California’s Coastal Real Estate Landscape
Wildlife Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Wildlife Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

The Beavers of Camp Pendleton: A Natural Marvel in Southern California’s Coastal Real Estate Landscape

When you think of the beauty and serenity of Southern California's coastline, images of pristine beaches, stunning ocean views, and upscale living likely come to mind. However, there’s a lesser-known natural treasure on the Camp Pendleton military base that’s just as captivating: the thriving beaver population.

Read More
Meet Sara Commers: Crafting Unique Jewelry with Heart and Skill in Del Mar
Jewelry Designers, Local Business Spotlight Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Jewelry Designers, Local Business Spotlight Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Meet Sara Commers: Crafting Unique Jewelry with Heart and Skill in Del Mar

Sara Commers of Commers Custom Jewelers specializes in creating original and unique designs for her clients using platinum, palladium, and karat gold, along with ethically sourced diamonds, colored gemstones, and pearls.

Read More
San Diego Padres: A Legacy of Excellence in America's Finest City
Experiences, Local History, San Diego Sports Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Experiences, Local History, San Diego Sports Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

San Diego Padres: A Legacy of Excellence in America's Finest City

Since their Major League debut in 1969, the Padres have mirrored the transformation of San Diego from a relaxed beach town into a global destination for upscale living, innovation, and sport. Today, the team’s legacy is more than baseball—it’s about identity, resilience, and the sophisticated rhythm of Southern California life.

Read More
Transitioning to a Single-Story Home for Healthy Living
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

Transitioning to a Single-Story Home for Healthy Living

In the luxury real estate market, one of the rising trends among homebuyers is the shift toward single-story homes. As more people prioritize health and wellness in their daily lives, a single-story layout offers a range of benefits that can contribute to a healthier lifestyle. From convenience and accessibility to reducing physical strain, transitioning to a single-level home can significantly enhance your overall well-being.

Read More
La Jolla: A Coastal Legacy of Luxury, Culture, and Timeless Beauty
Places To Know, La Jolla, Real Estate Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Places To Know, La Jolla, Real Estate Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

La Jolla: A Coastal Legacy of Luxury, Culture, and Timeless Beauty

When it comes to premier coastal destinations in Southern California, few places rival the enduring prestige and beauty of La Jolla. Known for its dramatic oceanfront cliffs, palm-lined promenades, and world-class amenities, La Jolla isn’t just a location—it’s a lifestyle.

Read More
Squishy Pup Meetup Recap | Carlsbad, CA | May 3rd 2025
Squishy Pup Meetup, Dog Friendly Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Squishy Pup Meetup, Dog Friendly Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Squishy Pup Meetup Recap | Carlsbad, CA | May 3rd 2025

THANK YOU to everyone who joined us for our May Squishy Pup Meetup! We had so much fun meeting you and your sweet pugs. Below is a collection of the photos we took at today’s event. Keep an eye on our Instagram pages @SquishyPupMeetyp and @CheddarPug for new reels featuring videos from the event.

Read More
Del Mar’s Dog Beach: Where Coastal Luxury Meets Canine Joy
Dog Friendly, Del Mar, Experiences Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Dog Friendly, Del Mar, Experiences Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Del Mar’s Dog Beach: Where Coastal Luxury Meets Canine Joy

In the world of luxury real estate, lifestyle is everything—and few places capture the essence of upscale coastal living quite like Del Mar, California. With its pristine beaches, boutique-lined village, and equestrian heritage, Del Mar is synonymous with elegance. Yet amidst its Mediterranean-inspired estates and cliffside vistas lies a beloved stretch of sand that speaks to the heart of what makes this seaside enclave truly exceptional: North Beach, affectionately known as Del Mar Dog Beach.

Read More
Oceanside Pier: A Beacon of Local History & Culture
Experiences, Places To Know, Oceanside Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Experiences, Places To Know, Oceanside Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

Oceanside Pier: A Beacon of Local History & Culture

As the longest wooden pier on the West Coast, the Oceanside Pier is far more than a place to take in ocean views; it is a living monument to resilience, recreation, and refined coastal culture. Learn more about this special landmark and its history.

Read More
The Best Grass Varieties for Coastal San Diego County: A Guide for Luxury Homeowners
Home and Garden Trends Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Home and Garden Trends Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

The Best Grass Varieties for Coastal San Diego County: A Guide for Luxury Homeowners

San Diego County’s coastal climate offers beautiful weather year-round, but it also presents unique challenges when it comes to maintaining a lush, healthy lawn. In this guide, we’ll explore the top grass varieties that do best in coastal San Diego County and offer tips on how to maintain them for a perfect lawn.

Read More
A Legacy in Bloom: The Timeless Elegance of the Carlsbad Flower Fields
Places To Know, Experiences, Local Business Spotlight, Carlsbad Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177 Places To Know, Experiences, Local Business Spotlight, Carlsbad Christine Lopez | Berkshire Hathaway Home Services California Properties | DRE 02241177

A Legacy in Bloom: The Timeless Elegance of the Carlsbad Flower Fields

Nestled along the sun-drenched coastline of Southern California lies a vision of natural artistry that has captivated visitors for nearly a century—the Carlsbad Flower Fields. Learn more about this 50-acre kaleidoscope of color and the history of one of Carlsbad’s most loved traditions.

Read More