From Fire Safety to Dream Homes: What You Need to Know About San Diego Real Estate Right Now

If you live in California, fire safety isn’t just a seasonal concern—it’s a year-round necessity. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or property investor, understanding how to protect your home from wildfires is critical. Even in San Diego County, homes near brush, canyons, or marked fire hazard zones are vulnerable. That’s why I always stress the importance of proactive preparation.

Start with the basics: clean your dryer vents, install working smoke detectors (I recommend the Wi-Fi-enabled kind that send alerts to your phone), and replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors annually. If you live in or are buying in a high-risk area, fire-hardening your home is key—trim back any overgrown brush, cover your eaves to keep sparks from entering your attic, and keep defensible space around your home. It could make all the difference. I also tell all my clients to keep a go bag—something you can grab in a moment’s notice with essentials like documents, medication, and emergency supplies. And if you can, store your important papers in a fire-resistant safe. It’s peace of mind that’s worth every penny.

Now, if you’re in the market to buy a home—especially in areas flagged for wildfire risk—don’t forget to check the fire insurance premiums. Some people fall in love with a house but don’t realize until later that the insurance costs make it unaffordable. Combine that with HOA fees, reserves, and special assessments, and it’s easy to stretch your budget without realizing it. So do the math upfront and ask your agent the right questions before making an offer.

As for the market, here’s a quick interest rate update. Rates have dipped slightly, which is welcome news: 15-year fixed mortgages are just over 6%, 30-year fixed is around 6.82%, FHA loans are at 6.41%, and VA loans are about 6.42%. Sure, they’re not the 2–3% rates we saw a couple years ago, but in this market, every little bit counts.

If you’re looking for affordable homeownership, I have a great property in Chula Vista you should know about. It’s a single-story, two-bedroom, one-bath condo with about 900 square feet of space. The kitchen has been updated with brand-new countertops and appliances. You’ll also find fresh paint, new flooring, dual-pane windows—it’s move-in ready. Best of all, this property qualifies for special financing, which means a low down payment and no mortgage insurance. Plus, there are grants available to help you buy down your rate. Priced at $379,000, it’s one of the better deals I’ve seen in a while.

Now, if you’re in the market for something a bit more luxurious, we’ve also got a showstopper: a gated estate in Chula Vista with five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and nearly 8,000 square feet of pure elegance. We’re talking vaulted ceilings, a chef’s kitchen with granite countertops and handmade cabinetry, a theater room, and custom hardwood floors. Outside, you’ll find a resort-style pool and spa, a fire pit, a cabana bathroom, and even a pool shower. It’s priced at $4.5 million and offers a level of privacy and quality you rarely find in Southern California.

Whether you’re shopping for your first home or your dream home, just remember that real estate isn’t just about location or price—it’s about knowing the risks, protecting your investment, and buying smart. And if you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you find the right property and protect it for the long haul.