📰 News Highlights

Is San Diego’s Economy in the Danger Zone? 

San Diego is feeling the squeeze—our region just posted the highest inflation rate in the nation (4%) and the highest unemployment rate we’ve seen in four years (5.2%). Experts warn these jumps aren’t just numbers on a chart—they’re hitting families in real ways, from rising childcare costs to shaky job security.

Some say federal policies on immigration and tariffs are making things worse, while others worry a recession could be closer than we think.

What does this mean for San Diegans day-to-day, and what can be done about it?

Want to learn more? Check out the full story here.

La Jolla Mansion on Sale… Dutch Auction Style 

A $13M estate in La Jolla’s Muirlands neighborhood just hit the market in a rare Dutch auction. The price will drop $250K every week until someone bites.

The 11,000+ sq. ft. coastal retreat has 6 bedrooms, 9 baths, ocean views, infinity pool, basketball and bocce courts, plus garage space for 11 cars.

Dutch auctions—dating back to 17th-century Holland—are designed to spark urgency. With La Jolla’s luxury market showing signs of softening, this strategy could be the shake-up sellers (and buyers) need.

Want to learn more? Check out the full story here.

California Invests $55M to Expand EV Charging

California has launched a $55 million incentive program to expand fast electric vehicle (EV) chargers across the state. These chargers can power an EV battery up to 80% in about 45 minutes. The program will cover installation costs for chargers at public-accessible locations like retail centers, convenience stores, and parking lots, with priority given to tribal, disadvantaged, and low-income communities.

Supporters say the initiative will make EV ownership more practical by addressing range anxiety and limited charging availability, while also benefiting businesses by attracting eco-conscious customers. However, some critics worry about losing already scarce parking spaces, though supporters argue that existing spaces are simply being designated for EVs.

The effort comes as the state pushes forward on its clean energy goals, despite recent federal action by President Donald Trump rescinding California’s EV sales mandate set for 2035.

Want to learn more? Check out the full story here.

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🎬 Reel Recap + Real Details

Horton Plaza Foreclosed

Remember Horton Plaza—the quirky ‘80s mall that once revived downtown? After a $175M makeover attempt into a sleek office and retail campus, the property has now slipped out of the developer’s hands and back to the lender after foreclosure.

What went wrong? From shifting visions (tech hub to life sciences) to the pandemic gutting downtown office demand, the once-grand plan unraveled—leaving the future of this iconic site uncertain.

Will Horton get its next big revival, or sit stuck in limbo?

Want to learn more? Check out this link or watch our reel here.

Oceanside Regal Plaza Decision Delayed

Big changes could be coming to downtown Oceanside! The Regal Theater site may soon be transformed into a seven-story, 332-unit mixed-use project with apartments, restaurants, shops, and a massive parking structure.

But not everyone’s on board—residents and city leaders raised concerns about the loss of the beloved theater, shrinking public plaza space, and whether the project offers enough affordable housing. The developer is now heading back to the drawing board, with updated plans expected in October.

Will Oceanside embrace this big downtown makeover, or push back for something different?

Want to learn more? Check out this link  or watch our reel here.

​​Your Guide to Summer Fun ✨

Surf Art at the Oceanside Museum of Art

Surf meets canvas in Oceanside! The Oceanside Museum of Art and the California Surf Museum are teaming up for a first-of-its-kind exhibition, Surf Art: Exploring California’s Coastal Culture. Featuring paintings, sculptures, surfboards, textiles, and more from 30 regional artists, the dual show highlights the creative side of surf culture. The exhibit opens Aug. 23 at OMA and Sept. 13 at the Surf Museum, running through Feb. 1, 2026.

Want to learn more? Check out this link!

Oceanside Vegan Food Festival

Get ready, foodies! The Oceanside Vegan Food Festival is taking over the Civic Center Plaza this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with more than 70 vendors serving up everything from bao and noodles to dairy-free desserts and loaded fries. Between bites, enjoy live DJs, shop local makers, and even meet adoptable pets from A Way Home For Dogs and Desert Catopia. A full day of sunshine, flavor, and fun!

Want to learn more? Check out their webpage here!

Local Eats and Coffee Shops ❤️ 

☕ Coffee Shop of the Week: California Bean

📍Encinitas | 552 Santa Fe Dr

Looking for coffee that’s quick, kind, and won’t drain your wallet? Swing by California Bean, where lattes under $7 are still a thing (yes, really!). Whether you’re craving their signature white coffee for that extra buzz or want to try one of their fun monthly specials—like a Banana Foster Latte or Dirty Scooby Chai—this spot delivers both flavor and friendliness. Independently owned by Morgan, California Bean is all about bringing back the charm of a local coffee shop: simple, quality brews, warm service, and a smile to start your day.

Check out their instagram here!

🍴 Restaurant of the Week: Shorebird

📍Seaport Village | 885 W Harbor Dr, Unit B1 

After years of anticipation (and a few too many permits), Shorebird has finally opened its doors over the water at Seaport Village! Known for its scratch kitchen—no cans, no frozen food, just fresh flavors daily—Shorebird brings coastal dining with a view that’s hard to beat. From juicy grilled meats to refreshing watermelon mojitos, every detail is crafted from scratch. This is Shorebird’s fourth location (joining Newport, Sedona, and Palm Desert), but its San Diego debut feels extra special. With indoor-outdoor seating perched right above the bay, it’s the perfect new spot to sip, savor, and watch the tides roll in.

Check out their instagram here!

📺 San Diego’s Housing Market has SHIFTED

The San Diego real estate market just took a major turn, and if you’re planning to buy or sell, you need to know exactly what’s happening before making a move. The wrong timing or strategy could cost you thousands, and most people don’t even realize the shift has already started.

$6K Price Drop!

5 bed + loft | 4.5 baths | 3600 sqft | 12712 Cloudbreak Ave

 Where Style Meets Serenity

Fall in love with this former model home in the sought-after Sea Cliff community, offering 5 beds + loft, 4.5 baths, and over 3,600 sq ft of smartly upgraded living space in Poway Unified.

Highlights include a chef’s kitchen with quartz counters, walk-in pantry, and top-tier appliances, plus hardwood floors, custom built-ins, and walk-in closets in every bedroom. The first-floor suite adds flexibility, while the upstairs loft and luxe primary retreat offer room to relax.

Slide open the 5-panel accordion doors to your private canyon-view backyard, featuring a tranquil fountain, turf, fruit trees, and a covered California Room with surround sound—perfect for laid-back living or entertaining.

With a Tesla charger, whole-house water softener, no rear neighbors, and no Mello-Roos, this 2016-built beauty is move-in ready and made for modern living.

Check out the video tour!

🔍 Search Homes for Sale in North County
Start your search here: Explore Listings 

Want to learn more or feature your home?
Reach out to Bern for personalized support, market insights, or to get your home listed and seen. 📧 Email Bern Today: [email protected]