📰 News Highlights

New Homes Are Rising—But Are They in the Right Places?

San Diego has permitted nearly 97,000 new homes since 2018, but most aren’t being built where they’re needed most—near major job centers and transit. Case in point: UTC and Sorrento Valley, home to more than 169,000 workers, added just 336 housing units in six years. The result? Long commutes, sky-high prices, and gridlocked freeways like the 805.

A new community plan aims to change that by encouraging denser housing near Blue Line trolley stops, but it’s facing local pushback over traffic and affordability. Supporters argue more housing near jobs = less pollution, less traffic, and more time at home.

San Diego’s future depends on smarter growth—not just building more, but building where it counts.

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

Comic-Con 2025: Surprise Stars, Sci-Fi Thrills & Local Wins

135,000+ fans descended on San Diego for Comic-Con 2025, turning the Gaslamp into a pop culture playground. While Marvel and DC skipped major announcements, the weekend still slayed — with a surprise appearance by George Lucas, the debut of "Predator: Badlands", and Xenomorph-themed night missions that had fans screaming (in a good way).

From Barbie Jedi cosplay to record crowds at local spots like Hasta Mañana Cantina, the event wasn’t just epic for fandoms—it brought an estimated $160M+ into the San Diego economy. Even nonprofits like Homeless Veterans San Diego felt the Comic-Con love.

Mark your calendars—361 days ‘til the next one. Not that we’re counting. 

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

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🎬 Reel Recap + Real Details

New Airport Entrance Opens Friday – Skip the Lights, Cruise to Terminal 1

Big changes are here for travelers heading to San Diego International Airport! A new three-lane protected roadway off Harbor Drive officially opens Friday, offering a faster, more direct route to Terminals 1 and 2 — no stoplights, no intersections.

The new entrance begins just past Laurel St. and Harbor Drive, aiming to ease congestion by rerouting up to 45,000 cars daily. The old Harbor Drive access is still available, but expect delays with lights and intersections.

This is part of the airport’s Terminal 1 revamp, with a shiny new terminal opening in late September and even more upgrades to come by 2028.

Heading out soon? Double-check directions and give yourself a few extra minutes — it’s a new ride in!

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

July 2025 San Diego Housing Market Update

San Diego’s housing market is slowing, and sellers need to bring their patience. With inventory up 43% year-over-year and buyer demand barely budging, the average time to sell has reached 105 days—the slowest mid-July pace in over a decade. Over 30% of listings have sat on the market for 60+ days, especially in higher-priced ranges. Meanwhile, more sellers are pulling their homes off the market as the summer peak fades. Pricing accurately is crucial—buyers are cautious, but deals are not flooding in. As mortgage rates hover between 6.75%–7%, conditions are expected to remain sluggish through the end of the year.

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

​​Your Guide to Summer Fun ✨

Rising from the Ashes: Local Artist Greg Cali Reopens Gallery in Cardiff

After a fire devastated his Leucadia gallery in 2019, local artist Greg Cali is turning heartbreak into hope with the grand reopening of his new space in Cardiff. Known for his evocative photography and paintings, Cali's comeback is a powerful story of resilience, creativity, and community.

“Overwhelmed, tired, happy—no sadness,” Cali shared during the reopening, surrounded by friends and supporters who’ve cheered him on through every step.

His journey is proof that even after loss, art—and passion—can still thrive.

Want to visit the gallery? Check out this link here.

Ramona Country Fair Returns Aug 1–3 — Free Admission, Unlimited Fun!

One of North County’s favorite summer traditions is back! The Ramona Country Fair returns August 1–3 at the Ramona Outdoor Community Center, bringing three days of family-friendly fun, live music, and classic fair vibes. Admission is free, and there’s something for everyone—from thrilling amusement rides and carnival games to off-road shows, cornhole competitions, and a kids' Power Wheel race.

Enjoy craft beers, local wines, and a wide variety of food vendors while browsing handmade goods from craft and commercial vendors. Music lovers can catch performances all weekend long from local artists, with Banda Night kicking off on Sunday at 4 PM featuring Banda 619, Sangre Azull, and DJ Perez.

Rides open Friday evening from 5–11 PM and run from 1–11 PM on Saturday and Sunday. Parking is $20 per day or $25 for unlimited access. Whether you’re coming for the funnel cake, the live tunes, or the friendly community spirit, the Ramona Country Fair is the perfect way to soak up summer.

Want to check out the Ramona County Fair? Check out this link! 

Cardiff Dog Days of Summer Turns 20!

Grab the leash and mark your calendar—Cardiff Dog Days of Summer is back on Sunday, August 3rd from 10 AM to 3 PM at Encinitas Community Park! Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, this free, dog-friendly festival is one of North County’s most beloved summer traditions, hosted by Cardiff 101 Main Street and the City of Encinitas. Expect a full day of tail-wagging fun, including dog contests, live music, pet adoptions, an agility course, and the fan-favorite dog ice cream eating contest.

Don’t miss the expanded Rescue Row, presented by Rancho Coastal Humane Society, or the Libation Lounge featuring sips from Lost Abbey, Local Roots, Mezo Agave, and more. Vendors will be out in full force with everything from treats to toys, plus there’ll be food trucks, photo ops, and exciting demos from the San Diego Fire Department. Want the VIP treatment? Check out the Carlsbad Pet & Feed VIP Tent for an elevated experience.

Shuttle service runs all day, and dogs are welcome everywhere. Whether you're entering your pup in the Best Dressed or just coming for the vibes and vendors, this is a community celebration you (and your dog) won’t want to miss!

Want to learn more? Check out their webpage here!

Local Eats and Coffee Shops ❤️ 

☕ Coffee Shop of the Week: Lofty Coffee

📍Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, La Costa and Little Italy

Whether you're catching up with a friend or looking for your next go-to remote work spot, Lofty Coffee delivers the perfect blend of cozy atmosphere, great food, and exceptional coffee. With a full breakfast and lunch menu that caters to gluten-free and vegan diets, it’s more than just a coffee stop—it’s an all-day eatery built around inclusivity, sustainability, and taste.

As a local roaster, Lofty takes pride in sourcing the most delicious, traceable beans from around the world, then roasting them in-house to highlight the unique flavor of each origin. Their roasting philosophy? Find the sweet spot—that perfect balance where every coffee sings.

True to their motto, “Supporting local one steep at a time,” Lofty Coffee is as much about community as it is about caffeine. With organic ingredients, a welcoming vibe, and a strong focus on sustainability, it’s no surprise this North County favorite continues to brew up something special—one cup at a time.

Check out their instagram here! 

🍴 Restaurant of the Week: Joyee’s Dumpling House

📍Torrey Highlands, 4S Ranch, Oceanside, Poway, and Vista

If you're craving authentic Chinese comfort food, look no further than Joyee’s Dumpling House—a local favorite known for its handmade dumplings, bold flavors, and traditional recipes. What started in 2018 inside the original 99 Ranch Market on Clairemont Mesa has since expanded to five locations across Poway, SDSU, Torrey Highlands, Vista, and Oceanside. From savory pork & onion steamed buns and beef belly hot pot, to fragrant snow pea leaves with garlic and classic braised beef noodle soup, every dish is packed with flavor and made from the freshest ingredients. Whether you’re dining in or ordering online, Joyee’s brings the warmth of authentic Chinese cuisine to your table—one dumpling at a time.

Check out their instagram here!

📺 Our Listings and North County v. Central SD

North County vs Central SD: Where Should You Live in San Diego In 2025

Choosing between North County and Central San Diego isn’t just about the beach views or trendy neighborhoods; it can shape your lifestyle, finances, and even your happiness. Many people make the mistake of picking based on social media highlights, only to end up stuck in traffic, over budget, or in a community that just doesn’t fit their needs.

Homes on the Market!

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.

2 bed | 2 bath | 1,230 sqft | 10443 Newblis Way 

Health, Wellness and Modern Living in 3Roots

Tucked into one of San Diego’s most thoughtfully designed wellness communities, this beautifully upgraded 2 bed, 2 bath end-unit townhome offers 1,230 sq. ft. of elevated living in the heart of 3Roots, Sorrento Mesa. Completed in 2022, this nearly new home combines sleek, modern finishes with energy-efficient upgrades and a layout designed for both comfort and connection.

Step inside and feel the difference. The open-concept layout is bright and airy, anchored by a stunning multi-slide patio door that opens to your private outdoor space—perfect for entertaining or unwinding. From here, enjoy an elevated view of the vibrant, modern 3Roots community, with open sightlines and lush tree-lined streets that highlight the thoughtful design of this one-of-a-kind neighborhood.

🔍 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]