📰 News Highlights

New Empty Home Tax set to appear on June ballot

San Diego voters will decide in June 2026 on a proposed "Empty Home Tax" targeting second homes left vacant for more than half the year. If passed, owners of these units would pay an $8,000 tax starting in 2027, increasing to $10,000 in 2028, aiming to increase housing availability. Exemptions exist for hardship, military service, and disaster damage.

Key details:

• Target: Residential properties that are not a primary residence and are vacant for over 6 months.

• Fees: $8,000 in 2027, increasing to $10,000 annually for 2028 and beyond.

• Corporate-Owned: An additional surcharge of $4,000 in 2027, rising to $5,000

  in 2028 will apply to all properties owned by corporations

• Exceptions: The tax does not apply to primary residences, long-term rentals, or vacation rentals.

The tax aims to generate between $12 million and $30 million annually, with approximately 5,100 properties potentially affected.

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

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🎬 Reel Recap + Real Details

Elephant Valley opens at the San Diego Safari Park

The brand new Elephant Valley at the San Diego Safari Park is now open! The new 6-acre habitat gives the elephants a lot of room to roam — and the viewing areas are way better than before, letting you safely get up close and personal. On opening day, they have 8 African elephants, plus a brand new two-story restaurant in the middle of the valley called Mkutano. If you go, try to grab a second-floor balcony seat. The view is amazing. Pro tip: you can book reservations on OpenTable, which will definitely be a lifesaver once word gets out.

Want to learn more? Watch our reel.

Torrey Pines reopens… and it’s first weekend back was a success

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego fully reopened on March 1, 2026, following a four-month closure for Phase 1 construction, including ADA-compliant upgrades, path paving, and infrastructure repairs. Trails, the lodge, and parking lots are accessible, though a second phase of construction is scheduled for late summer 2026.

Want to learn more? Watch our reel or read this article.

​​Your Guide to Weekend Fun ✨

Attend a Gulls game!

The San Diego Gulls have entered the final third of the AHL season firmly in the playoff hunt, as the team looks to clinch their first playoff appearance since its 2021-22 campaign. Next up is the Rockford Icehogs, who the Gulls will play back-to-back nights at Pechanga Arena Friday (7 p.m.) and Saturday (6 p.m.). This homestand, the Gulls will host a pair of themed celebrations, with Friday marking First Responders Night and Saturday being Aloha Night, which includes a Gulls Aloha shirt giveaway. Tickets start at $22 for Friday’s game and $31 for Saturday.

Get your tickets here.

Local Eats and Coffee Shops ❤️ 

☕ Coffee Shop of the Week: Liquid Bean

📍 Del Mar | 2002 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014

Tucked beside a peaceful garden in the heart of Del Mar, Liquid Bean Cafe is more than your average coffee shop — it's a warm, welcoming escape with a dash of enchantment. Owner Lisi, a longtime barista with over a decade of experience, finally brought her dream to life with a space that blends organic ingredients, delicious craft beverages, and a cozy vibe that locals adore.

From frothy oat milk lattes and Mexican mochas to vibrant smoothies and build-your-own acai bowls, there’s something here for every taste and craving. Come for the coffee, stay for the breakfast burritos and avo toast, and don’t be surprised if you end up spending the whole afternoon soaking in the charm.
Check out their instagram here!

🍴 Restaurant of the Week: Casa De Bandini

📍 Carlsbad | 1901 Calle Barcelona

Formerly located in Old Town, San Diego, this second-generation Casa de Bandini Mexican Restaurant embodies Mexican culture: authentic Mexican food, fabulous mariachi entertainment, hot-off-the-grill homemade tortillas, giant margaritas, and an environment embracing Colonial Mexico. It was voted #1 Mexican restaurant in Carlsbad, and for good reason. Check out their happy hour Monday-Friday from 3-5pm!

Check out their website here!

📺 What’s Changing and What You Should Know about SD

Why San Diego is the Opposite of Every Major U.S. City

San Diego homes are moving in roughly 33 days, compared to a 48-day national average, and that is happening in a market people keep labeling as cooling. After working with hundreds of buyers and sellers across the country, I am seeing five clear patterns that most people are completely missing.

When you connect the dots between inventory, pricing, new construction, and rental pressure, it becomes obvious why San Diego is behaving differently from the rest of the country. In this video, I break down exactly what is driving the speed of this market and what it means for you. If you are thinking about buying, selling, or investing, watch until the end and make sure you understand what is really happening before you make your next move.

Inside San Diego’s Most Underrated Neighborhoods in 2026

Everyone’s out here dropping $1.5 million to live the coastal San Diego dream, but there are five neighborhoods where you can get that same beach access, vibe, and convenience for under $1 million. Most buyers overlook them, and that’s exactly why the opportunity is still there.

In this video, I’m breaking down the specific areas where your budget stretches from $500,000 to $1 million further, without giving up the lifestyle. One of them just approved over 17,000 new homes, and prices haven’t caught up yet. Watch until the end to see which neighborhood it is and decide if you should make your move now.

🔍 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]

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