From RV Life to the Right Life: Finding a Home in San Diego

From RV Life to the Right Life: Finding Home in San Diego 

When the Rosens packed up their New Jersey life in early 2026, they didn’t just move west — they committed to an adventure. With minimal belongings, two loyal pup companions (Mabel and Lucy), and an RV affectionately named “Travis,” they set their navigation to San Diego and a brand-new chapter. 

Their goal was simple: Find a home — and a lifestyle — that felt unmistakably them. 

Unfamiliar with San Diego’s many neighborhood personalities, they began exploring areas known for walkability, cultural variety, artistic energy, and vintage charm. At a 1928 Spanish Revival bungalow open house in North Park, they met Johanna Christensen of Christensen Realty Group. This chance meeting shifted their search from casual exploration to a thoughtful conversation to figure out not just where to live, but how they wanted to live. 

Before touring homes, Johanna and the Rosens spent time musing about their goals, rhythms, and priorities. What energized them? What felt peaceful? What would make San Diego feel like home instead of just an address? 

Together they explored North Park, Talmage, Kensington, University Heights, Hillcrest, Point Loma — and eventually Burlingame — each community helping to define the Rosens’ vision of how they wanted to live and what they wanted their life to look like. Along the way, they discovered important truths: 

✔️ Airplane noise? Not their vibe. 

✔️ Heavy commercial traffic? Hard pass. 

✔️ Tree-lined streets, friendly neighbors, and a sense of calm? Yes, please. 

Their wish list evolved into a specific vision: a serene neighborhood, a vintage home with modern updates, outdoor space for gardening and gatherings, proximity to pickleball (a non-negotiable), access to open space, and walkable conveniences close by. 

Then they found it: a 1950s Burlingame charmer with original oak floors and what some might call a dated kitchen and bath — but what the Rosens happily describe as perfectly original. Surrounded by vintage homes with character, canyon walks and minutes from Balboa Park and the vibrant hum of North Park, it felt comfortable and right. 

Moving and buying a home in a new city can be daunting. Partnering with a buyer’s agent who focuses on listening, educating, and advocating, makes the experience one of discovery and builds confidence for the journey. For the Rosens, it was a partnership — one that bridged from a nomadic RV adventure to finding their place to tuck-in and enjoy living their next season. 

Welcome home to San Diego, Rosens!