From the East Coast to the West Coast, we picked up our lives, ready to start a new adventure in San Diego. This relocation marked the start of a transformative journey, creating a beautiful life here that is authentically me. The decision to uproot our lives wasn’t made lightly. Truthfully, I felt stagnant, limited and unhappy in New Hampshire. I feared I could never realize my full potential there. Not to mention, the weather was a constant hazard, with unpredictable blizzards or ice storms wreaking havoc. I craved sunshine and warm weather—a place filled with opportunities and new experiences.
My husband, Rob, was incredibly supportive, recognizing the toll this sense of longing was taking on me. So, he began looking for new opportunities in architectural engineering to help us relocate while keeping our financial security intact. With two children, Liam and Brodie, it wasn’t going to be an easy feat, but I was very determined to make this work. I just had that deep, knowing feeling that this was best for us. At first, he was offered a position in Texas—within a month, I had our home packed up, ready to move our lives across the country. Then, a last-minute call switched our destination to San Diego. I couldn’t believe it—just three years ago, I drove up the PCH, thinking to myself, “This place is perfect.” I even put it on my vision board to move here. And now, three years later, it was happening. My dad used to say, “Live where other people vacation, and you'll always be happy.” From day one, I declared San Diego as my “happy place.”
While this move was filled with excitement, there were also many challenges along the way. As nerve-wracking as this transition in my life may seem, I was never scared. Having spent over 8 years in real estate at this point, I knew the steps I needed to take and didn't look back to dwell on my fears. Every little step forward was a small victory. It was crucial to become a part of the community, building connections and friendships to grow roots of our own here.
Starting from scratch didn’t deter me; in fact, it motivated me to put myself out there, reach for the stars and make this new chapter spectacular. I dove in, finding my niche in new construction. This allowed me to learn about the community and the distinct needs of the people living here through model home showings. As I gained more confidence navigating the San Diego market, I began to search for the perfect brokerage that aligned with my ethical values and approach to real estate. Brokerage after brokerage, I found things I liked and disliked, never feeling I was in the right place.
FIt was important to me to have a great office environment, ethical practices, friendly relationships with colleagues, and the right systems and processes in place to ensure smooth transactions for my clients. It wasn’t until I joined the RE/MAX brokerage in Santee that I found my home in real estate. We emphasize community involvement and have a culture of trust among agents. Just as I found a new home here in San Diego, I have also found my home in real estate.
Self-improvement has been a core part of this journey. I have found such immense satisfaction, strength and purpose. By prioritizing my mental health and self-care, I also became a better mother and wife. Having found true happiness, I began another venture, losing over 40 pounds in six months. I am passionate about cycling, dancing and spending time outside, soaking up the beautiful California sunshine every day. I love to be in my garden where I grow purple vegetables and watch the hummingbirds at our many feeders.
Looking back, moving to the West Coast was more than a physical relocation; it was a soul-searching pursuit of happiness and an exploration of personal and professional growth. Each hurdle became a stepping stone toward a more fulfilling and authentic life! My clients endearingly call me a bulldog—when my clients come to me with a goal or a dream, I will fight on their behalf, protecting them and securing the best deal possible. Through strategic negotiations, fast problem solving and many industry resources, there is nothing I can’t help my clients overcome!
One of the crucial aspects of my real estate philosophy is transparency. Whether it's a new construction, a luxury property or a resell, I believe in ensuring clients are well-informed and understand the entire scope of their decisions. In an era where many shy away from answering calls, I prioritize being available for my clients. I believe that having important, face-to-face conversations that play a vital role in understanding and addressing your needs. From helping a client clear a home with a lifetime of belongings to prepare for listing to guiding a buyer through the remodeling process of their new home, I believe in offering a true full-service experience. Even when the transaction is over, I remain your REALTOR® for life, here to support you with anything you may need!
Sincerely,
Lili Patch
REALTOR® | DRE 02003440
Call/Text 619.507.8303
lilipatch@mac.com
www.LiliPatch.com
Lili Patch
REALTOR® | DRE 02003440
Call/Text 619.507.8303
lilipatch@mac.com
www.LiliPatch.com