Becoming a REALTOR® wasn’t part of my original plan—it was the natural result of a lifelong pull toward independence. After being laid off in 2014, I realized I was done letting someone else determine my stability. I wanted freedom, ownership, and the chance to build something of my own. Looking back, it fits perfectly with who I’ve always been.
I grew up in England on a farm surrounded by horses, moving often because my dad served in the English Army. Boarding school at six gave me stability, but adventure was always in my blood. At 21, when a friend backed out of our planned gap year to Australia, I went anyway—solo and ready for whatever came next. I ended up working with polo ponies on breathtaking Stations, spending two unforgettable years riding, grooming, and exploring the country.
That spirit carried me to San Diego with nothing but a backpack and two pairs of jeans. I joined another polo team in Del Mar, where I met my husband, Dean—also from England, also working with ponies. As much as I loved the equestrian world, I knew I needed a more sustainable future. Over the years, I built a drive through coffee cart business (long before Starbucks was everywhere), worked from home while raising my kids, and later managed an office for a company selling self correcting golf balls. Each chapter taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of hard work.
When I was laid off again, I knew it was time to bet on myself. Real estate had always caught my eye—beautiful homes, thoughtful design, and the way a space can shape someone’s life. In 2014, I earned my real estate license and stepped into a 100% commission world that was both intimidating and exhilarating. I quickly learned that real estate is, at its core, about relationships: trust, communication, and genuinely caring about people’s goals. That’s how I built my business, and it’s still how I operate today.
After more than 35 years in Southern California, I can’t imagine living anywhere else. My favorite moments are simple ones—walking my dogs, gardening, playing pickleball, or heading to the gym. My three sons are grown now: Jack is married and living in Chico, Joe is in Denver, and Jim is still here in San Diego. Life looks very different from when I first arrived with a backpack, but my love for this community—and the homes within it—has only deepened.
I take a hands on, timely, and highly attentive approach with every client. Preparing a home to shine is one of my favorite parts of the job. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so I focus on staging, curb appeal, lighting, professional photography, and every detail that helps a property stand out. I’m a strong listener who pays close attention to my clients’ goals, using that insight to guide each step of the process.
With a trusted network of lenders, escrow officers, landscapers, and other professionals, I offer comprehensive support from start to finish. I’m skilled in negotiating strong deals and navigating the complexities of contracts with clarity and confidence. After decades in the area, I know San Diego’s neighborhoods, school districts, and coastal communities inside and out—knowledge that helps me match clients with the homes and lifestyles that fit them best.
I have a special place in my heart for first time homebuyers. I honor the trust they place in me, knowing how hard they’ve worked to reach this milestone. They often need guidance, reassurance, and clear communication, and I’m patient and thorough in answering every question. My goal is simple: to ensure every client feels supported, informed, and confident throughout their real estate journey.
Sincerely,
Nicky Johnson