Navigating a Toxic Parent: Distance, Survival, and Family Trauma.
Navigating a toxic relationship with a narcissistic parent is never easy. In this personal reflection, I share how emotional distance, self-preservation, and the guidance of my grandparents helped me survive family trauma and reclaim my life.
The True Measure of Style: What a Home Really Reveals.
Discover why the most stylish homes aren't perfect—they're personal. Realtor Richard Valdez explores how authentic interior design reflects true personality, and why welcoming spaces tell a deeper story than trends ever could. A must-read for Bay Area homeowners and design lovers.
The Gift I Never Opened.
Not all gifts are acts of love—some are weapons of manipulation. In this powerful personal narrative, Richard Valdez unpacks the emotional weight of toxic relationships and the freedom found in setting firm boundaries. Discover why true peace comes not from fixing the past, but from walking away from it.
Reflections at 61: A Cocktail of Love, Change, and a Dash of Solitude
At 61, I’ve discovered that love isn't measured by how many people fill the room — it’s in the quiet moments, the chosen family, and the peace that comes with living authentically. In this deeply personal reflection, I explore how relationships evolve, why presence matters more than popularity, and the quiet joy of celebrating life with those who truly see you. Read more about growth, gratitude, and the unexpected beauty of solitude in midlife.
Planning Our Escape: A Love Letter to Baguio, Patience, and Control
Are you a Filipino-American planning your move back to the Philippines? Discover how we built a long-term real estate plan for Baguio City—complete with architect selection, geo-risk mapping, and the hard lessons learned working with local agents.
When Home Becomes a Legacy
When Home Becomes a Legacy: Making Thoughtful Real Estate Decisions for Your Family's Future
A house is more than just a place to live—it's where memories are made and legacies begin. But when it’s time to downsize or transition a longtime family home, the decision can be emotional and complex. Learn how to turn your property's value into lasting peace of mind, financial stability, and a meaningful future for the next generation. Whether you're exploring selling, planning for senior care, or securing your family's legacy, Richard Valdez offers trusted guidance every step of the way.
San Francisco Real Estate Obsession: Sleepless Nights, Silent Stakes
San Francisco real estate isn't just competitive—it's consuming. In this deeply personal reflection, Richard Valdez explores the sleepless obsession behind every listing alert, every market shift, and every silent bidding war. Discover how passion, precision, and late-night strategy shape the future of homeownership in one of the world's most dynamic markets.
Why Condo Living Might Just Be the Love Affair Empty Nesters, Retirees, and Digital Nomads Deserve.
Condo living in San Francisco and the Bay Area is becoming the top choice for empty nesters, retirees, and digital nomads. With low-maintenance lifestyles, prime city locations, and modern amenities, downsizing to a condo means more freedom, less stress, and the chance to enjoy the life you’ve worked hard for. Discover why moving into a Bay Area condo might just be the smartest real estate decision you’ll ever make.
Life’s Quilt: Stitched with Diversity, Fraying at the Edges
Life’s a patchwork quilt — vivid, diverse, and stitched with stories from every walk of life. But look closer, and the seams begin to strain. From U.S. immigration struggles to the resilience of Filipino communities, this reflection explores what it means to belong, contribute, and keep the fabric of humanity from unraveling.
Berkeley Hills vs. Twin Peaks: Choosing a Bay Area Neighborhood for Life, Legacy & Livability.
Discover the pros and cons of living in Berkeley Hills vs. Twin Peaks, two of the Bay Area’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Explore safety, property appreciation, lifestyle, amenities, transit access, and family-friendliness to find your perfect home. Whether you prioritize panoramic views, walkability, or long-term real estate investment, this comprehensive guide by Bay Area realtor Richard Valdez helps you make an informed decision with confidence.
Top San Francisco Schools in Districts 1, 2 & 5: The Ultimate Guide for Homebuyers Prioritizing Education.
Discover the top-rated elementary and middle schools in San Francisco’s Districts 1, 2, and 5. Learn why Claire Lilienthal, Alice Fong Yu, De Avila Chinese Immersion, and other standout schools make these neighborhoods ideal for families prioritizing education. Expert insights from a licensed Bay Area real estate agent on how school quality impacts home values and community life. Perfect for buyers and sellers aiming to make informed decisions.
From Piggy Banks to Wealth Management: A Filipino-American’s Journey to Financial Wisdom
A childhood lesson in saving, taught by a pink porcelain pig and a wise Ilocano grandmother, comes full circle as I plan for retirement and repatriation. This is a story about financial wisdom, family legacy, and the kind of wealth you can’t measure in dollars.
Five Parks That Keep My Creative Juices Flowing in San Francisco.
Need creative inspiration in San Francisco? These five parks — each with their own vibe — are the secret to recharging your mind and sparking new ideas under the open sky.
A Streetcar Named Desiree
Hop aboard a historic San Francisco streetcar and take a reflective ride through the city’s past, present, and future. Real estate insights, neighborhood revival, and timeless charm converge in this story from local expert Richard Valdez at www.richardvaldezre.com.
What Scented Candles Can Teach Us About Life, Aging, and Finding Our Voice
Discover how scented candles mirror personality, aging, and self-growth. A 60-year-old reflects on life through fragrance, identity, and ritual.
Sleepless in San Francisco: Politics, Pups, and the Price of Peace of Mind
A sleepless night in San Francisco leads to honest reflections on retirement, the housing market, and staying financially grounded in uncertain times. This personal blog from a long-time Bay Area resident explores the emotional toll of today’s news cycle—and why planning ahead matters. Read more insights at www.richardvaldezre.com, your trusted resource for real estate and retirement readiness.
Evolving Spaces, Evolving Selves
Discover how your personal style and home design evolve through each decade of life in this inspiring blog by Richard Valdez. From minimalist white spaces in your 30s to European-inspired living in your 50s, explore how fashion, food, and interiors reflect your growth — and how your home can tell your story. Perfect for those seeking lifestyle inspiration, home styling tips, and a deeper connection to the spaces they live in.
From Santa Barbara to Twin Peaks: How We Bought Our San Francisco Dream Home (Without the Victorian I Always Wanted)
After selling our renovated Santa Barbara home, we set out to buy a Victorian in San Francisco—only to fall for a mid-century gem in Twin Peaks. Here’s how a tight market, shifting priorities, and city views led us to our unexpected dream home.
East Bay vs. San Francisco vs. The Peninsula:
Where’s the Best Place to Live or Buy in the Bay Area? East Bay vs. San Francisco vs. The Peninsula
Written by Richard Valdez, Realtor at Vanguard Properties
Thinking of buying a home or investing in real estate in the Bay Area? Whether you're a first-time buyer, relocating from out of state, or an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) returning home, you’ve probably asked: Should I live in the East Bay, San Francisco, or the Peninsula? As a local real estate expert, dog dad, and long-time Bay Area resident, I break down the pros and cons of each region — including safety, lifestyle, transportation, family-friendliness, and property value.
East Bay: Known for its space, diversity, and outdoor access — ideal for families, creatives, and remote workers.
San Francisco: Urban, walkable, and full of character — best for professionals and culture lovers.
The Peninsula: Safe, suburban, and upscale — perfect for tech execs, families, and long-term investors.
Which area wins for safety, appreciation, livability, and even dog-friendliness?
Check out the full guide to make a confident, informed decision based on your priorities and lifestyle.
Read the full comparison at RichardValdezRE.com
Life in Daly City, California: A Place I Used to Call Home.
Discover Daly City, California – Real Estate Insights from Richard Valdez
Looking to buy or sell a home in Daly City? As a former resident and local real estate expert, Richard Valdez of www.RichardValdezRE.com offers firsthand knowledge of Daly City’s unique neighborhoods, diverse culture, and unbeatable Bay Area location. From Westlake to Serramonte, explore homes, lifestyle tips, and trusted guidance from a Realtor who knows Daly City inside and out.