Downsizing in San Diego? Melina Rissone explains how Prop 19 lets you transfer your tax base to a new home, and when buying pricier still pays off long term.
About Melina Rissone
trusted real estate expert in san diego
Trusted Realtor in San Diego Real Estate - Melina Rissone
For more than 20 years, Melina Rissone has helped San Diego buyers and sellers move through life’s biggest transitions. Retirement, divorce, and relocation. She works across the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods: Bankers Hill, Downtown, Hillcrest, North Park, South Park, Normal Heights, Old Town, Ocean Beach, and Point Loma.
By the numbers
- 20+ years in San Diego real estate
- 200+ five-star reviews
- Top 2% of Coldwell Banker worldwide
- #1 Top Producer, Coldwell Banker West — March 2025
- Featured on TLC’s My First Home
- Tom Ferry speaker
How Melina helps
Luxury & relocation: Certified through Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and the Institute of Luxury Home Marketing, she pairs deep market data with strategic marketing for accurate pricing, shorter market times, and stronger sale-to-list results.
Seniors & active adults: As a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), she guides seniors and their families through downsizing with patience, coordinating the practical, financial, and emotional pieces so the move feels manageable.
Divorce real estate — As a Real Estate Collaboration Specialist–Divorce (RCS-D), she brings a neutral, steady hand to one of the hardest decisions a separating couple faces — protecting both parties’ interests and keeping the sale on track.
Beyond real estate
Originally from Germany, Melina moved to San Diego in 2001 and is bilingual in English and German.
When she’s not working, you’ll find her hiking Southern California trails, camping in the desert, or sailing the San Diego coastline.
Whether you’re planning a senior move, navigating a sale during divorce, or relocating to San Diego, Melina brings two decades of local expertise and genuine care to every transaction.
How I Can Help You
Every client’s journey is different. From life transitions to luxury listings, these services are built to provide clarity, confidence, and support at every step.
Home Valuations
Learn your property's true market potential. I provide comprehensive, data-driven valuations to ensure you have the numbers needed for confident decision-making.
Luxury Homes
Experience sophistication in every detail. I specialize in high-end properties, connecting discerning buyers and sellers through deep market expertise and personalized attention.
Aging Homeowners
Make your next chapter simpler and less stressful. As a Certified Senior Advisor, I offer compassionate, tailored solutions for older adults and connect you with trusted specialists from CPAs to downsizing organizers.
San Diego Insight
Make smarter decisions with a local advantage. My 20+ years of deep knowledge of San Diego neighborhoods and pricing dynamics helps you buy better or sell stronger in this competitive market.
Divorcing Couples
Reach a fair outcome without unnecessary conflict. As a Real Estate Collaboration Specialist for Divorce, I provide a neutral, structured approach to selling, helping both parties move forward with minimal disruption.
Relocation Services
Feel at home the moment you arrive. I help you move with confidence, handling every detail of your relocation with end-to-end support from logistics to local guidance.
Rated 5 out of 5
What Our Clients Say
"Melina Rissone was a wonderful real estate broker to work with. She represents me to buy a condo on North Park. From start to escrow closed, Melina was always kept me informed of steps to come. She negotiated with sellers to give me the best price. She is always available and her teammates are also very helpful. Thank you MELINA. You are the best, the cream of the crop."
Jaime
Client
"Simply the best! Melina is kind, patient and knowledgeable. Contracts can be confusing and intimidating. Melina took the time to go through each part of the contract with me making sure I understood the terms. She was kind, patient and explained everything. This was above and beyond my expectations. Melina is simply the best!"
Angelina A.
Client
"Working with Melina Rissone to sell my condo was a truly positive experience. It was a challenging sale, and Melina was present every step of the way—always professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly supportive. Her deep understanding of the market helped guide me through tough decisions, and her calm reassurance made a big difference when I was feeling nervous about accepting offers. I’m so grateful for her dedication and would absolutely recommend her to anyone looking for a reliable and caring real estate agent!"
Melissa F.
Client
Want a home with a real ocean view in San Diego? Melina Rissone breaks down which neighborhoods actually deliver one, and what changes the view over time.
Yes, but only where your city or county has opted in. Here's what AB 1033 actually allows, San Diego's timeline, and what selling an ADU separately involves.
Weighing a reverse mortgage against selling in San Diego? Senior specialist Melina Rissone breaks down costs, risks, and which fits your retirement plan.