Serving Santa Barbara • Montecito • Hope Ranch • Goleta • Carpinteria • Santa Ynez Valley
Helping people make informed, confident real estate decisions is what Debbie Merlo enjoys most about her profession.
Since earning her California Broker's license in 1984, Debbie has represented buyers and sellers throughout Santa Barbara County, assisting first-time homebuyers, growing families, investors, and clients buying and selling luxury homes, estates, ranches, and income properties..
In 2007, Debbie and her husband, Bob Ruccione, founded Coast & Valley Properties with a simple vision: to create a locally owned brokerage built on personal service, professional expertise, and lasting relationships..
Debbie believes every client deserves honest advice, thoughtful guidance, and an advocate who keeps their best interests at the center of every decision. She listens carefully, takes the time to understand each client's goals, explains every step of the process, and provides the knowledge needed to make sound, informed decisions..
Having lived and worked in the Santa Barbara area for many years, Debbie brings a deep understanding of the local market and the communities she serves. She has also developed trusted relationships with lenders, inspectors, contractors, attorneys, title officers, and fellow Realtors—professional connections that help transactions move smoothly from beginning to end..
Clients appreciate Debbie's calm demeanor, attention to detail, responsiveness, and steady guidance throughout the buying and selling process. Whether assisting with the purchase of a first home, the sale of a longtime family residence, an investment property, or a significant estate, she approaches every transaction with professionalism, care, and personal attention..
Much of Debbie's business comes from repeat clients and personal referrals—relationships she considers the greatest compliment of her career. She believes trust is earned through honesty, clear communication, and consistently putting her clients' interests first..
For Debbie, real estate has always been about people. Helping clients make informed decisions, protecting their interests, and building lasting relationships remains the foundation of her work today.
Experienced Guidance • Trusted Relationships • Local Knowledge