The Tahoe Way of Life

By Kirsten Alexis | Sunday, June 8, 2025

Lake Tahoe is world-renowned for its signature crystal-clear blue waters, miles of pristine lakeshore, vast network of hiking trails, world-class skiing, panoramic alpine views and abundant year-round sunshine.

But to real estate agent Kristen Pepin, Thaoe is more than that. Tahoe is a way of life. Tahoe is a diverse and dynamic community, a place where she strives to bridge the gap between new homeowners and long-time locals and foster a welcoming environment for everyone.

Kristen herself is a Tahoe transplant, having moved from New England in August of 2005. In search of a forever home where she could have easy access to water, mountains and a variety of multi- season recreation opportunities, she found it all in Lake Tahoe. Above all was the tight-knit community, which she noticed on day one. The strong high-altitude energy and relationships have helped shape her entrepreneurial journey and way of life.

“This is the first place I’ve ever lived where competing businesses help each other out,” Kristen said. “People have the mentality that there is enough room and growth for all of us.”

Kristen is passionate about serving the community and providing services that benefit everyone’s well-being. For 12 years, she and her business partner owned the beloved North Lake Massage & Skin Care, which closed its doors two years ago. For the past eight years, Kristen and her husband have been owners of Pep’s Place, a health-conscious deli and cafe in Tahoe Vista frequented by locals and visitors.

However, Kristen’s true passion has always been in real estate. She made the leap to real estate during the COVID pandemic when everything was shut down and has made it a thriving career since.  

 She is a dual brokerage agent in California with Dudum Sierra Properties and in Nevada with Sun Bear Realty.

 Kristen’s approach to real estate comes with a strong passion for the region and compassion for her clients. 

“I want to be my authentic self, celebrate my community, build lasting relationships, listen to and educate clients to make sure we find the right fit, and share the amazing lifestyle,” she says. “I truly care about my clients.”

One of Kristen’s recent clients called her the “Concierge Agent” because she truly does it all – and with a smile. To go above and beyond, Kristen is always willing to match her clients with properties that might not even be on the market yet. Ensuring they get to make memories in their Tahoe dream home is her ultimate goal.

Outside of listing the region’s highly desired luxury properties, Kristen can be found embracing the true Tahoe lifestyle with her dogs as they explore everything from popular local trails to hidden gems.

As a self-proclaimed “passionate dog mom,” Kristen advocates for more dog-friendly events by the lake. On May 31 she hosted the 3rd Annual Tail Wagger at North Tahoe Re gional Park in Tahoe Vista (see tailwagger5K. com). The dog-friendly and family-friendly event encourages outdoor recreation and supporting local businesses at the vendor village. It’s just one of her various events to help boost her causes and put smiles on the faces of the community she loves so much. 


KristenPepin.com  |  (530) 346-3233
6883 N Lake Blvd 61
Tahoe Vista, CA

About the Author Kirsten Alexis
Kirsten is an outdoor adventure enthusiast, writer and photographer. You can typically find her hiking, paddleboarding, cross-country skiing and checking out new spots to share in the Tahoe Donner region. She has been lucky to call Tahoe her second home since she was a child and aims to inspire people to experience Tahoe and fall in love with the beauty and adventurous spirit of the region through her blogs and content.