Javier Obreque is the Co-Owner of Hearth Comforts. He holds a degree in Finance from California State University, Los Angeles, and began his career as a loan officer, where he developed a strong appreciation for clear communication and putting clients first. He later transitioned into banking, where he further nurtured his love for connecting with people and building meaningful relationships—qualities that continue to guide his approach to hospitality today. 

His journey into hosting began when he transformed one of his long-term rentals into an Airbnb. What started as a simple shift quickly grew into a passion, as Javier discovered the joy of creating welcoming spaces where guests could feel at ease. This inspired him to join a mentorship program, where he met his business partner, Matthew. Together, they founded Hearth Comforts, bringing a personal touch to corporate and midterm housing. They also collaborate with insurance providers to support displaced families, always keeping their commitment to helping others at the heart of their work. 

Outside of work, Javier thrives on connection and new experiences. He enjoys meeting people from all walks of life, discovering hidden gems in the local food scene, and spending time outdoors—whether it’s hiking a scenic trail or simply enjoying fresh air. He’s also a sports fan, enjoys working out, and loves unwinding with a good movie and a strong cup of coffee—always on the hunt for that next perfect brew.  

Matthew Espana is the Co-Owner of Hearth Comforts. A graduate of UC Berkeley with degrees in Political Science and Legal Studies, Matthew initially planned to attend law school before discovering his passion for real estate in 2021. Since then, he has built a business fixing and flipping properties, as well as providing corporate housing for a wide range of guests — from traveling professionals to families temporarily displaced from their homes.

Matthew's hosting journey began when he opened one of his own properties to guests and quickly realized how much he enjoyed creating welcoming spaces and building connections. This passion for hospitality led him to partner with Javier to launch Hearth Comforts. Together, they focus on delivering temporary housing that's quick, reliable, and high quality.

When he's not working to expand Hearth Comforts, Matthew loves running, working out, and catching a good sports game. Above all, Matthew enjoys connecting with people — and if you're lucky, you might even hear a story or two about his potbelly pig, Spike.

Melisa Lugones Alcazar is a relocation specialist at Hearth Comforts. She holds dual Bachelor's degrees in Business Administration and Tourism Administration, along with a Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Marketing, all from Universidad Católica Boliviana "San Pablo." Her career began in hospitality and inbound tourism, where she designed and sold customized travel experiences and corporate events while managing B2B and B2C relationships across hotels, travel agencies, and tour operators. Along the way, she built a strong foundation in client relations, high-touch customer service, and social media management—skills she now brings to Hearth Comforts to help both guests and partners feel well cared for from the very first interaction.

Melisa's love for hospitality has been shaped by a life spent exploring the world. Having traveled to more than a dozen countries, she's experienced firsthand what it means to be a guest in someone else's home and culture—an experience that deepened her appreciation for genuine hospitality and inspired her to make people feel that same sense of welcome wherever they are. She's also a folk dancer at heart, and has even represented her culture abroad through folk dance tours, blending her passions for travel, connection, and cultural exchange. That same spirit of warmth and curiosity is what she brings to every interaction at Hearth Comforts.