The areas west of El Camino should be safe but you never know. San Carlos, Belmont, parts of San Mateo, and parts of Redwood City would all be sound investments for you and your parents in the future. None of us can predict the future so good luck! - Tue Sep 16 2008, 10:34
I think the other two agents answered it nicely. It is the industrial side of San Carlos but if you don't have problems with that then in the future the value should appreciate nicely if you get a good deal on the purchase. A lot of houses over there are super cute! I have a lot of friends with kids who live over there and they love the convenience to everything. They take their kids out on walks in their strollers all the time. Even without kids there some restaurants and shops you can walk to which is nice. Hope this helps. - Mon Sep 15 2008, 16:00
Hi M-
As Dave stated below both are totally different communities. San Carlos is older and has a cute downtown that a lot of homes are close enough to walk to, so you can get a coffee or dinner by just walking out your door. Foster City is a bit more isolated and not as convenient to everything but still an easy drive to everywhere, but not as many restaurants and shops. The weather is good in both places. It just depends what you are looking for: Foster City is newer and there are sidewalks and parks more of a suburban feel. San Carlos is a cute little area with sidewalks depending where. Both areas have great schools so that is always good for resale. Belmont is great too as are parts of San Mateo and Redwood City. If you haven't looked at any homes in the areas you are thinking you should do so and I can always schedule a tour for you to get a feel. - Wed Sep 10 2008, 07:21
I totally agree. You should speak with a local mortgage broker here as they know the area and can get the loan done quickly and can make sure it will happen. I like to use John Esplana at Residential Pacific Mortgage in San Mateo 650-784-4395. Before you start looking at houses the first thing you should do is solidify your loan as once you find the house you want your financing needs to be in order.
Of course I would love to recommend myself to be your real estate agent as I would do a great job. But you should get referrals and talk to a few agents before you decide. The main thing I find is do you like the person and will they do a good job for you? Most agents can fill out the contract and explain the disclosures, but can they negotiate the best deal for you and do you like being with them. Are they slick or are they laid-back, depends on your personality and what you like as emotions run high when a large amount of money is involved. Hope this helps. - Thu Aug 7 2008, 07:19
Yes, now is a great time to buy. The market is definitely starting to turn around and I am seeing many properties go quickly with multiple offers if priced right and in good neighborhoods. If you are in a position to buy with 20% down the interest rates are still great and prices are still good on a lot of homes. - Fri Jul 4 2008, 18:40
MVPs or 'Most Valuable Players' are key Trulia Voices members who have been contributing high-quality content throughout 2008 and providing valuable advice to consumers and real estate professionals.